Headaches and migraines are a common problem for many people and can have a real impact on your everyday life. Our modern lifestyle can make us more prone to these, with increased stress levels, screen-time, and busy lifestyles. Managing the discomfort is key to being able to get on with your day, or in more severe cases, to offer some support whilst you rest. Using remedies to help to manage symptoms are becoming increasingly popular. Among these, people are discovering essential oils as an effective remedy for headaches and can also help to ease unpleasant migraine side-effects.
Essential oils have been traditionally used to help with heavy heads and accompanying discomfort such as nausea for several hundreds of years. Different essential oils have different effects and benefits that help soothe pain and restore clarity to the mind.
Here are a few essential oils that can help with headaches.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is one of the most popular choices for relieving the discomfort caused by headaches. It is particularly useful for sinus-type headaches as it works well to clear the airways and supports easy breathing. Its cooling sensation also refreshes and energises.
Simply inhale a few drops of Peppermint oil put on some tissue paper for feeling instant relief. If you wish to apply some oil to your forehead and temples always remember to first dilute it with some coconut or jojoba oil. Gently massage for balm-like relief.
Steam inhalation is another common way to use Peppermint essential oil. Add a few drops of this oil to hot water in a large bowl and breathe in the steam. It could feel strong and overwhelming at first, but you will soon get used to it. Remember to keep your eyes shut whenever you take steam inhalation.
Remember to avoid using Peppermint if you are trying to sleep. This is because it is a stimulating and energising essential oil which will wake you up and make you alert, as opposed to lulling you into a relaxed state. This next #essentialoil is better suited for helping with headaches in case you wish to sleep after.
Lavender
One of the sweetest-smelling essential oils also known for various other benefits, Lavender essential oil is an excellent choice for headaches as well. It is particularly effective for tension-headaches as it provides deep relaxation. This same quality makes it perfect if you are looking for something that can ease you into sleep.
Lavender essential oil is gentle enough for children as well. Use a Lavender cold compress to provide relief to children suffering from a headache. Add a few drops of Lavender essential oil to icy cold water and soak a towel in it. Once the towel has absorbed the water, squeeze out excess water and place the towel on the forehead.
Roman Chamomile
This essential oil is particularly helpful for allergy-type headaches cause by hay fever or other allergies. You can take 3-5 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil and mix with a carrier oil of your choice and gently massage the forehead, temples, back of the ears, and nape of the neck to ease tension and discomfort.
Marjoram Sweet
Marjoram Sweet essential oil can come to your aid for headaches related to the menstrual cycle. Its sweet, fresh, and woody aroma uplifts the spirit when you need all the comfort you can get. It is especially helpful for releasing tension and stress when diffused.
Remember, that you must never use essential oils directly on the skin. Always dilute with suitable carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, or olive. Keep in mind that with essential oils less is more. Just a few drops are enough. This is because essential oils are highly concentrated and potent in nature.
