A headache is a simple thing that affects almost everybody, and yet, it can cause a lot of discomfort to people and can sometimes even be debilitating. Fortunately, aromatherapy is very good for treating headaches, and in this post we’ll talk about some aromatherapy based possible treatments. Keep in mind, though that headaches are often symptoms of some other illness in the body (for instance, dehydration) and it’s important to identify and correct whatever is causing the problem.
Some of the essential oils that are helpful in treating headaches are chamomile, cinnamon, clove, ginger, jasmine, lavender, lemongrass, marjoram, and patchouli. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender are especially useful in treating headaches. These essential oils can be applied in different ways, and it is important to remember that different methods and oils affect people differently. Different types of headaches also need different treatments.
Cold compresses work very well for most people, but some people also prefer hot compresses. You can experiment with both to find out which one suits you. You can make a cold compress with chamomile, eucalyptus, or lavender and apply this to your forehead. Change the compress when the towel reaches room temperature.
Migraines can be especially painful, and in some serious cases, can be debilitating. These headaches respond best to a blend of ginger and lavender. You can warm up some water with a few drop of oil in them, and dip your hands in the water for some quick relief.
Cluster headaches can often be very painful and difficult to treat. You can use a cold compress to treat these, but also apply a cream made from capsaicin, the substance that gives cayenne peppers their kick. Apply it on your temples (but away from eyes). This cream is available in aromatherapy stores.
An aromatherapy bath can often have wondrous effects. Fill up a tub with warm water, and add a few drops of an essential oil of your choice. Let it stand for a few minutes, and then get in the bath. Jasmine and chamomile have relaxing and healing powers effects, and can help relieve the stresses that cause the headache.
If you’re out at work, and don’t have the time to do any of these, then you can dab a few drops of essential oil onto a handkerchief. Keep taking whiffs from this handkerchief to help relieve the headache.
If you have the time, you can make perform an aromatherapy massage for your head. Use a carrier oil that suits you, and mix the essential oil into this and get someone to softly massage it into your temples or scalp. Remember that this may not suit some people.
Tags: aromatherapy for headaches, aromatherapy migraine treatment, essential oils for headaches, headache relief, headaches treatment