When many people experience headaches, they reach for a bottle of aspirin or another pain reliever. Taking this approach can be harmful however, as all medications have side effects. Taking a pill also does not address the underlying cause of the headache. Using the following methods to cure a headache may not only cure the current headache, but may also help to prevent future headaches.
Increase Your Hydration
Many headaches are caused by mild to moderate dehydration. Dehydration reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, which may cause the head to ache. Drinking water and other fluids may help to treat the dehydration, thus restoring the blood and oxygen flow and easing the ache. Eating hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumbers may also help to hydrate you.
Diffuse Essential Oils
The scent of certain essential oils can help to eliminate headache pain. Basil oil can help to relax muscles, which may be effective if the headache is caused by clenched or tensed muscles. Peppermint oil can help to clear the sinuses, which may be helpful if a headache is brought on by sinus pressure. If a diffuser is not available, boiling water with a few drops of these essential oils will help to release the scent into the air.
Visit a Chiropractor
If a headache is caused by tension in the head and neck area, visiting a chiropractor may help to ease the pain. A chiropractor will perform an examination to identify any tension in the body and will then perform spinal manipulation to restore alignment to the vertebrae. This may alleviate tension and improve the blood and oxygen flow to your head, which may help with preventing future headaches. This can be helpful if headaches recur often.
Get a Scalp Massage
A scalp massage can help to soothe a headache immediately and can work to increase blood flow to the head and face. A scalp massage may also help the muscles of the neck, head, and face to relax, which can reduce tension. It is important to drink water before and after a scalp massage. The body will flush toxins from the area, which may cause the headache to resurface as a result of dehydration if extra water is not consumed.
Apply a Hot or Cold Compress
If anxiety or tension is the cause of a headache, a warm or hot compress may help to relax the body and relieve the headache pain. A warm shower or bath may also help. If inflammation is the cause of the headache, a cool compress may help to slow the blood flow, easing the ache. Placing a washcloth with cool water over the head and lying down may help more than an ice pack or other very cold compress.
Visiting a chiropractor or utilizing other holistic remedies may help to provide lasting relief for headaches.