In July 2014, I published this blog post to my original site and the remedies I shared then I still use today!
Do you often have headaches due to seasonal allergies, stress, or computer eye strain? These are the usual suspects when I have a headache. What has been your experience?
My remedies consist of essential oils, whole food supplements, and unfortunately, sometimes, if I don't catch them in time or I'm out and about (the worse time!) -- a dark room, a bottle of water, and an eye mask (or something I can put over my eyes to block out any light) are required. Thankfully, it has only been a few times that I have been without my remedies when a headaches comes on and I'm not at home.
Disclaimer: Lavender and peppermint essential oils have been my go-tos for over 15 years. I have comfortably used these two oils on my skin (with a carrier oil) and in my home care cleaning products; I will never be OK with ingesting them (for me). If you have concerns about ingesting or you'd like to consider it, let me suggest seeing a certified aromatherapist.
Note: If you have cats as indoor pets -- do not diffuse essential oils. You can learn more about this on the Using Essential Oils Safely Facebook group.
After you do your own research (and chat with your trusted healthcare practitioners), I hope you'll give these remedies a try!
Tools & Ingredients:
Roller bottle (glass, dark)
Carrier oil (jojoba, coconut are some options)
1-2 drops lavender, peppermint, & lemon essential oils (choose your brand)
The Background:
Several years ago, I shared my experience with frequent headaches and accompanied dizziness on the article, Connecting the Pieces with Acupuncture (blog link here). I made an appointment to see my doctor because I couldn't figure out what would be causing it. When I wrote this blog post originally, I had recently moved to the high desert. My doctor said that the likely culprit is seasonal allergies. I informed my doctor that I do not want any allergy medicine so she recommended looking into essential oils, acupuncture, and/or a chiropractor.
Make & Take:
I made small roller bottles with jojoba oil and 2 drops of peppermint, lavender, and lemon essential oil. I keep one bottle in my purse, the family room, and the bathroom. As soon as I feel a pressure headache coming on, I apply it to the trigger areas (in between my eyes, my temples, and sometimes under the nose for aromatic relief). I must admit that a few applications of this blend has helped me keep the headaches at bay. It is also hot and dry in the desert so I make sure that I stay hydrated! I know headaches can also be a symptom of dehydration.
Ginger!
If you're sensitive to the essential oils recommended on this post, and you're not allergic to ginger, try this remedy. Make a ginger paste. This remedy has relieved headaches that were caused by not only seasonal allergies but stress as well. When I have fresh ginger, I will make a paste and will apply it to my temples to relieve the pain from the headaches. Peel ginger first. Mash it (use a food processor) with jojoba or coconut oil (your choice). Store in an air tight container in the fridge when not in use.
In addition to these remedies, I regularly take a whole food supplement but when a headache comes on (and I'm home), I immediately take 4 capsules of the berry blend. When I travel or even on a day trip away, I carry extra of the purple capsules. You can learn more about these supplements on my Extras page.
Benefits:
Lavender oil by Mind Body Green
Peppermint oil by Little House Living
Lemon oil by How Stuff Works
Ginger by Healthline
Various clinical research on the whole food supplement here
Choose, eat, and live well! =)
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, or prevent any disease, condition, or ailment. This information is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Speak with your healthcare provider to see how/if it pertains to your individual needs.
The purpose of this blog is to offer support for your health goals. As of July 2022, Jessica David is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Jessica has ten years of coaching experience and you can consider her an encourager, someone in your corner, a friend, and a professional.
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