In last week’s Article of the Week, I talked about some headache relief tips. It’s important to note that there are typically multiple factors that contribute to headaches so it often requires a combination figure out which ones are most helpful. Keeping a journal can be helpful.
The 4 tips from last week were: 1. Drink water, 2. Take a nap, 3. Magnesium supplement and 4. Get adjusted. Click on the link if you missed it.
Here are another 4 Headache Relief Tips:
1. Peppermint Oil
There are 3 ways to use peppermint oil. Orally, on the skin or inhaled. Some research has shown that consuming peppermint oil is beneficial for digestive problems as well. To breath in pepper oil, pour hot water into a bowl and add 3 to 7 drops of essential oil. Cover your head with a towel, close your eyes, and breathe through your nose. Do this for no more than 2 minutes. Steam inhalation can help with sinus headaches, especially if you also have symptoms of congestion.
To use peppermint oil on your skin, dilute it first, then dab a couple drops of your oil mixture onto your fingers and massage it onto your temples, the back of your neck, your shoulders, and your chest area. Tension headaches are often caused by muscle contractions in this part of your body.
2. Acupressure Points
You may be able to reduce migraine and headache pain by massaging the pressure point located in the “V” between the thumb and forefinger. Use the thumb of one hand to massage the other hand with a circular motion for 15 to 20 seconds, then switch hands.
Use your thumbs to put pressure at the base of your head where it meets your neck. Interlock your fingers behind your head and gently rock your head up and down while you apply pressure with your thumbs. This is known as acupressure point GB-20. Check out this video for instructions.
3. Pay Attention to Sugar Intake
This one isn’t so much about headache relief after you have one, but a preventative strategy. Watch out how much sugar you consume at once. Of course this is good for many other health reasons as well, but crashing down from a sugar high often causes headaches.
4. Move Your Body
This one is no surprise either, but a reminder is worthwhile. Regular exercise can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches and migraines. When one exercises, the body releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Exercise reduces stress and improves sleeps.