Tension headache can be mild, moderate or severe and can cause a lot of discomfort and pain in the head and around the neck area. Muscle contraction, stress, uncomfortable postures, irregular meals, eyestrain, dental problems, sinus infection, consumption of alcohol and excessive smoking can result in tension headache. The use of different herbal remedies can treat this medical condition.
Herbal Remedies for Tension Headaches
Feverfew
‘’Tanacetum Parthenium’’ is the scientific name of feverfew. Consumption of tea prepared with the use of feverfew leaves can relieve the pain and relax the muscles. A person can also chew feverfew leaves on a regular basis to reduce the frequency of the problem.
Butterbur
Butterbur belongs to ‘’Aster’’ family. A person can consume butterbur extract on a daily basis to treat the problem. This herb should be taken after discussing the exact dosage with a medical professional. Pregnant women and lactating mothers should not use this herbal treatment.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil can be applied on the forehead several times in a week to deal with the problem. A person can also massage his/her head with a mixture of peppermint and lavender oil per day to relieve the stress and tension. Intake of peppermint tea can also relax the muscles. Another alternative is to add a few drops of peppermint oil and coriander seeds in hot water and inhale the aroma of this mixture on a daily basis.
Willow Bark
An herbal tonic prepared by boiling willow bark in water can be consumed several times per day to relieve the problem of tension headache. The extract obtained from willow bark can also be consumed on a frequent basis. This herb is not recommended for a person suffering from a bleeding disorder, kidney disease, gastritis or stomach ulcers.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is an effective herb for the problem. Daily intake of lemon balm tea can calm the nervous system. Lemon balm tincture can also be consumed multiple times per week. Consumption of a mixture of lemon balm and valerian can also provide the desired results.
Ginkgo Biloba
Consumption of ginkgo biloba extract can increase the blood circulation to the brain which may cure the pain resulting from stress and uncomfortable postures. This herb should be used under the supervision of a medical practitioner.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is scientifically known as ‘’Angelica Sinensis’’. It belongs to ‘’Apiaceae’’ family. An herbal tea made by boiling dried dong quai root in water can be consumed several times on a weekly basis to deal with the problem. Application of a mixture of dong quai, devil’s claw and and willow bark essential oil on a frequent basis can also help in the treatment.
Eucalyptus
A person can apply eucalyptus oil on the forehead, temples and neck area to relieve the headache associated with stress, muscle contraction and depression. A few drops of eucalyptus oil can also be added to a bowl containing hot water to prepare an herbal solution. The aroma of this solution can be inhaled 2 times per day to relax the nervous system.
