When most people start to get a headache, the first thing they do is reach for the pain medication. While this is a natural reaction, it may not be the best or most appropriate reaction all of the time. In fact, there are ways to treat headaches without taking a pill. Here are some of the best ways to treat headaches naturally.

1. Peppermint tea – Peppermint has a wide variety of natural, medicinal uses. It can be used to soothe ever-present tension headaches. Peppermint actually helps to increase circulation. Because reduced blood flow is one of the most common causes of headaches, opening up the vessels can help to relieve the headache and prevent it from occurring again.
2. Ginger tea – Like peppermint, ginger has a variety of medicinal uses, relieving headaches being only one. Ginger tea can be made from scratch by boiling crushed ginger in hot water, but even prepared ginger tea or ginger tea bags can be helpful for headaches.
3. Capsaicin cream – Capsaicin helps to improve blood flow to the affected area. If it is applied to the area of the body where pain is being felt, it can help to get rid of that pain. Capsaicin cream can be found in natural formulation from just about any health food store. This is a great option if the pain of the headache is radiating into the sides of the head or the neck, but should not be used around the eyes.
4. Essential oils – Some patients will find relief from headaches by rubbing essential oils such as lavender or peppermint on the temples and the back of the neck. While this is a great way to treat headaches naturally, it’s important to remember that essential oils are strong and often should be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil.
5. Acupressure – By applying pressure to certain parts of the body, a person suffering from a headache may begin to feel relief. The best acupressure point for headaches is in between the first and second toes. Apply pressure here and press for upwards of five minutes.
6. Chiropractic care – Patients who are experiencing headaches may have either their neck or spine out of alignment. Chiropractors can work to adjust the head, neck, or spine in order to release pressure and tension that may be causing headaches. As patients experience chronic headache pain, it’s important for them to visit a chiropractor regularly. Not only will the chiropractor realign the spine, head, and neck, but he or she will also give further recommendations for relief.

Where to Find Natural Headache Treatments

There are several places to find natural headache treatments. Patients can visit a local health store, purchase products online, or visit an acupuncturist or a chiropractor to find natural relief from headaches.

For more information about how to treat headaches naturally, or to make an appointment with a chiropractor, visit Horst Chiropractic today. Any of our staff members are can schedule an appointment or answer any questions you may have.