Essential Oils for Headaches
Essential oils have been used to cure all manner of health problems, including migraines and headaches, in many different cultures for centuries. Recently the use of essential oils for headaches has become popular as valid alternatives to traditional medications.
Many doctors and patients consider essential oils to be safer and more effective than many available over-the-counter medications. Essential oils deliver exceptional and fast results, without the side effects of some pharmaceutical products.
Lavender and peppermint essential oils are the most commonly used for treating headache pain and that is why they are the most popular, however, there are other essential oils that are also effective in alleviating the pain of headaches.
Lavender oil – This essential oil is extremely effective and very mild. Lavender is commonly used on young children and babies since it is so gentle. Lavender is well-known for its sleep-inducing effects.
It is useful to massage into the temples for a headache or to use diluted under the nose at night time in order to help you drift off to sleep. Simply saturate a cotton ball and place it under your pillow before bed to enjoy its soothing qualities. Or dilute a few drops of oil and massage it under your nose.
Peppermint oil – Peppermint oil works well to reduce headaches and their pain caused by extreme tension and sinus issues. This is a great option for daytime relief as it can boost your energy levels and help you feel revitalized.
You may be wondering how to utilize these oils to eliminate headache pain. There are a couple of different methods that are effective. Some people prefer to inhale the oils, while others find it effective to massage the essential oils directly onto the skin where the pain is.
Regardless of the method you prefer, it is important to use diluted essential oils. You can dilute the oils with some water or some carrier oils such as grapeseed or sweet almond oil. Pure essential oils, with the exception of lavender, are extremely strong and can potentially cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction due to their overwhelming potency.
Certain essential oils may also cause physiological changes in the body such as altering your blood pressure; therefore, it is vital to be extremely careful when using them, particularly if you have been diagnosed with a health condition or are pregnant or nursing.
If ever you are in any doubt, check with your doctor prior to incorporating essential oils into your health care regime.
There are a variety of other scents available to combat headaches, such as Roman Chamomile and Eucalyptus oil. If you don’t love one smell, you can simply try another, until you find the one you resonate with which provides the relief you are seeking.
