Headache -Natural remedies to stop the pain

Jan 04, 2009

BEFORE you reach for a pill to stop the pain of a headache, identify the cause. The causes of headache are many, but the root cause can be traced back to lifestyle.

By Fred Ouma

BEFORE you reach for a pill to stop the pain of a headache, identify the cause. The causes of headache are many, but the root cause can be traced back to lifestyle.

Dr. Samuel Kalule of AAR says common causes include sinus problems, muscle tension, eyestrain, stress, viruses, allergies, poor eating habits and muscle injuries in the neck and back.

Some women may also experience headaches due to a hormonal imbalance.
What we eat affects the energy flow in our body.

Dr. Jjuuko Ndaula an alternative medicine specialist says proper eating habits can help maintain a good flow of energy and blood to the head and prevent headaches. He advises eating small meals frequently, especially wholesome foods with no preservatives.

These include fibre-rich foods, green vegetables, parsley, mint, green tea, onions, ginger and carrots.

Doctors also recommend staying away from alcohol, chocolate, sugar, salt and greasy foods. Dr. Kalule warns against regular use of caffeine as this could lead to dependency.

Do not eat late at night, while running or under stress and avoid spicy and starchy foods.

Here are some natural remedies to stop headaches:
Drink a glass of fresh carrot juice every four hours until your headache subsides.

Put five drops of lavender oil in a cup of warm water. Soak a towel in the water and then squeeze it dry. Place it on your forehead or upper neck.

Boil two tablespoons each of chrysanthemum flowers and mint in four cups of water for 15 minutes. Drink three cups a day until the headache subsides. These herbs will help clear the sinuses and reduce head pressure.

Regularly stretch your neck and back muscles and pay attention to proper posture during work and play to avoid tension headaches.

Take a gentle 10-minute walk in fresh air to stimulate blood flow and increase the flow of oxygen to the head.

Use relaxation and stress-releasing techniques like meditation. Practice these daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle, free from headaches.

Vigorous exercise during a headache episode is not recommended because it can worsen the condition.

If you experience severe headaches that do not respond to medication, or wake up with excruciating headache, see your doctor immediately.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});