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Natural Headache Remedies

As painful as they can be, headaches do not necessarily require a doctor's treatment or even over-the-counter medicines. With a few simple lifestyle changes, and some useful items around the house, it is possible to mitigate and eliminate a headache.

  1. Water

    • The Mayo Foundation identifies dehydration as the leading cause of headaches. To avoid dehydration headaches, drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. If it is a hot day, it's always best to drink more.

    Avoid Caffeine

    • Anyone who suffers from migraines knows the trouble caffeine causes. If you are constantly suffering from headaches and consuming more than 8 ounces of caffeinated beverages every day, caffeine is most likely the culprit. Eliminating caffeine from your diet will reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

    Aromatherapy

    • Place 5 drops of lavender essential oil (not fragranced oil) on a cold compress, lie back and place it over your eyes. Breathe deeply and observe how the lavender relaxes away the headache. This technique is very effective and safe.

    Massage

    • Either have someone massage your neck and shoulders or give yourself a massage by pressing gently on the spot where the headache seems to be with your index finger and thumb and making small circles until the area relaxes.

    Ice

    • If you are having a tension headache, lie back and apply an icepack wrapped in a thin towel to the back of your neck and shoulders.

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