Headaches can develop for a number of reasons; usually they can be related to some obvious cause such as nasal congestion or sinusitis, eyestrain, fatigue or tension. The majority of headaches are due to stress or worries, with muscle spasms in the neck leading to head pains. These can be made worse by poor posture, and many jobs create special problems- for instance, computer operators often get eyestrain and stiff, aching shoulders or neck muscles, and consequently headaches.

Aromatherapy

Many essential oils have some analgesic properties. A useful way of employing the following for headaches is as a cold compress, applied to the temples and forehead­ use 5 drops in a small bowl of cold water, wring out a flannel or something similar and place on the area. Alternatively, gently massage a couple of drops directly into the temples.

Lavender: Relaxing, warming and analgesic, one of the gentlest of oils. Where there is neck tension, apply a hot compress to the neck and upper back at the same time.

Peppermint: This is very cooling in its effect, and is also very useful for relieving catarrh and nasal congestion. As it has something of a stimulant action, it could be used in equal amounts with Lavender, on the temples and forehead.

Rosemary: This is even more stimulating to the central nervous system, and is excellent for headaches following mental strain and exhaustion, as well as helping to clear the sinuses.

Herbalism

At the earliest signs of a headache taking a herbal tea from the choice can stop it in its tracks; if the headache is more pronounced, or is a repeated problem, try making an infusion for a stronger effect, or else get medical advice.

Chamomile(Chamomilla recutita): Good for bilious headaches, stemming from over- eating or indigestion, where there is a dull, throbbing pain on top of the head.

Lime Blossom(Tilia europaea): Soothes the nerves and is very helpful for tension headaches; can be mixed with Peppermint for a more uplifting effect.

Peppermint(Mentha piperita): This works well for digestive or sinus headaches, especially where the head feels hot.

Rosemary(Rosmarinus officinalis): For headaches related to exhaustion or depression, and also for bilious heavy heads. When the headache is due to a hangover, Rosemary and Peppermint tea can do wonders- but prevention is still better than a cure!

Homeopathy

The choice is large, in part due to the many factors which go to produce the individual symptoms.

Belladonna: For a burning, violent headache with a hot head; the symptoms are worse with any jarring movement of the head, or loud noises.

Bryonia: For a severe, splitting headache, only relieved by lying very still or with firm, cool pressure across the forehead.

Nux vomica: For a sharp headache, either on waking or after food, with nausea or bilious feelings from over­ eating; better if taken when lying down, and keeping warm.

Pulsatilla: Food for headaches associated with menstruation, also where brought on by too much rich food; relief seems to come from cool applications to the head and being out in the fresh air.

Naturopathy

In general, the naturopathic approach is to look at prevention, by changing lifestyle to reduce the reasons for headaches. Eating a varied whole food diet, reducing alcohol, coffee and tea, and getting more exercise and fresh air are all likely to help lower the frequency of headaches for regular sufferers. Drink plenty of fluids, as dehydration can be a factor, especially for people working in hot, stuffy atmospheres and, of course, in hangovers. Avoid dramatic changes in diet, such as crash dieting, which upsets blood sugar levels and can contribute to headaches. Sometimes a Vitamin B complex supplement can be useful in relieving mental exhaustion. For hot, congested headaches use cold compresses to the forehead, perhaps combined with a hot footbath to improve circulation.

For tension headaches, gently massage the temples with small circling movements.

Eating a varied diet of fresh vegetables and whole foods can ward off many ailments.

Severe Headaches

Causes such as very high blood pressure, meningitis or even brain tumours are much rarer; these of course need professional treatment, and severe, unexplained or persistent headaches should be checked out carefully, but most headaches can be identified and cured at home. Where there has been any kind of accident, for instance a whiplash injury, it makes good sense to consult a manipulative therapist such as a chiropractor or an osteopath.

Benefits Of Self-Help

Prevention is better than cure so try to adopt some of the measures outlined in this book to maintain good health rather than just waiting to be ill. If you suffer from several complaints, read all the relevant sections for an overall picture of what you can do to improve your general health and be aware of early signs of trouble.