Nothing can express the intense throbbing and the head-hammering pain we experience during a headache. A terrible headache accompanied by its symptoms that include sensitivity to light, sound, and smell; nausea; irritability and vomiting can disable a person mentally and physically. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications may alleviate the pain, but sometimes they just don’t work and we’re left looking for other effective alternatives. Here are easy-to-prepare natural drinks that can cure a headache.
1. Warm Water
Dehydration is one of the primary causes of headaches. By keeping the body well hydrated, we can keep headaches away. In a study that analyzed people with water deprivation-induced headache, ingestion of water provided relief from a headache in most individuals. Water causes a surge in blood flow and oxygenation to the brain. Water that is at room temperature or warm is recommended. Avoid drinking water that is cold or iced, as this can aggravate a headache or cause an unpleasant ‘brain freeze’. However, increasing water intake to prevent a headache is not well documented. More studies are needed to back this old folk wisdom.1 2
2. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint has a calming and numbing effect and is often used to treat headaches. One study suggested that peppermint applied to the forehead and temples helps reduce headache symptoms.3 Evidence suggests that peppermint oil can also be used topically for to relieve tension headaches.4 So, tea prepared using a few peppermint leaves can cure headaches.
3. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a hot chili pepper used to flavor dishes. The compound in cayenne, called capsaicin, which makes it spicy can dull a neurotransmitter responsible for sending pain impulses to the brain. Sprinkling some cayenne pepper in warm water can provide respite from headaches. Some studies show that it can relieve cluster headaches or migraines, especially when applied directly to the skin. In a study conducted, it was observed that capsaicin resulted in a significant decrease in headache severity.5
4. Fish Oil
Fish oil is rich in powerful anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids that reduce the pressure in the vessels in the brain and decreases the risk of clotting. It is also known to lower blood pressure and regulate heart rhythm. In a study involving patients with frequent bouts of migraines, a reduction in frequency, duration, and severity of headaches during treatment with fish oil was observed. 83% of the patients experienced a reduction in headache severity during treatment with fish oil, compared with 78% who experienced a reduction in headache frequency.6
5. Ginger Tea
Ginger has been used for thousands of years for the treatment of numerous ailments including migraines and hypertension.7 8 Ginger contains properties that help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the brain. Ginger is known to activate natural opiates in the brain, which helps reduce pain. Ginger tea can be an effective treatment to cure headaches and migraines. It can be easily grated or chopped and brewed into a tea and consumed with a dash of honey. One particular study reported that ginger administration resulted in a significant reduction in severity of headaches in patients with a migraine. 9
6. Lemon Water
A migraine affects almost one out of every ten people. Some lime juice mixed with warm water and a pinch of salt can cure headaches and migraines.10 Drinking this potent detoxifier when you suffer from a headache can help cure the problem. Lemon water with salt reduces the intensity of a headache, especially if it is caused by gastrointestinal distress. Lemon is high in vitamin C cleanses the body.
7. Almond Milk
Almonds contain high amounts of magnesium and other minerals. Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for migraine sufferers. A 2012 study showed that magnesium can help prevent and cure migraines.11 Crush some almonds and blend it with milk for a refreshing and power-packed drink. A glass of almond milk is an effective method of magnesium intake that can prevent and cure headaches.
8. Feverfew Tea
Feverfew has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve a headache, and prevent migraines. Feverfew is a medicinal plant traditionally used in treating fevers, migraine headaches. In a particular study, it was observed that headaches completely stopped in a person who consumed three feverfew leaves daily. On the basis of their research, investigators indicate that feverfew is useful in treating migraine and cluster headaches.12 13 Brew the feverfew leaves and prepare tea. Add almond milk and a spoon of honey to improve effect and flavor.
References
