Headache and Pain Relief

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Herbal First Aid for Headaches and Pain

Natural approaches for common headaches and minor pain.

For Tension Headaches

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

  • Apply diluted essential oil to temples
  • Cooling, reduces muscle tension
  • Also drink as tea

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

  • Inhale essential oil
  • Apply to temples
  • Calming, reduces stress-related headaches

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

  • Tea or inhale essential oil
  • Improves circulation to head

Willow bark (Salix alba)

  • Natural salicylates (aspirin-like)
  • Tea or tincture
  • Avoid if aspirin-sensitive

For Migraines

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

  • Best for prevention
  • Take daily for 2-3 months
  • May reduce frequency

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

  • Helps with nausea
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Take at first sign

Rest in dark, quiet room

For Muscle Pain

Arnica (Arnica montana)

  • External use only
  • Apply cream or oil to sore muscles
  • Not on broken skin

Cayenne (Capsicum annuum)

  • Warming, increases circulation
  • Use cayenne cream
  • Wash hands after applying

Ginger compress

  • Strong ginger tea
  • Soak cloth, apply warm

For Joint Pain

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Take with black pepper
  • Golden milk daily

Ginger — Internal and external

Willow bark — Anti-inflammatory

Supportive Measures

  • Hydration: Dehydration causes headaches
  • Rest: Allow body to heal
  • Warmth: For muscle tension
  • Cool: For inflammation, migraines
  • Magnesium: Relaxes muscles

Quick Pain Relief Blend

Muscle rub:

  • 30ml carrier oil
  • 10 drops peppermint
  • 10 drops lavender
  • 5 drops rosemary

When to Seek Help

  • Sudden severe headache
  • Headache with fever, stiff neck
  • Vision changes
  • Pain after injury
  • Persistent or worsening pain
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