Post by theshee on May 18, 2010 1:51:42 GMT 10
Herbs
The thing to remember about herbs for headache is that, although herbal remedies tend to be gentler than drugs, if you take too much they can not only make your headache worse, but do real harm to your body. (If you're doing much more than herbs in your salad or a cup of tea, talk to your doctor. Also, if you're on any medication you should also check with your doctor, since some herbs cause problems when taken at the same time.)
For a sharp, shooting, sudden pain, take a pinch of bay leaf (also known as laurel) powdered or in leaf form. Place it between your cheek and gum for 30 minutes. The saliva will wet the herb, which will then be absorbed into your skin through to tissues of your cheek and gum. Since these locations are so close to the source of your pain, relief should be only moments away.
Feverfew
Feverfew, also called bachelor's button, is a popular folk remedy for headache. This herb is a member of the daisy family, and many people grow the plant themselves and then harvest the leaves. For a long time feverfew was thought to Migraine relief is supposed to be achieved by taking a controlled amount of feverfew on a daily basis. In one study, over 2/3 of migrainers experienced relief by taking feverfew regularly. One of the more positive studies was published in 1997 (Palevitch, D. G. Earon, and R. Carasso. "Feverfew as a prophylactic treatment for migraine..."). This was a well controlled study which showed feverfew to not only significantly reduce pain, but also nausea and sensitivity to light and noise.
Feverfew is an anti-inflammatory, and so works much like ibuprofen. It is also believed that the herb may inhibit chemicals that cause the blood vessels in your head to spasm. New research is telling us that one key chemical in feverfew, parthenolide, may have leukemia-fighting properties (Monica Guzman, PhD, of the University of Rochester Medical School and research team, 2005). Someday it may be used in more varied treatments.
The popular migraine treatment Migrelief contains 100mg of feverfew. I've seen dosages between 100mg and 250mg per day recommended. The actual contents of feverfew varies from company to company.
[Side effects of Feverfew – Stop taking if you experience any of the following - a dry or sore tongue, loss of taste, an unpleasant or bitter taste in your mouth, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, or nausea or vomiting.
Drugs that effect Feverfew - warfarin (Coumadin); aspirin; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, others), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis), indomethacin (Indocin), etodolac (Lodine), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), and others; ardeparin (Normiflo); dalteparin (Fragmin); danaparoid (Orgaran); enoxaparin (Lovenox); heparin; or other herbs, antioxidants, or health supplements (these may affect blood clotting).]
Peppermint
For hundreds of years peppermint has been used as a headache remedy. From tea to extract, there are lots of ways to use peppermint. Peppermint is also known as Mentha piperita, brandy mint, and lamb mint. Peppermint is also been used for liver and gallbladder complaints, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, respiratory infections, menstrual cramps, toothache, the common cold, cough, and fever. Topically, peppermint has been used for muscle and nerve pain and as an antiseptic. Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.
Take the pill forms of peppermint with a full glass of water.
To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of peppermint with a dropper or a dose-measuring spoon or cup.
Some forms of peppermint can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.
Topical forms of peppermint are intended for external use only. Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets, liquids, teas, and others) of peppermint at the same time.
[Side effects of Peppermint - difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives. Highly concentrated peppermint products may also cause mouth irritation or ulcerations. Stop using peppermint if you experience mouth discomfort or sores in the mouth.Worsening of gallstone or hiatus hernia symptoms may occur in individuals with those conditions.
Drug interactions – none known.]
White willow bark
White willow works much like an aspirin, relieving your headache pain and causing the inflammation to go down. Like any painkiller, it should not be taken long term. Anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity has been documented in limited trials. It is also used to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Researchers believe that the chemical salicin, found in willow bark, is responsible for these effects. However, studies have identified several other components of willow bark that have antioxidant, fever-reducing, antiseptic, and immune-boosting properties. Some studies have shown willow is as effective as aspirin for reducing pain and inflammation (but not fever), and at a much lower dose. Researchers think that may be due to the other compounds in the herb
[Side effects of Willow Bark – stomach discomfort such as nausea, stomachache, dizziness, and rash.
Drug Interactions - avoid use with alcohol, barbiturates, sedatives, and other salicylate-containing products because of additive irritant effects and adverse reactions on the GI tract and blood platelets. Willow may also interact with oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), seizure medications (eg, phenytoin, valproate acid), and other medications (eg, methotrexate).]
Ginkgo biloba
The leaf of the ginko tree is an extremely popular herb for headache, but the medical evidence is still hotly disputed. Ginko is said to improve the flow of blood and get more oxygen to the brain, hence not only relieving headache but improving memory and alertness as well.
[Side effects of using Ginkgo - Although they are uncommon, some serious side effects have been reported with the use of ginkgo such as an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives), irregular heartbeat, muscle spasms or muscle cramps, loss of consciousness or seizures.
Less serious side effects that can occur are headache, dizziness or stomach upset.
*Do not use ginkgo seeds or fruit pulp. These have been shown to be toxic. Also, do not handle the ginkgo fruit pulp.
Drug Interactions - warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, others), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis), indomethacin (Indocin), etodolac (Lodine), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), and others, ardeparin (Normiflo); dalteparin (Fragmin), danaparoid (Orgaran), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin; or other herbs, antioxidants, or health supplements (these may affect blood clotting).
Cayenne (capsaicin)
Capsaicin is an herb derived from cayenne peppers. Many peppers have an ingredient called capsaicin, which among other things seems to raise the pain threshold. Capsaicin is said to directly impact the nerves by sending a message directly to the brain to stop the signal of pain. The brain responds by increasing the amount of endorphins being dispersed, thereby temporarily reducing the physical feelings of pain. It has been more commonly used to reduce pain through topical creams; however, there are other uses for capsaicin, as well as other methods to consume the herb. It's gained attention in the medical world in recent years especially for its treatment of cluster headaches.
One of the most commonly used forms of capsaicin is a topical cream. Capsaicin in cream form is used to relieve general body Aches and pains. However, in addition to the topical cream, capsaicin is also available in a variety of other forms, as well. As well as a nasal spray.
Capsaicin can be made into a Tincture or an extract. It can be dried or crushed into a powder and taken as is, or it can be made into capsule form. The powder can even be made into another liquid form. Of course, the main form of capsaicin is the cayenne pepper.
Capsaicin can be used as a fruit compress, gargle, ointment, powder, or Tincture. For a gargle, dilute the Tincture in a glass of warm water. For an ointment, infuse the capsaicin powder with oil then apply. For an infusion, add boiling water to the capsaicin powder. There are many additional forms of capsaicin that can be made from already existing forms.
[Side effects of using Capsaicin- Temporary burning or stinging at the application site that usually disappears in a few days.
*SEVERE side effects occur - Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); difficulty breathing or swallowing; irritation, redness, blistering, or severe or persistent burning at the application site.
Drug interactions - There have been no known reported drug interactions with the use of the herb capsaicin
Passionflower
Passionflower is a calming herb. Taken as a tea before bed, it can help you sleep. At least one clinic trial has found it to lower anxiety. It is also believed to have anti-inflammitory and pain killing properties. Passionflower has been used for anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, epilepsy, and other conditions of hyperactivity, as well as high blood pressure. Passionflower also is included in many pain formulas when discomfort is caused by muscle tension and emotional turmoil.
In Europe the flowers are added to numerous pharmaceuticals to treat nerve disorders, heart palpitations, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Unlike most sedative drugs, passionflower has been shown to be non addictive, although it is not a strong pain reliever.
[Side effects of Passion flower - Depression of the nervous system may result in fatigue and mental fogginess if you take too much passionflower for too long. Start with a low dose several times a day and increase as you learn how you respond to passionflower
Drug interactions – Passionflower interacts with many prescribed drugs! Alcoholic beverages, Antidepressants, Antipsychotic medications, Any Barbiturate medicines, Benzodiazepines, Opiates and other narcotics, Sleep medications.]
Essential Oils
Make a compress by putting 5 drops of either peppermint, sandlewood, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary essential oil in cold (or warm) water. Swish around a soft cloth, then put it on your head or neck.
Or try another method of In a diffuser – Run for 15 to 20 min., 2 to 3 times a day.
Bath time - Add about 8 drops to your bath, blended with 1 tbsp of unscented bath oil or 10mls of milk.
Facial Massage – blend 6 drops of oils with 1 tbsp face oil base. Massage over face and neck using circular movements.
Massage – blend about 12 drops of essential oils with 1 tbsp of unscented massage oil .
Inhalation – Add 3-5 drops of essential oils to a large bowl of hot water. Close your eyes and cover your head with a towel while leaning about a foot above the bowl. Use for about 5 minutes. (Not recommended for persons with asthma).
*If you’re on any prescribed medications check with your Dr or pharmacist before use as many oils can interact with prescribed medications and also some foods.
Massage
Touch itself is one of the greatest healers. With or without the essential oils: Have someone kneed across your shoulders and the back of the neck. Next, have them press on the base of your skull with their fingers, and slowly release.
This you can even do yourself: rotate your fingers over your scalp. Put pressure on the webbed part of your hand between your finger and thumb. Also great for migraine is foot massage
Reflexology has discovered pressure points known for centuries to Asian practitioners of acupuncture. Having someone rub your feet just under the pads, along the toes, as well as massaging the heel and instep can ease the pressure of a headache within moments.
Heat and cold
For some people with headache it's one, with some it's another. Experiment, but avoid extremes, which can make things worse!
Try a cold pack wrapped in a couple layers of towel on your neck. Or putting your hands in hot water, which seems to pull the pressure out of your head.
Instant relief
Have a bath or shower. Lie down to rest in a dark room. Avoid bright or flashing lights. Put something cold on the back of your neck, such as a cold, wet cloth; or alternate hot and cold cloths where the pain is. Put a cold compress on your forehead and your feet in a container of warm water. Have a drink of water or natural juice, especially tomato juice. Have some food, or a nutritious drink, if you haven't eaten for a while. Massage your own face, head, neck and shoulders, or get someone else to do those and your back. Relax your muscles. Press on two pressure points at the back of the neck. These points are about two inches apart, just below the base of the skull. Press for a minute or two. This releases endorphins that help against pain. Gently lean the head to left or right to stretch the neck muscles. Massage and relax any tense muscles. Avoid sources of stress. Avoid exercise during a headache if it makes throbbing pain in the head and neck worse.
The thing to remember about herbs for headache is that, although herbal remedies tend to be gentler than drugs, if you take too much they can not only make your headache worse, but do real harm to your body. (If you're doing much more than herbs in your salad or a cup of tea, talk to your doctor. Also, if you're on any medication you should also check with your doctor, since some herbs cause problems when taken at the same time.)
For a sharp, shooting, sudden pain, take a pinch of bay leaf (also known as laurel) powdered or in leaf form. Place it between your cheek and gum for 30 minutes. The saliva will wet the herb, which will then be absorbed into your skin through to tissues of your cheek and gum. Since these locations are so close to the source of your pain, relief should be only moments away.
Feverfew
Feverfew, also called bachelor's button, is a popular folk remedy for headache. This herb is a member of the daisy family, and many people grow the plant themselves and then harvest the leaves. For a long time feverfew was thought to Migraine relief is supposed to be achieved by taking a controlled amount of feverfew on a daily basis. In one study, over 2/3 of migrainers experienced relief by taking feverfew regularly. One of the more positive studies was published in 1997 (Palevitch, D. G. Earon, and R. Carasso. "Feverfew as a prophylactic treatment for migraine..."). This was a well controlled study which showed feverfew to not only significantly reduce pain, but also nausea and sensitivity to light and noise.
Feverfew is an anti-inflammatory, and so works much like ibuprofen. It is also believed that the herb may inhibit chemicals that cause the blood vessels in your head to spasm. New research is telling us that one key chemical in feverfew, parthenolide, may have leukemia-fighting properties (Monica Guzman, PhD, of the University of Rochester Medical School and research team, 2005). Someday it may be used in more varied treatments.
The popular migraine treatment Migrelief contains 100mg of feverfew. I've seen dosages between 100mg and 250mg per day recommended. The actual contents of feverfew varies from company to company.
[Side effects of Feverfew – Stop taking if you experience any of the following - a dry or sore tongue, loss of taste, an unpleasant or bitter taste in your mouth, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, or nausea or vomiting.
Drugs that effect Feverfew - warfarin (Coumadin); aspirin; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, others), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis), indomethacin (Indocin), etodolac (Lodine), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), and others; ardeparin (Normiflo); dalteparin (Fragmin); danaparoid (Orgaran); enoxaparin (Lovenox); heparin; or other herbs, antioxidants, or health supplements (these may affect blood clotting).]
Peppermint
For hundreds of years peppermint has been used as a headache remedy. From tea to extract, there are lots of ways to use peppermint. Peppermint is also known as Mentha piperita, brandy mint, and lamb mint. Peppermint is also been used for liver and gallbladder complaints, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, respiratory infections, menstrual cramps, toothache, the common cold, cough, and fever. Topically, peppermint has been used for muscle and nerve pain and as an antiseptic. Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.
Take the pill forms of peppermint with a full glass of water.
To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of peppermint with a dropper or a dose-measuring spoon or cup.
Some forms of peppermint can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.
Topical forms of peppermint are intended for external use only. Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets, liquids, teas, and others) of peppermint at the same time.
[Side effects of Peppermint - difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives. Highly concentrated peppermint products may also cause mouth irritation or ulcerations. Stop using peppermint if you experience mouth discomfort or sores in the mouth.Worsening of gallstone or hiatus hernia symptoms may occur in individuals with those conditions.
Drug interactions – none known.]
White willow bark
White willow works much like an aspirin, relieving your headache pain and causing the inflammation to go down. Like any painkiller, it should not be taken long term. Anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity has been documented in limited trials. It is also used to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Researchers believe that the chemical salicin, found in willow bark, is responsible for these effects. However, studies have identified several other components of willow bark that have antioxidant, fever-reducing, antiseptic, and immune-boosting properties. Some studies have shown willow is as effective as aspirin for reducing pain and inflammation (but not fever), and at a much lower dose. Researchers think that may be due to the other compounds in the herb
[Side effects of Willow Bark – stomach discomfort such as nausea, stomachache, dizziness, and rash.
Drug Interactions - avoid use with alcohol, barbiturates, sedatives, and other salicylate-containing products because of additive irritant effects and adverse reactions on the GI tract and blood platelets. Willow may also interact with oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), seizure medications (eg, phenytoin, valproate acid), and other medications (eg, methotrexate).]
Ginkgo biloba
The leaf of the ginko tree is an extremely popular herb for headache, but the medical evidence is still hotly disputed. Ginko is said to improve the flow of blood and get more oxygen to the brain, hence not only relieving headache but improving memory and alertness as well.
[Side effects of using Ginkgo - Although they are uncommon, some serious side effects have been reported with the use of ginkgo such as an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives), irregular heartbeat, muscle spasms or muscle cramps, loss of consciousness or seizures.
Less serious side effects that can occur are headache, dizziness or stomach upset.
*Do not use ginkgo seeds or fruit pulp. These have been shown to be toxic. Also, do not handle the ginkgo fruit pulp.
Drug Interactions - warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, others), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis), indomethacin (Indocin), etodolac (Lodine), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), and others, ardeparin (Normiflo); dalteparin (Fragmin), danaparoid (Orgaran), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin; or other herbs, antioxidants, or health supplements (these may affect blood clotting).
Cayenne (capsaicin)
Capsaicin is an herb derived from cayenne peppers. Many peppers have an ingredient called capsaicin, which among other things seems to raise the pain threshold. Capsaicin is said to directly impact the nerves by sending a message directly to the brain to stop the signal of pain. The brain responds by increasing the amount of endorphins being dispersed, thereby temporarily reducing the physical feelings of pain. It has been more commonly used to reduce pain through topical creams; however, there are other uses for capsaicin, as well as other methods to consume the herb. It's gained attention in the medical world in recent years especially for its treatment of cluster headaches.
One of the most commonly used forms of capsaicin is a topical cream. Capsaicin in cream form is used to relieve general body Aches and pains. However, in addition to the topical cream, capsaicin is also available in a variety of other forms, as well. As well as a nasal spray.
Capsaicin can be made into a Tincture or an extract. It can be dried or crushed into a powder and taken as is, or it can be made into capsule form. The powder can even be made into another liquid form. Of course, the main form of capsaicin is the cayenne pepper.
Capsaicin can be used as a fruit compress, gargle, ointment, powder, or Tincture. For a gargle, dilute the Tincture in a glass of warm water. For an ointment, infuse the capsaicin powder with oil then apply. For an infusion, add boiling water to the capsaicin powder. There are many additional forms of capsaicin that can be made from already existing forms.
[Side effects of using Capsaicin- Temporary burning or stinging at the application site that usually disappears in a few days.
*SEVERE side effects occur - Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); difficulty breathing or swallowing; irritation, redness, blistering, or severe or persistent burning at the application site.
Drug interactions - There have been no known reported drug interactions with the use of the herb capsaicin
Passionflower
Passionflower is a calming herb. Taken as a tea before bed, it can help you sleep. At least one clinic trial has found it to lower anxiety. It is also believed to have anti-inflammitory and pain killing properties. Passionflower has been used for anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, epilepsy, and other conditions of hyperactivity, as well as high blood pressure. Passionflower also is included in many pain formulas when discomfort is caused by muscle tension and emotional turmoil.
In Europe the flowers are added to numerous pharmaceuticals to treat nerve disorders, heart palpitations, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Unlike most sedative drugs, passionflower has been shown to be non addictive, although it is not a strong pain reliever.
[Side effects of Passion flower - Depression of the nervous system may result in fatigue and mental fogginess if you take too much passionflower for too long. Start with a low dose several times a day and increase as you learn how you respond to passionflower
Drug interactions – Passionflower interacts with many prescribed drugs! Alcoholic beverages, Antidepressants, Antipsychotic medications, Any Barbiturate medicines, Benzodiazepines, Opiates and other narcotics, Sleep medications.]
Essential Oils
Make a compress by putting 5 drops of either peppermint, sandlewood, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary essential oil in cold (or warm) water. Swish around a soft cloth, then put it on your head or neck.
Or try another method of In a diffuser – Run for 15 to 20 min., 2 to 3 times a day.
Bath time - Add about 8 drops to your bath, blended with 1 tbsp of unscented bath oil or 10mls of milk.
Facial Massage – blend 6 drops of oils with 1 tbsp face oil base. Massage over face and neck using circular movements.
Massage – blend about 12 drops of essential oils with 1 tbsp of unscented massage oil .
Inhalation – Add 3-5 drops of essential oils to a large bowl of hot water. Close your eyes and cover your head with a towel while leaning about a foot above the bowl. Use for about 5 minutes. (Not recommended for persons with asthma).
*If you’re on any prescribed medications check with your Dr or pharmacist before use as many oils can interact with prescribed medications and also some foods.
Massage
Touch itself is one of the greatest healers. With or without the essential oils: Have someone kneed across your shoulders and the back of the neck. Next, have them press on the base of your skull with their fingers, and slowly release.
This you can even do yourself: rotate your fingers over your scalp. Put pressure on the webbed part of your hand between your finger and thumb. Also great for migraine is foot massage
Reflexology has discovered pressure points known for centuries to Asian practitioners of acupuncture. Having someone rub your feet just under the pads, along the toes, as well as massaging the heel and instep can ease the pressure of a headache within moments.
Heat and cold
For some people with headache it's one, with some it's another. Experiment, but avoid extremes, which can make things worse!
Try a cold pack wrapped in a couple layers of towel on your neck. Or putting your hands in hot water, which seems to pull the pressure out of your head.
Instant relief
Have a bath or shower. Lie down to rest in a dark room. Avoid bright or flashing lights. Put something cold on the back of your neck, such as a cold, wet cloth; or alternate hot and cold cloths where the pain is. Put a cold compress on your forehead and your feet in a container of warm water. Have a drink of water or natural juice, especially tomato juice. Have some food, or a nutritious drink, if you haven't eaten for a while. Massage your own face, head, neck and shoulders, or get someone else to do those and your back. Relax your muscles. Press on two pressure points at the back of the neck. These points are about two inches apart, just below the base of the skull. Press for a minute or two. This releases endorphins that help against pain. Gently lean the head to left or right to stretch the neck muscles. Massage and relax any tense muscles. Avoid sources of stress. Avoid exercise during a headache if it makes throbbing pain in the head and neck worse.