Pain relief can be a tricky thing these days. With recent statistics surrounding opioid misuse and the FDA crackdown on kratom supplements, it’s difficult to determine what’s both effective and safe. So it makes sense that many seeking headache relief are migrating towards natural headache remedies rather than taking prescription drugs.
While this list is not meant to serve as a medical guide, and you should always speak with your doctor before taking any supplements which could interfere with regular medications, these 4 natural headache remedies could be worth trying.
Peppermint
Although peppermint is often listed as a headache treatment, there is little scientific evidence to support that it, specifically, can relieve headaches. Instead, a study published by NCBI found that applying a menthol solution to the head and other pain-points could lessen the effects of a migraine.
Ginger Root
One of the most used dietary condiments in the world, ginger is both delicious and nutritious. Known scientifically as zingiber officinale, ginger is a flowering plant closely related to turmeric and cardamom, with an underground root that has health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties. These properties and others are what make it a powerful headache fighter that has been documented to be as strong as leading prescription medication. Because the side-effects seem to be minimal, ginger can be a promising pain reliever.
Lavender Oil
The positive effects of lavender oil have been well documented. One double-blind study conducted by Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, found it to reduce headache severity in cases of migraines. Simply inhaling lavender oil for a period of 10-15 minutes showed not only to provide headache relief, but also to produce a feeling of calmness.
TMJ Treatment
TMJ treatment can also be a preventative treatment for frequent headaches or migraines. Temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ, is an umbrella term used to describe various disorders located in the temporomandibular joint. Because this joint connects to the the skull in several places, controlling the jaw muscles, any dysfunction can produce high-levels of tension that can become tension headaches or even migraines. Though the connection between migraines and TMJ has yet to be verified, many believe that overstimulation of the trigeminal nerve can trigger a migraine response in some patients.
If you believe you may have TMJ, exhibiting symptoms such as lockjaw or clicking noises while chewing, then seeking treatment may help. Many dentists can offer drug-free solutions that may offer relief to those suffering jaw pain and headaches.
If you live in or around Mohegan Lake, New York and are suffering from frequent migraine headaches, please call (914) 526-2144 or contact Advanced Dentistry of Mohegan Lake today to schedule a neuromuscular dentistry consultation.
