In the treasure trove of folk medicine, you’ll find recipes for every occasion. And that’s great because, let’s face it, it’s better to use, for example, a herbal infusion than to take a pill. And even if you’re disappointed with the effectiveness of one recipe, you can always find another, as there are countless options. Today, we’ll discuss a common problem: headaches. Let me clarify right away that there can be many causes of headaches. If you suffer from frequent headaches, you should consult a doctor. This will help identify the root cause of the pain. Only then can treatment be effective, as we’ll be addressing the cause, not just the symptom. In this article, we’ll tell you how to manage different types of headaches.
A common cause of headaches is nervous fatigue or prolonged tension. In such cases, you can use the following herbal infusions:
- Infusion of peony, thyme, valerian root, or St. John’s wort. You can use one of these herbs according to your preference. To prepare the infusion, take 1 tablespoon of dried herb and pour 250 ml of boiling water over it. Let it steep for 25 minutes. The dosage should vary from one dessert spoon to a quarter cup. Take the infusion three times a day before meals. It is best to follow a one-month course.
- A mixture based on freshly squeezed juice of viburnum, black currant, or potato. Mix honey with one of these juices. Take one tablespoon of the mixture three to four times a day.
One of the more challenging types of headaches can be migraines. It’s not too difficult to recognize—a sharp pain in one part of the head, accompanied by light sensitivity and noise intolerance. In some cases, there might be vomiting. To alleviate migraines, you can:
- Prepare a hot foot bath or make a hot compress for the head.
- Infusions can also be effective. Use plantain leaves, mint, rose hips, or mullein leaves to prepare the infusion.
Headaches are a constant companion of colds. To relieve painful sensations, it’s recommended to:
- If the cold is just beginning, you can alleviate the headache by rubbing menthol oil on your temples, nape, and forehead.
- Cinnamon infusion. Take cinnamon and pour boiling water over it (in the ratio of one-eighth teaspoon of cinnamon to one teaspoon of water). Sweeten it slightly and let it steep for half an hour. Drink two sips every hour.
Finally, here are a few general recipes for relieving headaches:
- Wrap your head with a strip of wool about 8 centimeters wide. The strip should cover your eyebrows in front and pass under the occipital bone at the back.
- Make a vinegar compress. Soak a soft piece of cloth or folded gauze in vinegar and apply it to your forehead.
- A quirky but effective method is to press your forehead against a windowpane. It is believed that this neutralizes the electrostatic charge accumulated on the skin, easing the pain.