Headache

A headache is a common problem, it affects everybody from time to time-the causes of headaches are numerous and varied in origin-they can arise from physical fatigue, from the effects of alcohol and could also be connected to some other underlying causative disorder in the body. The tension headaches, a condition which leads to tightening sensations in the muscles on the head are the most common type of headaches and affect nearly everyone. Such headaches are often triggered by the presence of stress, they also result from illness, they can be due to exposure to bright lights, they can result from sensitivities to food and they can even be due to the reaction of the person to changes in the weather. The use of varied relaxation techniques can lead to the reduction in the intensity of such headaches, these measures include the use of a gentle massage along the back and the nape of the neck-supplementation with sedative herbs can also reduce the effects of such headaches. The reduction in the levels of stress that a person faces every day is as a matter of fact, the best way to deal with most headaches likely to affect an individual.

The other form of headaches known as vascular or circulatory headaches are caused by a hangover, these can also result from hunger, from the presence of a migraine or a cluster and also include the so called "ice cream" headaches-which is caused by the sudden cold sensation felt when eating ice cream rapidly-all these causative factors have external origins and the headache is not induced due to any disorder within the body of the person. The use of certain herbs can promote relaxation in the individual suffering from such headaches and the result will be a reduction in the intensity of the headache-these herbs should be used in combination with others that bring about dilation in the blood vessels found on the head of the affected individual.

The severity and the frequency of headaches can also be increased in certain instances, as when the person has made a long-term use of normally used and commercial headache relieving prescription drugs - such as tablets containing codeine, the acetaminophen, and the chemical meperidine-trade name Demerol, drugs like ibuprofen and even the commonly used aspirin.

In repeated high dosages, the use of the majority of these painkillers are also implicated in physical stress to the liver-thus their use is best limited to short periods of time. The chemicals in the painkillers are removed by the liver as a normal part of the detoxification process in the human body-their accumulation in the liver therefore can bring about certain malicious liver conditions.

Headaches can also be relieved by the use of supplemental herbal ginger medications, such results have been observed in a number of clinical studies conducted on volunteers affected by repeated headaches. Ginger acts by relaxing the blood vessels in the head, these researchers believe leads to the diminishing of the swelling in the brain-which is the real cause for the headache. Pain is also relieved as the ginger activates the natural opiates within the brain. At the same time, the ginger reduces the production of prostaglandins-body chemicals which are the agents responsible for causing inflammation in the head.

Headaches have also traditionally been treated using some other herbal teas, prepared using herbs such as the chamomile, the lemon balm and the linden flowers-these are the flowers of the lime tree-such treatment methodologies are much more prevalent in Europe than in the North American continent. The use of linden flowers as a sedative has founds itself in the list of British Herbal Pharmacopoeia-traditionally, linden flowers have been utilized in the treatment of nervous tensions accompanied by headaches. Linden also improves the overall functioning of the circulatory system, and many researchers now believe that this herb is also capable of healing migraines-and all other vascular headaches because of its ability to boost circulation in the body.

The aching muscles as well as the tense and nervous mind is soothed by the use of herbal essential oils made from herbs like the common peppermint and the extracts of the eucalyptus-these essential oils endow a sense of relaxation to the body of the affected individual. Topical treatment using these herbs is particularly successful against headaches. For example, the sensitivity of individuals participating in a study to incipient headaches was found to be lowered-when these herbs were diluted in alcohol, and when this was applied on the foreheads of the study’s participants using a sponge. Both the essential oils are excellent in remedying headaches in an affected individual.

For over two centuries now, British Pharmacopoeia has recognized the effectiveness of an herbal tincture made from the lavender herb known as “Palsy Drop’s”. The use of this herbal tincture was very pervasive in general medicine until the 1940s, a lot of physicians made a use of this herbal tincture to help in patients suffering from muscle spasms, emotional causes of nervousness and persistent headaches-this tincture is very effective against such conditions.

The essential herbal oils are also very effective as topical medications on patients suffering from headaches. These topical medications are made from herbs such as the peppermint, the eucalyptus and the lavender herbs-such compresses can be placed directly on the head whenever a headache starts to affect a person. The best results against the majority of headaches is achieved through the use of a cold compress, at the same time headaches may also be treated using warm or hot compresses, the use of alternating cold and hot compresses may provide the optimal results in the treatment of a headache. The preference of the patient must be the decisive factor in whether to use a hot or cold comfort while treating a headache. The temples on the head can be dabbed slightly using a drop of essential herbal oils sourced from herbs like the lavender, the eucalyptus or the peppermint if you need to run or if you do not have the time to get a compress massage.

Some people affected by headaches can benefit from taking a bathe-this works only for some individuals, and other people may not be able to tolerate a hot bath. Such individuals may complain that taking a hot bath makes their heads seem to pound at a faster rate. Adding a few drops of relaxing and soothing essential herbal oil to the bath water will help immensely-this of course can only be done, if the individual is among those helped by a bath.

Temperature regulation is used in an interesting technique which aims to “short circuits” the cause of a vascular headache-example, a migraine. The aim of this technique is to regulate the circulation of blood by increasing the temperature of the hands of the affected individual, by about fifteen degrees above the normal temperature. This technique can be applied by placing both hands in some hot water-the water must not be scalding hot - a few drops of essential herbal oils of the lavender, the eucalyptus or the peppermint is then mixed in this water to increase the rise in temperature-the technique is helpful in alleviating headaches such as migraines.

Patients affected by a form of headaches known as the cluster headaches, were treated during a 1993 study using a cream whose active ingredient was capsaicin. This is the chemical compound which gives cayenne and the chili peppers their distinctive hot flavor. In the study, it was observed that patients gained some relief from their headaches. The topical treatment was conducted over two weeks, and the compound was regularly rubbed onto the temples of the test subjects during this time period. All the individuals in the study reported a significant lowering in the intensity of their headaches following the regular use of the cream-the capsaicin cream was thus effective in inducing a reduction in the intensity of the headaches. Compared to another test group using plain cream, at approximately a quarter of the individuals who were treated using the capsaicin cream reported the incidence of far fewer headaches. Individuals who were prone to being affected by cluster headaches received the most beneficial and effective treatment. Along with this, the expected complaints about runny noses and burning sensation in the skin were also evident from many of the patients in the study. The majority of individuals still preferred having sniffling and runny noses to having such intense headaches and most were pleased with the results at the end of the test. The underlying mechanisms of the capsaicin was found in the course of a study conducted in the year 1965, the chemical is responsible for blocking a neurotransmitter known as substance P-which stands for pain - the capsaicin by blocking this substance P, eliminates the reception of all painful impulses in the brain, pain simply fails to register. The ideal dosage of this capsaicin cream to induce a full blocking effect, is to apply it to the temples four or five times every day for a treatment period lasting four weeks-applications must be done regularly to enable the person to get the most beneficial results from the use of the chemical.

The incidences of nasty and persistent headaches known as migraines are increasing these days-these headaches are quite common in occurrence and affect a lot of individuals around the world. The typical effects of a migraine are usually felt on one side of the head and the painful sensations often lasts all day long-causing great discomfort and precluding the person from normal day to day activity. Migraines are also sometimes accompanied by feelings of nausea, the presence of distortion in the vision and a sudden peculiar visual sensation, which is known as an aura, these sensations will come before the onset of the headache itself-the person often experiences sudden flashes of light, the phenomenon known as tunnel vision and these sensations may often come with the appearance of blind spots in the peripheral vision of the individual. The underlying mechanisms of such headaches may be because of the constriction of arteries inside the brain of the person, such arteries may suddenly relax from a point of constriction and this causes the weird sensations observed during the passing of the migraine. The incidence of migraines is much higher in women then in men, and at least two times more than incidences in men, while the reason for this demographic distribution is not clear-as rule migraines tend to affect women before or during the menstrual cycle.

The circulatory system in the body is boosted and promoted by the wonder herb known as the ginkgo, the use of this herb is a good option in the treatment of circulation headaches-it will repair circulatory problems and alleviate headaches in individuals affected by headaches of this type. Gingko and its properties have been extensively investigated by many French scientists. For example, may of these studies have shown that such treatments using this herb are very effective in brining about a reduction in the intensity and frequency of vascular headaches-which includes problems such as migraines, the cluster headaches and also to headaches induced by hangover. The herbal remedies made from the gingko were able to bring about a reduction in about eighty percent of the test subjects as observed in at least one of these test studies-the majority of these individuals where experiencing migraines on a very regular basis over a prolonged period of time. The discovery of the healing properties of the gingko came as a pleasant surprise to these individuals who were the participants in the long term study-most were amazed at the results from the use of gingko as they had tried just about everything in an effort to rid themselves of their persistent headaches-in such individuals gingko was the first remedy that made any effect on the headaches. The conclusion of the researchers was that ginkgo should now be recognized as one of the most effective herbal remedies in the treatment of migraines as well as in related vascular headaches. Headaches are also often accompanied by spells of dizziness and tinnitus - ringing in the ear, these sensations can also be treated using the herbal remedies made from the gingko herb.

Another excellent choice in the treatment of migraines and related vascular headaches are remedies made from the feverfew herb-this herb has a very effective action against all kinds of headaches.

All individuals who suffer from migraines regularly, may benefit by following the suggestions made by the National Headache Foundation. These guidelines suggest that certain foods known to trigger migraines must be avoided. The list includes food items such as ripened cheese-including Cheddar, cheeses like the Gruyere, Brie and Camembert and other cheeses, vegetables like the onions, all kinds of pickles and cured meats, fruits like avocados, foods like fresh bread and red wine, dairy items such as sour cream, all kinds of nuts, black and ordinary chocolate, beverages like coffee and tea, processed drinks like cola and drinks containing alcohol. These items must be avoided by individuals prone to migraines or at least their use must be regulated.

Supplements and herbs

The following herbs and herbal remedies can all be used in the effective and successful treatment of headaches. An excellent herbal remedy is the bay leaf tea; this herbal concoction contains chemicals such as the parthenolides, and other types of phytochemicals which are especially effective in dealing with the headaches during a migraine attack. Migraine attacks have also been traditionally treated using the leaves of the feverfew herb-in fact, this herb is a legendary folk remedy for migraines. The herbal preparation of the feverfew can be in the form of an herbal tea, it can be taken in the form of an encapsulated herbal powder or the freshly plucked leaves can be chewed - it is suggested that individuals who have a tendency to suffer from canker sores must not chew the fresh leaves, chewing of leaves is also not advised by women who are pregnant or those who are lactating women, nursing mothers must avoid using the herbal remedy. Another excellent herbal remedy is the herbal tea made from the bark of the willow, this plant is very rich in chemicals known as salicylates, and other classes of phytochemicals-in fact, and this herb has assumed legendary acclaim around the world for its analgesic actions. Herbal preparations of the oil of the evening primrose herb is rich in phenylalanine, an essential amino acid which is famous for its action as an analgesic – the use of this herbal remedy is especially suggested in the treatment of headaches associated with PMS in women - dosage of this herbal remedy for adults is from six to nine grams of the herbal oil taken daily. Migraines can also be treated using common garden plants such as the garlic and onions, and  the root of the ginger according to a traditional and famous Oriental remedy for migraine headaches. Another excellent remedy is the herbal extracts of the ginkgo herb, this herb is rich in plant based chemicals known as flavonoid glycosides, and other classes of helpful phytochemicals all of which are famous in alleviating the effects of persistent headaches. Also used in the treatment of headaches are the extracts of the red pepper and herbal powders of pepper containing capsaicin and salicylates, these two phytochemicals are renowned for their systemic analgesic activities. The herbal teas made from the lemon balm or melissa tea is also famous to gain relief from migraine headaches. Topical herbal remedies include the herbal peppermint oil which can be mixed with some alcohol, about five drops in an ounce of vodka. This mixture can be applied directly to the sinuses and the temples of the affected individual to gain significant relief from migraines and headaches. Consuming the fresh leaves of the purslane herb as a raw vegetable is also a good remedy in the treatment of headaches. This herb is known to provide effective relief from headaches arising due to tension and other emotional causes such as stress. The herbal infusion made from the tansy herb is very rich in chemicals known as the parthenolides, these phytochemicals can help bring relief from pain and help in preventing the onset of migraine headaches in the individual. The systemic analgesic properties of the herbal thyme tea can also be used in the form of a poultice or as a topical compress applied directly to the forehead of the affected individual. Phytochemicals are also abundant in the powder of the turmeric plant-this herb has legendary anti-inflammatory properties and will bring soothing relief from headaches and migraines.

Headache Tincture

Prepare a combination herbal tincture for use in the treatment of a headache using a single teaspoon of a tincture made from the leaves of the feverfew herb, with a single teaspoon of a tincture made from the leaves of the ginkgo herb along with a single teaspoon of herbal tincture made from the rhizome of the valerian herb, a teaspoon of ginger rhizome tincture and a teaspoon of peppermint leaves tincture can be added last.
These combined herbal ingredients can be used at dosages of about a full dropper as and when necessary, or up to eight times every day as long as the headache persists.

Lavender Headache Compress

A topical compress can be made using about five drops of the essential oil of the lavender herb mixed with a single cup of cold water. This topical treatment is effective in warding off a headache.
Following the addition of the essential lavender oil to the cup of cold water, the mixture can be swished around using a soft cloth. Once the mixed liquid has soaked into the cloth, carefully wring out the liquid from the cloth, close the eyes and lie down and apply this to the temples. The cloth can also be placed over the forehead and eyes and it can be left there so that the liquid soaks into the skin. This compress can be used throughout the course of the day, and it must be used as often as possible and as long as the headache persists.

Homeopathy

The further intensification of a headache can be prevented if the individual takes the correct remedy during the onset of the very first signs of a headache-a prompt treatment precludes a headache from worsening in the long term. All of the homeopathic remedies given below can be used at 6, 12, or 30th potency hourly if the headache is already evident in the body, alternately the remedies can be used as often as necessary and till the headache disappears. Intermittent doses of holistic and constitutional remedies which are aimed at curing the inherent tendency to developing headaches are also advised for individuals who tend to suffer from frequent headaches.

• CHRONIC
  • Argentum nitricum
    Argentum nitricum is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individual affected by chronic headaches that arise as a result of too much time spent reading, they can be due to eyestrains caused by other media like television or extended time spent on a computer. Such headaches can also arise due to the elevation of blood sugar levels, they can arise due to heavy physical exertion, and they can be brought about by repeated stomach problems and other digestive disorders. The area in the head affected by such headaches tend to be generally on one side either the left or right, in some cases the frontal area of the head can also be affected. The physical symptoms tend to come on in the form of radiating bands of pain or they can be vise like in intensity, the patient can also be affected by the presence of digging and stabbing sensations as well. The person may be affected by the presence of a lot of heaviness in the head. The person may complain that his or her head feels enlarged or expanded coupled with a hollow feeling. Physical symptoms such as spells of dizziness and a persistent dullness are also evident in the individual. The person is often affected by a lot of belching and may be physically trembling in some instances. Psychological symptoms include a persistent fear of failure, agoraphobia or fear crowds, fear of heights; the patient also suffers from a constant anticipation of imaginary disasters. Such patients also tend to be very impulsive in their day to day behavior, and they are obsessive about a lot of things and events. The condition of such patients tends to worsen when they are exposed to warmth; the symptoms also intensify when the person wakes up in the morning, and when the individual engages in mental work of any kind such as reading. The condition of the patient may improve on the application of hard pressure to the head, and when he or she is out in the open air. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Argentum nitricum as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the chronic headache.
  • Lachesis
    Lachesis is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals with chronic headaches that set in after midnight, due to dim vision, such headaches can also arise as a result of intense exposure to the harsh sunlight, because of consuming too much alcohol, because of medical conditions such as colds and flu's, they can come about in women who are in the menopause stage, and may affect those undergoing PMS. Physical symptoms induced by such headaches tend to come as a pulsating and stabbing sensation, including the presence of a pressing sensation on the skull. The headaches typically affect only one side of the head; normally it is the left side of the persons head. The headache feels as if a lot of heat is being generated on the top of the persons head. Physical sensations generated by the headache also include a lot of heat and flushing in the face, the person may suffer cardiac palpitations form time to time. The headaches as a rule can also be due to some existing hormonal imbalance in the person. The scalp of the person is really sensitive to the touch and to other conditions. Psychological complications include a sudden talkativeness and vivacity, the person may be very witty, and also tends to be very suspicious of events surrounding him or her, he or she is guilt ridden and angry most of the time. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen following sleep, he or she is really sensitive to bring touched, and to the harsh glare of the sun. The condition of the patient can greatly improve if there is a flow of mucus from the nose or if she is menstruating, the symptoms will also abate when the person is lying down. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Lachesis as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the persistent and chronic headache.
  • Nat. mur.
    Nat. mur. is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals suffering from chronic headaches which has symptoms such as the appearance of zigzag lights in the individual’s vision, along with the presence of a tingling sensation in the body. Such headaches can result due to prolonged exposure to the glare of the sun, because of excessive warmth, due to problems with the sinus, and because of uncontrolled emotions. The headache tends to affect the region of the forehead or only one side of the head. The physical sensations felt by the patient can also include persistent hammering, throbbing, and bursting sensations in the head. The person is affected by the presence of a continuous jerking pain in the head. Physical symptoms are coupled with dryness in the mouth and persistent thirst. The patient is also affected by persistent nausea along with the discharge of a watery fluid in vomit. The person appears faint and is physically very pale in complexion. Psychological symptoms include attendant sadness; he or she may desire solitude and is very averse to sympathy from those around. He or she keeps emotional issues bottled up within. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen because of excessive heat, and too much motion or continuous movements, they can worsen in the daytime, and after ten in the morning, the symptoms can also worsen if the person keeps his or her grief suppressed. The condition of the patient can improve on exposure to the fresh air. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Nat. mur. as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the headache.
  • Sepia-Ink
    Sepia-Ink is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individual affected by chronic headaches which often come about during the menstrual period, such headaches are also frequently felt during menopause by women, they can also come about because of constant exposure to artificial light, and these headaches can also come about if the individual keeps on skipping meals. Physical symptoms which characterize such headaches include the presence of abrupt and shock like, jerking pains in the head. The pain is typically in the region of the forehead, and occurs mostly on one side of the head, namely the left. Physical symptoms also include heaviness in the head. The person is also affected by a feeling of emptiness in the stomach. The patient feels chills passing all over the body, he or she can become physically very faint, and is always tired or exhausted, the patient also experiences persistent backaches. Psychological symptoms included a depressed feeling; the person may feel hopeless and insecure in company. He or she may become indifferent to everything around him or her. The patient feels a need to keep busy at all times. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen when lying down, on being moved or at the slightest motion, she will also feel weak during menstruation, and he or she will dislike the cold. The condition of the patient can greatly improve if he or she spends time out in the open air, when he or she is rest, or after any time spent on physical exertion. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Sepia-Ink as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the persistent and chronic headache felt by the person.
  • Silicea
    Silicea is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals affected by chronic headaches which start after the person is exposed to drafts or to the cold air out of doors, these headaches can result due to overexcitement, they can also come about because of excessive time spent in studying books, these headaches also affect individuals following vaccination. Physical symptoms that characterize such headaches are the presence of stitching pains in the head. The patient also complains of extreme and tearing painful sensations passing down from the neck and the occiput towards the vertex and the eyes. The patient often experiences rushing of blood to the head during the headache. Physical symptoms that are also apparent include the easy development of sweats along the head and the hands. The person suffers from a very poor and low stamina. Psychological symptoms include great timidity and physical weakness, the person also displays a very stubborn streak. He or she may also lack confidence and tends to be nervous, and picky about things. The condition of the individual can greatly worsen when exposed to cold air and drafts, and to constant motion or movement. The condition of the patient can improve if the head is wrapped warmly, or if some pressure is applied to the head. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Silicea as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the chronic headache.
• ACUTE
  • Belladonna
    Belladonna is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of acute headaches in affected individuals who are afflicted by sudden, very intense, or violent headaches. Such headaches usually arise as a result of colds, due to a sinus problem, as a result of a migraine; they can be due to sunstroke. Such headaches can also arise due to physical injury, and if the head is chilled due to exposure to the cold. The use of certain classes of medications can also induce such headaches. Physical symptoms which often accompany such headaches include persistent nosebleeds. The presence of throbbing and intense stabbing pains is also frequent complaints of the patient. Physical symptoms also include the presence of restlessness accompanied by flushing in the facial region, the eyes may be bloodshot. Psychological symptoms can include violent behavior, the person may rage or become very fearful about everything, he or she wants to escape from ordinary circumstances. Such patients are often delirious from the intense pain in the head. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen from even the slightest motions, they will hate exposure to the light, to noises, to touch, and he or she may dislike all jarring motions. The condition of the patient can greatly improve when he or she is laid down, he or she may feel better when staying in dark rooms, the symptoms may also be alleviated by applying some pressure to the forehead. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Belladonna as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the headache.
  • Bryonia
    Bryonia can be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals suffering from acute headaches which usually begin after midnight. The headaches may also begin following the morning toilet. These form of headaches can develop as a result of persistent stress and constant anger, it can also be due to constipation, and the consumption of certain beverages like coffee by the person. Physical symptoms of the condition include the presence of bursting or stitching painful sensations in the body, the person may suffer from a pressed out and crushing weight on his or her head. The headache is especially heavy on the side and front of the head. The psychological symptoms of the condition include extreme irritability and a tendency to constantly worry. The physical symptoms can also include feelings of thirst; this is coupled with the development of a dry mouth, and the presence of a hot sensation in the head. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen even when the person slightly moves the eyes or the head, the person may experience a worsening of the symptoms when stooping, and he or she will dislike jarring motions, and being touched, the headache typically worsens after midnight. The condition of the patient improves with the application of pressure on the forehead, the patient may also feel better when he or she stays still with the eyes closed, topical applications that take the heat off the region of the head will also make the person feel better, the condition of the person generally improves with exposure to the fresh air out of doors. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the use of Bryonia as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the affected individual.
  • Gelsemium
    Gelsemium is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals who suffer from acute headaches that come on accompanied by the blurring of vision, spells of dizziness may follow, the person may become light-headed, the face can become hot and chills may run down the body. Physical symptoms include the presence of a dull sensation, and heaviness in the occipital region, this sensation then radiates forward, it may also be felt as tight bands that seem to be wrapped around the head of the patient. Physical symptoms also include the both physical and mental lethargy, the person become very dull, physical weakness and mental confusion set in, he or she may be given to sudden bouts of trembling in the body. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen on exposure to the damp and the cold, exposure of the body to sunlight can increase the intensity of the symptoms, the person also constantly worries, worsening the headache, the symptoms also worsen when lying down, and on the slightest movements. The condition of the patient can improve when he or she urinates. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Gelsemium as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the affected individual.
  • Nux vomica
    Nux vomica is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals suffering from acute headaches that come about as a result of digestive problems, or the use of alcoholic drinks and certain medications. Such headaches can also result from the presence of intense anger, and may be due to loss of sleep, or because of the stress felt by the patient. The person may have a constant feeling of pain. Physical symptoms include the presence of a dull pressure on the head. The physical condition of the patient is often faint and he or she is very light-headed at most times of the day and night. The other physical symptoms include a persistent feeling of constipation. The psychological condition of the individual is characterized by constant anger, he or she becomes very driven, and in addition, the person is very critical and oversensitive about all situations. The physical symptoms also include the presence of persistent tension, and the presence of muscular spasms, along with constant emotional stress. The person also suffers from chill running down the body at all times. The condition of the person can greatly worsen on exposure to the cold, he or she will worsen on the slightest motions, on being touched, the patient also dislikes noises, bright lights, and the symptoms greatly worsen after midnight. The condition of the patient can improve on taking in warm foods and liquids, he or she may benefit from wrapping up warmly. The presence of one or more symptoms requires the use of Nux vomica as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the individual.
  • Sanguinaria
    Sanguinaria is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals affected by an acute headache which can come about because of exposure to harsh sunlight, this type of headache can also come because the person does not eat, and it can also result from nasal blockage. Such headaches can also result in women who are in menopause, and it can also come about because of heartburn in the patient. Physical symptoms include the presence of a bursting and painful sensation starting in the back of head which travels toward the right eye-this pain can be extremely intense. Psychological symptoms affect the person at all times, he or she may have a “sinking feeling” and is sad at most times. The physical symptoms also include a continuous flushing in the facial region, the presence of a burning sensation in the face, the presence of heat in the head, the reddening of the cheeks. This form of the condition tends to be headaches that come on weekly. Physical exhaustion follows the nausea and vomiting even though it results in some relief from the pain. The condition of the patient can greatly worsen during the day time, he or she may feel intensification in the symptoms on exposure to certain type of odors, and he or she will dislike all kinds of noises, and will hate being exposed to the sunlight. The condition of the patient can improve on resting, on being in a darkroom; the condition can also improve while staying in a quiet place, and on the application of hard pressure. The presence of one or more of these symptoms requires the immediate use of Sanguinaria as a homeopathic remedy in the treatment of the affected individual.

For kids

See age-appropriate dosages of herbal remedies

In children incidences of both the active and chronic headaches can also be due to the presence of other serious conditions such as different allergies to chemicals in food or water, it can arise due to the presence of a fever in the body, it can be caused by high blood pressure, headaches can also be induced by epilepsy, the presence of tumors in the brain can also give rise to persistent headaches, the presence of severe cavities in the teeth or the presence of oral infections can also cause headaches in individuals, the use of certain types of medications, or an injury to the head can also bring on severe headaches.

A doctor must be immediately consulted to check on the medical condition of the child, if he or she develops a headache along with a high fever, if this is accompanied by severe vomiting, the development of a stiff neck, mental confusion and disorientation, or if it result due to extreme physical fatigue following sports or exercise. Such headaches can be the first symptoms of very serious illness in the body, for example, it can be a signal for the presence of meningitis or encephalitis in the child. The doctor must also be consulted in those cases of headache in children, which appears to be so severe that the childe is not even tempted by a promise of his or her favorite food or preferred activity. A doctor must also be contacted at once, if the headaches occur frequently and are chronic-recurring over a long period of time.

The intensity of the headache felt by a young child may not be understood well by the parent, as the child may have a very limited vocabulary-he or she may not be able to describe the way his or her head feels. The development of a tightening sensation around the head characterizes a tension headache. Physical symptoms felt during the tension headache can be a dull pain which might feel as if the head is throbbing; the pain may be mild to severe in intensity. Tension headaches seem to be worsened by sudden movements or quick physical motions. The development of any form of headache may be sudden; it can also come on gradually at times-taking a long time to build up in intensity and pain. The daytime is usually the period when tension headaches often begin to develop and occur, the symptoms of such headaches will slowly worsen as the day goes by-in such cases, the headache is often relieved when the person sleeps for some time.

In stark contrast, it may take days for an attack of migraine to dissipate. In addition, migraines are more serious as sleeping may or may not be helpful in bringing about a reduction in the pain present in the head. Migraines in some children may go unnoticed by the parent as the child may not even complain of pain in the head, he or she may instead complain about feelings of nausea, vomiting, along with a stomachache which persists as long as the migraine lasts. A variety of factors can trigger a migraine in an individual, these can include the presence of extreme emotional stress and anxiety, the presence of hypoglycemia, the presence of allergies to some types of foods, physical head injuries, the use of oral contraceptives, or the sudden hormonal changes connected to the menstrual cycle in women-this may explain, the reason for the larger number of female migraine patients compared to males. Migraines also have a tendency to run in families and may have a hereditary basis; they might be inherited from one generation to the next.

Tension headaches can be relieved by using herbal remedies made from the chamomile herb; this brings a great deal of relaxation to the nervous system of the individual suffering from the tension headache. Dosage of this herbal remedy for children can be a single dose of herbal chamomile tea as and when needed or when the headache develops. Topical treatment of headaches can also be undertaken by preparing a chamomile bath-the patient can take a long and relaxing soak in the bath water infused by the herbal concoction. The skin will also absorb the herb's beneficial effects as the person soaks in the bath water. The herbal remedies made from the feverfew herb are suggested for children suffering from migraines, especially if they occur frequently. The herb must be taken as soon as the migraine appears and the anti-inflammatory effect of the herb will prevent other physical symptoms from occurring in the individual. Dosage of the herbal remedy must be a single dose of the herbal remedy, given to the child two times each day, this dosage can be undertaken over a period of several months as a preventive measure against recurring migraines. Tension and migraine headaches can also be alleviated through the use of ginger tea-this herbal remedy will soothe the pain developed in the front of the head. Dosage of the herbal remedy for an affected child is not specific-a single dose can be used as and when it is necessary. A full headache or a congested feeling in the head can be relieved by drinking herbal peppermint tea. Headaches caused by overeating can be relieved using this herbal remedy. Dosage of this herb is also a single dose of herbal tea given to the child whenever necessary. Headaches caused by nervous tension can be relieved through the use of the excellent herbal remedy made using the skullcap herb. Children can be give one dose of the herbal remedy as and when it is necessary.
For your attention: children less than six years of age must not be given this herbal remedy at any cost. Headaches can also be treating by rubbing the head with an herbal tincture of herbal arnica or peppermint oil-such topical treatments are as effective as consumed herbal remedies. The tincture of the arnica herb can be rubbed into the temple or the forehead of the child. The oil of the peppermint herb can be rubbed into the temples. The tinctures must not be used over areas of broken skin and the parent must be very careful and keep the tincture away from eyes of the child. Tension headaches are also effectively treated using the Tiger Balm liniment as a topical direct treatment. The temples must be rubbed vigorously using this ointment.

More useful herbs

• Alder Buckthorn
• Aloe Vera
• Andrographis
• Basil
• Betony
• Big Sagebrush
• Black Cohosh
• Black Locust
• Blessed Thistle
• Calamus
• California Poppy
• Catnip
• Chrysanthemum
• Cinchona
• Cinnamon
• Cinquefoil
• Coca
• Codonopsis
• Cowslip
• Damiana
• Devil's Claw
• Ephedra
• Foxglove
• Grape
• Ground Ivy
• Guarana
• Honeysuckle
• Hops
• Horehound
• Horseradish
• Kudzu
• Lady's Slipper
• Licorice
• Lovage
• Maté
• Meadowsweet
• Mistletoe
• Opium Poppy
• Oregon Grape
• Passion Flower
• Patchouli
• Peony
• Privet
• Pulsatilla
• Rose
• Rosemary
• Rue
• Schizonepeta
• Self-Heal
• St. John's Wort
• Stone Root
• Sweet Violet
• Thuja
• Trillium
• Vervain
• Watercress
• White Willow
• Wild Tobacco
• Wintergreen
• Yellow Dock