Headache is a prevalent condition experienced by humans of all ages. Headaches can range from being uncomfortable to downright unbearable. There are several forms or types of headaches, tension headaches being the most common. As the name implies, Cluster headaches occur in clusters of groups, while migraines range from moderate to severe. Of course, several medications can help eliminate this “pest”, but you should know that there are a handful of effective natural treatments. Below are some home remedies for headaches.

Drink enough water

Inadequate hydration is capable of causing headaches. Studies show that chronic dehydration is a common cause of tension headaches and migraines. Fortunately, drinking water will help improve the state of well being of the affected individual within 30 minutes to three hours. In addition, dehydration negatively affects focus, alertness and could cause short-term memory loss. 

Furthermore, not drinking enough water can lead to the build-up of minerals like magnesium and calcium in the kidney, leading to kidney stones. It may result in fatigue, anxiety, and confusion. 

Take some magnesium

Magnesium is responsible and necessary for several body functions, including blood sugar control, nerve transmission, muscle control, heartbeat control, bone strength, production of energy, and blood pressure control.  We need magnesium for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. In addition, magnesium is also an effective remedy against headaches. A medical toll showed an individual with a low magnesium level is more likely to experience frequent migraines than those with high magnesium intake. However, it’s important to know that taking magnesium supplements can cause digestive side effects like diarrhea, so it’s best to start with smaller doses.

Limit alcohol

Alcohol is a vasodilator. As a vasodilator, alcohol widens blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely than normal. Vasodilation causes headaches in some individuals. In addition to this, vasodilation causes a drastic drop in blood pressure, leading to abnormally low blood pressure or hypotension. While consuming alcohol may not cause headaches in everyone, studies show that one-third of alcohol consumers suffer from migraines after taking alcohol. Apart from being a vasodilator, alcohol also acts as a diuretic, causing the body to pass out fluids more frequently through urination. This leads to dehydration which could increase the severity of the headache.

Get enough sleep

The negative effects of sleep deprivation are numerous. Not getting enough sleep is detrimental to the overall health in many ways and may cause headaches in some people. It’s advised to find sweet spots and enjoy seven to nine hours of quality sleep every night. Too much sleep can also cause headaches. So, it’s very important to get proper sleep, not too little and not too much.

Avoid foods high in histamine

Histamine is a chemical created in the body and released by the white blood cells into the bloodstream when the immune system is defending against a potential allergen. While most people can tolerate foods high in histamine, about 1% of the population are histamine intolerant. Those affected with this are unable to properly break down histamine, causing histamine build-up. This can then trigger an immune system response, resulting in diarrhea, shortness of breath, headaches, or skin irritation. 

Reduce pain with a cold compress

Using a cold compress may help reduce the symptoms of headaches. Applying cold or frozen compresses to the neck or head area decreases inflammation, slows nerve conduction, and constricts blood vessels, all of which help reduce headache pain.

Get some exercise

Another way to reduce headache frequency is by engaging in physical activities. There are many physical activities one could indulge in, but it’s easier to just go for a walk. 

Other home remedies for headaches include

• Drinking ginger tea
• Avoiding nitrates and nitrites
• Employ herbal remedies like feverfew and butterbur
• Avoiding strong smells
• Relaxing with yoga
• Try acupuncture
• Drink some coffee or caffeinated tea
• Try B-complex vitamins. 

A lot of people are negatively affected by frequent headaches. This is why it’s important to find effective and natural home remedies for headaches like those listed above. Note that frequent headaches could be a symptom of other underlying conditions, so it’s advised to visit your doctor before embarking on any health regimen.