Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of experience dealing with various types of headaches. And I’ve tried it all — going to the doctors, pain medications, cool washcloths — you name it. After feeling quite frustrated, it dawned on me to give all-natural remedies a try. As I researched different options, essential oils stood out to me. They are known to provide relief, aid circulation, and reduce stress all at the same time.

Headaches typically fall into one of four categories: migraine, tension, sinus, or sugar. And each category can be treated with essential oils to ease the pain. A migraine is often caused by insomnia, stress, anxiety, or hormonal changes, while a tension headache usually comes from stress or strain. Sinus headaches occur when the nasal passages become clogged and cause pressure to build up within your sinuses, and sugar headaches come from low blood sugar levels.

Below are a few tips for treating each category of headache. Make sure to test out the essential oil on a small patch of skin before using. For sensitive areas such as the face, dilute the oil first.

● Migraines: Rub lavender or peppermint essential oil on your temples and back of the neck to relieve pain and nausea.

● Tension Headaches: Massage eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil on your temples, forehead, and wrists. Alternatively, draw a warm bath and add 5 – 10 drops of lavender essential oil before soaking for 10 – 20 minutes. Make sure to get out slowly, and drink plenty of water.

● Sinus Headaches: Rub eucalyptus essential oil on your temples, chest, and nose to help open up nasal passages. Breathe deeply, counting to five for each inhalation and exhalation.

● Sugar Headaches: Mix equal drops of lavender essential oil, rosemary essential oil, and coconut oil, and massage on your temples, forehead, and back of the neck.

Essential Oil Benefits

● Peppermint: cooling effect, inhibits muscle contractions, and stimulates blood flow.

● Lavender: relieves tension, treats neurological conditions, and helps regulate sleep.

● Eucalyptus: helps remove toxins, opens nasal airways, and promotes emotional balance.

● Rosemary: improves alertness, stimulates blood flow, and soothes nausea.

Do you have a go-to natural remedy for headaches? Tell us all about it in the comments below.

Safety Precautions

Always test a small area of your skin, first, to check for sensitivity. Avoid contact with eyes and approach all ingredients with extreme caution if you have any skin sensitivity or allergies.

The information provided on flourish is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat any medical condition. Content is based on personal research and experiences and is meant for inspirational purposes only. We are not licensed nutritionists or medical professionals, and you should always consult with your doctor, particularly if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, before using essential oils.