Headaches

Headaches can be triggered by many different conditions but the typical result is the nerves in the head muscles and blood vessels of the head signal the brain that there is pain.   The triggers can be anything from a blow to the head, disease, to emotional distress.  There are many different types of headaches documented in the literature (over 150) but the most common are:

 

    Tension headaches – These are the most common headache that most people will experience from time to time.  Tightness is felt in areas around the head that results in mild to moderate pain.  The more common areas are the back of the neck, the temples, or the forehead.  The cause is not yet fully understood.

    Chronic daily headaches – If there are repeated tension headaches from day to day it is labeled chronic daily headaches. 

    Migraine headaches –  A migraine is a much more painful experience.  This can be a moderate to severe throbbing sensation that lasts a few hours or sometimes for days.  Again the precise reason for this type of headache is not yet know.  Go to Migraines for more information.

    Cluster headaches – This is one of the most severe of headaches.  The name is because they come in repeated frequent attacks or “cluster periods”.  The attacks may be 2 or 3 times a day and may last from weeks to months.  They may then go away for months or even years.  They often begin in the middle of the night while someone is asleep.  The pain is usually on one side of the head or the other and typically right behind the eye.  The pain is intense, constant, and throbbing making it almost impossible to function normally.

    Sinus headaches – When the membranes of the sinus cavities become inflamed and swollen there can be pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead area where these cavities are located.  This pressure then can result in a sinus headache.

    Acute headaches – Typically seen in children these headaches come on suddenly and last for a short time.

    Hormone headaches – Changing hormone levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause may trigger headaches.  This may also include hormone changes with medications such as birth control pills.

Essential oils have a well-deserved reputation for helping with headaches. The tab above for Suggested Protocols will have some of the most commonly suggested helps and the tab Experiences & Testimonials will include other's experiences.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Deep Blue, Frankincense, Lavender, Marjoram, PastTense, Peppermint, Rosemary

Essential oils based products:

Also consider: Basil, Clove, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Lemon, Lemongrass, Wintergreen

Suggested Protocols:

Mild tension headache:

•  A drop or two of Peppermint oil rubbed on the temples, forehead, and/or back of neck is a simple and effective solution for most.

•  PastTense is a blend of oils in a handy roll on dispenser that is also very effective and more convenient.

Sinus headaches:

•  To relieve immediate pain PastTense or Peppermint as described above will be helpful.

•  Also attend to the sinus infection as described under Sinus Infections.

More severe headaches:

•  Use Peppermint or PastTense as described previously but follow with a damp, cool compress using a clean hand towel. Apply this compress to the forehead and closed eyes and/or the back of the neck, while resting for a few minutes. Repeat as often as needed and schedule will permit.  A few drops of an oil may be put directly on the damp towel to extend the help.  Keep oils away from eyes.

•  Some will find an inhaler or using cup and inhale may prove advantageous.

•  Different bodies and conditions will respond differently to oils. Sometimes it is necessary to rotate or try different oils. 

dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!