Aromatherapy is an alternative therapy that uses essential oils extracted from botanicals. Essential oils can be used to treat almost any ailment whether physical or emotional. Many people who have chronic headaches, especially migraines, use aromatherapy in combination with other treatment methods. Some individuals prefer natural remedies such as aromatherapy as a way to reduce the amount of prescription or over-the-counter medications they need to take to ease their headache symptoms.
TREATMENT METHODS
The essential oils used for aromatherapy may be inhaled or applied topically to the skin. Although scents can be therapeutic, essential oils rubbed on the skin can have beneficial effects as well. Certain chemical components of essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream when inhaled, and others are absorbed into the skin. Diluting a few drops of peppermint oil with almond or jojoba oil and then rubbing the oil into your temples can help alleviate headache pain. You can also rub the oil onto your forehead or at the back of your neck to ease the discomfort of a headache. Many people find that soaking in a bath to which essential oils have been added is another effective way to get headache relief.
ANALGESIC EFFECT
Several studies cited by Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska, suggest that the use of essential oils as an alternative treatment therapy may produce a pain-relieving analgesic effect similar to that of acetaminophen. One study examined the effects of peppermint for reducing headache pain in human subjects. Results showed that peppermint oil applied topically produced an analgesic effect, easing the intensity of headache pain.
DIFFUSION TECHNIQUES
There are several different methods by which you can benefit from the essential oils used for aromatherapy. Rub massage oils onto the skin; soak in bath water to which an essential oil or blend has been added; or spread the aroma in the air by way of aromatherapy candles, electric diffusers or an aroma lamp.
When using an aroma lamp, fill the bowl with water and then add 10 to 12 drops of the essential oil of your choice. Light a tea candle underneath the bowl. As the flame heats the water and oil, the therapeutic scent will spread throughout the room.
Another option for treating headaches is to add six drops of an essential oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil, the base oil used to dilute an essential oil. With your fingertips, gently massage the oil over your face and neck using small, circular motions.
BENEFITS
Many people who have constant headaches use aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Some individuals derive more benefits from aromatherapy than others; therefore, you may have to try different essential oils and blends before finding those that are most effective for relieving your headache symptoms. As long as you experience no adverse reactions from the use of essential oils, keep trying different ones until you find one that works best for you.
ESSENTIAL OILS
Peppermint oil is one of the most common herbs used to alleviate the pain of a headache. Lavender also helps to ease pain, as well as relieve stress. Basil is another essential oil used to reduce the anxiety that can bring on a tension headache. Sandalwood, eucalyptus and rosemary are other natural remedies frequently used to treat headaches. A few drops of lemongrass or chamomile added to a warm bath can produce a calming effect to help your body relax.
Ginger, peppermint, and lemon essential oils are often recommended for headaches accompanied by stomach complaints. Ginger works particularly well for relieving the nausea sometimes brought on by a headache. Always use pure, 100 percent essential oils for therapeutic purposes.
WARNING
Headaches are caused by a number of different factors. A headache can also be a sign of an underlying condition. Stress, fatigue, feelings of anxiety or depression, sleeplessness and stomach upset can all trigger headaches. See your doctor if you get headaches often or they increase in duration and intensity. Some people who have severe migraine headaches are highly sensitive to scents and touch and therefore should not use aromatherapy.