For every symptom, there is a cause. And for every cause, there is a trigger.
Headaches can be traced to a variety of causes: dehydration, emotional and mental stress, muscular tension, menstrual problems, nutrient/nutritional deficiency, and indigestion.
Eventually, more serious diseases of the body come into play, such as tumors, head injuries, high blood pressure, and conditions affecting the eyes, ears, nose and throat, and infections.
Health alert: constipation due to sluggish bowels may also cause headaches.
Possible triggers: allergies to cigarette smoke, food sensitivities, a stuffy room, poor posture, even foam pillows.
To do:
1) Drink 10-15 glasses of water daily.
2) Observe yourself. Consult a doctor on taking a food sensitivity test.
3) Enemas will clear the bowels and remove old, stuck-up fecal matter.
Do you know that an enema instantly clears the sinuses? Look into coffee enemas and lemon cleansing for relief.
4) Get into mind-body exercises. Try meditative long walks in open, green spaces like parks, forests, etc.
5) Instead of reaching out immediately for medication, try potassium-rich food like bananas, papaya, raisins, mango, kiwi, oranges and pears.
Migraines
Migraines are a special type of headache. And each person has a distinct experience. Most suffer irritability, cold feet and hands, lack of appetite, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light.
Migraines can last for days, and they need special attention. Check for erratic blood sugar levels and sensitivity to hot weather.
A little sea salt followed by two glasses of tepid water can provide relief.
If you’re suffering from migraine, take note that there is a strong connection between the ailment and food allergies.
Natural remedies:
- Celery—for menstrual pain and cramps
- Ginger—taken as a tea, improves circulation. Grate ½ teaspoon of ginger and pour hot water over it. Strain and sip.
- Cayenne—¼ teaspoon mixed in warm water stimulates circulation.
- Apple cider vinegar—in a chilled (not ice-cold) glass of water, mix ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar as a detox drink.
- Sage—this herb helps ease mental exhaustion. Put 1 teaspoon of herbal powder in a cup of warm water. Add a pinch of cayenne. Mix and drink up.
- Onion—believe it or not, freshly grated onion, when made into a poultice and wrapped around the head in a cloth bandage for 20 minutes can give you relief from headache. Onion is a powerful detoxifier and anti-inflammatory agent. Just don’t mind the smell. But avoid the eyes, as you could tear up.
Super teas available in the market are the following:
- Peppermint, spearmint—best for headaches related to indigestion. They can calm the tummy, too.
- Passion flower—anxiety-reliever
- Chamomile—for nerve-related headaches
- White willow—works similar to natural aspirin for body aches. Ten drops of the liquid in a vegetable or fruit juice or tea can be beneficial.
- Black cohosh—works like a powerful relaxant, good for headaches located in the back of the head.
- Feverfew—best for migraines because it has been known to decrease the severity of headaches.
Vitamin-mineral intervention:
- Vitamin B complex (50-100 milligrams)—one capsule daily after meals to calm the nerves.
- Potassium (99 mg)—one tablet every hour until the pain is gone. Warning: Do not take for more than eight hours or exceed eight tablets in one day.
- Bath soaks—foot soak means instant relief. Soak your feet in hot water for one to two minutes, then quickly place your feet in a pan of cold water. Congested blood from the head will be drawn out and downwards to your feet. If you’re in a hurry, you can get the same effect using the hot-cold soaking with the hands.
Homeopathic tonics could help. See a homeopathic doctor.
- Acupuncture—there are meridian points that can be stimulated to ease headaches.
This week’s affirmation: “I am blessed!”
Love and light!
Reference: “A Treasury of Natural First Aid Remedies from A-Z” by James Kusick
E-mail the author: [email protected]