4 Best and Safest Herbs for Headache Relief (Plus Tea Recipes)

Headaches are a common issue that can disrupt our daily lives and productivity. While there are over-the-counter medications available, some people prefer natural alternatives to relieve headaches. Herbs, with their medicinal properties and long history of use, can provide effective relief without the side effects of pharmaceuticals. This article explores the best herbs for headache relief, along with tea recipes, offering a natural way to manage discomfort.

🌿PEPPERMINT (Mentha piperita)

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Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a hybrid plant of spearmint and water mint. It has a fresh and cooling aroma and flavor, and it can be used for various purposes, for example, for analgesic and muscle relaxants.

This herb is generally considered safe for ingestion, and mint tea is a popular choice for various purposes, including alleviating headaches. Both peppermint and spearmint, commonly used to make mint tea, have been associated with potential health benefits.

Benefits of Mint Tea for Headaches

• Soothing Properties: Mint has natural calming and muscle-relaxing properties, which may help ease tension headaches.
• Mild Analgesic Effect: Some people find relief from headaches by consuming mint tea, as it may have a mild analgesic (pain-relieving) effect.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Mint possesses anti-inflammatory properties that could contribute to reducing headache discomfort, particularly if inflammation is a factor.

Considerations

• Moderation: While mint tea is generally safe, it's advisable to consume it in moderation. Excessive intake may lead to potential side effects like heartburn in some individuals.
• Individual Variability: Responses to mint can vary among individuals. Some people may find relief from headaches, while others may not experience the same benefit.
• Caffeine Content: Peppermint tea is caffeine-free, making it a suitable option for those sensitive to caffeine, but some other types of mint tea may contain caffeine.

Caution: If you have specific health concerns, are pregnant, or are on medications, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before relying solely on herbal remedies. While mint tea can be a comforting and natural option for managing headaches, individual responses may vary, and it's essential to ensure it aligns with your overall health and well-being.

(Recipe from thespruceeats.com)

🍵MAKING MINT TEA

• 2 cups filtered water
• 15 fresh mint leaves (peppermint or spearmint)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey), optional
• 1 cup ice, optional
• 2 lemon slices, optional
• Fresh lemon juice, optional

Step to make it: 

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Remove from the heat and add the fresh mint leaves. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on desired strength.
4. Add optional sweetener. Start with 1 teaspoon per cup and add more as desired.

🌿GINGER (Zingiber officinale)

(Source: Pinterest)

Ginger is a spicy and aromatic rhizome renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat headaches for centuries. It can be consumed in various forms, including ginger tea or as an ingredient in meals. Ginger's ability to reduce inflammation may contribute to its effectiveness in relieving headaches, especially those caused by tension or inflammation.

This herb is generally considered safe for ingestion, and ginger tea is a popular choice for various health benefits, including relieving headaches. Ginger has been used for centuries for its natural medicinal properties, and many people find it effective in alleviating headache symptoms.

Benefits of Ginger Tea for Headaches

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation, which can be a contributing factor to headaches.
• Nausea Relief: Ginger is known for its ability to ease nausea, and if a headache is accompanied by an upset stomach, ginger tea may offer relief.
• Vasodilation: Some studies suggest that ginger may have vasodilatory effects, meaning it can help widen blood vessels, potentially improving blood flow and reducing headache intensity.

Considerations

• Moderation: While ginger tea is generally safe, it's advisable to consume it in moderation. Excessive intake may lead to potential side effects like heartburn or digestive discomfort.
• Individual Responses: Responses to ginger can vary among individuals. While many find relief from headaches, not everyone may experience the same benefits.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before consuming large amounts of ginger.

Caution: If you have specific health concerns, are pregnant, or are on medications, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before relying solely on herbal remedies. Ginger tea can be a soothing and natural option for managing headaches, but individual responses may vary, and it's crucial to ensure it aligns with your overall health and well-being.

(Recipe from minimalistbaker.com)

🍵MAKING GINGER TEA

• 2 ½ Tbsp chopped fresh ginger (peeling optional // organic when possible // a 2-inch piece yields ~2 Tbsp)
• 2 ½ cups water

ADD-INS optional

• 1 whole cinnamon stick (for sweetness)
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh turmeric (peeling optional // a 2-inch piece yields ~1 Tbsp)
• 2 (3-inch) pieces of fresh orange peel (for zestiness)
• 1 tsp fennel seeds (for sweetness and a subtle licorice flavor)

Step to make it: 

1. Add the chopped ginger and water to a small saucepan along with any of the optional add-ins.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, cover, reduce heat to medium and allow to boil for 7-12 minutes (7 minutes for a more mild ginger flavor or 12 minutes for a stronger brew — keeping in mind the flavor will continue to develop off the heat). Strain through a fine mesh strainer into mugs. Optionally, sweeten to taste with your favorite sweetener (we prefer honey) and/or serve with sliced lemon or orange.
3. Leftover tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or cooled and transferred to an ice cube tray for adding to cocktails, lemonade, iced tea, or water. Note: The ginger flavor will intensify as the tea sits. The ginger and spices can be reused again with fresh water, but the second batch of tea will not be as strong.

🌿LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)

(Source: americanmeadows.com)

"Lavender oil had a major moment in the historical spotlight," shared insights from Josh Axe, a nutritionist and natural medicine expert. "The Egyptians were into it for mummifications and as a sweet fragrance, while the Romans embraced it in their bathing routines, culinary adventures, and for keeping the air around them pleasant. There's even a bit of speculation suggesting that Mary might have used lavender oil to anoint Jesus' feet in the twelfth chapter of John in the Bible.

Lavender is generally safe for ingestion, and many people enjoy lavender tea for its potential calming effects, including relief from headaches. Here are some key points to know:

Benefits of Lavender Tea for Headaches

• Calming Properties: Lavender is renowned for its calming and relaxing properties, which may help ease stress and tension that can contribute to headaches.
• Aroma Therapy: The aromatic nature of lavender adds to its therapeutic benefits. Inhaling the soothing aroma, especially through lavender tea, can promote a sense of relaxation.
• Anti-Inflammatory Potential: Lavender contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties, offering a natural way to address headache symptoms.

Considerations

• Moderate Consumption: While lavender tea is generally safe, it's advisable to consume it in moderation. Excessive intake may lead to potential side effects.
• Individual Responses Vary: People's responses to lavender can differ. Some individuals may find relief from headaches, while others may not experience the same benefits.
• Pregnancy Concerns: Pregnant individuals should consult with healthcare professionals before consuming large amounts of lavender tea to ensure it aligns with their health needs.

Caution: For those with specific health concerns, it's recommended to seek advice from healthcare professionals before relying solely on herbal remedies. Lavender tea can be a pleasant and natural choice for managing headaches, but individual responses may vary, and ensuring it aligns with overall well-being is crucial.

(Recip from healthline.com)

🍵MAKING LAVENDER TEA

1. Boil 8 oz. of water.
2. Place 4 tsp. of fresh lavender buds into a tea ball or sachet.
3. Place the tea ball and water into a teacup.
4. Let steep for 10 minutes.
5. Enjoy!

Consider cultivating lavender in your garden and preparing a cup before bedtime for a tranquil night's sleep. If you don't have access to fresh lavender buds, dried ones are a suitable alternative.

🌿FEVERFEW (Tanacetum parthenium)

(Source: higgledygarden.com)

Feverfew, a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family, earned its name from the Latin term febrifugia, which translates to "fever reducer." Historically, it was employed for addressing fevers and various inflammatory conditions, earning it the nickname "medieval aspirin."

This herb is generally safe for ingestion, and some people use feverfew tea as a potential remedy for headaches. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

Benefits of Feverfew Tea for Headaches

• Migraine Prevention: Feverfew has been explored for its potential to prevent migraines, making it a natural option for those looking for relief.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Feverfew is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that might help reduce headache symptoms.
• Muscle Relaxation: Some studies suggest that feverfew may help relax smooth muscles, including blood vessels, which could impact the severity of headaches.

Considerations

• Bitter Taste: Feverfew has a bitter taste, which may not be liked by everyone. Mixing it with honey or other herbs can improve the taste.
• Fresh Leaves Caution: Chewing fresh feverfew leaves may cause mouth ulcers in some individuals. Using processed forms, such as dried leaves in tea, can reduce this risk.
• Pregnancy Caution: Pregnant individuals should avoid using feverfew, especially in medicinal amounts, due to potential risks.

Caution: While feverfew is generally considered safe, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have specific health concerns or are pregnant. Additionally, opting for commercially available, processed feverfew products can help ensure consistency in dosage and reduce the risk of side effects.

(Recipe from bestteacrafter.com)

🍵MAKING FEVERFEW TEA

• 1 tablespoon dried Feverfew leaves (harvested at their peak for maximum flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
• 1 teaspoon honey (adjust to taste)

Step to make it: 

1. Begin by collecting the show’s star, dried Feverfew leaves, chamomile flowers, and lavender buds. This combination will create a delightful flavor profile and enhance the tea’s calming effects.
2. In a pot, bring 2 cups of purified water to a gentle boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low.
3. Drop in the tablespoon of dried Feverfew leaves, followed by the teaspoon each of chamomile flowers and lavender buds. Let this herbal symphony steep for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the goodness to infuse.
4. After steeping, add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten your tea. Adjust the amount to your taste preferences, as honey adds sweetness and complements the herbal notes.
5. Using a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser, strain the infused liquid into your favorite teacup. Witness the golden elixir that is the Feverfew Tea, ready to transport you to a realm of tranquility.

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These four herbs, along with the provided tea recipes, offer a natural and safe way to ease headaches. By incorporating these herbs into your routine, you can manage discomfort without the potential side effects associated with conventional medications. The simplicity of preparing herbal teas makes it an accessible and enjoyable method for finding relief. Embracing the healing properties of nature provides a gentle yet effective approach to addressing headaches and promotes overall well-being.