Headaches are common ailments, but the pain can be uncomfortable or even debilitating. Fortunately, there are many home remedies for headache that reduce pain without causing side effects. Here are eight of the best natural headache remedies:

Water

Headaches are often caused by dehydration, especially after drinking coffee, alcohol, or some other beverages. Drinking plenty of water at the start of a headache can relieve pain. People who experience frequent headaches should make sure to drink at least eight cups of water every day.

Stretching

Headaches are sometimes caused by staying in one position for too long. It's common for office workers who spend all day hunched over at a computer to have chronic headaches because of the constant pressure on their necks. Gently stretching the neck and head can ease pain caused by body tension.

Hot or Cold Compresses

Hot and cold compresses can both ease headache pain. Most people with tension headaches use warm compresses, but people with chronic migraines tend to prefer cold compresses. Compresses are effective either over the forehead or behind the neck.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is one of the best home remedies for headache, and there are a wide variety of ways to enjoy its benefits. Some people prefer to put a couple drops on a tissue and inhale the oil, and others like adding a few drops to boiling water and inhaling the steam. Mixing a few drops of lavender oil with olive oil and massaging the mixture into the forehead can also help.

Peppermint Oil

Smelling peppermint oil can open up clogged blood vessels that cause headaches. An individual experiencing a headache can mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a tablespoon of olive oil and massage it into their temples or the back of their neck. Applying crushed peppermint leaves to the forehead also relieves headache pain.

Magnesium

People who suffer from chronic headaches and migraines tend to have low levels of magnesium. The mineral blocks the chemicals in the brain that transmit pain, which can make headaches less frequent and less severe. Take about 400 milligrams of magnesium per day to help with chronic headaches. Those who don't want to take a supplement can eat more magnesium-rich foods, including:

• Beans
• Broccoli
• Leafy greens
• Nuts
• Dairy products

Flaxseed

Inflammation is one of the most common causes of headaches, and omega-3 fatty acids have great anti-inflammatory effects. Flaxseed is one of the best sources of omega-3s, so consuming flaxseed can put a stop to headaches and prevent them from recurring. There are a variety of forms of flaxseed that combat headaches, including:

• Flaxseed oil
• Crushed flaxseed
• Whole flaxseed
• Milled flaxseed
• Flaxseed capsules

Ginger

Ginger reduces inflammation in the blood vessels, which relieves headache pain. It also can help with nausea that sometimes occurs with migraines. Most people consume ginger by making a ginger root tea or mixing ginger juice and lemon juice. However, it also helps to create a paste of ginger powder and water and apply it to the forehead.

Top 5 Routes for "Home Remedies For Headache"

1. National Headache Foundation This headache chart describes the most common types of headaches and the best treatments for each. Understanding the type and cause of a headache is the first step to finding the best remedy.
2. Livestrong.com This article lists several helpful stretches for tension headaches, including yoga exercises and back stretches.
3. Healthline.com This Healthline article provides information about essential oils for headaches and the best ways to use each essential oil for pain relief.
4. Migraine.com This site provides detailed information about ginger for treating migraines. It explains why ginger works and which forms of ginger are best.
5. Berkeley Wellness This article lists several dietary supplements that can prevent headaches, including magnesium.