5 Headache Home Remedies

Headaches and migraines plague millions of people. Many turn to over the counter drugs for relief and find that they don't work. Still others worry about the health risks of taking too many pain pills. If you find you're popping a lot of pills and you want to kick the habit, there are several natural remedies that are available. Next time you are struck with a headache, try these tips before reaching for the medicine cabinet.

1. Hydration. Dehydration is a major cause of headaches. Are bodies are made up primarily of water, a lack of this life giving water can cause all sorts of negative effects on the body, including mild to severe headaches. It is best to sip water slowly. Drinking slowly, rather than chugging water, allows your body to absorb it more thoroughly. It is best to keep water with you at all times. During a headache, try to take a drink ever five to ten minutes.

2. Caffeine. Caffeine can restrict blood vessels and lessen pain. It is an active ingredient in most migraine medications. Sipping a soda or a warm mug of coffee can be soothing to a headache. It is possible that caffeine can make a headache worse in some people. If you find that caffeine increases your headaches, avoid it as much as possible.

3. Cold or hot compresses. While there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of cold and hot compresses, many sufferers and doctors claim it is highly effective. At the very least, it may distract you from the headache by supplying a different sensation.

4. Ginger. Ginger has strong painkilling components. It can be boiled in water to create a very soothing tea. Sometimes simply inhaling the scent can help lessen headaches. Ginger can also be taken as a powder, pill, or even chewed raw. However, chewed ginger is far too strong for most people to tolerate.

5. Tie something around your head. This is another one without scientific study, but many people find that tightness around their head soothes their pain. A similar effect can be achieved by massaging the areas of the head that are afflicted.