Headaches, whether occasional or chronic, can disrupt daily activities and affect quality of life. While numerous over-the-counter options are available to alleviate headache pain, herbal teas offer a natural and soothing alternative.
The eleven herbal teas below are renowned for their ability to ease headache symptoms and offer comfort without the need for medication.
Herbal Teas for Headache Relief
1. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is more than just a refreshing tea. It contains menthol, which is an active ingredient known for its cooling and soothing properties. This makes peppermint tea one of the best herbal teas for headache relief.
The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles around the head and neck, potentially easing the pain and allowing for a calming effect. Peppermint tea can also help alleviate digestive issues, which are sometimes linked with migraine episodes.
Find the recipe for Peppermint Tea here.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger, a root praised for its strong anti-inflammatory properties, effectively reduces inflammation of the brain’s blood vessels, thus easing headache pain. Ginger tea can also combat nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms of severe migraines.
Find the recipe for Ginger Tea here.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming effects, which can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from stress-related headaches. Its mild sedative properties help decrease anxiety, soothe the mind, and promote sleep, which can be helpful when a headache strikes before bedtime.
Try this recipe for Lavender Chamomile Tea here.
4. Feverfew Tea
Feverfew, an herbal plant with a long history of medicinal use, is specifically touted for its effectiveness in preventing and alleviating migraines. Compounds in feverfew can help reduce migraine frequency and relieve symptoms like light sensitivity, nausea, and dizziness.
Find the recipe for Feverfew Tea here.
5. Lavender Tea
Lavender is not only a scent used for relaxation, it’s also a practical remedy for migraines and headaches. The soothing aroma of lavender tea can calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and alleviate headache pain.
Try this recipe for Earl Grey Lavender Iced Tea.
6. Willow Bark Tea
Willow bark, the bark from several varieties of willow trees, contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin. Drinking willow bark tea can effectively reduce inflammation and relieve headache pain, making it an excellent herbal tea for headache relief.
However, due to its similarities to aspirin, willow bark should be consumed with caution, especially among those who are allergic to aspirin. Also, avoid this tea if you are on blood thinners.
Find the recipe for Willow Bark Tea here.
7. Rooibos Chai
Rooibos Chai, a blend of Rooibos tea and chai spices, is not only warming but also boasts anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful for reducing headache symptoms.
Try this recipe for Rooibos Chai.
8. Turmeric Tea
Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory that helps reduce the inflammation associated with headaches.
Find the recipe for Turmeric Tea here.
9. Lemon Balm Tea
Known for its calming effects, lemon balm can ease stress and anxiety, which contribute to headaches. This makes Lemon Balm a great herbal tea for headache relief.
Find the recipe for Lemon Balm Tea here.
10. Oregano Tea
Oregano is potent in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe headache symptoms.
Try this recipe for Oregano Tea.
11. Valerian Root Tea
Valerian root is often used for its sedative qualities, which can be beneficial for those whose headaches are related to poor sleep or anxiety.
Find the recipe for Valerian Root Tea here.
