How do I use peppermint oil for a headache?
Depending on your preference or the headache type, you can diffuse, inhale and or use the oil topically, with peppermint tea which can cure it for some people. There are also a few other things you can do to ease headache symptoms, which can offer relief from pain, stress and dehydration. The active ingredient in peppermint oil is menthol. About 44% of peppermint is menthol, which may also lessen the intensity of acute migraine attacks. One study found that a topical gel with 6% menthol decreased pain intensity after 2 hours.It’s also important to remember that peppermint essential oil is very concentrated and should always be diluted properly before topical use. Only a few drops of essential oil are needed for diluting in an ounce of carrier oil. In some cases, peppermint oil that’s applied to the skin may cause irritation or a rash.Here are a few different ways you can use peppermint oil on your skin: Relieve joint and muscle pain: Dilute 2-3 drops of the oil and rub directly into the target area a few times a day. Alternatively, dilute the oil and add 5 drops to warm bath water filled with Epsom salt.Peppermint oil is not suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take it if you: have ever had an allergic reaction to peppermint oil, aspirin or any other medicine.For a quick fix, apply diluted peppermint oil to your temples or under your nose. Don’t forget to mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil to avoid skin irritation. You can also inhale its scent directly from the bottle or a handkerchief for immediate relief.
What essential oils are good for headaches while pregnant?
Use Essential Oils Lavender and peppermint oils can be very soothing for headaches. You can dab them on your temples or the site of your headache, or use them in a diffuser. The forehead, back of the ears, back of the neck, and temples are common places to ease headaches. You can also massage it into the area where you’re experiencing pain the most. Before using, be sure to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as almond, olive, or jojoba oil. And keep it out of your eyes!The deficiency of many nutrients including magnesium, niacin, riboflavin, cobalamin, coenzymes Q10, carnitine, α-lipoic acid and vitamin D is associated with migraine. Some researchers postulate that mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired antioxidant status can cause migraine.Magnesium Deficiency Neurologist Dr. Joshua Daniel of Shore Physicians Group said many migraine headache sufferers are found to be deficient in magnesium when they have blood work done.Nutritional deficiencies, such as magnesium, riboflavin, omega-3, omega-6, and vitamin D deficiencies, can cause headaches. By running lab tests to assess nutritional deficiencies, we can determine the necessary course of treatment.
Can you put peppermint oil on your temples?
People have been using peppermint medicinally for thousands of years. It is one of the most popular essential oils for treating headaches. This 2015 review of published studies on essential oils states that applying peppermint oil to the temples and forehead helps ease tension headaches. Try Massage You can do it yourself. A few minutes of massaging your forehead, neck, and temples can help ease a tension headache, which may result from stress. Or apply gentle, rotating pressure to the painful area. Your shoulders and the base of your neck are also good spots.Apply heat to relieve tense neck and shoulder muscles. Use a heating pad set on low, a hot water bottle, a hot shower or bath, a warm compress, or a hot towel. Or apply ice or a cool washcloth to the forehead. Massage also can relieve muscle tension — and sometimes headache pain.Best for stress headaches: Lavender oil A 2022 review suggests that inhaling lavender essential oil can be a safe and effective treatment for managing acute migraine.The forehead, back of the ears, back of the neck, and temples are common places to ease headaches. You can also massage it into the area where you’re experiencing pain the most. Before using, be sure to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as almond, olive, or jojoba oil. And keep it out of your eyes!
Is peppermint oil harmful if swallowed?
Peppermint oil appears to be safe when taken orally (by mouth) or applied topically in the doses commonly used. Peppermint oil has been safely used in multiple clinical trials. Possible side effects of peppermint oil taken orally include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Peppermint oil in capsule form is intended to help treat stomach and abdominal discomfort. You can also drink peppermint oil by using it to make peppermint oil tea. Place one drop of peppermint oil, or 2-3 drops of peppermint extract, in a teapot of boiling water.People who have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, might want to be careful, though, because peppermint can relax the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach, which can lead to heartburn. Overall, Velayutham said, peppermint might not be magic, but it is safe for most people.Peppermint has been shown to help soothe symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as pain, bloating, diarrhea and gas. Two to three drops of good quality peppermint oil in water taken after meals can definitely help with digestion and decreasing gas and belching,” Marrs said.Peppermint has been shown to help soothe symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as pain, bloating, diarrhea and gas. Two to three drops of good quality peppermint oil in water taken after meals can definitely help with digestion and decreasing gas and belching,” Marrs said.
Is peppermint oil safe to use while pregnant?
Peppermint oil can be helpful for headaches, nausea, nasal congestion and muscle aches during pregnancy. Peppermint oil inhalation has even been found to be beneficial for postpartum people who have difficulty emptying their bladder. Most pregnant people can safely take acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) to treat headaches that happen once in a while. Your healthcare professional may suggest other medicines as well. Always check with a member of your healthcare team before you take any new medicine or herbal treatment.
Which oil is best for headaches?
Lavender, peppermint, chamomile, anise, basil, rose, and mixed essential oils have been found to reduce migraine intensity and frequency. Some oils can also reduce the symptoms of photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and vomiting [2]. According to the American Migraine Foundation, there are some foods that have been commonly reported as contributors to migraine attacks, including the 5 C’s (cheese, citrus, chocolate, coffee, cola), but no scientific studies have confirmed that any foods consistently increase the risk of a migraine attack.
What gets rid of a headache fast?
Hot or cold compresses to your head or neck. Massage and small amounts of caffeine. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) and aspirin. Apply hot or cold compresses to your head or neck. Ice packs have a numbing effect, which may dull the pain. Hot packs and heating pads can relax tense muscles. Warm showers or baths may have a similar effect.Apply a Cold or Hot Water Bag The application of a hot water bag application to the nape and upper back muscles can reduce or relieve pain, which will be more effective in tension-type headaches. The important point for both applications is that the cold or heat should not damage or burn the skin.Apply hot or cold compresses to your head or neck. Ice packs have a numbing effect, which may dull the pain. Hot packs and heating pads can relax tense muscles. Warm showers or baths may have a similar effect.