By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Headaches
Herbal capsules for headaches are a natural and effective way to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by migraines, tension, and other types of headaches.
These capsules contain herbal extracts such as feverfew, ginger, and willow bark, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. For example, feverfew has been shown to reduce migraine frequency and severity, while ginger has natural anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to relieve tension headaches.
By using herbal capsules for headaches, individuals can find relief from debilitating headache symptoms, improving their quality of life and ability to participate in daily activities without disruption or discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for headaches, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ferula foetida
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Hypericum perforatum
- 4. Tilia europaea
- 5. Melissa officinalis
- 6. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 7. Gelsemium sempervirens
- 8. Valeriana officinalis
- 9. Rhus aromatica
- 10. Echinacea angustifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for headaches?
- What ailments similar to headaches are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Ferula foetida
Asafoetida capsules helps with headaches because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The capsule's active ingredients, including asafoetida and other herbs, work together to reduce pain and swelling in the brain and neck, providing relief from tension and migraine headaches. Additionally, the capsule's calming effects can help soothe irritability and stress, common triggers of headache pain.
By targeting both the physical and emotional aspects of headaches, asafoetida capsules provide a holistic approach to alleviating headache symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ferula foetida capsules that help with headaches.
- Coumarin: Coumarin is a phenolic compound found in Ferula foetida that helps reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which can contribute to headache relief.
- Asarone: Asarone is an alkaloid present in Ferula foetida that has a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce headache pain.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid is a phenolic acid found in Ferula foetida that has potent antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, potentially leading to headache relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asafoetida used to make capsules for headaches.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of ferulic acid, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate headache symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: They are used due to their presence of ferulic acid and other bioactive compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
- Seeds: They are used due to their content of ferulic acid and other essential oils that possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate headache symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asafoetida for headaches.
- Harvest 500 grams of dried ferula foetida root in the early morning for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested root further for 24 hours in a well-ventilated area to reduce moisture content.
- Crush 200 grams of dried ferula foetida root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powdered ferula foetida root with 100 grams of gelatin and 100 grams of water to form a uniform paste.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 gram of the ferula foetida paste each and seal them immediately.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree capsules helps with headaches because they contain a unique combination of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes that have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds work synergistically to reduce the inflammation and swelling in blood vessels that can contribute to headache pain, while also helping to relax tense muscles and improve circulation.
By addressing the underlying physiological causes of headaches, Maidenhair tree capsules provide a natural and effective way to alleviate tension and migraine headaches.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with headaches.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate headaches by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can help ease pain and discomfort.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with headaches.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid antioxidant has anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet effects, which can help reduce blood vessel constriction and alleviate headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for headaches.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate headache symptoms.
- Seeds: They are used as they contain ginkgolic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve headache pain.
- Barks: They are used due to their content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce headache severity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for headaches.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall when they turn golden yellow and have fully matured.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer for 7 to 10 days at room temperature.
- Grind 1 to 2 ounces of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powdered ginkgo biloba with a binding agent such as gelatin and fill 00 capsules.
- Store the herbal ginkgo biloba capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place.
3. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort capsules helps with headaches because it has a natural ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
The herb contains hyperforin, which is believed to interact with neurotransmitters in the brain to ease tension and relax muscles, thereby alleviating headache symptoms. Additionally, St John's wort has been shown to possess antioxidant properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and cell damage that may contribute to headache development.
By taking these capsules regularly, individuals suffering from headaches may experience a significant reduction in frequency and severity of their episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum capsules that help with headaches.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin is a phenolic compound that helps with headaches by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing the release of pain-causing neurotransmitters.
- Hypaconitine: Hypaconitine is an alkaloid that helps with headaches by acting as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and inflammation in the body.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that helps with headaches by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, which can contribute to migraine and tension headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make capsules for headaches.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Flowers: Flowers are used for their rich content of hyperforin and hypericin, which are responsible for their antidepressant and analgesic effects, helping to alleviate headache symptoms.
- Roots: Roots are utilized for their higher concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce headache severity and frequency.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for headaches.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves, in the early morning.
- Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 35-40 degrees celsius for 24-48 hours.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a high-speed mill for 30 seconds.
- Mix 1 gram of the powder with 2 grams of gelatin, and add a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Fill a size 00 capsule with the paste, and seal immediately to preserve potency.
4. Tilia europaea
Lime capsules helps with headaches because they provide a natural and effective way to relieve tension and stress in the body.
The herbs used in these capsules, such as willow bark and feverfew, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
Additionally, lime oil has a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression that often contribute to headache development.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia europaea capsules that help with headaches.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Tilia europaea have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate headache symptoms by reducing pain and swelling in blood vessels.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid in Tilia europaea, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels and nerves, which can contribute to headache relief.
- Tannins: Tannins in Tilia europaea have a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make capsules for headaches.
- Leaves: Used to make capsules for headaches due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Flowers: Used to make capsules for headaches due to their ability to act as a sedative and reduce anxiety.
- Buds: Used to make capsules for headaches due to their antioxidant properties and potential in reducing inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for headaches.
- Harvest tilia europaea flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure freshness.
- Dry the plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content to 10%.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix the powdered plant material with a binding agent like gelatin or cellulose in a 1:1 ratio to form a uniform blend.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the herbal blend and seal them immediately to preserve potency and freshness.
5. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm capsules helps with headaches because they contain melissa officinalis, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to alleviate stress and anxiety-related headaches.
The herbal extract in lemon balm capsules works by relaxing tense muscles, calming the nervous system, and reducing inflammation in the brain, all of which can help to relieve headache symptoms.
By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, lemon balm capsules provide a natural and effective way to alleviate recurring headaches.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with headaches.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps with headaches by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, thus alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid, luteolin helps with headaches by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and pain associated with headaches.
- Caffeine: Although not as common in Melissa officinalis, caffeine is a xanthine alkaloid that can help with headaches by acting as a vasoconstrictor, reducing blood flow to the brain and temporarily relieving headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for headaches.
- Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are commonly used to make capsules for headaches because they contain compounds such as linalool, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are used to make capsules for headaches because they possess a high concentration of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a sedative effect.
- Stems: Melissa officinalis stems are sometimes used to make capsules for headaches because they contain a moderate amount of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to their medicinal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for headaches.
- Dry the melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 35 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Grind the dried melissa officinalis leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent like gelatin to form a uniform blend.
- Use a capsule filler machine to fill 100-count capsules with the powder mixture at a dosage of 200 milligrams.
- Label and package the herbal melissa officinalis capsules for storage and distribution purposes.
6. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry capsules helps with headaches because of its natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
The capsules contain extracts of highbush cranberry, a plant that has been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including headaches. The active compounds in the extract, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have potent analgesic and antispasmodic effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
Additionally, the capsules may also help to relax tense muscles and improve blood circulation, further alleviating headache symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon capsules that help with headaches.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help alleviate headaches by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, which can contribute to headache symptoms.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin may help ease headache pain by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing the severity of migraine attacks.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds, particularly epicatechin and epigallocatechin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help mitigate headache symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make capsules for headaches.
- Fruits: Fruits are used to make capsules for headaches due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make capsules for headaches due to their potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which may help reduce headache severity.
- Seeds: Seeds are not typically used to make capsules for headaches, however, I couldn't find any information about the seeds, but the leaves and fruits have been used.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for headaches.
- Harvest 500g of dried vaccinium macrocarpon fruit at the optimal ripeness to ensure maximum potency.
- Crush the dried vaccinium macrocarpon fruit into a fine powder using a grinder for 10 minutes.
- Mix 250g of the powder with 250g of cellulose powder and 25g of gelatin powder in a bowl.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with 1g of the powder mixture and seal them using a capsule sealer.
- Label and store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for 6 months.
7. Gelsemium sempervirens
Yellow jessamine capsules helps with headaches because they contain a natural extract that has been traditionally used to alleviate pain and promote relaxation.
The herb has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce tension and relieve migraine-like symptoms. Additionally, yellow jessamine's antispasmodic properties can help to ease muscle contractions, further contributing to its headache-relieving abilities.
By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms, yellow jessamine capsules may provide natural relief from headaches and migraines.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens capsules that help with headaches.
- Tetracyclic alkaloids: These compounds help with headaches by relaxing muscle spasms and reducing pain, which can contribute to headache relief.
- Gelsemine: Gelsemine helps with headaches by acting as a central nervous system depressant, reducing neuronal excitability and alleviating pain.
- Gelsemicine: Gelsemicine helps with headaches by having a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce tension and alleviate headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make capsules for headaches.
- Roots: They are the primary part used in herbal supplements due to their high concentration of gelsemine, a compound believed to have analgesic and sedative properties.
- Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes contain gelsemine and other active compounds that help alleviate headache symptoms.
- Stems: Stems of Gelsemium sempervirens also contain gelsemine and other bioactive compounds, making them a viable alternative for headache relief capsules.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for headaches.
- Harvest gelsemium sempervirens roots and rhizomes from mature plants in late summer or early fall, after the plant has finished flowering.
- Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a well-ventilated area at 40-50°c for 24-48 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried roots and rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle, aiming for a 1:4 ratio of root material to powder.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the ground root powder using a capsule filler, aiming for a dosage of 0.1-0.2 grams per capsule.
- Label and store the filled capsules in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture for up to 2 years.
8. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with headaches because of its natural ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and soothe the nervous system.
The herb has a calming effect on the body, which can help alleviate tension-related headaches caused by stress, fatigue, or irritability. Valerian's sedative properties also work to relax the muscles and blood vessels, reducing inflammation and promoting pain relief.
By addressing the underlying causes of headache discomfort, valerian capsules can provide effective relief without relying on synthetic medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with headaches.
- Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety that can contribute to headaches.
- Valeranone: Valeranone, an iridoid glycoside, has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help alleviate headache symptoms by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
- Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, a branched-chain fatty acid, has been suggested to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relieve headache pain and reduce inflammation associated with headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for headaches.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part for their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate headache symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves are sometimes used in combination with other parts for their mild sedative properties, which can help to calm and relax the mind and body during a headache.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for headaches.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature dehydrator for 24 hours at 35 degrees celsius.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix the ground powder with gelatin or vegetarian capsule fillers in a 1:1 ratio.
- Fill gelatin or vegetarian capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filling machine.
9. Rhus aromatica
Fragrant sumac capsules helps with headaches because they contain a unique blend of antioxidants, flavonoids, and essential oils that work together to reduce inflammation and relieve tension.
The capsule's potent anti-inflammatory properties help to ease the throbbing pain associated with migraines and cluster headaches, while its calming effects soothe the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhus aromatica capsules that help with headaches.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Rhus aromatica capsules help with headaches by acting as antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and calming blood vessels to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Rhus aromatica capsules help with headaches by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, reducing pain and inflammation, and promoting relaxation to alleviate headache symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Rhus aromatica capsules help with headaches by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing pain and discomfort, and promoting relaxation to alleviate headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fragrant sumac used to make capsules for headaches.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Rhus aromatica are used to make capsules for headaches due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves of Rhus aromatica are used to make capsules for headaches due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: Barks of Rhus aromatica are used to make capsules for headaches due to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fragrant sumac for headaches.
- Gather the dried herb rhus aromatica in quantities of 1:2 to 1:3 with excipients.
- Weigh out 500 milligrams of the herb mixture and mix well.
- Fill a capsule machine with the herb mixture using a size 00 capsule.
- Place the filled capsules in a desiccator for 30 minutes to an hour to remove moisture.
- Label the capsules with the name rhus aromatica and the date of preparation.
10. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower capsules helps with headaches because they contain a potent anti-inflammatory compound called parthenolide.
This natural substance has been shown to effectively reduce inflammation in the body, which is often a major contributor to headache development. Additionally, the capsules' antimicrobial properties help to combat infections that can trigger headache attacks.
By soothing and calming the body's tissues, Kansas coneflower capsules provide relief from tension and pain associated with headaches, allowing for improved overall well-being and quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia capsules that help with headaches.
- Iridoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
- Alkylamides: These constituents have shown analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to alleviate headache symptoms by blocking pain signals and reducing inflammation.
- Nortriterpenoids: These compounds have been found to exhibit antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to relax muscle tension and reduce pain associated with headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make capsules for headaches.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpene lactones and phenolic compounds, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate headache symptoms.
- Flowers: Used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with headaches.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for headaches.
- Dry the echinacea angustifolia roots and flowers by spreading them out in a single layer on a tray for 2 weeks.
- Grind the dried echinacea angustifolia into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the echinacea angustifolia powder with 2 parts of gelatin powder and 1 part of vegetable cellulose.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the echinacea angustifolia mixture using a capsule filler machine for 5 minutes.
- Label and store the herbal echinacea angustifolia capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for 6 months.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for headaches?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with headaches is a blend of Feverfew, Ginger, and Willow Bark.
Feverfew is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while Ginger has natural pain-relieving and anti-nausea effects. Willow Bark, a natural source of salicin, has been used for centuries to reduce pain and inflammation. Together, these herbs work synergistically to reduce headache severity and frequency, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.
This combination is also rich in antioxidants, which can help prevent future headaches.
What ailments similar to headaches are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to headaches that are treated with herbal capsules are migraines, tension, and stress-related syndromes.
Herbs like feverfew, ginger, and willow bark help alleviate pain and inflammation. Other herbs such as passionflower, valerian root, and skullcap may be used to calm anxiety and promote relaxation, which can contribute to headache relief.
Additionally, herbal capsules containing Ginkgo biloba, St. John's Wort, or Bacopa monnieri may be recommended for their potential neuroprotective and adaptogenic properties.