7 Best Herbal Teas For Headaches

Herbal teas for Headaches are a type of medicinal tea made from the leaves, flowers, or roots of plants, used to alleviate and soothe the symptoms of headaches.

They can treat this ailment by providing natural relief from pain, inflammation, and stress, which are common causes of headaches.

Examples of herbal teas that can help alleviate headaches include Feverfew, which contains compounds that prevent the release of pain-causing chemicals; Ginger, which has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and swelling; Peppermint, which has a cooling effect that can help relax tense muscles and improve blood flow; and Lavender, which has a calming effect that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Additionally, other herbal teas such as Chamomile, Willow Bark, and Rosemary can also help alleviate headaches due to their anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and stress-reducing properties.

Below there's a list of the 7 best herbal teas for headaches.

1. Valeriana officinalis teas

Valeriana officinalis teas have been traditionally used to treat headaches due to their soothing and sedative properties, which help to alleviate stress and anxiety that often trigger these episodes.

The herbal preparation contains bioactive constituents such as valerenic acid, valeranone, and isovaleric acid, which have been shown to possess a calming effect on the nervous system and reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief from headaches.

By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, Valeriana officinalis teas help to treat headaches by addressing the underlying causes of the ailment.

The benefits of using this herbal preparation to treat headaches include reduced frequency and severity of episodes, improved sleep quality, and a decrease in the reliance on over-the-counter pain medications.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Valeriana officinalis root and a cup of boiling water.
2. Place the dried root in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
3. Pour the boiling water over the root and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the root.
5. Drink the tea slowly and as needed to help relieve headaches.

Valeriana officinalis teas can be effective in treating headaches, but it may also cause side effects such as drowsiness, stomach upset, and interactions with other medications.

Precautions should be taken when using Valeriana officinalis teas to treat headaches, as it may worsen conditions such as kidney or liver problems, and it is recommended to start with small doses and gradually increase as needed, and to avoid using it before driving or operating heavy machinery.

2. Foeniculum vulgare teas

Foeniculum vulgare teas have been traditionally used to treat headaches due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat headaches by reducing pain and inflammation, as well as promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

The bioactive constituents of Foeniculum vulgare teas, including volatile oils such as anethole and limonene, contribute to their therapeutic effects by acting as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent.

By consuming Foeniculum vulgare teas, individuals can benefit from reduced headache frequency and severity, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of dried Foeniculum vulgare (aniseed) in a saucepan.
2. Heat the water over medium heat until it starts boiling.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Foeniculum vulgare to the boiling water and reduce heat to low.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, then turn off the heat.
5. Strain the mixture into a cup and let it cool before drinking. You can add honey if needed.

Foeniculum vulgare teas can be used to treat headaches, but possible side effects include digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, as well as allergic reactions like skin rashes and itching.

When using Foeniculum vulgare teas to treat headaches, it is recommended to start with small amounts and gradually increase as needed, and also to avoid consuming it on an empty stomach, as this may exacerbate digestive issues.

3. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, derived from the rhizome of the ginger plant, have been traditionally used to treat headaches due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents present in ginger tea, including gingerols and shogaols, help to alleviate headache symptoms by blocking pain pathways and reducing inflammation in the body.

By consuming Zingiber officinale teas, individuals can experience relief from headaches as the compounds in ginger work to calm and soothe the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing tension.

The benefits of using Zingiber officinale teas to treat headaches include its natural and non-habit-forming properties, making it a popular and effective herbal remedy for headache sufferers.

Recipe:

1. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot.
2. Measure 1/2 teaspoon of dried Zingiber officinale root powder.
3. Add the powder to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and serve in a cup. Drink 1 cup, 2-3 times a day.

Zingiber officinale teas can be an effective herbal remedy for headaches, but possible side effects may include nausea, stomach upset, and heartburn due to its warm and spicy properties.

To safely use Zingiber officinale teas for headache relief, take it in moderation, as excessive consumption can exacerbate digestive issues, and avoid consuming it on an empty stomach to minimize stomach upset.

4. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas, derived from the Lavender plant, have been used for centuries to treat headaches due to their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and relaxing properties.

The bioactive constituents of Lavandula angustifolia teas, including linalool and linalyl acetate, help to ease headache pain by reducing muscle tension, promoting relaxation, and inhibiting the release of pain-causing chemicals.

By drinking Lavandula angustifolia teas, individuals can experience relief from headaches as the herbal preparation helps to calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat headaches include their non-addictive and non-pharmacological nature, making them a safe and natural alternative to conventional pain relief medications.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot until it's boiling.
3. Add the dried flowers to the boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Drink the tea warm or at room temperature, as needed for headache relief.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be an effective herbal remedy for treating headaches, but it may also cause drowsiness and stomach upset in some individuals.

To use this herbal preparation safely, individuals should start with small amounts and gradually increase the dose, avoid consuming it before driving or operating heavy machinery, and be cautious if they have sensitive stomachs or allergies.

5. Melissa officinalis teas

Melissa officinalis teas, also known as lemon balm tea, have been traditionally used to treat headaches due to their soothing and calming properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat headaches by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety and stress, and improving sleep quality, ultimately leading to a decrease in headache frequency and severity.

The bioactive constituents, such as rosmarinic acid and borneol, possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help to ease muscle tension and reduce pain.

The benefits of Melissa officinalis teas in treating headaches include natural pain relief, improved mood, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Melissa officinalis leaves.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried Melissa officinalis leaves per 8 oz cup of boiling water.
3. Steep the dried leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid into a cup and discard the leaves.
5. Drink the tea hot or cold, 2-3 times a day as needed to help with headaches.

Melissa officinalis teas can be used to treat headaches, but possible side effects may include stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness due to its potential interactions with certain medications.

Precautions to take when using Melissa officinalis teas include avoiding excessive consumption, especially in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may stimulate the uterus and affect milk production.

6. Ginkgo biloba teas

Ginkgo biloba teas have been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat headaches, particularly those caused by migraines and tension.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this herbal preparation help to reduce pain and inflammation, while also improving blood flow to the brain, which can contribute to the alleviation of headache symptoms.

The bioactive constituents of Ginkgo biloba, including flavonoids and terpenoids, have been shown to have a positive effect on the regulation of neurotransmitters, which can help to prevent headache attacks.

The benefits of using Ginkgo biloba teas to treat headaches include their ability to provide fast and effective relief, as well as their potential to reduce the frequency and severity of headache episodes.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Ginkgo biloba leaves. You can buy them at a health food store.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of Ginkgo biloba leaves and place them in a tea infuser or a small muslin bag.
3. Heat 1 cup of water in a kettle or on the stove until it reaches 212°F (100°C).
4. Pour the hot water over the Ginkgo biloba leaves in the tea infuser or muslin bag. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the Ginkgo biloba leaves. Drink the tea slowly to help relieve headaches.

Ginkgo biloba teas can be effective in treating headaches due to their ability to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation; however, possible side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions in some individuals.

Precautions to take when using Ginkgo biloba teas to treat headaches include being aware of the risk of bleeding due to its blood-thinning properties, especially when combined with other medications or if you have bleeding disorders; it's also essential to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed to minimize potential side effects, such as headaches or dizziness.

7. Mentha x piperita teas

Mentha x piperita teas, also known as peppermint tea, have been used to treat headaches due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat headaches by providing relief from pain and reducing inflammation in the body.

The bioactive constituents of peppermint tea, including menthol, menthone, and limonene, contribute to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate headache symptoms.

Regular consumption of peppermint tea may also help to reduce migraine frequency and severity, making it a beneficial herbal remedy for those suffering from headaches.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Mentha x piperita leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of honey and have it ready for later.
3. Steep the Mentha x piperita leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture and discard the leaves. Add the honey to the tea and stir well.
5. Drink the tea as needed to help relieve headache symptoms.

Mentha x piperita teas can provide relief from headaches due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, but potential side effects may include stomach upset, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications.

To safely use Mentha x piperita teas to treat headaches, one should be cautious when consuming large amounts, avoid using them during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and be aware of potential interactions with blood thinners and other medications.