Had a stressful day? Here are some easy ways to remedy a headache!

Natural remedies for headaches

Common Triggers:

• Stress
• Food intolerance: refined carbohydrates, chocolate, sweets, dairy, caffeine, alcohol
• Blood sugar imbalance
• Body toxicity level
• Sleep deprivation
• Hormonal fluctuations (in women)
• Smoke
• Excess sun (or too little sun)
• Anxiety

Solutions:
De-stress: Stress is one of the most common cause for headache. Release stress by:

• Having a glass of red wine – ONE glass only and NOT while on cleanse
• Taking a nap
• Having a hot bath
• Exercising as it helps the flow of endorphins
• Having a massage: it offers double relief – physical and mental

Herbs

Willow bark (was used to develop Aspirin in 1800s):
Willow bark contains Salicin – a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) – that has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects of the herb. The effect is slower than aspirin but it lasts longer.

Feverfew is an herb that acts by limiting the production of Prostaglandins, the brain chemicals responsible for contracting blood vessels. The contraction and expansion of the blood vessels are thought to cause the “pounding” of headaches. Feverfew tends to release the pain.

Acerola Cherry is a Latin American “super fruit” with high levels of Anthocyanins - anti-inflammatory similar to aspirin and ibuprofen – and are known for their headache relief quality.

Drinks

Teas: Nettle, Feverfew and Camomile teas together

Foods

Magnesium-rich foods: Magnesium relaxes muscles and nerves. Foods with high source of magnesium include: Green and Sea vegetables, Avocados, Alfalfa sprouts, Millet, Brown rice, Quinoa, Soya, Hazelnuts and Watercress.

Hemp and Flax seeds: high in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) that have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Oily fish: Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel – high levels of EFAs.