Last week we spent some time looking at odors that could be harmful for your migraines. This week let’s look at some scents that can help ease your pain.
Particularly, we are going to study 5 essential oils that can alleviate tension, stress, and headache pain.
1. Peppermint Oil
This is one of the most commonly used oils to treat headache pain. It contains menthol which helps the muscles to relax.
To use peppermint oil, dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and rub on the sides of your temple to ease headache pain.
2. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is best known to reduce inflammation and kill pain. It helps with stress reduction, insomnia, improved circulation, and muscle relaxation. It also helps with withdrawal symptoms.
To use rosemary oil, dilute it with a carrier oil (coconut oil) and massage the affected area. It also helps to breathe in the vapors while taking a hot bath.
3. Lavender Oil
Lavender is best for stress relief and headache pain. Breathing in lavender oil, even for just 15 minutes, has been proven to significantly help the pain of migraines.
It is best to apply lavender oil directly on the skin, use an oil diffuser, or add it to a warm bath.
4. Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile relaxes the body and soothes the muscles. It treats anxiety and insomnia which are common migraine triggers.
However, pregnant woman should not use chamomile because it increases the risk of miscarriage.
It is best to add chamomile to a bath and breathe in the steam.
5. Eucalyptus
If your migraines are triggered by sinus congestion, eucalyptus opens up the nasal passages and helps relieve sinus tension.
Dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the chest to clear your sinuses. You can also add a few drops to hot water and breathe in the vapors.
You should always be careful when using essential oils because you may have an allergic reaction or irritation. Always apply the oil to a small area of the skin before increasing the surface area. Furthermore, it always a good idea to dilute the oil with a carrier oil. Common carrier oils are coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil.
