How Essential Oils could help with Migraines
Many people today are tormented by headaches or migraine attacks. These hit us when we least expect them and they can make the simplest task a huge and painful challenge. Not only are migraines painful but they make you prone to other symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound. These painful and highly discomforting headaches can last for hours, or even days at a time. Essential oil can potentially provide a simple yet highly effective way to ease migraines. Aromatherapy products have been widely used around the world and have proven to be a natural treatment that brings relief to a number of physical illnesses like headaches and migraines. Most people trust aromatherapy because of the natural properties that bring forth beneficial results. It is largely used as an alternative medicine that can give relief from pain, enhance mood and increase cognitive function.
Essential Oils
This eucalyptus essential oil can stimulate the mind, especially can provide relief if you are having a sinus related headache or migraine.
Lavender is great for relieving anxiety and stimulating relaxation. It’s also great for helping you get to sleep if your headache is stopping you from sleeping.
Patchouli is very good in calming, balancing and relaxing.
Peppermint oil has cooling properties and gives a tingling sensation, which calms the body and relieves muscle sores - which is great for abdominal pain. It’s also perfect for nausea and soothing hyper-sensitivity to light.
You can substitute Spearmint Essential Oil for Peppermint Essential Oil if you find the peppermint to be too strong.
Rosemary Essential Oil helps with nausea and improving digestive function. When inhaled, Rosemary oil can restore mental alertness as well as clear the respiratory tract. How to use the Essential Oils (EO)When trying an oil for the first time, use one drop at a time to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity or reaction, especially while you have a headache. Topical Application or Gentle Massage – Dilute a few drops of EO(s) into 1 oz. carrier oil of your choice ( Aromafloria has an unscented massage oil)
Gently massage a few drops onto your forehead, temples, and the back of your neck. Avoid the area near your eyes. Inhalation – Rub 1 to 2 drops of lavender EO into the palms of your hands. Cup them over your nose and take 4-6 deep and slow breaths. Another thing you can do is add 2 to 4 drops on a cotton ball. Or add a few drops of EO to a bowl of boiling water. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in the steam (works best if your migraine is sinus related). Cold Compress – Add 5 drops of your favorite EO (or blend) to 1 quart cool or icy water. Soak a clean cloth in the bowl and apply on your forehead or the back of your neck. Most people find that cold compresses work best, but you can try a warm compress as well or alternate both to improve circulation. Bath – Another great way to alleviate your headache or migraine attack is to take a relaxing bath. Add 5 to 10 drops of EO(s) to your bath tub. Do not add the oils to running water as they will evaporate at a higher rate. Add them after you have run the bath and gently mix them in by hand.