12 natural helps for HEADACHES

Ease your pain without popping a pill with these cures for a tension headache

- ALI HORSFALL

GET SOME FRESH AIR

Need to relax? Then head outdoors for a walk. It’s an effective way to reduce stress that can be a trigger for tension headaches. Exercise also encourages good blood flow around the body and releases chemicals that block pain signals to the brain, says Alive! nutritionist Suzie Sawyer. Aim to walk for at least 30 minutes every day.

Try peppermint oil

Certain aromatherapy essential oils may ease a throbbing head. One study in Iran found that a drop of diluted peppermint oil applied into the nose reduced the intensity of headaches in 42% of sufferers. When pain strikes, use peppermint oil with a carrier oil to gently massage your forehead, temples and bridge of the nose, or try adding a few droplets to your bath or a room diffuser.

Have a digital detox

Could eye strain be the cause of your pain? Prolonged exposure to digital devices can result in eye fatigue and headaches, so don’t forget to take regular screen breaks. ‘Use the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds,’ suggests Essilor eye expert Dr. Andy Hepworth. Or try eye yoga. ‘Look to the left, hold the position, repeat looking right. Look up, hold the position, repeat looking down. Repeat four times, closing your eyes and relaxing in between,’ says Dr Hepworth.