Is combatting a headache as easy as pouring a cup of tea? Maybe, according to some medical professionals. Ahead, learn about a few varieties that experts say could greatly reduce your discomfort and even help with the cause — and they might already be stocked in your kitchen. Shutterstock
Ginger Tea
“Ginger tea has traditionally been used for relieving nausea and indigestion, but it can also help alleviate tension and migraine headaches,” says Dr. Grant K. Radermacher of Ascent Chiropractic.Shutterstock
Green Tea
“Because of its caffeine content, green tea can also help relieve tension headaches and migraines,” explains Dr. Radermacher. “Caffeine has vasoconstrictive properties that help to shrink enlarged blood vessels back to normal size, restricting blood flow and alleviating headache discomfort.”Shutterstock
Peppermint Tea
“Peppermint is cooling, reduces headaches created by stress, and reduces pain as well,” shares Dr. Ashley Beckman, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.Shutterstock
Chrysanthemum Tea
“These flowers cool the body, support the liver, and reduce inflammation in the body,” Dr. Beckman says. “Heat and inflammation can make a headache worse. This herbal tea is especially beneficial for headaches created by stress since it nourishes and helps detoxify the liver.”Shutterstock
Turmeric Tea
“[Turmeric will] calm the stomach and release inflammation,” explains Dr. Molly Hutto of Annapolis Family Acupuncture. “This would be good for any headache or migraine that includes a digestive component, whether that is nausea or loose stools.” Shutterstock
Willow Bark Tea
“Believe it or not, willow bark is actually one of the active ingredients in aspirin,” says Dr. Hutto. “However, please take with caution, as it is not ideal to be taken longterm and might cause digestive upset such as acid reflux or gastro irritation.” Shutterstock
Chamomile Tea
“[Chamomile is] innately relaxing and a good option when one is trying to wind down and relax once the stress has already set in,” offers Dr. Hutto.Shutterstock
Feverfew Tea
“One of the most researched botanicals that can help with headaches/migraines is feverfew, which has been shown to decrease the frequency and or diminish severity,” says Dr. Bethany Tennant, a naturopathic physician.Shutterstock
Meadowsweet Tea
“Meadowsweet, which contains acetylsalicylic acid (the active aspect of aspirin), can help as a natural pain reliever,” adds Dr. Tennant.Shutterstock