Treating Simple Headaches – Part One

Can you treat a simple headache without popping a Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen)? I have gotten this exact question many times since the recent warnings for these two drugs have been publicized. The simple answer is yes, just as effectively and with no concerns about side effects or health risk. In fact, I no longer keep Tylenol in my house.  It’s simply not needed.

How do I do it? Real, concentrated, unadulterated pure peppermint oil.  Here is the research to back up my treatment regimen. Two trials have shown that topical application of peppermint oil is effective in reducing symptoms of tension headaches. In one study, 32 patients were tested using a variety of topical herbal preparations. When compared with persons who received placebo, there was a significant analgesic effect in patients who applied a peppermint oil. A second study compared the effectiveness of topical peppermint oil and Tylenol for 164 headaches in 41 patients. The findings show that peppermint oil significantly reduced headache intensity after 15 minutes. Here is the important point. There was no significant difference in effectiveness between peppermint oil and acetaminophen, and no adverse effects were reported with the peppermint oil arm of the study.

Peppermint oil is a safe and effective treatment for simple headaches for ages six or older.  It works FASTER than Tylenol or Motrin. This is because it can be inhaled or applied topically to the affected area, resulting in faster absorption and relief, while only acting locally. The only contraindication for peppermint oil is to avoid high doses in gall stone patients. Peppermint oil can be used at the onset of headache and then can be repeated inhaled or topically every couple of hours as necessary. If you elect to use peppermint oil orally for other issues, different dosing guidance may apply.

The most important reason that pure therapeutic grade peppermint oil is a staple at my house is that it’s cost efficient.  Peppermint oil has a number of documented uses with some degree of proven benefit or symptomatic relief, including:

• Reduces stomach aches
• Soothe digestive issues
• Freshens bad breath
• Antimicrobial properties
• Improves mental focus
• Clears respiratory tract
• Boosts energy
• Releases tight muscles

Next week, I will discuss another natural headache relief alternative. I am interested in hearing your questions, comments, or other topics that interest YOU, because my passion is to write informative blogs for you about options that are safer for you and your family.