Natural Ways to Heal Headaches and Muscle Aches

Headaches

Hit the spot

That pain in your head might actually start in your neck. Use your thumbs, index, and middle fingers to squeeze just below the large muscle that runs from the high point of both shoulders and joins your neck. Or even better, have a partner do it for you. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds.

Tame tension

If you’re prone to tension headaches, you may be unconsciously clenching your jaw when you’re stressed. Try paying closer attention to your body, and the next time you notice yourself clenching, gently place a clean pencil between your teeth and hold it. It will serve as a reminder not to bite down hard. With time, you may be able to train your jaw not to clench, thus avoiding those painful headaches. Try placing colorful notes or stickers around your desk, work area, or home to mentally remind yourself to check and see if you’re stress clenching. (Then stop!)

Herbal headache relief

If you suffer from headaches but don’t want to rely on pricey painkillers, try taking the herbal route. Feverfew, a relative of the sunflower, has been shown to help reduce inflammation that causes headaches. Look for it in capsule form in your health food store. Ginger can also reduce inflammation—try adding freshly crushed ginger root (about 1 inch) to boiling water to make a potent tea.

Aromatherapy answer

Tension headache getting you down? Head to the health food store and purchase some peppermint oil. Rubbing a small amount into your hairline and temples will create a tingly aroma that will encourage relaxation.

Get a lift from lime

An old-fashioned and effective way to treat headaches is to cut a lime in half and rub it on your forehead. In a few minutes, the throbbing should subside.

Check out Who Knew's 13 Secrets to Pill-Free Pain Relief

Uncover a hidden cause

Many headaches are caused by dehydration. Before you reach for the pain reliever, try drinking two or three glasses of water or an energy drink like Gatorade. You may find you’re back to normal in no time.

Muscle and joint pain

A kitchen cure

If you have chronic back pain—especially associated with arthritis—or other sore muscles, try adding yellow mustard to a hot bath. Add a few tablespoons for mild pain, and up to a whole 8-ounce bottle if the pain is severe. The bathwater may look strange, but your aching back will thank you.

End desk discomfort

If you find sitting at your desk is causing lower back pain, try slightly elevating your feet. And old phone book is perfect for the job.

Alleviate neck tension...

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