How to Get Rid of a Headache Naturally

Olive Oil for Headache Relief

It’s one of our favorite tips from our book Who Knew? Household Shortcuts: As soon as you feel a headache coming on, head for your kitchen! Scientific studies have shown that just a few teaspoons of olive oil eaten at the onset of a headache can have an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing pain as well as ibuprofen does. Mix it with balsamic vinegar and enjoy it on a salad or some bread.

Boost Low Blood Sugar

If you tend to get headaches in the late mornings, late afternoons, and after a long nap, they might be due to low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. These headaches can be helped by eating foods that release sugar slowly, such as bananas, whole grains, and oats. Getting adequate protein with each meal—30 grams is a good start—can keep your blood sugar levels from fluctuating and may also prevent headaches.

Stay Hydrated

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.

Old-Time Headache Remedy

It may be an old wives’ tale, but Bruce’s grandfather used to swear that an 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.

Rest Your Eyes

Less-than-perfect eyesight can trigger headaches because the muscles around the eyes squeeze in order to focus. If your headaches come on after reading or working at a computer, make sure you give your eyes a rest every 15 minutes by focusing on a distant object for at least a minute. You may also want to get your eyes examined to see if you need glasses or a new prescription.

See Also: When to Worry About a Headache

Watch What You Eat

Headaches may be caused by reactions to foods and food substances such as MSG, chocolate, gluten, alcohol, sulfites, nitrites, and fermented foods, such as cheese and yogurt. Since it can sometimes take up to 72 hours for a headache to occur after eating one of these foods, it can be difficult...

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