About 90 percent of all headaches are due to tension.
Instructions

    * STEP 1: Give yourself a mini-massage at the first sign of pain. Using the pads of your fingers, press gently and rub the scalp, back of the neck, temples and shoulders.
    * STEP 2: Apply heat or cold, or alternate between the two. Take a hot bath or shower, or place a hot, wet washcloth or heating pad on the back of your neck. Place an ice pack on your forehead, the back of your neck or the top of your head.
    * STEP 3: Put a few drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil into the bath, or rub a few drops on your temples, the nape of the neck and the hairline.
    * STEP 4: Drink an herbal tea of feverfew, which helps to relieve headaches, or chamomile and peppermint, which are calming. A cup of hot, strong coffee helps to relieve congestive-type headaches.
    * STEP 5: Take supplements if you get headaches frequently. Calcium and magnesium relieve muscular tension, the enzyme bromelain reduces inflammation, and glucosamine sulfate can help to relieve pain.
    * STEP 6: Visualize the muscles inside your head and neck loosening and relaxing. Try to hold the image for at least half a minute every hour.
    * STEP 7: Avoid gum, drinks with ice, ice cream and salt. All of these can worsen a headache.

Tips & Warnings

    * Frequent headaches can be a sign of a food allergy or an underlying health problem.
    * Coffee can boost the effects of aspirin and other over-the-counter medicines.
    * Caffeine can cause some types of headaches.
    * If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.