Peppermint, German Chamomile, Meadowsweet, Elderflower, Spearmint, Marjoram & Hibiscus
Why?
Peppermint: Menthol has a cooling sensation that may help ease tension or migraine headache pain when a person applies peppermint oil to the forehead or temples. It is possible that the aroma from peppermint tea may have a similar effect.
German Chamomile: Chamomile is known for its calming effects, which can help alleviate the stress and anxiety that often contribute to headaches.
Meadowsweet: Meadowsweet tea may help ease headaches because it contains salicylates, similar to aspirin, which can offer pain relief. While it may be a natural alternative to aspirin, it's crucial to be aware of potential interactions and side effects, particularly if you are sensitive to salicylates or are taking certain medications like warfarin
Elderflower: As elderflowers taste so good and has so many benefits it’s easy to ignore how the tea makes you feel. Elderflower is often used in situations to calm or relax. Elderflowers have relaxing nervine properties, which support the nervous system through stressful periods. It can help to soothe nerves and anxiety and may assist in reducing symptoms of depression.
Spearmint: Spearmint's relaxing properties, including its ability to interact with GABA receptors in the brain, may help alleviate stress and tension, which can contribute to headaches.
Marjoram: Marjoram is parasympathomimetic – meaning that it activates the PSNS. It is also sympatholytic- reducing overactivity of the SNS (5). The imbalance in the autonomic nervous system often leans this way due to prolonged stress hormones which can leave the nervous system in a state of dysregulation and overactivity (5).Due to this effect on the nervous system, marjoram may be incorporated into a treatment approach to address symptoms of sympathetic excess – such as digestive and sleep issues as well as anxiety and agitation. It has a calming effect due to its balancing effect on the ANS. For the same reason, it may help with spasms of sympathetic origin (stress) as well as for epigastric tension (over the stomach), headaches, migraines, hypertension, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) and palpitations- all of which symptoms are directly associated with sympathetic excess.
Hibiscus: Hibiscus may offer some benefits related to headaches and migraines due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to help lower blood pressure. While not a direct treatment, it could potentially be beneficial as part of a holistic approach to managing these conditions.
