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Tension Headache - Supplements
That dull ache in the back of your head may be a nagging sign of too much stress. How can you tame the tension and find relief? According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Apply soothing oils
Rub peppermint oil or an ointment containing aromatic oils on your forehead
- Kick back and relax
Try relaxation techniques such as meditation and biofeedback to control the effects of stress and reduce headache frequency and severity
- Take 5-HTP
300 mg a day of the nutritional supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan may lessen headache frequency and limit the need for pain-relieving medications (use 100 mg a day for children)
- Manage your muscles
Find a practitioner trained in massage or physical therapy to help unwind tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Have your spine “inspected”
Visit a chiropractor or other licensed practitioner trained in spinal manipulation to correct joint problems that may contribute to your headache
Also indexed as:
- tension headache,
- tension headaches,
- tension type headache
About this treatment
What Are "Star" Ratings?
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
5-HTP | Adults: 300 mg daily; children: 100 mg daily | Taking the supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan may lessen headache frequency and limit the need for pain-relieving medications. |
| ||
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Peppermint | Spread a 10% oil solution across the temples three times over a 30-minute period | Peppermint is a soothing oil that appears to have pain-relieving effects when applied topically. |
| ||
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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