Any time is the perfect moment for a cup of tea, regardless of whether you resemble the Mad Hatter. This comforting drink can provide relief for a sore throat, calm an upset stomach, and simply warm you up on a chilly day (or pour it over some ice for a refreshing summer beverage). The advantages of drinking tea are plentiful, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that specific teas are beneficial for relieving headaches. Registered dietitian and neuronutritionist Melanie Murphy Richter, MS, RDN, affirms that a warm cup of tea can serve as an effective at-home remedy for alleviating bothersome headaches. Certain teas possess anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties that aid in headache relief, according to Richter.
When it comes to choosing the best tea for headaches, Richter recommends selecting peppermint tea as the top choice for alleviating various types of headaches, such as tension, sinus, or migraine-related symptoms. Peppermint can regulate the circulatory system by increasing blood flow, which helps ease headache symptoms. In addition, peppermint contains menthol, which can relax the muscles of the head and alleviate headaches. Ginger tea is recommended for those experiencing nausea or stomach upset due to headache pain. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve nausea associated with migraines. Chamomile tea, on the other hand, is ideal for tension or sinus headaches and can act as a mild muscle relaxant. It can also aid with indigestion and promote relaxation if headaches are keeping you awake at night. Lemon balm tea can help reduce anxiety, which may contribute to tension headaches or migraines. Lavender tea is beneficial for reducing stress and cortisol levels, making it useful for treating migraines or tension headaches. Feverfew tea, derived from a flowering plant, can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by inhibiting certain compounds that exacerbate migraines.
For optimum results, Richter suggests consuming one to two cups of tea a day, but this can vary depending on the individual. Tea can typically be consumed at any time, with or without food. Richter advises drinking teas with higher caffeine levels earlier in the day and teas like chamomile or lavender closer to bedtime if the goal is to induce sleep. It’s recommended to drink tea plain without any sugar or cream, as these additives can trigger headaches in some individuals. While tea can serve as a beneficial remedy for mild headache symptoms, if headaches become more frequent or severe, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional as it could indicate a more serious issue.
