Headaches are among the most annoying (potentially worst) pain one can handle during the day. The pounding sensations can make you sick to your stomach, light-sensitive, and unable to get out of bed. If you have a recurring problem with headaches, then you need relief. Rosemary might be the missing piece of your puzzle! Research shows that rosemary can help reduce insomnia and also act to relax muscles, which can all help with a headache.
Prescription medications are abundant that tackle this common problem. However, the side effects profiles of these drugs can be quite severe. You want to get rid of the pain, not cause yourself any further discomfort. Thankfully, Mother Nature provides some great alternatives, and one of them is rosemary.
Also called rosemary, this woody herb is an evergreen shrub that is native to the Mediterranean coast. It’s bold, intoxicating scent and pure flavor is often the star in many cuisines. This herb has a venerable history as a culinary and medicinal aid, and it was commonly cultivated in Medieval monastery gardens.
Easing Tension with Herbs
While it may seem there’s only one way to use this herb medicinally, there are several ways that you can use it to fright those headaches. By exploring all the different uses, you can find methods that allow you to use it on the go or at home. So, here are ten ways to use rosemary to help ease your aches and pains.
1. Put it in a Diffuser
Diffusers are a great way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. Put a few drops of essential oil into the vessel and turn on the lamp or allow a tea light to warm the mixture. Many studies show the countless benefits of aromatherapy.
When you have a headache, you probably sit in a dark room with a cold cloth over your head. Add a diffuser to your room and watch the headache dissipate quickly.
2. Add it to Bathwater
Nothing feels better when you’re in pain than a nice hot soak. Add fifteen to twenty drops of rosemary essential oil, sprigs of fresh rosemary, and other herbs to your bathtub to help ease your aches. The water delivers a powerful punch of herbal-treated water to your body, and you can also enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy mixed with steam.
3. Drink a Delicious Herbal Tea
Teas have been used for eras to help ease aches and pains in the body. Historically, it traces back to the 16th century, so its linear significance is undeniable. Yet, in the Western World, folks are beginning to understand how herbal teas can heal ailments.
Studies throughout academia agree across the board. Rosemary is one of the herbs with a substantial anti-inflammatory property that is well used for arthritis and other conditions. Since a dilation of the blood vessels causes migraines, some believe it can be relieved by only drinking a cup of tea.
4. Rub Essential Oil on Your Temples
Essential oils are great to keep with you as you can use them on the go. You will need to use a carrier oil when applying this herb as its strong nature can sting the skin.
Simply rub the oil in a circular motion into your temples and at the base of your neck. You will be surprised how quickly your headache lessens or goes away altogether. Plus, the fragrance is lovely too.
5. Mix it with Other Herbal Blends for a Salve
Have you ever seen the price tag of herb lotions and salves? Treating your ailments naturally can be pretty expensive, but it’s so worth the cost. Fortunately, you can create a balm that you can carry with you or keep at the office.
Anytime one of these headaches begins, you can grab your fragrant lotion to bring relief. If you want to make a healing salve that you can use on the go, here is an excellent recipe for you.
Ingredients:
- 2 Sprigs of Fresh Rosemary
- 5 Drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
- 5 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil
- 1 Tbsp. Coconut Oil
- One Tbsp. Shea butter
- 1 Tbsp. Local Beeswax
Directions:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. In a small bowl, take the herb, essential oils, shea butter, and beeswax and mix. Make sure the mixture is thoroughly blended and store in an airtight container. Anytime you feel a migraine flaring, apply the balm to your temples and rub in. Not only will it help your migraines, but it can also help with any tension you feel.
6. Add it to a Simmering Potpourri Mix
Since rosemary has lovely green needles like a pine tree and a delicious scent, it’s perfect to use as potpourri in a mixture or on its own. Its fragrance blends well with light fruity and woodsy notes, bringing a fresh ambiance to your whole house.
Soothing Herbal and Citrus Potpourri
Ingredients:
- 1 Small Bunch of Fresh Rosemary Stems, or Dried if Preferred
- 3 Large Lemons, Sliced
- 3 Medium Oranges, Sliced
- 2 Sticks Cinnamon Bark
Directions:
In a small saucepan over low heat, add enough water to fill the pan three-quarters to the top. Add the herbs, fruit wheels, and cinnamon sticks and allow them to simmer on the stove. Keep an eye on the simmering potpourri throughout the day, and add water as needed.
7. Infuse Your Water
Do you have a throbbing migraine and don’t want to drink plain water? Why not add this healing herb to a cold glass of purified H20. Simply strip a small handful of needles from fresh rosemary sprigs and diffuse them in the water for a few minutes.
8. Add it to a Salad
Of course, this delightful herb is tasty in your favorite Italian dishes, but did you know that fresh rosemary makes a delicious salad ingredient? Try this unique summertime salad recipe with your next meal and watch the smiles across the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- ¼ C Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 Tbsp. White Vinegar
- 2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary, Finely Chopped
- 1 Small Bunch Fresh Oregano, Finely Chopped
- 1/8 Tsp. Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 3 Medium Heirloom Tomatoes, Quartered1-
- Quart Multicolored Cherry Tomatoes, Cut in Half
Directions:
In a large bowl, add oil, vinegar, herbs, and whisk until combined. Add tomatoes and toss gently until evenly coated with the vinaigrette. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes for optimal flavor. Season with salt and pepper, toss lightly again, and serve.
9. Take Supplements
If you want the health benefits of rosemary, you can also take it as a supplement. Look for organic Rosmarinus officinalis in the pharmacy or your local health food store. Most of these come in 700 mg and can be taken once a day.
Be sure to talk to your primary healthcare provider before you take this or any other herbal supplement. It’s usually recommended that you take Rosmarinus officinalis simultaneously in the mornings with a bit of food.
This herb is not habit-forming and won’t hurt if you miss a dose. If you take it in the evenings, it may help you sleep better.
10. Flavor your Sandwiches
Would you like a healthy way to boost the flavor on your favorite sandwiches? Fresh or dried rosemary adds the green, peppery touch that’s ideal for dressing cold cuts or any mixed salad sandwich. Here’s a tasty Mediterranean Tuna Salad Sandwich for your family to try.
Ingredients:
- 4 Cans of Tuna, Drained
- 1 Cup Whipped Salad Dressing
- A Stalk Celery, Finely Diced
- One Small Red Onion, Finely Diced
- 3 Tbsp. Dill Pickle Relish
- 1 Small Lemon, Juiced
- Clove Garlic Minced
- 1 Small Bunch Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
- ½ Tsp. Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Directions:
Add tuna, salad dressing, celery, onion, relish, lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary sprigs in a medium bowl. Gently stir until all ingredients are combines. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and allow to chill at least 1 hour or overnight.
To serve, toast 12 slices of fresh bread until golden brown. Place a couple of heaping tablespoons of tuna salad on six slices of toast and cover with the remaining toast. If you like, you can add fresh mixed greens and sliced tomatoes to your sandwiches or eat the tuna salad without bread.
A Word of Caution About Using Home Remedies for Headaches
Just because something is natural and organic doesn’t always mean it’s right for you. Talk to your professional healthcare provider about your medical history, current conditions, and any medications you take before using rosemary. Inform your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, nursing, or plan to become pregnant.
As with any herbal remedy, Rosmarinus officinalis can have side effects, or you may be sensitive to it. As a supplement, talk to your healthcare provider about the right dosage for you. Discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions and get medical attention as needed.
Final Thoughts on Relieving Headaches with Rosemary
Battling tension and headaches can interrupt your day and make you feel miserable. If you want natural relief with scientific promise, consider using fresh herbal sprigs or topical essential oil. It may be the natural help that you need.
