So, what is the best tea for headaches? We’ve all been there, that throbbing headache that just won’t quit. We get it, headaches are more than just a nuisance; they can throw off your whole day. In those moments, finding the right remedy can feel like the difference between life and death.
This guide is all about helping you find that perfect, soothing brew. That’s why we’ve put together a selection of teas known for their comforting and headache-easing qualities. So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s explore the best tea for headaches and find you the relief you’re longing for.
The Best Tea for Headaches – Top 11 Ranked
1. Lemon Balm Tea
- Description: Lemon balm tea, derived from the leaves of the lemon balm plant, is known for its refreshing, citrusy aroma and flavor. This herbal tea has been used traditionally for its calming effects.
- Headache Relief Properties: Lemon balm tea is reputed for its ability to ease stress and anxiety, which can be common triggers for headaches. Its soothing properties make it a go-to option for stress-induced headaches.
- Brewing Tips: To brew, steep dried lemon balm leaves in boiling water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Adjust the steeping time based on your flavor preference.
- Supporting Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871149/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Lemon balm tea is generally safe, but it may interact with sedative medications due to its calming effects. It’s always wise to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re on medication or pregnant.
2. Valerian Root Tea
- Description: Valerian root tea is known for its strong, earthy flavor, made from the roots of the valerian plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: It’s often used for its sedative and calming effects, which can be beneficial in relieving tension headaches and migraines.
- Brewing Tips: Steep dried valerian root in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. The flavor can be intense, so you might want to start with a shorter steeping time.
- Supporting Study: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844023013920
- Side Effects/Interactions: Generally considered safe, but can cause drowsiness. Should be used cautiously if taking sedatives or anti-anxiety medication. Not recommended during pregnancy.
3. Butterbur Tea
- Description: Butterbur tea is made from the leaves and roots of the butterbur plant, offering a distinct, earthy flavor.
- Headache Relief Properties: Known for its potential in preventing migraines and reducing their severity.
- Brewing Tips: Use dried butterbur leaves, steeping in hot water for about 10 minutes. Ensure it’s pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) free.
- Supporting Study: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2022.864689/full
- Side Effects/Interactions: Can cause digestive side effects and should be used with caution. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always choose PA-free products to avoid liver toxicity.
4. Rosemary Tea
- Description: Rosemary tea, with its fragrant, herbal aroma, is made from the leaves of the rosemary plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve circulation, which can help alleviate headache symptoms.
- Brewing Tips: Steep fresh or dried rosemary leaves in boiling water for about 5-10 minutes, depending on your taste preference.
- Supporting Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491497/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Generally safe but can interact with certain medications. Not recommended for pregnant women or those with high blood pressure.
5. Willow Bark Tea
- Description: Willow bark tea is made from the bark of the willow tree, known for its mild, slightly bitter flavor.
- Headache Relief Properties: Contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, effective in pain relief, particularly for headaches.
- Brewing Tips: Steep chopped or ground willow bark in hot water for about 10-15 minutes. Strain before drinking.
- Supporting Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25997859/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Use with caution as it may cause stomach upset. Not recommended for children, pregnant women, or those with aspirin allergies.
6. Lavender Tea
- Description: Lavender tea, known for its distinctive floral aroma and taste, is made from the buds of the lavender plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: Lavender is famed for its relaxation and stress-relief properties, which can be particularly helpful in managing tension headaches and migraines.
- Brewing Tips: Infuse dried lavender buds in hot water for about 5-7 minutes. The tea should have a light color and delicate flavor.
- Supporting Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22517298/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Generally considered safe, but excessive consumption may lead to constipation or headaches. It should be used cautiously with sedative medications.
7. Peppermint Tea
- Description: Peppermint tea has a refreshing, minty flavor, made from the leaves of the peppermint plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: The menthol in peppermint tea can help relax muscles and ease tension headaches.
- Brewing Tips: Infuse dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 7-10 minutes. Adjust steeping time for desired strength.
- Supporting Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7923432/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Usually safe, but can interact with certain medications. Not recommended for individuals with acid reflux or GERD.
8. Green Tea
- Description: Green tea, popular worldwide, is known for its light, refreshing taste and is made from Camellia sinensis leaves.
- Headache Relief Properties: Contains caffeine and L-theanine, which can help reduce the severity of headaches, especially those caused by caffeine withdrawal.
- Brewing Tips: Steep green tea leaves in hot (not boiling) water for about 2-3 minutes. Over-steeping can make the tea bitter.
- Supporting Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10412590/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Excessive consumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects. People sensitive to caffeine should consume it in moderation.
9. Ginger Tea
- Description: Ginger tea, with its strong, spicy flavor, is made from the root of the ginger plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: Ginger is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it effective for migraine and tension headache relief.
- Brewing Tips: Steep sliced or grated fresh ginger in boiling water for about 10 minutes. You can adjust the amount of ginger based on your taste preference.
- Supporting Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7754412/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Generally safe, but high doses might cause heartburn or stomach upset. It might also interact with blood-thinning medications.
10. Chamomile Tea
- Description: Chamomile tea, with its gentle floral flavor, is made from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant.
- Headache Relief Properties: Celebrated for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile tea is effective in relieving tension headaches and promoting relaxation.
- Brewing Tips: Steep dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-7 minutes. For a stronger brew, cover the cup while steeping.
- Supporting Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25238714/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Generally safe, but it may interact with certain medications and is not recommended for those with allergies to plants in the daisy family.
11. Feverfew Tea
- Description: Feverfew tea is made from the leaves of the feverfew plant, offering a slightly bitter, earthy taste.
- Headache Relief Properties: Traditionally used for migraine prevention, feverfew is known for its potential to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Brewing Tips: Steep dried feverfew leaves in hot water for about 5-10 minutes. It has a strong flavor, so you might want to start with a smaller amount.
- Supporting Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10908545/
- Side Effects/Interactions: Can cause mouth ulcers or digestive issues in some people. Should not be used during pregnancy or by those taking blood-thinning medications.
How Does Tea Help with Headaches?
Tea’s reputation as one of the best remedies for headaches is well-deserved, thanks to its unique blend of beneficial compounds. For example, the caffeine found in certain teas like green tea has anti-inflammatory properties and improves blood circulation, which is particularly effective in mitigating tension headaches.
In contrast, herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint are packed with compounds that have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing effects, offering relief from stress-induced headaches making them an effective choice in pursuit of the best tea for headaches. Additionally, the ritual of preparing and sipping a warm cup of tea can be psychologically comforting, fostering a sense of wellbeing that plays a crucial role in alleviating headache symptoms.
A History of The Best Tea for Headaches
The medicinal use of tea, particularly for headaches, finds its origins in ancient cultures. In traditional Chinese medicine, various teas were specifically chosen for their unique healing properties. Green tea, for instance, was used for its antioxidant benefits and headache relief and has been considered a contender for the best tea for headaches for 1000s of years.
In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian wellness system, herbal teas like holy basil were valued for their therapeutic effects, especially in managing stress and pain. These early practices in both cultures highlighted the importance of tea in holistic health.
This rich history laid the groundwork for the current use of tea as a natural remedy. Teas that were once part of ancient healing rituals are now among the best for treating headaches, blending the wisdom of the past with modern wellness practices.
Choosing the Right Tea for Your Headaches
- Identify the Type of Headache: Different teas work better for different headaches and so there is no one answer for what is the best tea for headaches. For tension headaches, try teas with muscle-relaxing properties like chamomile or peppermint. For migraines, look towards ginger or feverfew.
- Personal Taste Preferences: If you prefer a milder taste, chamomile might be ideal. For a stronger flavor, consider ginger or green tea.
- Caffeine Content: Be mindful of caffeine. Green tea can help with certain headaches but may not be suitable if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
- Herbal Properties: Understand the properties of herbs. Lavender and lemon balm are great for stress-induced headaches due to their calming effects.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: If you have specific health conditions or are on medication, consult a healthcare provider to ensure the tea doesn’t interact negatively with your health.
- Trial and Experiment: Sometimes finding the right tea requires experimentation. Try different teas and note how your body reacts to each.
Brewing the Perfect Cup for Headache Relief
To brew the perfect cup of tea for headache relief, it’s crucial to consider both the type of tea and your brewing technique. Here are some tips, keeping in mind the goal of finding the best tea for headaches:
- Water Temperature: Different teas require different temperatures. For green tea, use water just before it boils to avoid bitterness. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can handle boiling water.
- Steeping Time: Avoid over-steeping. Generally, 3-5 minutes is ideal for most teas, but some, like ginger, can be steeped longer for a stronger effect.
- Tea Quality: Opt for high-quality, loose-leaf teas if possible, as they often retain more of the essential oils that contribute to their headache-relieving properties.
- Quantity: Usually, one teaspoon of tea leaves per cup is sufficient. For stronger medicinal effects, slightly increase the amount of tea.
- Cover While Steeping: Cover your tea while it steeps to trap the steam and essential oils in the cup, enhancing the tea’s effectiveness.
Remember, the effectiveness of tea for headaches can vary based on how it’s prepared. Proper brewing can enhance the therapeutic qualities of the tea, making it a more effective remedy for headache relief.
Best Tea For Headaches – Precautions and Considerations
When using teas as remedies for headaches, consider these precautions:
- Check for Allergies: Be aware of any personal allergies to specific herbs or plants used in teas.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Certain teas, like feverfew or willow bark, may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult with a healthcare provider.
- Interaction with Medications: Some teas can interact with medications, including blood thinners or sedatives. Consult a healthcare professional if you are on any medication.
- Caffeine Sensitivity: If you’re sensitive to caffeine, limit the intake of teas like green tea, which contain caffeine.
- Quality of Tea: Use high-quality, preferably organic teas to avoid contaminants.
- Moderation: Even beneficial teas should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to side effects.
Always remember, while tea can be a great natural remedy, it’s important to use it wisely and in conjunction with professional medical advice, especially for chronic or severe headache conditions.
