Traditional Chinese medicine offers remedies for headaches that may keep you from reaching for pain-relievers.
Many people have frequent headaches due to modern life's fast-paced and stressful nature. While some turn to painkillers for temporary relief, long-term use can result in unwanted side effects.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers natural and effective solutions for managing headaches. For example, simple acupressure techniques provide quick relief. Additionally, herbal teas and soups can alleviate headaches and enhance overall health.
While many turn to painkillers for relief, gently massaging the Qiuxu acupoint (GB40) may offer a quicker and more natural way to relieve stress headaches.
If the headache is on the left side, massage the Qiuxu acupoint on your right foot; if it is on the right side, massage the acupoint on your left foot. Press and hold for about three seconds to help alleviate the headache.
When I consult with patients experiencing headaches, I often ask if they also suffer from neck pain. In many cases, neck pain is a contributing factor to the headache. Addressing the neck issue and improving blood circulation usually alleviates the headache naturally.
Two key acupoints may provide quick relief for this type of headache: the Chize acupoint (LU5) and the Zhuiti acupoint.
Gently pressing on the Chize acupoint may create a mild sore or tense sensation. While applying pressure, try moving the neck and shoulder on the same side. This can help reduce stiffness and relieve pain in the neck and shoulder area. As blood circulation improves and the muscles relax, the headache is likely to subside.
The Zhuiti acupoint, a relatively lesser-known point, is located on the ear at the tip of the anti-helix.
In such cases, pressing the Hegu acupoint (LI4) and the Lieque acupoint (LU7) can help quickly relieve the headache.
Ancient Chinese medical texts describe these two acupoints as particularly effective for treating conditions affecting the head and face.
Regularly massaging the Yongquan acupoint or walking on a reflexology path can be beneficial. The pebbles on these paths stimulate the Yongquan acupoint and other acupoints on the soles of your feet, helping to relieve headaches and promote overall health.
Additionally, staying relaxed, practicing kindness and patience, and maintaining a positive mindset can help prevent headaches caused by stress and other factors.
Note: Some herbs mentioned in this article may be unfamiliar but are generally available in health and Asian grocery stores. Treatment methods may vary depending on the individual, so please consult a health care professional for a specific treatment plan.