Essential Oils for Headaches and Migraines + Recipes

Essential oils for headaches and tension

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts enjoyed for a wide range of reasons. Many are valued in aromatherapy for their calming, grounding aromas, which is why they are a popular companion when you are feeling tense or run down and looking for a moment of comfort.

Everyday head tension can have many causes. It may be linked to stress, hormonal changes, diet, muscle tension, shifts in the weather, or even how stuffy a room feels. Whatever the trigger, there are simple, gentle practices you can fold into your day to help you unwind.

This might include noting your personal triggers, making thoughtful changes to your diet and lifestyle, easing back on alcohol and tobacco, and practising breathing exercises, alongside bringing essential oils into your self-care routine.

5 essential oils to help you unwind

Organic Lavender essential oil

Lavender essential oil is prized for its relaxing, soothing aroma. It is one of the most popular oils in aromatherapy and may help create a sense of calm, which many find comforting during moments of tension.

Lavender also blends beautifully with other oils. Combine it with peppermint essential oil for a balance of soothing and refreshing notes.

Organic Marjoram essential oil

Marjoram essential oil is warming and comforting. A much-loved culinary herb that can carry you to the Mediterranean mountains with a single whiff, its soft, herbaceous aroma is traditionally used to support relaxation and ease everyday tension.

Add 5 drops of marjoram essential oil to a diffuser, a diluted body oil or a facial steam for a comforting, grounding aroma.

Organic Peppermint essential oil

Peppermint essential oil is cooling and invigorating. Its fresh, menthol aroma is refreshing and uplifting, making it a popular choice when you feel a little foggy or congested and want to clear the senses.

Gently massage your temples and forehead with well-diluted peppermint essential oil for a cooling, refreshing sensation. Keep it well away from the eyes.

Organic Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary essential oil is energising and refreshing. Its bright, herbaceous aroma has long made it a favourite for reviving the senses, and inhaling it or using it well-diluted in massage can feel wonderfully refreshing and vitalising.

Add up to 5 drops of rosemary, lavender and peppermint essential oils to a diffuser for a balanced, refreshing blend where the aromas complement one another.

Organic Clary Sage essential oil

Clary sage essential oil is relaxing and calming. Its soft, warm aroma is traditionally used to help ease everyday stress and create a settled, peaceful atmosphere.

Add 3 drops of clary sage essential oil with 2 drops of lavender essential oil to your diffuser for a calming, restful aroma.

DIY essential oil massage blend

Ingredients

1. 3 drops lavender essential oil
2. 2 drops marjoram essential oil
3. 2 drops rosemary essential oil
4. 2 drops peppermint essential oil
5. 1 drop clary sage essential oil
6. 1 ounce carrier oil (such as sweet almond or jojoba oil)

• Combine the ingredients in an amber glass bottle.
• Use this blend in your bath or as a soothing massage oil to help you relax and unwind.

Diffuser blend to relax and unwind

Ingredients

1 drop rosemary essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops peppermint essential oil

• Add the essential oils to a diffuser.
• Settle into a comfortable seat, relax and unwind. Take slow, deep breaths in and out, inhaling the soothing aromas along the way, and allow yourself to feel centred and steady.
• You can pair this with a gentle self-massage, working over your temples and forehead to enhance the relaxing ritual.

Safe use of essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated and for external use only. Always dilute them in a carrier oil before applying to the skin, patch test on a small area first, and keep oils away from the eyes. Never ingest essential oils.

FAQs

How do I dilute essential oils for a massage?

As a general guide, use around 2 to 5 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil such as sweet almond or jojoba, and patch test before applying more widely.

Which essential oils are most popular for relaxation?

Lavender and clary sage are firm favourites for their calming aromas, while peppermint and rosemary are often chosen when you want a fresh, refreshing lift.

Can I use these blends in a diffuser overnight?

It is best to use a diffuser intermittently rather than continuously through the night. Follow your diffuser's instructions and ensure the room is well ventilated.

Are essential oils safe to use during pregnancy?

Some oils are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before using essential oils at this time.

Can I apply peppermint oil directly to my forehead?

No, peppermint oil should always be well diluted in a carrier oil before it touches the skin, and kept well away from the eyes and mucous membranes.

*This information is for general wellbeing and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any condition. Please do not disregard professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare practitioner for appropriate care, and take particular caution if you are diabetic, epileptic, pregnant, breastfeeding or managing any serious health condition.