8 medicinal plants that may help relieve headaches and migraines

Medicinal plants may help relieve certain types of headaches, but their effectiveness depends on the cause of the pain and how the remedies are used. Some have scientific evidence supporting their use, while others have limited research and may carry significant risks.

According to information discussed by physician Alberto Sanagustín, eight plants are commonly considered for headache relief, ranging from migraine prevention to easing stress-related tension. However, experts advise consulting a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially alongside medication.

Plants that may help with migraines

1. Feverfew

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) has been studied as a preventive treatment for migraines. Some evidence suggests it may reduce the frequency of attacks, although results vary. It is not intended to provide immediate relief during an attack. People taking blood-thinning medication should consult a healthcare professional before using it.

2. Butterbur

Butterbur has been studied for migraine prevention, but it can contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that may cause serious liver damage. Because of these risks and concerns about product safety, it should not be used without medical guidance. Products labeled as free of these alkaloids are not automatically risk-free.

3. Ginger

Ginger may help reduce migraine-related nausea and could provide some relief during an attack. It can be consumed as a tea or used in food, but there is no universally established dose for treating migraines. Concentrated supplements may interact with blood-thinning medication.

Plants that may help with stress-related headaches

4. Lavender

Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. Some research suggests inhaled lavender may help with migraine symptoms, but the evidence remains limited. Essential oils should not be swallowed, and they should be diluted appropriately before skin application.

5. Lemon balm (Melissa)

Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is traditionally used to promote calmness and relaxation. It may be helpful when stress contributes to muscle tension and headaches, although direct evidence for headache relief is limited. It may cause drowsiness and interact with sedating medications.

6. Valerian

Valerian is used to support sleep and relaxation. It may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional when headaches coincide with sleep difficulties, but it is not an established headache treatment. Avoid combining it with alcohol or sedatives.

Plants associated with circulation and pain relief

7. Hawthorn

Hawthorn has traditionally been used for certain cardiovascular conditions. However, there is insufficient evidence to recommend it for headaches or to treat high blood pressure on its own. It can interact with heart and blood pressure medications, so medical supervision is essential.

8. White willow bark

White willow bark contains salicin, a compound related to the development of aspirin. It may have pain-relieving effects, but evidence for treating headaches specifically is limited. It can increase bleeding risk and should be avoided by people allergic to aspirin, those with certain stomach or kidney conditions, and anyone taking blood thinners unless a clinician advises otherwise.

When should you seek medical attention?

A headache should not automatically be treated with herbs. Seek emergency medical care for a sudden, extremely severe headache; new weakness or numbness; difficulty speaking; sudden vision loss; or a headache accompanied by fever and a stiff neck. A headache that is new, progressively worsening, or substantially different from your usual pattern also warrants medical evaluation.

Important: Natural does not always mean safe. No single dose is appropriate for everyone, and these plants should not replace medical assessment when headaches are severe, recurrent, or unexplained.