Headaches can be annoying and a severe headache may even stop you from being able to function properly. Headaches are common and can occur to anyone. Unless a headache is chronic it is usually not serious. Although there are many over the counter headache relief medications, they are not without side effects and should not be taken too often.

Instead, one should seek natural ways to get rid of a headache. A natural headache remedy works just as good as traditional medications, minus the side effects.

Many headaches are brought on by dehydration. Rehydrating the system will often be enough to ease a headache. It is important to consume plenty of water everyday. As soon as you feel the onset of a headache, drink some water or juice. Avoid caffeinated beverages like tea, coffee, soft drinks and chocolate.

Too much eyestrain may bring on a headache. If you use the computer a lot, you should take regular breaks. Once a headache starts, try taking a five-minute break by closing your eyes. You may want to apply a cool compress on the forehead. This may ease the headache by regulating blood flow to the head. Keep re-applying the cool compress as needed.

Stress is a common cause of headache. If your headache is brought on by stress, you should learn to de-stress. One way is through meditation. Sit in a quiet room to meditate. Focus on your breathing and when your thoughts wander, bring your awareness back to the present. Through practice you can train yourself to meditate anywhere and any time. Movement may make a headache worse but if the headache is stress related, exercise may help. If you don't feel like moving, try a gentle exercise such as yoga. Simple yoga stretching and breathing techniques can even be done at your desk while at work.

Acupressure uses applied pressure onto points on the body to help eliminate pain. For a headache, apply pressure to each side of the temple using your thumbs. Slowly increase the pressure. Then slowly rub your thumbs in small circles. Do this for 5 minutes. There are some herbal cures for headaches that work very well. These are usually better than prescription or over the counter medications because they do not have any side effects.

Feverfew – Feverfew contains substances that inhibit the release of mood hormones in the brain. For best results, use fresh feverfew. If this is not available, consume feverfew as tea or in capsule form.

Bay – There have been some doctors who recommend taking feverfew with bay to prevent a headache. You can find this combination available at most health food stores.

Ginger – Ginger has long been known to relieve and prevent headaches. It is an anti-inflammatory and contains substances that provide natural headache relief. Take in capsule form, according to directions.

Peppermint – Taken internally or used externally, peppermint is a natural headache remedy. To take internally, drink peppermint tea. To use externally, mix several drops of peppermint oil with lotion or body oil and massage into the temples.

Try these natural headache remedies to find the combination that can get rid of your headache quickly and naturally. If you suffer from chronic headache, you should consult with your doctor to rule out any underlying problem that requires medical attention.