Each day nearly 200 000 people in the UK suffer a migraine and half of them miss school or work because of it. Nearly 6 million adults in Britain get migraines which represents a seventh of the adult population. Fifty per cent of people who get migraines have, on average, 12 attacks each year. A typical attack lasts 24 hours and 80 per cent of people getting migraines say the pain is very severe and disabling. Headaches can be caused by a variety of reasons some of which are self inflicted such as alcohol and cigarettes but also by a spectrum of circumstances beyond our control. The weather can be held accountable for some peoples headaches and even migraines. One study found that high heat and humidity combined with low pressure led to headaches. Intense cold is also a trigger for some migraine sufferers. There is also the suggestion that it is not as much the weather type itself but the change that accounts for headaches.

Sleep habits are an overlooked trigger of headaches and migraines. The reality, however, is that a poor night's sleep can lead to headaches. In fact, where insomnia exists, headaches may be chronic.

The link between headaches and depression is complicated in that painful and often frequent headaches themselves can lead to depression and those who already suffer from depression may find that headaches are a symptom of their illness. Chronic headaches and depression both can have a devastating impact on a person's quality of life and well-being.

Many headache and migraine sufferers are extremely sensitive to light. Bright lights and glare are more likely to trigger migraine headaches. Flickering light is also reflected on snow, sand and water as well as through clouds. Any glare from these sources may further trigger a headache.

Headaches can be a symptom of serious conditions such as problems with blood sugar levels, subarachnoid hemorrhage and meningitis so it is wise to consult your doctor if headaches persist.

Aromatherapy and massage can bring relief to headaches and are more natural than over the counter medication. Lavender is a sedative and Peppermint a stimulant and within many headache drugs you will find this combination of sedative and stimulant. Lavender is also renowned for helping to relief muscular tension and easing the symptoms of depression. Peppermint has warming and stimulating properties and can help cool feverish conditions. Pine is also reputed to ease muscular tension and may assist with improving circulation and may help to relieve mental stress and anxiety whilst Geranium is added for its balancing action as well as its antidepressant qualities.

Use this blend in a cold compress on the forehead, on the temples, in a bath or massage round the tense areas.

Regent House makes no medical claims for this blend.