Because so many homeopathic remedies treat headache symptoms, the process of selecting the best fit can be challenging. The particular characteristics of a specific headache provide the keys to narrowing down the choices. The more specific you can be, the easier it will be to find a match. For instance, is the pain left or right sided, throbbing or pressing, better with applied heat or cold? And what might have triggered it, stress, alcohol, heat, anxiety? The following well known remedies address fairly common headaches, and most are included in Hyland's Headache and Migraine combination remedies because of their effectiveness.
Belladonna
Right-sided throbbing headaches that are violent, intense in nature, and come on suddenly are Belladonna's specialty. Especially headaches resulting from colds, sinus problems, too much sun, injury, or getting the head chilled. Often accompanied by restlessness, with a flushed face and frequent nosebleeds, those headaches that would benefit most from Belladonna are worse with motion, light, touch, and noise, and they are better with lying in a dark room with pressure applied to the head.
Iris versicolor
Iris vers is indicated for headaches that occur first thing in the a.m., beginning around the eyes. It is especially effective for pain in the right temple. Useful for "sick headaches", head pain combined with nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Headaches that respond well to Iris are typically aggravated by eating sweets, and by exposure to heat, while there is some relief with open air and gentle motion.
Gelsemium
Gelsemium is an effective remedy for headaches that are accompanied by a sore neck and shoulders. As a primary homeopathic remedy for pain that originates in the back of the neck and radiates to the rest of the head, it is indicated for "the band around the head" sensation. Those who respond well to Gelsemium tend to feel dizzy, dull, droopy, and so tired they can barely keep their eyes open. Headaches of this nature tend to come on with dampness, cold, sun, and worrying, and feel better after urinating.
Nux vomica
This classic stress remedy is known for relieving heavy pressing headaches which may result from stress, digestive upset, or overindulgence of alcohol, stimulants or drugs. It is well-suited to impatient, competitive, aggressive personalities that typically lead a stressful, sedentary life. They feel worse in the cold and are overly sensitive to touch, noise, and light and feel better with warmth and being wrapped up.
Bryonia
The person who best responds to Byronia becomes irritable and thirsty when unwell. Their headaches worsen with the slightest movement of the eyes or any jarring movement, bright light or touch. Pressure, quiet, darkness and fresh air all provide relief.
The above remedy descriptions written
by Tutti Gould, ND, DC
