Q - Katy,   I continue to have these recurring headaches. They come and go off and on. Help!  - Michael - Wash DC

A - Michael:
There are many sources of headaches, some more serious than others.  Let's go over a  couple of the more common types  - Sinus and Tension Headaches.

Sinus Headaches:
Plenty of hot liquids, such as herbal teas, soups and broths.  Feel free to add some powdered red pepper better known as cayenne to your soup or broth.  The pepper along with the hot liquids help the mucus to flow, relieving congestion and sinus pressure. Also you can buy a piece of fresh horseradish root in the produce department and grate some up.  Herbs for the sinuses and immune system I like to use are Bayberry, Nettles, Marshmallow, Echinacea, Garlic or name a few.  I also utilize some of the ever useful essential oils.  Eucalyptus, Tea tree, Lavender, Peppermint, all have helped me or my family at one time or another.  Another consideration - I can never say enough about keeping things 'regular'!  Chronic constipation can commonly be attributed to sinus problems and headaches in general.  There are plenty of healthy ways to correct constipation and if you're at a loss, I have plenty of info on the subject. 

Tension Headaches - Ah yes, the most common.  Stress stress stress.   Stress seems to pop up no matter what health scenario we pick.  To lessen tension,  Deep Breathing - don't knock it, it works.  But you must take the time to practice it. 

Light stretching daily, especially if sitting for long periods.  Keep the circulation moving and blood flow strong.  Herbs and oils I like:  Gingko, Feverfew, Cayenne, alone or together.  Essential oils - Peppermint, Rosemary, Rosewood and Lavender.  Can be inhaled or massaged into area or back of neck - obviously avoiding eye area.  One drop goes along way here!  Can add drop to carrier oil like olive oil or jojoba oil.

Q - Hi I have been having some difficulty with heartburn and now my Doctor says it could be acid reflux.  Do I have any natural options to help with this?  Rosalind - Buffalo NY

A - Seems this is becoming an all too common problem.  Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, thus sensitive tissues to get irritated. Many times it can made worse by acid causing foods like coffee, chocolate, fried foods, alcohol or spicy foods, so watch to see what may trigger your symptoms.

To treat it naturally I like using 'carminative herbs , such as peppermint, cinnamon and licorice...these help to promote digestion and relieve pain.  I have also had clients try powdered Slippery Elm "gruel' (2Tbs to 1 cup water) and get that down, as it is very soothing and also effective for relieving pain. 

I also suggest increasing regular water consumption daily, (not with meals), and eating smaller meals throughout the day.

If You have any questions for Katy you can contact her below.

Katy Lowe, Master Herbalist
Owner Root to Health
716-570-9385
katy@root2health.com
www.Root2Health.com

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