Headaches are just… the pits, aren’t they? They can derail your day, make it hard to think straight, and generally leave you feeling far from brilliant.
While there are many reasons why headaches pop up, from tension to dehydration, finding gentle, accessible ways to ease the discomfort is always high on our list.
We’re big fans of supporting the body’s natural ability to find balance, and sometimes, the simplest solutions are right there in nature, or even in our homes.
Some plants contain natural compounds or aromas that may promote relaxation and ease tension, two common contributors to headaches. These qualities make them useful additions to your home environment if you’re looking to support comfort naturally.
They’re not cures, but rather simple, natural additions that may help you feel more at ease.
Here are a few plants commonly associated with calming properties or tension relief:
The menthol found in peppermint has a cooling and refreshing effect. Inhaling the scent or applying a very diluted peppermint essential oil to the temples may offer a mild sensation of relief for tension headaches.
A small potted peppermint plant provides access to fresh leaves. Crushing a leaf between your fingers and inhaling its scent can be an easy, natural way to relax.
Lavender is widely known for its calming and stress-reducing qualities. Since stress often contributes to headaches, using lavender to create a peaceful space may help.
Try placing a lavender plant in a sunny spot, or keep a small sachet of dried lavender near your favourite chair or bed.
Often used as a tea to unwind, chamomile also has relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties. While you may not grow enough indoors for tea, a small chamomile plant can still produce a calming environment.
Choose a space in your home where you can take a break when a headache begins. This might be a quiet corner, a reading chair, or even your desk area if it can be made restful.
Include plants like peppermint and lavender, or a collection of calming greenery. The goal is to make this space a calm, sensory-friendly place that feels restorative.
Scent can have a powerful influence on how we feel. Fresh, natural aromas may help reduce stress and support a more relaxed state.
Staring at screens or reading for long periods can cause eye strain, which may lead to headaches. Looking at something natural and green helps your eyes relax.
Place a plant near your desk or reading spot so you can look up and rest your eyes on something calming. The soft shapes and natural colours can give your vision a break and reduce fatigue.
Plants can be a helpful addition to your environment if you experience occasional tension-related headaches. While they aren’t a solution for frequent or severe discomfort, they may offer support in creating a calm, peaceful setting.
If your headaches are persistent or significant, it’s important to seek appropriate care.
For everyday tension or tiredness, surrounding yourself with soothing greenery and gentle plant scents can be a small, effective way to support your overall comfort.
