Naturally relieve headaches – 4 essential oils

July 16, 2025

Four essential oils for headaches – Gentle help from nature

Nasty headaches can really ruin your day! Before reaching for a painkiller, try a quick aromatherapy remedy. While a pill takes some time to work, you'll usually notice the relief from essential oils immediately. Here are four valuable oils you can try for headaches.

1. Peppermint oil – a classic headache remedy and a refreshing boost for the head

Peppermint essential oil (Mentha piperita) is a tried-and-tested classic remedy for tension headaches. Its high menthol content provides a pleasantly cooling sensation on the skin and can influence pain receptors, thus relieving pressure. A study from the University of Kiel showed that diluted peppermint oil can have a comparable effect to paracetamol.
Link: https:// pain clinic.de/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/spannskopfschrei1996.pdf

Application:

• Mix 1 drop of peppermint oil into 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and gently massage onto temples and neck.
• DIY headache roll-on: Mix 10 ml of organic alcohol or jojoba oil with 6 drops of peppermint oil, shake well and apply as needed.

Allergens in the formulation: Menthol, Limonene, Pinene, Linalool, beta-caryophyllene, Terpinolene, Terpineol

2. Lavender oil – relaxation for head & nerves

Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) is known for its calming effect. It helps relieve tension, promotes relaxation, can alleviate stress-related headaches, and is also considered an oil for headache relief.

Application:

• Put 1 drop of lavender oil on a tissue and inhale deeply.
• Take a lavender scented bath: Add 4 drops of lavender oil to warm bath water along with 1 tablespoon of DIY bubble bath or cream.

Allergens in the formula: Limonene, Linalool, Linalyl acetate

3. Cineole-containing oils such as eucalyptus or cajeput – if a cold is also present.

An essential oil with a higher 1,8 cineole content, such as eucalyptus radiata or cajeput, clears the head, is cooling, and is particularly helpful when tension headaches are related to blocked sinuses.

Application:

• Mix 1 drop of essential oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to the temples and sinuses, avoiding contact with the eyes.

4. Bergamot mint – The gentle alternative to peppermint

For those who dislike the intense scent of peppermint or prefer a milder alternative... For tension headaches: Bergamot mint (Mentha citrata) contains no menthol, but still offers relaxing properties for the head and nerves. It is also suitable for children and people with sensitive skin.

Application:

• Mix 1 drop of bergamot mint with 1 tsp of carrier oil and gently massage into shoulders and neck.

Suitable oils for headaches

Essential oils are a gentle and natural way to relieve headaches. Whether cooling with peppermint, relaxing with lavender, circulation-boosting with rosemary, or soothing with bergamot mint – find the right aromatherapy remedy for your needs and usher in a fragrant headache break.