6 Of The Best Expert-Approved Teas To Relieve Headache Symptoms

According to Ginger Hultin, RDN, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the hydrating properties of tea are the primary reason it helps manage headaches. The second reason? The anti-inflammatory antioxidant catechins. "All types of tea have special compounds1 like theobromine and theophylline as well as volatile oils, and minerals," she says. Here are six herbal teas registered dietitians and naturopathic doctors recommend in place of (or in conjunction with) conventional medicine.

A Cellular and Infection Microbiology study found an imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to migraines2. According to Ginger Hultin, RDN, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, ginger is known to calm inflammation, be it in the gut or the nervous system.3 "So if that's the root of your headache or if there's a connection there, ginger tea could be an answer," she says. 

One review on the medicinal benefits of chamomile4 says it also "boosts the immune system and helps fight infections associated with colds." Headaches caused by colds, inflamed sinuses, or allergies may therefore be soothed by this type of tea. 

While it may not be a guaranteed fix, "It could be worth trialing peppermint for your headaches," Hultin says. 

Willow bark comes from, you guessed it, the bark of a willow tree. "It is the original source of salicin, which is the active ingredient that makes up aspirin," integrative neurologist Ilene Ruhoy, M.D., Ph.D., writes. This makes it a powerful herb for relieving a variety of pains6, including back pain, joint pain, gout, muscle strain, dizziness, and headaches, she says. 

In one study, adults with migraines were randomly assigned either a placebo or feverfew. The placebo group experienced an increase in the frequency and severity of headaches, while the feverfew group did not. "This provides evidence that feverfew taken prophylactically prevents attacks of migraine8," the study says. 

Green tea is one of the healthiest tea options out there, thanks to its high concentration of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an anti-inflammatory catechin. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, green tea has long been used to improve mental alertness and headaches.

In that case, drinking water, herbal teas, or another one of these immune-supporting drinks may be more helpful. If you are drinking tea with caffeine, also keep in mind the timing and how it might affect your sleep quality later on. 

For some, the pain-reducing effects might take place right away, and others might not notice the effects at all. Either way, registered dietitian Abby Cannon, R.D., says, "The act of drinking tea can be very calming in and of itself, and this calming practice can help to release tension in the body." 

If the tea isn't enough, try these tips from Ruhoy for managing migraines:

On top of that, certain essential oils and yoga poses may also calm the head and the mind. 

If a headache is uncomfortable but not concerning, consider sipping one of these six soothing teas (or implementing the other management strategies) to help calm the throbbing sensation. If headaches feel severe, it's a good idea to consult with a medical professional to rule out underlying conditions and find other necessary treatment options.