Headaches are a common ailment that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. While there are various treatments available for relieving headache pain, Kampo herbal medicine is a holistic and natural option.
Important disclaimer
The herbs listed on this page are part of a larger formula. The complete formula, plus herb quantites, are not given. Even if you are experiencing the conditions outlined below, you should not take these herbs without consulting a professional first.
Approach to treating headaches
When treating headaches I recommend a well-considered combination of modern and traditional remedies.
Herbal remedies (combined with a bodywork treatment, such as Zen Shiatsu and acupuncture), and an advisable use of modern medicines, will help with these painful, energy-consuming ailments.
Kampo is a traditional Japanese form of medicine that utilizes herbs and other natural substances to promote health and healing.
Herbal formulae for headaches
The following formulas use different mechanisms to reduce constriction of the muscles, nerves and other systems of your body. When these structures become impeded the resulting tension causes headaches and pain.
For severe headaches
If your symptoms include: A headache that is severe, recurrent, and one-sided. Extreme tension along one side of the head, neck, and shoulder. Vomiting.
I suggest an elegant formula that includes:
- Evodia fruit
- Ginseng
- Ginger
- Red dates
For milder tension headaches
If your symptoms include: A “milder” headache, with muscle tension and stiffness.
I recommend a formula that contains:
- Kudzu (pueria root)
- Cinnamon twig
- White peony
Suffering from headaches?
If you would like to further discuss treating headaches using herbal medicine along with bodywork and acupuncture, please be in touch.
About Daniel
I am a practitioner of traditional East Asian medicine based in Toronto, Ontario. You can find more about me on my bio or learn more about the treatments I offer.
As always, thanks for reading!
– Daniel (T’agyol) Adler