Homeopathy can effectively treat both acute headaches and chronic (i.e. recurrent) headaches. Prevention of chronic headaches is best achieved through 'constitutional' treatment undertaken by a professional homeopath who would look for a remedy picture that is similar to both a person's headache symptoms and their individual make up. There are, however, many 'self-help' remedies for acute headaches that can prove beneficial. Set out below are my 'top four' remedies for acute headaches and I have added a few remedies for hangovers to help you through the Christmas period!

Belladonna - sudden, violent, throbbing headaches in the forehead and temples. Person's face is hot and red with dilated pupils. The headache is made worse from light (especially from the sun), jarring movements, noise and touch. It is helped by applying pressure and bending the head back.

Nux Vomica - splitting headache from stress or overindulgence in rich food and alcohol. Person often feels nauseous and/or dizzy and is very irritable and oversensitive to noise. The headache could be made worse by cold, motion, touch and light but better by warmth.

Gelselium - congested/flu-like headache brought on by stress or apprehension. The head feels heavy and the eyelids droop. Possible blurred vision, lethargy and trembling of limbs. The headache could be worse from moving, anxiety, cold and damp but better for passing urine!

Bryonia - pressing/bursting sensation especially when in forehead across the eyes. Person is irritable and thirsty. Worse from the slightest movement, even of the eyes and helped by applying pressure, resting, closing eyes and warmth.

Hangovers
Nux Vomica - (mentioned above) Number 1 hangover remedy.

Ledum - if you have been 'lucky' enough to be drinking whisky the night before.

Chamomilla - if you are the proverbial 'bear with a sore head' who wants to be left alone.

Pulsatilla - after too much rich food & alcohol. You could be feeling tearful, craving sympathy and feel better walking in the open air.

Best advice of all, of course, is to drink lots of water and promise yourself not to drink too much again!

Harriet Getley LCH
Coltishall Complementary Health Practice