Millions of Americans suffer from headaches — almost everyone has an occasional headache, but for 45 million of us, it's a chronic problem. Scores of prescription and over-the-counter drugs are available, but there are also effective, natural ways to relieve the symptoms.
1. Willow bark
Willow bark has been used for thousands of years to ease headaches. It contains salicin, a chemical used to develop aspirin. A study at the University of Maryland found it reduces inflammation as well as relieves pain, and other studies have found that it is as effective as aspirin. Researchers in Germany have likewise found that it is as effective as acetaminophen in easing headache pain. Willow bark can be bought in capsules or as a tea.
