For many people, tea is a stress buster. Some even claim that it helps relieve headaches and also cures migraines. But how true and accurate is it, really?
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sinjan Ghosh, Consultant Neurologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, sheds light on the role of tea in treating headaches and also explains the side effects of consuming too much of this beverage. Here’s what every chai-lover should keep in mind.
Also Read: Soothing Sips: Digestive and Stress-Relieving Benefits Of Herbal Teas
Can Tea Help Relieve Headaches?
“The effectiveness of tea on headaches is paradoxical as it can both cure and cause headaches,” says Dr Ghosh, adding that it can bring relief to headaches for some while it can trigger headaches in others due to the presence of caffeine.
Caffeine itself can both help and hurt headaches, depending on the situation, according to a review published in Current Opinion in Neurology. It can be helpful for some headaches, but too much caffeine or inconsistent caffeine intake throughout the day can actually worsen headaches, researchers note. The study authors, therefore, recommend limiting their caffeine intake and avoiding the use of caffeine medications too often.
What Type Of Teas Can Prove Beneficial?
Dr Ghosh says, “Moderate consumption of teas that are caffeine-free with low histamine is suitable for individuals.”
Hence, one can consume herbal teas that are not caffeinated, he recommends. This includes ginger tea, which is said to relieve migraine headaches. According to a study published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, ginger treatment led to more patients being pain-free at two hours compared to a placebo and also reduced pain scores at the 2-hour mark. Interestingly, researchers also noted that ginger did appear to reduce nausea and vomiting compared to the placebo.
Other herbal teas that can be beneficial for headaches include:
- Willow bark tea
- Peppermint tea
- Feverfew tea
- Clove tea
Side Effects Of Drinking Too Much Tea
For some people, drinking too much tea can lead to side effects and may even trigger headaches rather than relieve them. This is because the blood vessels in the brain are narrowed by caffeine after its consumption, and when one stops its consumption, the vessels expand, thereby causing headaches, explains Dr Ghosh.
Therefore, the expert recommends that it be consumed in moderation.
Besides, drinking too much tea can lead to other complications, including:
- Sleep deprivation
- A decreased body’s ability to absorb iron
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Conclusion
The impact of tea on health can vary from person to person, depending on the amount and type of tea one consumes. Experts recommend having tea in moderation, especially if it is caffeinated. This includes teas such as black, green, white, and oolong teas. However, herbal teas, including ginger, peppermint, clove, and feverfew tea, are said to relieve issues such as headaches. However, if you have migraines or severe headaches, it is best to consult a neurologist or a healthcare provider, who can determine the best course of treatment for you.