One of the most dreaded yet all too common everyday maladies known to man has got to be the headache. We've all experienced at least one headache, probably a few more than that. The most common solution which many people resort to is to have a dose of pain killer tablet. Some people suffer from chronic headache problem and in such cases, treating them with analgesic tablets would not suffice. Using pain killer tablets on long term basis could cause harmful side effects and so many of them are seeking out natural remedies for how to get rid of headaches. Listed below are a couple of natural herbal remedies that can help in treating chronic headaches:

1. Basil -Not only is this pungent flavor enhancer a tasty ingredient in pizza and pasta sauce, basil is also an effective means of how to get rid of headaches. Basil oil has anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties, which make it useful in the treatment of tension headaches. Simply inhaling the aroma of basil extract in essential oil brings about both stimulating and pain relieving actions.

2. Flax Seed Oil - Flax seed offers multiple health benefits and hence it is highly recommended by doctors as a food supplement and natural medicine. The active ingredient present in flax seed is Alpha linolenic acid which can be helpful in the treatment of chronic headaches. ALA is an essential fatty acid, which has been determined as a 'good' fat, and as an effectual remedy for various health concerns, including chronic migraines.

3. Valerian- This helpful herb is commonly used as a nutritional supplement known to promote sleep. Valerian can also be used in the treatment of chronic headaches that are caused by sleep problems, muscle tension and anxiety. Valerian root is available in tablets, capsules, herbal tea and essential oil.

4. Buckwheat - Buckwheat which is commonly used as livestock feed can also be used as for human consumption. Those suffering from gluten intolerance can opt for buckwheat products as they are gluten free. Buckwheat flour and pancake mixes are available in many of food stores. Those suffering from chronic headache problem can benefit by using buckwheat products because buckwheat contains rutin, a powerful antioxidant and analgesic.

5. Lemon Balm- The use of lemon balm as a natural medicine for depression, migraines and tension headache pain has been documented way back to the 14th century, when it was served as a herbal tea to the French king Charles V for these symptoms. Lemon balm has a subtle lemony flavor, hence named so, and can be substituted for lemon juice in soups, custards and various other food dishes as a flavor enhancer.

6. Peppermint Oil - Pungent peppermint oil can also be used as one of the effective natural solutions for how to get rid of headaches. Whether as an extract, essential oil or dry leaf tea, peppermint is a pleasant nutritional supplement because it smells so nice, and it soothes the tummy. It helps to dilate the constricted blood vessels and thus improves blood circulation. This property can help to ease the headache pain. Peppermint oil is frequently used in aromatherapy, and as a cooling agent when applied in a compress.

7. Marshmallow Root- Don't start a campfire and whittle your green branches yet.... The marshmallow headache remedy refers to the marshmallow plant, not those yummy, puffy sugar pillow treats. Marshmallow comes in leaf, root and tincture forms, and is found at most health food stores. Marshmallow contains a substance which has properties very similar to that of salicylic acid and hence can be used as an alternative for aspirin.