HEADACHE, the pain usually encountered by many.

According to the researchers at the National Headache Foundation, it is the stress hormone or cortisol that causes it and hampers the body’s production of painkilling hormones called endorphins.

Cortisol also makes scalp muscles more likely to become inflamed and tight.

If you are not likely to swallow paracetamol for this, chamomile essential oil will give you a cure. Massaging this aromatic oil into your temples and neck can shut down a tension headache in as little as 10 minutes.

Chamomile is rich in salicylic acid, azulene and chlorogenic acid, a plant compounds that soothe overactive nerves, dampen pain and relax tight muscles.

Make your own massage oil by mixing 12 drops of chamomile essential oil into one ounce of olive oil and massage gently but firmly into your temples and neck until the pain eases.

Or make a soothing hair rinse by mixing 10 drops of this essential oil into 16 ounces of water and massaging it into your temples, scalp and neck during your shower.

You can also drink chamomile tea to soothe your nerves and calm you down.