This paper is frequently cited in discussions about alternative treatments for tension-type headaches, as it provides a neurophysiological basis for why topical peppermint oil (usually applied to the forehead and temples) is an effective non-pharmacological treatment option.
PMID: 23196150 refers to a study titled "Essential plant oils and headache mechanisms," published in the journal Phytomedicine.
The research, led by H. Göbel and colleagues, investigates how specific essential oils, specifically peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil, affect the physiological and psychological mechanisms associated with headaches.
Key Findings of the Study
The study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over design with 32 healthy subjects. Here are the primary takeaways:
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Peppermint Oil Performance: Local application of peppermint oil was found to generate a significant cooling effect on the skin and increased skin blood flow. Most importantly, it showed a significant analgesic (pain-relieving) effect, specifically reducing sensitivity to headaches.
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Mechanism of Action: The researchers noted that peppermint oil acts by causing a "steric alteration" of calcium channels in cold receptors and can inhibit certain muscle contractions (specifically those induced by serotonin and substance P) in animal models.
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Combined Effects: * The combination of peppermint oil and ethanol was particularly effective for pain reduction.
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A combination of peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and ethanol was found to improve cognitive performance and provide muscle relaxation, though it had less influence on direct pain sensitivity than peppermint oil alone.
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