## Why Tea Can Intensify Pain One of the main factors is caffeine. It is present not only in coffee but also in black tea, matcha, oolong, and "Earl Grey." According to dietitian Masha Davis, an excess of caffeine can trigger headaches in some individuals. However, there is also the opposite situation. If a person is used to receiving a certain dose of caffeine daily and then suddenly stops or significantly reduces their intake, a headache accompanied by fatigue may occur. Caffeine can also disrupt sleep. Dietitian Lisa Andrews points out that a lack of proper rest can, in turn, be a cause of headaches. Not only caffeine requires attention. Some herbal blends contain **licorice**, the consumption of which is associated with increased levels of aldosterone, which can also be accompanied by headaches. There may be individual reactions to tannins as well — substances that give tea its characteristic astringency and bitterness. ## Why Tea Can Still Help Experts do not recommend completely giving up tea when experiencing a headache. In some cases, the beverage can indeed improve well-being. The simplest explanation is additional hydration. Even mild dehydration can be accompanied by headaches, so adequate drinking sometimes helps alleviate discomfort. Interestingly, caffeine can play a dual role. Its excess may provoke pain; however, a moderate amount can, for some individuals, help relieve it. Finally, the tea-drinking ritual itself matters. A warm drink and the opportunity to take a brief break can help relax and reduce tension if stress is one of the factors contributing to the headache. ## What Tea to Try **Peppermint tea** is one option that Davis mentions. The menthol in mint can have a relaxing effect, making this drink potentially beneficial for tension-related headaches. **Ginger tea** may be particularly appropriate if the headache is accompanied by nausea. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce stomach discomfort. **Lavender tea** is valued primarily for its calming effect. If stress is the cause of the discomfort, relaxation may indirectly help reduce the headache. The potential benefits of chamomile and curcumin are also being studied; however, there is currently insufficient scientific data to confidently speak about their effectiveness specifically against headaches. There is no universal "headache tea." If you are sensitive to caffeine, strong black tea, matcha, oolong, or "Earl Grey" may not be the best choice. Milder alternatives could be peppermint, ginger, or lavender tea. The key is to pay attention to your body's response: a drink that helps one person may intensify discomfort in another.
