What type of essential oil is most commonly used to alleviate headaches?

Peppermint essential oil is widely recognized for its effectiveness in alleviating headaches. Its primary active component, menthol, has a cooling effect that can help relieve tension and promote better circulation in the head and neck area. This makes peppermint oil particularly beneficial for tension headaches and migraines. The aroma of peppermint also has an uplifting quality that can help reduce stress and enhance mood, contributing to its headache-relief properties.

In contrast, while other oils like geranium, ginger, and frankincense may possess beneficial properties for various uses, they are not as commonly associated with headache alleviation. Geranium essential oil is often used for emotional balance and skin-related issues, ginger essential oil is known for its anti-nausea and digestive benefits, and frankincense is typically used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they do not have the same strong correlation with headache relief that peppermint essential oil has established through both anecdotal and empirical usage in aromatherapy.