you go harpgirl! :)

peppermint essential oil inhaled at the first sign of headache can be very helpful at nipping them in the bud; I also will rub a bit into my palm at the fleshy part below the thumb; this is a shiatsu technique and also helpful. Other essential oils good for headache are rosemary (especially headaches caused by muscular tension--try a few drops in a hot bath) and lavender...and Peppermint tea drunk right after eating (not too hot) is useful for those who experience headaches after meals (this may be MSG realted, BTW; when eating at Chinese restaurants, always make sure they don't add MSG to your food!)

I get headaches from being dehydrated more quickly than anything else. This is related to the coffee syndrome headaches many people experience; their energy lags and the headache kicks in, they drink coffee and feel alert and the caffeine makes their brain blood vessels swell and they feel temprarily better...many headaches can be traced to consumption of various substances, allergens or no (sugar, MSG and caffeine the main culprits, not to mention alcohol).

Stress and tension also aggravate headaches and cause them once this tendency is established. Yoga and stretching, in addition to regular exercise (even walking) will help the muscular tension. In some cases seeing a chiropractor helps if the back is out of alignment.

Harpgirl is correct about avoiding one's triggers; but only through keeping track of diet, habits and daily stimuli can one determine which triggers of many possible ones are setting off the headache...

good luck!

peg