ROLE OF ENERGY MEDICINE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) is a common primary headache disorder that adversely affects daily functioning and quality of life, and prolonged use of analgesics may lead to medication overuse and other adverse effects. This case report describes the therapeutic outcome of peppermint essential oil used as an Energy Medicine intervention in a 36-year-old male with CTTH who presented with recurrent bilateral, pressure-type headaches for more than one year, aggravated by occupational stress and prolonged screen exposure. The patient had a baseline Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) score of 64, indicating severe headache-related disability. Peppermint essential oil (Mentha piperita) was administered through inhalation therapy and topical application over the temporal region for eight weeks. Following the intervention, headache frequency decreased from daily episodes to one or two episodes per week, the HIT-6 score improved from 64 to 42, analgesic dependence was reduced, and the patient reported better relaxation and improved stress tolerance. No adverse effects were observed during the intervention period. These findings suggest that peppermint essential oil may serve as a safe, simple, and cost-effective complementary therapy for the supportive management of CTTH. However, larger controlled clinical studies are required to establish its efficacy and long-term therapeutic benefits.