Natural migraine remedies: Take CoQ10 supplements to relieve headaches

11/04/2019 / By Grace Olson

CoQ10 supplements can help relieve migraines, a study finds. Researchers from the Tabriz University of Medical Science in Iran found that taking CoQ10 supplements reduced migraine biomarkers – TNF-a and CGRP – among the study’s participants. They published their findings in Nutritional Neuroscience.

CoQ10 supplements help relieve migraines

Migraines are neurological conditions, usually compared to a severe headache. They are accompanied by other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. The main cause of migraines is still unidentified, but migraines and inflammation are commonly observed together. (Related: Migraines may permanently damage your brain structure: Here is a natural, research-proven way to treat them.)

The researchers wanted to find out if CoQ10 supplements could be an effective treatment for migraine inflammation. CoQ10, or coenzyme Q10, is a natural antioxidant produced by the body. It has a crucial role in oxygen utilization and energy production within cells, especially in vital organs like the heart and liver. Previous studies showed that taking CoQ10 supplements potentially contribute to better cardiovascular health.

The team enrolled 45 women (18 to 50 years old) who had been diagnosed with episodic migraines. The participants were divided into two groups: one group took CoQ10 supplements (400 mg) daily while the other group took a placebo. The researchers took measurements of serum CoQ10 concentration and migraine biomarkers at baseline and after three months. Migraine biomarkers included Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a).

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The researchers found that participants who took the CoQ10 supplements had shorter and less severe migraines in the course of the study. They attributed these effects to the lower levels of TNF-a and CGRP found among the participants.

TNF-a is an identified inflammation marker, while CGRP mediates pain signals and causes the blood vessels to widen, which is a major factor for migraines. The reduced levels of both suggested less inflamed tissues and better pain management, leading to less severe migraines.

Overall, taking CoQ10 displayed positive effects among the participants, increasing its potential as a natural pain reliever for migraines.

Other natural remedies for migraines

Aside from taking CoQ10 supplements, there are other natural alternatives to store-bought pain relievers. Some of these include:

Lavender essential oil – This is often used to reduce stress, anxiety, and headaches. A study from Europe has found that it may also be effective against migraine as well. Lavender essential oil can be inhaled directly or mixed with water before applying to the temples.
Ginger – It is a popular remedy for nausea, but it can be used to treat migraines as well. One study found that the effects of ginger powder and sumatriptan, a branded medication for migraines, were similar. Not only is ginger a natural, healthier alternative, the study’s researchers also found that participants who consumed ginger powder exhibited fewer side effects.
Yoga – The practice of yoga is known to improve bodily functions, including reducing tension and better blood flow. Yoga has not been directly linked to relieving migraines, but researchers suggest that it can be used as a complementary treatment.
Massage – Like yoga, massage is another complementary therapy practice used to alleviate stress and improve overall health. Massaging tension-prone areas, such as the neck and the shoulders, may help ease the symptoms of migraines.
Diet changes – There are many food and beverages that can start a migraine. Many of these are items consumed every day, including processed foods, red wine, and cheese. Keeping a food diary may help point out which foods might contribute to migraines.