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5 Root Causes of Migraines and Natural Ways to Treat Each One

woman suffering from migraines and headaches
31
May

Migraines are more than just headaches—they can disrupt your entire life. From missing work to losing sleep, the pain and sensitivity can derail your routine, especially for women, who are more frequently affected. In this blog, we’ll explore the five root causes of migraines and how to address each one naturally. Whether you’re looking to prevent migraines or reduce their severity, this guide will walk you through practical, evidence-based steps.

The most common triggers that cause migraine attacks are

  • Sleep deprivation
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Dehydration
  • Hunger
  • Exposure to a lot of UV during long exposure to the sun and exposure to noises.

 

1. Mitochondrial Migraine and Energy Deficiency

Root Cause

Your cells need energy to function properly, and mitochondria are the powerhouses that generate this energy. When they’re not working well, symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain, brain fog—and migraines—can occur.

Natural Treatment

Studies have shown that supplementing with CoQ10 (200–400 mg daily) and riboflavin (vitamin B2) for 3–4 months can reduce migraine frequency by up to 80%. These nutrients support mitochondrial function and energy production.

 

2. Hormonal Imbalance—Estrogen Dominance

Root Cause

Hormonal migraines are common in women, especially in the week before menstruation. This is often due to estrogen dominance and low progesterone levels.

Natural Treatment

nuts and seeds Omega-3-rich food and migraine relief

Balance your hormones by:

  • Supporting liver detox with dandelion tea, beetroot juice, and milk thistle.
  • Taking DIM supplements (a compound from cruciferous vegetables) to clear excess estrogen.
  • Boosting progesterone naturally with seeds like sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin, as well as avocados and hemp seeds.

If symptoms persist after three months, consult your gynecologist about bioidentical progesterone therapy or compounded progesterone.

 

3. Digestive Disorders and Gut-Brain Axis Disruption

Root Cause

Gut issues like SIBO, Candida overgrowth, food allergies, or leaky gut can lead to systemic inflammation and contribute to migraines, resulting from a vasodilation in brain vessels. This occurs through the gut-brain axis, which links your digestive health to your nervous system.

Natural Treatment

  • Follow an elimination diet to identify and remove common triggers such as dairy, gluten, sugar, corn, soy, and processed meats rich in nitrates.

aged cheese histamine allergy migraines

  • Avoid histamine-rich foods like aged cheese, fermented foods, chocolate, and alcohol.
  • Heal the gut with bone broth, collagen, and L-glutamine.

If you need more details about a personalized, tailored full SIBO/IBS gut healing protocol, follow the link below and subscribe:

 

SIBO/IBS gut healing protocol

4. Magnesium Deficiency

Root Cause

Magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation, sleep, and nerve health. A deficiency is one of the most overlooked causes of chronic headaches and migraine attacks.

Natural Treatment

  • Take magnesium malate (300–500 mg) before bedtime to ease migraines and support restful sleep.
  • For those with constipation, use magnesium citrate for dual benefits.

neck and head massage magnesium oil relax migraine relief

 

  • Apply topical magnesium oil to the back of the neck during a migraine for relief.
  • Drink a mineral balance beverage made with coconut water, sea salt, lemon, and pomegranate juice to replenish electrolytes.

 

5. Low Serotonin Levels

Root Cause

Up to 80% of serotonin, the “happiness hormone,” is produced in the gut. Low levels can lead to mood swings, anxiety, poor sleep—and migraines.

Natural Treatment

  • Support gut flora with a high-quality probiotic supplement to enhance serotonin production.
  • Consider 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) supplements to directly boost serotonin. Studies show this can reduce migraine frequency by up to 70% when used consistently for 3–4 months.

 

Bonus Tips for Immediate Migraine Relief

ginger shots for migraine relief

  • Ice packs on the forehead or neck can reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Concentrated ginger juice at the onset of a migraine may abort the attack.
  • Cupping therapy, or Hijama, is a traditional method good for headache relief.

Final Thoughts

Migraines don’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Often, multiple root causes are at play. By understanding your body and identifying the underlying triggers—whether hormonal, nutritional, digestive, or neurological—you can take proactive steps toward lasting relief.

If you need more details about how to treat migraines naturally, watch the full episode of Dr. Fajer Al Jumairi on her YouTube channel: