Magnesium has scientific support for its use in managing certain types of headaches, including tension-type headaches, although the majority of research focuses on migraine. Several studies have found that people experiencing frequent headaches, including tension-type headaches, often have lower magnesium levels than healthy controls. Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation, neurotransmitter release, and vascular tone, all of which are relevant to the pathophysiology of tension headaches, which can involve muscle tightness and altered nerve signaling.

Clinical trials have shown that magnesium supplementation may reduce the frequency and severity of headaches in some individuals. While the evidence is stronger for migraines, some studies suggest benefits for tension-type headaches as well, particularly in cases where there is a documented magnesium deficiency. The American Headache Society considers magnesium as a “probably effective” option for migraine prevention, and it may also be reasonable to try in tension-type headaches, especially if other risk factors for deficiency are present.

However, the overall quality and quantity of studies specifically addressing tension headache are limited, and not all trials have demonstrated benefit. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some clinical evidence, magnesium's effectiveness for tension headaches is not as well established as for migraines, leading to a moderate evidence rating.