Migraines can be unbearable, with some people literally at a loss of ways to manage or prevent them. The popularity of cannabis for use to treat migraine pain has led to a lot of people turning to marijuana for migraine relief.
The science of cannabis and the potential benefits of cannabis treatment for migraines will be explored in this article, as well as what current research suggests about its effectiveness.
If you are wondering about Cannabis Migraine Remedies, CBD for migraines, the difference between THC for migraines, or how cannabis migraine treatments function, then you will find this information to be helpful.
How can the Cannabis plant influence our brains?
The Cannabis plant is a complex plant and can contain hundreds of compounds, with THC and CBD standing out as the most well-known. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a system vital to pain, mood, appetite, and other functions.
The cannabinoid receptors in your brain might be influenced by cannabis for migraine relief — or at least reduce pain and inflammation, helping to provide a little relief to migraine sufferers.
The endocannabinoid system helps keep the body balanced, and when disrupted, can be a contributing factor for chronic migraines. Medical marijuana for headaches is where it comes in. The compounds in cannabis may work to correct an imbalance in the nervous system that helps reduce the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks.
I heard about THC and CBD. Are they different?
Although THC and CBD for migraines are different, yes, both have potential benefits for migraine patients. Cannabis contains another psychoactive compound called THC, which is the stuff that makes you ‘high.’ The way it works is by attaching to the CB1 receptors in the brain that can help fight migraines pain and nausea, which are the most common symptoms for people who suffer from migraines.
CBD, however, is not psychoactive and will not cause a high. It has shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity that may be useful for migraine pain control without the psychoactive effects.
What are Terpenes?
Cannabis contains terpenes, in addition to THC and CBD, aromatic compounds which are found in plants. They don’t only give cannabis that unique smell, but may also contribute to the therapeutic effects. For instance, anti-inflammatory terpenes such as limonene have been shown to also provide natural migraine relief with cannabis.
So Cannabis plants are like a mix of many things?
Exactly! Cannabis is a mixture of different compounds and these have different possible effects. However, it is known that THC and CBD are the main targets for migraine treatment, but the entourage effect (all of the plant’s compounds working together) may also help cannabis migraine remedies work better. The synergy may serve to increase pain relief and decrease inflammation which are vital to managing migraines.
Can there be scientific reasons to support Cannabis usage for Migraine?
There is some growing evidence for cannabis’ potential for chronic migraines. Cannabis has been shown in several studies to reduce the frequency and severity of one’s Migraine attacks. A study published in the Journal of Pain found CBD oil for headaches can reduce both how often you get migraines and how painful they are.
THC for migraines can also help, research has shown, by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain that can control pain perception and reduce inflammation. Cannabis is also promising for people with severe migraine-related nausea, due to its anti-nausea effects for migraine relief.
Is there research showing a benefit of Cannabis for Migraine?
That’s right, quite several studies say that cannabis may be beneficial for migraine treatment. One example is a Colorado University study which found cannabis users suffer fewer migraine days and fewer migraines in general. Studies on cannabis and migraine research have also found that CBD oil for headaches and THC for migraines can be beneficial for decreasing headache symptoms, however, a clinical trial is needed to validate these findings.
Would it be best to use THC or CBD for Migraine?
The answer depends on the individual. Some migraine sufferers may find relief with CBD for migraines, especially those who do not want the psychoactive effects of THC for migraines. However not everyone will respond well to both THC and CBD, and a combination of the two may provide a more complete pain relief. The entourage effect with cannabis migraine studies found that a balance of THC and CBD was better at helping migraine than either compound on its own.
Is there a best Strain for Migraine?
This being said, when picking out the best cannabis strains to deal with migraines you will need to take into account both THC and CBD amounts. Some strains contain a high amount of THC and some contain a high amount of CBD. Strains with relaxing effects and more likely to relieve pain are those of India, making them popular for migraine sufferers. But sativa strains tend to be more energizing and may be useful if you get fatigued during a migraine.
In the end, the “best” strain is going to be the one that works best for your body. You’ll likely need to try different strains to find the one that agrees with you the best.
Are there side effects of Cannabis?
Although cannabis can be very effective for migraine treatment there are some side effects to consider. Dry mouth, dizziness, and increased heart rate are common side effects of cannabis use. It also generates anxiety or paranoia in some people with high doses of THC for migraines. You should begin with a small dose and increase it gradually, to find out how you react.
Does Cannabis interact with Medications?
Some medications are known to interact with cannabis, and it is particularly important to avoid these medications if your liver enzymes are impacted because your liver will not be able to break down the drugs the way it would normally. As a person taking prescription medication for migraines, it’s important to speak with your doctor first to see if using cannabis could interfere with your medication.
Is it possible to develop an addiction to Cannabis?
Cannabis is not physically addictive, though, and frequent use can lead to psychological dependence. It’s important to keep an eye on your usage of cannabis if you’re using it for migraine relief and to make sure you stay within a healthy and manageable limit.
I heard cannabis can reduce the use of Opioids and Anti-depressants. Is this good for People with Migraine?
There is evidence that cannabis migraine treatment averages a reduction in reliance on prescription medications including opioids and antidepressants. These drugs are used by many migraine sufferers to treat pain, but they have serious side effects. Becoming able to cut down on these medications while still managing the symptoms may be possible by adding cannabis to the treatment regimen.
Could Cannabis cause Medication-Overuse headache?
Medication-overuse headache (MOH) is a condition often brought on by overusing pain relievers, and there’s a possibility that excessive use of cannabis can do the same. Cannabis is a usually safe substance for most people but it’s important to use it in moderation and under the care of a healthcare professional.
Are there syndromes linked with Cannabis use?
Cannabis use has been linked with a condition called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, in which people get sick (cycle) and then well (seems to resolve) over weeks. But these are rare cases, and most people who use cannabis for migraines don’t have this side effect.
Should I consider Cannabis as a treatment for Migraine?
Cannabis for migraine relief may be something to consider if you have been fighting off migraines and traditional treatments have not worked. However, you should talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of using cannabis. Cannabis migraine remedies aren’t a one size fits all thing and you have to find a treatment that works for your situation.
What is the process to obtain a Medical Cannabis prescription?
In most places, to get a medical cannabis prescription, you’ll have to see a doctor who knows how cannabis can be used to treat medical conditions. Your doctor may suggest certain cannabis strains or dosages based on where you live, to help manage your migraine symptoms.
What’s the difference between Vaping, Smoking, and using Oil or Edibles?
Cannabis is consumed in many ways, and each has its pros and cons. Vaping provides the fastest relief, but it may irritate the lungs, and smoking can cause the same to happen. Longer lasting effects, but take longer to kick in, cannabis oil for migraine treatment and edibles. There is no best method and how soon you need relief will determine the best method for you.
Will my Doctor prescribe Cannabis?
Not everyone is comfortable with prescribing cannabis. Talking to your doctor about whether you want to use medical marijuana for headaches is important. They may send you to a specialist if they aren’t used to cannabis being used as a treatment.
The Decision to try Cannabis is yours to make
In the end, it’s a decision about whether or not to use cannabis during a migraine. If you’re thinking about this, you should think about whether the benefits may outweigh the risks. Begin low, closely watch your body for symptoms, and consult with a healthcare professional at all times.
FAQs
Can cannabis help with migraines?
Yes, cannabis for migraine relief has shown potential in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines in some individuals.
Is sativa or indica better for migraine headaches?
Indica strains are generally considered better for pain relief, making them a popular choice for migraine sufferers.
What is the miracle drug for migraines?
While no single drug works for everyone, cannabis for migraine relief is gaining attention as a natural alternative for those who haven’t found relief with traditional treatments.
Can I take CBD for migraines?
Yes, CBD for migraines has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Is there an herb for migraines?
In addition to cannabis, herbs like feverfew and butterbur are often used to treat migraines.
What cannabis terpenes are good for migraines?
Limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene are terpenes that may help with migraine relief due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
What plant is used to treat migraines?
Cannabis, especially CBD oil for headaches, is an effective treatment for migraines.
How do you mentally deal with a migraine?
Managing stress, practicing relaxation techniques, and using cannabis for migraine relief can help you cope with the mental aspects of a migraine.
Is CBD a vasoconstrictor?
CBD is not a vasoconstrictor like caffeine, but it may help reduce inflammation and pain, making it useful for migraine relief.
Does CBD show on a drug test?
CBD may show up on a drug test if it contains trace amounts of THC for migraines.
Is CBD addictive?
No, CBD is not addictive.
Does CBD help with anxiety?
Yes, CBD oil for headaches has been shown to help reduce anxiety and improve overall mood.