Migraines are debilitating and can put a serious damper on your day. The pain associated with migraines is often so severe that it becomes difficult to function normally, let alone work or live a normal life.
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for migraines- one of the most innovative being cannabis. This article will explore how cannabis may be able to help relieve migraine symptoms and provide relief from the pain that comes along with them.
Can Cannabis Help with Migraines?
A lot of people have been wondering if cannabis can be used to treat migraines. While more research is needed, there are indeed a number of ways in which cannabis can help, from relieving pain to reducing inflammation.
The most well-known way is by using topical forms like balms or oil, which you rub on your forehead and temples. This works especially well for those with chronic headaches who experience nausea when they get too stressed out or angry.
Another great option for migraine relief is CBD (cannabidiol) pills – these are hemp oils extracted from the flowers and leaves of the plant without any THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component that gets you high.
In this article, we cover why this information is so crucial for the 39 million men, women, and children. suffering from migraines in the US, along with the countless others dealing with this problem globally.
What is a Migraine?
Migraines typically involve intense head pain, nausea, and vomiting. Besides these issues, some side effects like sensitivity to light, sound, and smells, as well as extreme fatigue can persist. Fortunately, some believe cannabis could hold the key to effective treatment.
How Can Cannabis Help with Migraines?
Most of the time, doctors will prescribe potentially deadly prescription painkillers to treat migraines. This is why so many people are looking to cannabis for the answers. Anecdotal evidence suggests that cannabis can successfully manage the pain, nausea, and vomiting that results from a migraine.
Cannabinoids from the plant activate the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain. These receptors manage pain messages from the nerves all the way to the brain.
Since endocannabinoids regulate many of our body’s functions, it’s safe to say that it could help with migraines and surrounding symptoms, too. Some evidence shows that endocannabinoids can help lessen the severity and frequency of migraines. But they also help with hormone regulation.
Healthline claims migraines might even happen because of an endocannabinoid deficiency. Since the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating various physiological and cognitive processes, if endocannabinoid production is minimal, it can result in an imbalance. In turn, this can increase our risk of health issues, which, of course, include migraines.
Why is Cannabis a Solid Option to Treat Migraines?
Why are so many people using cannabis for migraine treatment? The side effects of traditional migraine medicines make them less than ideal for many people.
One of the best things about cannabis is that it’s an all-natural and side-effect-free treatment option, with evidence backing its effectiveness as a migraine medication.
A considerable number of studies have highlighted the effectiveness of cannabis as a migraine treatment. One study, in particular, analyzed patients inhaling and ingesting cannabis at several doses. The patients reported 6 fewer migraines per month after adding cannabis to their regimen.
A new study published in the European Pharmaceutical Review found that a 200mg daily oral dose of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)—in comparison to an equivalent dosage of amitriptyline—provided relief from chronic migraines.
Does Using Cannabis for Migraines Have Side Effects?
Medical cannabis for migraines is not without drawbacks. The side effects can include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. But these are much better than other options pharmaceuticals could bring about.
Addiction to cannabis and related products is always a concern. But, the truth of the matter is that most people who have been prescribed cannabis for medical reasons do not become addicted.
However, as a viable alternative to traditional pharmaceutical treatment methods, many doctors and patients feel that cannabis should be given a try for those who suffer from migraines. The less severe side effects and minimal addictive qualities make medical cannabis worth exploring for those looking to ease the symptoms without any nasty side effects.
