Migraines are severe and debilitating headaches that can last for several hours or even days. They are often accompanied by symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. While pain medications can help alleviate some of the symptoms of migraines, they may also cause unwanted side effects.
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in using CBD oil for migraine relief. CBD, or cannabidiol (Not to be confused with Cannabinol or Cannabinodiol is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant, and it has been shown to have potential as a natural treatment for various medical conditions. In this article, we will explore the research on CBD for migraines, how it works, how to use it, and the potential side effects and risks associated with its use.
Research on CBD for Migraines
Research on the use of CBD for migraines is limited, and most of the existing studies have focused on the combined effects of CBD and THC, another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. There are currently no published studies that examine the effects of CBD alone on migraines. However, some laboratory studies have suggested that CBD oil may help all forms of chronic and acute pain, including migraines.
One study presented at the 3rd Congress of the European Academy of Neurology in 2017 looked at the effects of a combination of CBD and THC on chronic migraine sufferers. In phase I of the study, 48 people with chronic migraine received a combination of two compounds, one containing 19 percent THC and the other containing 9 percent CBD with virtually no THC. The compounds were administered orally. Doses under 100 mg had no effect, but when doses were increased to 200 mg, acute pain was reduced by 55 percent.
In phase II of the study, the THC-CBD combination was compared to a tricyclic antidepressant in people with chronic migraine and to a calcium channel blocker in people with cluster headaches. The THC-CBD combination reduced migraine attacks by 40.4 percent, while the antidepressant led to a 40.1 percent reduction in migraine attacks. Participants with cluster headaches only saw a slight decrease in the severity and frequency of their headaches.
Other studies have explored the effects of medical marijuana, which contains both CBD and THC, on migraine sufferers. In a 2016 study published in Pharmacotherapy, researchers found that of the 48 people surveyed, 39.7 percent reported fewer migraine attacks overall. Drowsiness was the biggest complaint, while others had difficulty figuring out the right dose. A 2018 study of 2,032 people with migraine, headache, arthritis, or chronic pain found that most participants were able to replace their prescription medications, typically opioids or opiates, with cannabis.
Overall, while the research on CBD for migraines is limited, the available evidence suggests that CBD, either alone or in combination with THC, may be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.
How CBD Works
CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating various physiological processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and immune function. The endocannabinoid system consists of two types of receptors, CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout the body, including in the brain, nervous system, and immune system.
CBD is thought to interact primarily with CB2 receptors, which are involved in regulating immune function and inflammation. By binding to CB2 receptors, CBD may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is thought to be a major contributor to migraines. CBD may also help prevent the body from metabolizing anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation. By maintaining high levels of anandamide in the bloodstream, CBD may help reduce feelings of pain and discomfort.
How to use CBD for migraines
If you are interested in trying CBD to manage your migraine symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor first. They can advise you on whether CBD is a safe option for you and if it is likely to interact with any other medications you are taking.
When taking CBD for migraines, there are a few different methods you can try. Here are some of the most common:
Oral ingestion: You can take CBD orally in the form of a capsule, oil, tincture, or edible. This method can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to take effect.
Inhalation: You can also inhale CBD by smoking or vaping it. This method is the fastest acting, with effects felt within minutes. However, it can also be harsh on your lungs.
Topical application: You can apply CBD topicals directly to the affected area, such as the temples, neck, or shoulders. This method is not as fast-acting as the other methods, but it can provide longer-lasting relief.
It is important to start with a low dose of CBD and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effect. Keep in mind that CBD can have different effects on different people, so finding the right dosage may take some trial and error.
How to use CBD for migraines
If you are interested in trying CBD to manage your migraine symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor first. They can advise you on whether CBD is a safe option for you and if it is likely to interact with any other medications you are taking.
When taking CBD for migraines, there are a few different methods you can try. Here are some of the most common:
Oral ingestion: You can take CBD orally in the form of a capsule, oil, tincture, or edible. This method can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to take effect.
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Inhalation: You can also inhale CBD by smoking or vaping it. This method is the fastest acting, with effects felt within minutes. However, it can also be harsh on your lungs.
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Topical application: You can apply CBD topicals directly to the affected area, such as the temples, neck, or shoulders. This method is not as fast-acting as the other methods, but it can provide longer-lasting relief.
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It is important to start with a low dose of CBD and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effect. Keep in mind that CBD can have different effects on different people, so finding the right dosage may take some trial and error.
Side effects and risks of CBD for migraines
While CBD is generally considered safe, it can have some side effects, including:
Fatigue
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Nausea
Diarrhea
CBD can also interact with some medications, including blood thinners and anticonvulsants, so it is important to talk to your doctor before using CBD if you are taking any medications.
Will CBD get you high?
Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects, so it will not get you high. This is because CBD does not bind with the same receptors in the brain that THC does.
Legality of CBD
The legality of CBD varies depending on where you live. In the United States, for example, CBD is legal at the federal level as long as it contains no more than 0.3 percent THC. However, some states have their own laws regarding CBD, so it is important to check your state’s laws before purchasing or using CBD.
Talk to your doctor
If you are considering using CBD to manage your migraine symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine whether CBD is a safe option for you and can advise you on how to use it properly.
While the research on CBD for migraines is limited, some studies have shown that it may be an effective treatment option for some people. However, more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works and to determine its long-term effects.
If you do decide to try CBD for your migraines, be sure to purchase it from a reputable source and start with a low dose. With the right approach, CBD may be able to provide relief from your migraine symptoms and improve your quality of life.