Can Cannabis Help Migraine Headaches?

Physical pain can be debilitating. Those who suffer from migraines and cluster headaches have traditionally encountered many problems in their attempts to find relief.

Causes can range from hormonal imbalances to diet, light sensitivity, tension, and stress. Not only can it be difficult to determine the causes, but it can also be challenging to find an effective treatment.

Learn more about migraines, their symptoms, and how you can treat them with cannabis below.

Migraines are much worse than regular headaches.

Migraines are recurrent, throbbing headaches that usually affect only one side of the head. Migraines are usually much more severe and debilitating than a typical headache.

Symptoms of migraines include:

• Headache pain that lasts between 4 and 72 hours.
• Visual symptoms appear before the attack, although they can also occur during the episode. They often manifest as colored flashes, blind spots, tunnel vision, and zigzag halos.
• Throbbing pain
• Muscle weakness
• Confusion
• Tingling
• Slurred speech
• Pain on one side of the head
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound

How exactly does cannabis fit into all of this? To answer the question, it’s essential to know about the endocannabinoid system or the SEC.

The SEC serves the function of keeping the other systems of the human body in balance, i.e., it maintains homeostasis, which is the ideal biological point at which everything functions smoothly.

The SEC comprises receptors, endocannabinoid molecules, and metabolic enzymes that synthesize and degrade into endocannabinoids.

The cannabis plant produces molecules similar in structure to our endocannabinoids, which are known as phytocannabinoids. These chemicals are so similar to ours that they can bind to SEC receptors and modify enzyme activity.

Simply put, cannabis compounds engage with our own system to generate benefits and maintain balance.

In general, a little cannabis works for most people regarding migraine relief. But we are all different and react differently to each compound.

In some cases, migraine sufferers who use cannabis experience worsening symptoms. Or when they use cannabis too often, some people experience another type of headache or a much worse version of the original feeling.

Known as medication overuse or “rebound” headaches, this phenomenon can occur with different types of drugs.

There are still no definitive studies determining the effectiveness of using CBD for migraines. From anecdotal reports, CBD could help to treat migraines and their symptoms, especially when taken regularly to maintain the body’s balance.

Opting for CBD consumption methods that offer high bioavailability and produce an immediate effect is an excellent alternative to treat representative migraines.

Some strains seem to work better than others in mitigating migraine episodes. Some of these strains include:

White Widow

White Widow seems to be a good choice in treating migraine due to its 19% THC percentage. It is ideal to consume when the migraine is starting.

This strain is a balanced hybrid (50% Sativa, 50% Indica). With a powerful high, almost psychedelic, cerebral effect, but it is also incredibly relaxing.

OG Kush

The OG Kush is a classic hybrid type strain with a potent high that helps alleviate uncomfortable body symptoms. Its effects are relaxing on the body and mind.

Green Crack Punch

Green Crack Punch is a very potent and relaxing Indica. When consuming it, expect motivation combined with a soothing effect that relaxes the muscles and the mind.