CBD and Marijuana as Potential Treatments for Migraines and Headaches?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved CBD oil as a treatment for headaches, including migraines. More studies are needed to establish the safety and effectiveness of CBD oil against migraine attacks, as the current evidence is limited.
Cannabis, however, might offer some relief for migraine sufferers. Its active compounds, such as CBD and THC, have been found to reduce pain and decrease the duration and frequency of headaches. Nevertheless, it's crucial to consult a medical professional before using medical cannabis or CBD oil for migraine, as they can help determine a safe plan for pain relief.
Research suggests that CBD oil can help individuals relax, which may be beneficial for those with stress-triggered migraines. Other natural remedies for migraine attacks include avoiding triggers, diffusing calming essential oils like lavender and peppermint, applying pressure, using a cool compress, turning out the lights, taking over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen, and seeking the advice of a medical professional.
Inhaling cannabis offers faster relief than eating cannabis products for migraine pain. However, it's important to note that too much cannabis can trigger rebound headaches, and overdose on cannabis can result in symptoms like paranoia or panic attacks, dizziness, lack of coordination, rapid heart rate, chest pain, blood pressure spikes, sudden headache, unresponsiveness, and the need for medical care.
The 2018 Farm Bill made some hemp-derived CBD oil products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal, but CBD oil products containing more than 0.3% THC are still federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Medical cannabis is permitted in many states, but each law has different stipulations regarding where and how much can be bought at one time. It may not be legal in some areas.
Recent research on the effectiveness of cannabis for migraine treatment includes a 2022 review in Frontiers in Neurology showing medical cannabis reduced migraine attacks significantly and a 2023 preclinical study demonstrating CBD oil's potential to prevent migraine-like symptoms in mice. Furthermore, a 2019 study found that inhaling cannabis could soothe migraine pain by nearly 50 percent, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
However, the evidence for weed's pain-busting powers is limited, and regular use of cannabis may lead to potential brain function impairment, breathing problems, higher risk of heart attack, cycles of nausea and dehydration, and other long-term effects according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
In conclusion, while the use of cannabis and CBD oil for migraine relief shows promising results, more research is needed to fully understand their safety and effectiveness. It's essential to consult a medical professional before using these substances for migraine treatment. The American Migraine Foundation considers CBD oil a viable option for migraine-associated joint pain and muscle soreness.
