Life is harder for those who experience migraines on a regular basis. From bright lights to loud noises, anything can trigger migraines. Quite often, the intense pain experienced during a migraine is accompanied by nausea, and a loss of sensation. Those who get chronic migraines often feel so numb in their senses while experiencing one, that their reality alters greatly due to this constant disruption. While there are certain commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of the same, they do not offer relief to all the patients. In addition to that, there are also various side-effects associated with such medications. Due to a number of researches conducted on the subject, there is proof that medical cannabis may prove to be an effective treatment for migraines.
How does cannabis help treat migraines
The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating inflammation in our bodies. Marijuana helps treat migraines via the endocannabinoid system. Since cannabis resembles the naturally produced endocannabinoids of our body, it reduces inflammation and also helps mitigate the release of pro-inflammatory substances which cause migraines. Therefore, when the endocannabinoid system is activated by medicinal cannabis, it regulates inflammation which further reduces migraine pain in patients.
Anandamide deficiency, another cause for chronic migraines, can be tackled by cannabis. Anandamide is a cannabinoid naturally present in the brain which helps reducing inflammation. The deficiency of the same can be substituted by the cannabinoids present in cannabis.
A study conducted in 2019 and published in the Journal of Pain, concluded that cannabis could help reduce migraine pain severity by 50%. Another 2019 retrospective study published in Neurology found that out of a total of 279 patients, 88.3% reported relief during migraines after consuming cannabis. Some also reported that their sleep improved significantly.
While cannabis can reduce the pain associated with migraine, it can also be used as a preventative. Since cannabis reduces stress and relaxes muscles, it can help prevent migraines as well. CBD is known as an anxiety-reducer, which could be useful in treating migraines that are stress-induced.
How to consume cannabis for reducing migraines
A number of studies have been conducted to help determine the most effective delivery method of cannabis for the treatment of migraines. Best results are achieved through oral administration and inhalation delivery methods.
In mild cases, oral cannabis can be sufficient, and should be attempted before smoking cannabis. However, since the effects of edibles take a while to kick in, some patients prefer inhalation due to its rapid effects. Tinctures can also be an effective treatment, since they are fast and effective. Tinctures can be administered under the tongue for rapid benefits. Vaporizers are also gaining popularity among migraine patients due to its early onset of effects. Through vape pens, patients can microdose and control the quantity of cannabis they are consuming. Vaping is also friendly to the lungs.
Word From HempStreet
From the above discussion, it is clear that marijuana can prove to be an effective treatment for migraines. It can be administered in different ways as well, as per the preference of the patients. If you think that medical cannabis can help ease your migraine pain, it is suggested that you see a medical health practitioner and get a prescription for the same. We strongly advise against self-medication.
