The increased research on the effectiveness of CBD has changed the way once people used to deem this natural remedy. With time, awareness of the therapeutic benefits of this naturally occurring compound in people has increased. CBD oil has the potential to help treat varieties of health complications such as chronic pain, anxiety, stress disorders, inflammation, heart ailments, and many more.
What about using CBD for migraines? Can it help? Read on to know what research says about it.
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of more than a hundred of cannabinoids derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant. While CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, THC produces high or euphoric effects on its users. It is the major psychoactive compound.
Many CBD users claim that this compound has helped them with different types of headaches. But research and evidence are not adequate to fully understand the effectiveness of CBD for migraines. However, if you are going to use CBD, consult with your doctor first. To ensure safety, make sure you get your CBD products from a reliable source.
CBD for Migraines: Can It Help?
People have been using cannabis for quite a long time to treat a variety of headaches. However, scientific research and anecdotal evidence in this particular field are not sufficient to claim the safety and effectiveness of cannabidiol for this purpose. But, a few studies suggest that some substances found in the cannabis plant may help treat headaches and migraines. Most of those studies used the whole marijuana plant, which is not the same as CBD oil. So, we need more research in this area focusing on cannabidiol to determine the efficacy of CBD for migraines.
Related: Aaron Bouren, co-founder of CBD Hemp Experts shared his thoughts about the future of CBD as an industry on his blog.
CBD shows its promise to alleviate inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis pain. So, there’s a chance that it may work accordingly for migraines. In a 2017 review, researchers found that marijuana can help treat migraines. But there are a few studies that worked with CBD on this subject.
The causes of migraines and the effectiveness of CBD in treating it are still unclear. More research and studies conducted on the specific components of marijuana (CBD) are necessary to obtain a definitive idea about it.
CBD for Migraines: What Does Research Say?
A study conducted in 2012 suggests that CBD oil can help treat many types of chronic pain. But researchers did not specifically mention its efficacy in treating headaches or migraines.
According to a study from 2016, cannabis can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. This particular study did not work on CBD alone but the whole marijuana plant. So, we need more studies to understand the dosage and formulations of CBD for migraines.
Evidence from a 2009 study suggests that people who have been taking standard pain medications like opioids can benefit from using cannabis. It can also help reduce opioid dependency.
However, according to a 2018 Australian study conducted on cannabis users, there is no possible link between cannabis and pain relief. Also, researchers did not find any connection between the use of cannabis and the decreased dependency of opioids. Rather than CBD or any other cannabinoid, researchers conducted this study on the effectiveness of the whole marijuana plant.
Legality
Currently, the laws and regulations surrounding CBD are unclear. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and hemp-derived products containing more than 0.2% THC are illegal to use.
Make sure you have the proper knowledge of your state laws. Be careful with carrying CBD products with you while traveling to other states. According to the FDA, you can not bring any nonprescription drugs on board. On the other hand, CBD products used to treat two rare & severe types of epilepsy got approval by the FDA in June 2018. However, you must need a prescription to be able to carry them with you.
Methods of Taking CBD
CBD products are available in a wide range of forms, and there is a multitude of CBD delivery methods. You need to choose the right one depending on your condition. For instance, if you are suffering from chronic pain, you would want something that can provide you with instant relief. In this case, you can use CBD tinctures under your tongue. Blood vessels in your sublingual area will absorb and deliver CBD to your bloodstream almost immediately.
Until now, there is no known research on humans conducted to unveil the potential effectiveness of CBD for migraines. So, we do not know any standard dosage or method that can be efficacious in treating headaches induced by it.
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We recommend you talk to a doctor before using CBD. Taking CBD in higher dosage may cause side effects. We suggest you start from a lower dosage and observe if it is improving your condition. If you are not getting the desired result, increase the dosage gradually.
Potential Risks
The CBD industry lacks proper regulation. As a result, poorly manufactured CBD products are also getting into the market and creating misconceptions about the potential of this compound among people.
According to a 2017 research letter, some CBD products had incorrect labeling. Those particular products contained a higher or lower amount of CBD than stated on the labels. Some products also contained high levels of THC and other harmful substances.
Remember, the Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved CBD for migraines. So there are no standard CBD products available in the market that can help you with this condition.
Proven Treatments for Migraines
Before using CBD for migraines, we recommend you take other proven treatments for this acute condition. Several things can trigger your migraines. If you can identify those triggers, it is possible to lower down the frequency of migraine attacks. Proper management of stress, avoiding bright lights, having good quality sleep can help to some extent.
There is no universal treatment for migraines that can work for everyone. But, some medications may help you diminish the occasions of migraine attacks and reduce the intensity of your headache.
Here are some approved migraine treatments:
- Acetaminophen: A pain reliever available over-the-counter
- Ibuprofen or Aspirin: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Non-opioid analgesics: A combination of caffeine and pain reliever
- Triptans and Ergots
- Beta-blockers and antidepressants
Some people have to try several treatments for migraines before finding the one that works better. Observe the frequency of your migraines and the intensity of your headaches. Then consult with your doctor. They can help you discover the most effective treatment for your condition. Talking to a doctor before trying any migraine treatment is highly recommended.
CBD for Migraines: Final Thoughts
If you experience the symptoms of migraines, talk to your physician. As there are many treatments available for this condition, your doctor can help you choose the right option.
Individuals who want to use CBD for migraines should be aware of the potential interaction between cannabidiol and other drugs. Do not stop taking other medications to try CBD. Instead, talk to your doctor who can help you make a plan on how you can take CBD along with other drugs you are already using.
Remember, this particular area needs more scientific research and studies focusing on cannabidiol to determine the effectiveness of CBD for migraines.