Can Medical Marijuana Relieve Migraines?

This is among the questions you might encounter when researching whether marijuana is good for migraines. Migraines are difficult to treat because of their varied symptoms. Relief from migraines is a much-needed solution for people who suffer repeated episodes.

Migraines can cause nausea, sensitivity to light, and pain simultaneously. Over-the-counter drugs usually do not provide the relief needed from migraines. Thus, most people come to marijuana because of its reputation for offering quick relief. Let us explore the effectiveness of marijuana for migraine relief.

Chemical Elements of Marijuana

Marijuana has two main compounds, also known as cannabinoids, which induce various effects. They are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). 

THC is generally related to the feeling of being high and offering psychogenic effects. However, it is not the only element in marijuana that causes this. On the other hand, CBD does not induce a high sensation or altered perception.

Some doctors use Epidiolex®, a form of CBD, in treating certain types of epilepsy.

Does Marijuana Help With Migraine Attacks?

The active compounds in marijuana are known to reduce pain. Studies show that these compounds reduce the frequency of headaches. Inhaling marijuana offers quicker relief than ingesting it, researchers confirm. But according to recent studies, it might trigger rebound headaches. This can happen when you take too much cannabis.

There is little evidence to support the idea that marijuana reduces migraine symptoms. This is because there have not been many studies in the area. Currently, researchers do not know much about the safety of marijuana. They also cannot tell the best dose or the effectiveness of marijuana on migraines.

The Science Behind Pain Relief and Marijuana

Researchers are still running studies on marijuana and its effects on the body. So far, they have found out a few things about how cannabis interacts with the body. This is how marijuana affects the body as it responds to pain—this might as well translate to migraine pain and headaches.

• Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

Your body has a built-in endocannabinoid system. These neurotransmitters in your body have a specific influence on several body functions. They can influence the immune system functionality, nausea response, pain, and blood pressure.

• Effect of Marijuana on the ECS

The cannabinoids present in marijuana can influence the ECS in your body. The active compounds in marijuana, CBD and THC, can communicate with the ECS. They might be able to stimulate specific reactions in your body. This could work in the same way as endocannabinoids.

• Marijuana’s Positive Impact on the ECS

The ECS is a very complex system. But specific receptors in the system can receive signals from cannabinoids or endocannabinoids. These receptors can produce positive reactions such as relieving swelling or reducing inflammation.

• Marijuana Does Not Mean Automatic Pain Relief

There is not enough evidence to prove the effectiveness of marijuana on pain. Marijuana appears to work by mimicking processes that are natural to your body. Yet, there is still much to study on the effects of marijuana on the body.

For more on medical marijuana and migraines, call WellGreen Cannabis at (386) 585-4866 to reach our office in Palm Coast, Florida.