Migraines

A migraine is a headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so bad that it interferes with your daily activities. For some people, a warning symptom known as an aura occurs before or with the headache. An aura can include visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots, or other disturbances, such as tingling on one side of the face or in an arm or leg and difficulty speaking.

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) may both help with migraines through different mechanisms, but their effectiveness can vary from person to person.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis and hemp and lacks the euphoric, intoxicating effects of THC. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anti-anxiety properties, and may help with migraines by:

·       Lowering Stress and Anxiety: Since stress is a common migraine trigger, CBD’s calming effects may help prevent attacks.

·       Reducing inflammation: CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to reduce inflammation, which is believed to play a role in migraine attacks.

·       Relieving Pain: CBD may help dull the pain signals sent to the brain, potentially reducing migraine severity.

Cannabis (THC and Other Cannabinoids)

While CBD is non-psychoactive, THC is the main psychoactive component in cannabis which produces a “high” effect. THC has more direct pain-relief effects and can help with migraines by:

·         Blocking Pain Signals: THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, which can help modulate pain perception.

·         Enhancing Sleep: THC, like CBD, may aid in better sleep, which can reduce the frequency of migraines.

·         Promoting Relaxation: THC may help with stress-induced migraines by providing deep relaxation.

·         Reducing Nausea and Vomiting: Many migraine sufferers also experience nausea, and THC is well-known for its anti-nausea properties.

 CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBN (Cannabinol)

CBG and CBN are two lesser-known cannabinoids that may help with migraines due to their potential effects on pain, inflammation, and neurological function.

CBG (Cannabigerol)

·         Anti-Inflammatory Effects: CBG interacts with CB2 receptors in the body’s immune system, potentially reducing inflammation that contributes to migraine pain.

·         Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies suggest CBG may protect neurons and support brain function, which could be beneficial for migraine sufferers.

·         Vasodilation: CBG might help improve blood flow, potentially addressing vascular dysfunction linked to migraines.

CBN (Cannabinol)

·         Anti-Inflammatory Properties: CBN has potential anti-inflammatory effects similar to CBG that may help decrease migraine-related inflammation.

·         Pain Relief: CBN interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, which may help modulate pain perception and reduce migraine intensity.

·         Sedative and Relaxing Effects: CBN may promote better sleep, which is crucial since poor sleep is a common migraine trigger.

How CBG and CBN Compare to CBD and THC

Some find that a combination of CBG, CBN, and CBD (or low doses of THC) provides the best migraine relief. CBD alone may be more suitable for people who want migraine relief without psychoactive effects, while THC alone may be better for those who need stronger pain relief and can tolerate its intoxicating effects.

* Important Considerations *

Always start with a low dose and adjust based on your response. Always check with a medical professional before discontinuing any medications.