Can Cannabis Treat Migraines?
Migraines are a form of headache that can be debilitating and difficult to treat with traditional medication. Fortunately, there is evidence that cannabis can effectively treat migraines. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential benefits of marijuana for migraine sufferers and how it can help reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
The Endocannabinoid System
Before we get into how marijuana can help with migraines, let’s first discuss the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for regulating many functions in the body, such as mood, appetite, sleep, memory, and pain perception. It does this by using chemicals called endocannabinoids which interact with receptors throughout the body.
Marijuana has phytocannabinoids
Cannabis contains chemical compounds called phytocannabinoids. They are similar to endocannabinoids found in animals and humans but exist in plants. They bind to the same receptors in the ECS. When someone consumes cannabis, it can have an effect on their ECS, which in turn affects their pain perception and other bodily functions.
How Marijuana Helps with Migraines
Now that we know a bit about how cannabis interacts with the body’s ECS let’s look at how it can help treat migraines specifically. Studies have shown that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) interact with brain receptors to decrease inflammation related to migraine symptoms.
THC and CBD may increase serotonin levels, which is linked to reducing migraine severity and frequency. CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that could further reduce migraine symptoms. A 2016 study published in Pharmacotherapy discovered the frequency of migraines was reduced by 60% when consuming marijuana. Marijuana users saw the number of migraines per month reduced to around four after averaging 10 per month.
Does THC have pain-relieving properties?
Yes, THC has analgesic (pain relieving) properties that could alleviate pain associated with migraines. Finally, research suggests that cannabis may help reduce nausea associated with migraines and provide sedative effects that allow users to relax more easily during a migraine attack.
Migraines are an approved condition for a Medical Card
Luckily it’s easy to get approved for an Illinois marijuana card when you have been diagnosed with migraines. You must consult a qualified marijuana doctor and either provide proof of your diagnosis or have them diagnose you. Once you have been approved for your Illinois marijuana card, you’re on your way to purchasing cannabis and saving tons of money at Illinois dispensaries.
Marijuana research for migraines
In a research study, people that used cannabis as medicine saw a 75%+ reduction in migraines verse 51% non-cannabis products. A review of studies on medicinal cannabis yields positive results. This natural remedy shows promise in providing migraine relief. Not only is it effective in reducing pain intensity, but it also decreases the need for other analgesics and dependence upon them.
Perhaps most notably, many patients reported long-term physical and mental improvements following prolonged use! With few adverse side effects associated with medical marijuana treatment, it appears to be a promising option for those looking to manage their migraines holistically without potentially dangerous and addictive narcotics.
Marijuana is considered a recreational and medical drug.
There are clear medical benefits that need to should be researched about the efficacy of cannabis. Cannabis may be a promising treatment option for people suffering from migraines because of its ability to interact with specific receptors in the brain and reduce inflammation associated with migraine symptoms. More research is needed with larger patient populations in clinical trials before concluding the drug’s efficacy.
Talk to your doctor about marijuana as a treatment option for migraines if you’re interested in trying an alternative treatment option to conventional medicines. Discuss your circumstances, lifestyle, and the risks and benefits of cannabis consumption for your migraine disorder.
Legal & Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The content on this blog is provided “as is” and no representations are made that the content is error-free. The website takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the content of this blog or other websites or resources that may be referenced or linked to herein. The website’s content is not intended to recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the site.
By using this blog, you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by this website. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not use this blog.
The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
