CBD, Migraines and Headaches
If you suffer from headaches and migraines - particularly chronic ones - you know how much they can interfere with your productivity and quality of life.
What’s the difference between headaches and migraines?
Headaches are a common condition experienced by everyone at least occasionally. Headaches cause pain in the head, neck, and scalp and can vary from mild to severe.
Migraines are a type of headache. Migraines are the most severe type of headache and can cause intense, throbbing pain on one side of the head. They can occur with or without an aura (characterized by bright spots or lines of light in vision) and can cause nausea.
Like other types of headaches, migraines can be caused by changes in atmospheric pressure and weather.
Treatment for headaches and migraines
Those who suffer from chronic headaches and migraines have likely tried their fair share of treatment options. Some of the most popular treatment options include:
- Pain-relieving medication. This includes NSAIDs (i.e., ibuprofen) and acetaminophen.
- Botox injections. Migraines and headaches result when sensory nerves experience inflammation. Botox blocks the release of molecules by sensory nerves, thereby blocking pain.
- Peppermint oil contains menthol, which when applied topically can relax inflamed muscles and reduce pain.
Different treatments work better for some than others, and using the same treatment consistently (i.e., taking ibuprofen daily) can result in medication tolerance, which affects the effectiveness of the treatment.
Using a range of treatment options increases the chance that they will work long term. An additional treatment option that has been gaining attention in recent years is the use of CBD for pain relief.
Using CBD to treat migraines and headaches
While no medical claims can be made about CBD for pain relief, research shows that it may offer some benefits. Very little research has been conducted on pure CBD oil on its own, but it is likely that it has at least mild benefits for pain relief.
Most studies on headaches and migraines analyze the effects of CBD and THC when used in conjunction. In a recent study where patients received a compound with 9 percent CBD and virtually no THC, patients experienced a significant decrease in migraine attacks.
For treatment of general pain and inflammation, this evidence suggests that CBD oil may be helpful. While it hasn’t been scientifically proven, many people find it provides arthritis relief. The reason for this is thought to be because CBD may send chemical signals that cause the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce anti-inflammatory effects, thereby reducing pain.
While a lack of research means conclusive statements cannot be made about the effectiveness of CBD oil for headaches and migraines, it may be worth a try.
At Plant-Based Mary Jane, we offer high-quality 2000 mg broad- and full-spectrum strawberry hemp extracts that are THC-free and contain CBD. For topical use, we also offer a soothing peppermint CBD rub. With free US shipping, you have nothing to lose from trying our products.
Feel free to reach out to our knowledgeable and professional team by filling out our online form and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.