Table of Contents
Cannabis has become one of the leading forms of alternative treatment for different health issues. Some people use it in other forms, such as CBD products, to relieve pain for themselves and even their pets.
But the therapeutic use of cannabis has existed for years, and different cultures relied on the plant as a natural antidote to several conditions. As far as pain management goes, several anecdotal reports indicate its usefulness for migraine attacks. However, this subject lacks substantial research to establish cannabis and cannabis-derived products like NuLeaf Naturals CBD as standard remedies for migraines.
But If you’re looking to use cannabis as an under-the-counter remedy for migraines, then continue reading.
Is Cannabis Legal?
The legality of cannabis has undergone several changes over the years. Even today, many users of legal marijuana do not fully understand the laws governing its use. You can smoke in some states or use it in topical forms such as CBD cream.
Ultimately, it comes down to your state. While some states have legalized it for medical purposes, other states like New Jersey allow the recreational use of cannabis.
If you are looking to buy CBD gummies in the EU, Remember first to check your state laws, whether CBD can help your pets or cure depression in children.
Differences Between CBD And THC
CBD and THC are two of the most noteworthy and active compounds in cannabis. The plant has more than 400 different compounds known as cannabinoids.
Yet, cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol(THC) provide most of the health benefits associated with the plant. THC is the psychoactive agent also thought to relieve pain, nausea and boost appetite.
On the other hand, CBD doesn’t induce intoxication. However, it possesses sedation-inducing properties and also reduces inflammation, pain, nausea, convulsions, etc.
There are several products made with varying CBD and THC contents to offer certain benefits. As a treatment for migraines, there’s a need for further studies to ascertain the best mode of ingestion.
How Does Medicinal Cannabis Interact With The Body?
According to researchers, the human body has its endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system regulates several physiological functions such as appetite, pain management, and mood. When you ingest cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, they interact with the receptors of the ECS.
Recommended Articles
- Know why CBD has Become a Brand New Beauty Trend for the PresentÂ
- 7 CBD oil benefits for health
- 5 Medical Conditions Which Can Be Treated With CBD Oil
These receptors are microscopic loops of protein that change their normal function after interaction with ingested cannabinoids. This may result in the calming of pain signals, muscle spasms, or nausea depending on the products or cannabis strains used.
It is a similar interaction that results in migraine relief.
Research On Migraine And Medical Cannabis
Federal restrictions and inadequate funding have limited the amount of research covering the specifics of medical cannabis and how it helps reduce migraines.
However, recent studies involving individuals suffering from migraines and medical marijuana can throw some light on the subject.
Studying The Effects Of Medical Cannabis On Migraine Attacks
A study performed in 2016 reviewed previous data collected from 121 migraine patients who were prescribed medicinal marijuana or pharmaceutical migraine drugs.
According to the reports from the research, migraine attacks reduced from 10.4 to 4.6 in one month after the use of cannabis.
The researchers varied the forms of marijuana used in this study. Participants in this study used more than one form of marijuana on a daily basis for preventive reasons.
Reports also showed that participants frequently inhaled marijuana, which proved as an effective remedy for migraine symptoms.
Prevention And Treatment of Acute Migraine With Cannabis
Further evidence on the effectiveness of cannabis for acute treatment and prevention of migraine came in the form of a 2017 study performed by Italian researchers. In this research, scientists investigated the dose of cannabis that’s most effective.
They administered oral doses of cannabis containing varying amounts of CBD and THC to a group of 48 individuals with chronic migraines.
Researchers observed up to 55 percent reduction in acute pain after the oral dose of 200mg. The second part of the study involved 79 people dealing with chronic migraines who received either amitriptyline or marijuana each day.
Participants that received marijuana noticed a 40.4 percent reduction in migraine after three months.
Precautions And Possible Side Effects
The U.S Food & Drug Administration hasn’t approved cannabis as a medical remedy. Due to the lack of medical regulation, it’s challenging to list the exact side effects you may experience after using cannabis.
Also, most of the effects depend on the level of purity and strength of cannabis you purchase, and this varies depending on your supplier.
Some of the usual side effects of smoking or eating cannabis include the following:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite
- Mood changes
Generally, short-term use of cannabis doesn’t pose any serious risks to the health and general wellbeing of users.
Who Shouldn’t Use Cannabis
Generally, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid cannabis use. If you plan to get pregnant, it’s also necessary to speak to your doctor before using cannabis for any reason.
The health risks that smoking poses to developed babies are the main reason you want to avoid inhaling marijuana if you’re pregnant.
From studies performed to investigate the effects of cannabis on pregnant women and their developing babies, it’s not advisable to take cannabis or any cannabis-derived products, for that matter.
Apart from this, CBD and other cannabis products may interfere with some medications. Hence, you should always seek medical advice if you’re on any pharmaceutical prescriptions.
Conclusion
Cannabis is still a strictly regulated substance, and laws vary from one state to another. Then you also have to consider the rules and policies of your employer before using cannabis, even for medical purposes.
Some companies perform tests to detect the substance in your body, even up to 30 days after use.
Having said that, there is enough scientific and anecdotal evidence to show that cannabis, CBD oil, and other derived products can serve as effective interventions that provide migraine relief.
Nevertheless, you want to approach its use with caution and always consult your doctor first.
