CBD Oil for Migraine Relief- Can it Help?

There is a growing body of research that highlights the benefits of CBD oil for migraine relief. CBD oil is already accepted as a powerful anti-inflammatory substance, and there is substantial evidence that it can help with relieving neurological pain.

 

can cbd oil treat migraine

CBD oil for migraine relief- what is a migraine?

Migraine is a debilitating disorder that is commonly characterized by a pulsating headache that typically occurs on both sides of the head, near the temples. The headache is commonly accompanied by a range of symptoms, including sensory disturbances (sensitivity to sound and light, widespread muscle and joint pain) and nausea. Whilst the exact cause of migraine isn’t completely understood, there are a number of mechanisms involved. The current consensus is that migraine is caused by the lowering of the threshold of nociceptive signal processing in response to the release of pro-inflammatory agents. Basically, changes in brain chemicals.

CBD oil for migraine relief- how could it work?

It is thought that taking CBD oil for migraine relief could work due to the interaction of the cannabidiol (CBD) with specific receptors in the brain. You may have read about the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of our previous blogs; these receptors are part of this system, which ultimately works to facilitate balance, or homeostasis in the body. There are particular receptors which influence pain sensation and inflammation, and CBD oil can bind to these, easing pain throughout the body.

CBD oil for migraine relief- the current research

The American Migraine Foundation reports that there is great potential in CBD oil for migraine relief, despite the lack of formal research that exists. The Foundation reports that CBD oil may also be a viable option for people who suffer with joint and muscle pain, as well as nausea and vomiting that is often associated with migraines.

Existing scientific research has already linked CBD oil to having the following effects, which are all relevant to migraine symptom relief:

  • Pain relief
  • Nausea relief
  • Reduction of inflammation
  • Neuroprotective effects.

A study conducted in 2016 found that medical cannabis may reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches, however this study did not look specifically at CBD oil.

A subsequent review of the literature conducted in 2017 highlighted the potential of CBD oil for migraine treatment. Following this, a 2020 review found that CBD oil is beneficial in relieving chronic pain, improving sleep and reducing inflammation.

CBD oil for migraine relief- in summary

Whilst there is already promising research around the potential for CBD oil for migraine relief, undoubtedly more research is warranted in to the exact mechanisms that lead to the development of migraines and their management.

CBD oil may provide relief from migraine-associated pain by reducing inflammation and relieving nausea.

Identifying and avoiding triggers can reducing the frequency and severity of migraines for most people. For many people, therapy also involved identifying a combination of strategies and treatments that work for the individual.

Disclaimer

The information that is contained in this blog regarding CBD oil for migraine relief is intended as educational content only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any type of health condition and should not be taken as general or medical advice. Transcending Organics always recommends you consult with your doctor or trusted health professional for a thorough assessment and proper diagnosis of your condition.

References

American Migraine Foundation, (2018), Migraine and CBD Oil, [https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/migraine-cbd-oil/], accessed 28/06/2021.

Argueta, D. A., Ventura, C.M., Kiven, S., Sagi, V., Gupta, K., (2020), A balanced approach for cannabidiol use in chronic pain, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7204604/], accessed 28/06/2021.

Headache & Migraine Australia, (2021), Migraine- a Common and Distressing Disorder, [https://headacheaustralia.org.au/migraine/migraine-a-common-and-distressing-disorder/], accessed 28/06/2021.

Leimuranta, P., Khiroug, L., Giniatullin, R., (2018), Emerging role of (endo)cannabinoids in migraine, Frontiers in Pharmacology, [https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00420/full], accessed 28/06/2021.

Lochte, B., Beletsky, A., Samuel, N. K., Grant, I., (2017), The use of cannabis for headache disorders, Cannabis Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5436334/], accessed 28/06/2021.

Rhyne, D. N., Anderson, S. L., Gedde, M., Borgelt, L.M., (2016), Effects of medical marijuana on migraine headache frequency in adult population, Pharmacotherapy, [https://accpjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/phar.1673], accessed 28/06/2021.