Migraines and headaches affect over 1 billion people across the globe. In the US, the number keeps rising and is currently at 39 million. Many people are now turning to CBD for migraines to find relief without any side effects.
CBD for migraines is the answer, as many people have found out that it’s effective against symptoms associated with migraines. Despite that, further research is ongoing: cannabidiol continues to prove to be an efficient pain reliever.
Read also: Can Taking CBD Oil Boost Your Immune System?
For anyone new to this, the first step is always finding out what CBD is. CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a compound extracted from the hemp or cannabis plant. Additionally, it is a type of cannabinoid known to interact with the ECS (Endocannabinoid System) of the human and animal body.
Apart from cannabidiol, another compound extracted from these plants is THC. However, it remains the least favorite of many due to its psychoactive properties.
What’s more, there are numerous other cannabidiol products you can use if the lotion does not suit your needs. There are even CBD gummy bears for headaches!
All in all, CBD for migraines is a welcome relief once you understand what CBD is. Next, we’ll tackle how CBD oil works.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
Cannabidiol remains a favorite of many people due to its simplicity and versatility. You can either ingest the oil or apply it to your skin. Either way, it offers relief and is an effective solution for headaches.
The first step to understanding how CBD for migraines works is by grasping what the ECS (Endocannabinoid System) is and how it functions. The ECS works by signaling the body when there’s stress on the nervous system or outside sources.
Once this occurs, the body releases endocannabinoids that travel to cells and bind with receptors in them. This action triggers some actions from the cell.
Endocannabinoids produced by the body are CB1 and 2. While CB2 is mainly in the immune system and other tissues, CB1 is in the brain and the CNS (Central Nervous System). When you take cannabidiol, it locates CB2 and binds to them. As for CB1, THC is known to bind strongly to it.
After binding with CB2, you get relief from symptoms like pain and anxiety, leading to a more productive day-to-day life. These are some health benefits CBD offers patients suffering from migraines and headaches.
Apart from using cannabidiol, alternative products are available in plenty, like CBD balms and creams. But how to use CBD balm for headaches? Just scoop the balm and rub it on the temple for faster relief.
Even with this information, many people remain cautious about using CBD for migraines. It explains why you should seek medical advice before using cannabidiol products like CBD migraine balm.
That being said, CBD for migraines products like the best CBD concentrate work by helping relieve pain and even lower anxiety levels. Being in constant pain can lead to anxiety and depression. By using CBD oil lotion for headaches, you can also benefit from anxiety-relief.
What Do Doctors Say About CBD?
Many states continue legalizing the use of cannabidiol products. Still, it’s crucial to first consult a physician before taking CBD for migraines. Moreover, if you take other medications, you need to know whether you could mix them with cannabidiol or not.
Is CBD good for headaches?
That is a question many doctors keep getting from people daily. The answer to this is yes, since cannabidiol offers pain relief. However, it’s important to state that cannabidiol is not a cure for migraines but only provides comfort from pain and anxiety symptoms.
The verdict is still out on cannabidiol benefits, so it has not got FDA approval as a prescription drug yet. Many doctors are cautious about prescribing it to people suffering from migraines. Anyone intending to take CBD for migraines need to be aware of this fact and have a conversation with his doctor beforehand.
Despite this, there is more curiosity about cannabidiol now than ever. It’s, therefore, crucial to know how to take CBD oil for migraines and headaches.
How to Take CBD Oil for Migraines and Headaches
There are three main ways of using cannabidiol:
- Ingesting
- Inhaling
- Topical application
The three methods mean you can choose the best way to use CBD oil. By ingesting, place a few drops under the tongue, wait for a few minutes, and then swallow. As for inhaling, use vape pens to inhale cannabidiol vapor. Lastly, you can apply the oil, especially on the temples, for pain and anxiety relief.
However, before you opt for any of these ways, proper dosage is necessary to get the best relief. Additionally, you need to know when to take CBD for migraines and get lasting results. Is morning the best time or before you go to sleep? Also, how often per day can you apply, ingest, or inhale the cannabidiol?
It means it’s not as simple as purchasing CBD for migraines and prescribing a
dosage. You need to consult with a physician who understands cannabidiol products to avoid over or under-dosing. Besides, cannabidiol is known to have side effects that you need to keep in mind.
Side Effects of CBD for Migraines
Even though CBD offers much relief, it comes with side effects that include:
- Sleepiness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting and nausea
- For some people, CBD makes them high
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
CBD works to relieve pain and anxiety when suffering from migraines and constant headaches. CBD for migraines is a welcome relief to many, but it’s essential to consult a doctor before you start using it.
