Best CBD Oil For Migraines

but there have been no studies using CBD in isolation. However, a great deal of anecdotal evidence is available suggesting that people do experience relief from migraines using CBD

oil and that it may even shorten the duration of migraines without the side

effects some people experience using prescription drugs.

People who wish to try using CBD oil for treatment

of migraines should consult with a physician to make sure there aren’t any drug

interactions to be aware of before using. You will also want to do some reading

on the products from the cannabis plant you’re considering to ensure they’re safe and from a reputable

source.

Research on Using CBD Oil for

Migraines

People have used cannabis for as an effective treatment

headaches for thousands of years, yet there is little scientific study or data

available for review to corroborate people’s anecdotal reports of its

effectiveness with migraines. Also, some of the research available includes

published studies conducted on the entire marijuana plant, not just CBD in

isolation.

A 2017 study by the European Academy of Neurology

reports on using cannabis for migraine headache prevention. The two-phased

study compared the responses of patients with chronic pain who used two

compounds—one with THC and the other with a THC-CBD compound. Doses under 100mg

did not affect the patient, while doses of 200mg reduced acute pain by over 50

percent.

Phase two examined persons with chronic

migraines or cluster headaches and tested the THC-CBD compound from phase one

against other pharmaceuticals used for treating migraines. The number of

patients whose symptoms were relieved by the THC-CBD mixture was slightly more

significant than the number of patients with symptoms relieved by prescription

drugs. Patients’ acute pain was reduced by over 40 percent. Cluster headache

patients saw only a slight reduction in the severity and frequency of their

headaches. Those who experienced childhood migraines also saw a decrease in

pain by over 40 percent.

Despite the lack of specific research on CBD oil

and migraines, other published studies indicate that CBD is effective in

reducing inflammation and pain in arthritis. It is reasonable to consider that

CBD could have similar benefits for acute migraine pain. Some recently

published studies concluded that cannabis could play a useful

role in treating migraines, but further research and review focused on CBD exclusively,

dosage, and composition is needed.

Despite the lack of formal research on CBD

treatment for migraines, a consulting physician with the American Migraine

Foundation recommends using CBD oil for joint and muscle

pain associated with migraines and suggests it might help prevent vomiting and

nausea. The Foundation bases this opinion on research demonstrating the benefits of CBD’s

efficacy in reducing chronic pain and anti-inflammatory properties.

How does CBD oil work for

migraines?

CBD binds to individual receptors in the

body’s central nervous system, part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which

helps regulate behavior, immune response, memory, mood, pain, sleep, stress,

and other vital functions. ECS receptors exist in the brain and throughout the

nervous system. Our bodies produce substances that bind naturally to ECS

receptors to regulate these functions.

One National Institute of Health (NIH) study suggests CBD may prevent the body from

metabolizing anandamide. Anandamide is a molecule associated with pain regulation.

Increased levels of anandamide are thought to reduce pain. CBD oil was also found

to reduce inflammation in the body, which may also help

reduce pain.

Administering CBD Oil for

Migraines

CBD oil can be used by:

●       

Vaping

●       

Ingesting

●       

Applying topically

Given the recent health concerns surrounding

vaping cannabis and tobacco products, it may be advisable only to use CBD oil

via ingested or topical applications until we know further information about

the harmful effects of vaping.

Using CBD Oil for Migraines in

Edible Form

CBD oil in its edible and topical forms can be

used by:

●       

Placing the specified dose under

the tongue

●       

Applying topically to the skin

●       

Using in capsule form

●       

Eating or drinking CBD-infused

treats or beverages

How much CBD oil for migraines

should I be taking?

There are no current dosing recommendations

from the medical community for using CBD oil in treating migraines, so it’s

recommended to start with a low dose and slowly increase until you’ve achieved

the desired result. Consult with your physician for information on CBD

interactions with any prescription drugs you may be using. Your doctor can

advise you on dosing based on your physical profile and medical history.

Be sure to consult the labeling on all product

packaging for usage instructions and any dosage recommendations based on the

product form. There are also purity and point of origin considerations, so make

sure you are obtaining your CBD oil from a reputable source in the US. Non-US

varieties are not necessarily subject to testing or quality control.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

of CBD Oil for Migraines

The available research indicates that the

potential risks and side effects of CBD oil used for treating migraines are

minimal—especially compared with many prescription drugs. Side effects may include:

●       

Fatigue

●       

Drowsiness

●       

Upset stomach

●       

Fluctuations in appetite and

weight

Side effects noted from vaping CBD oil were:

●       

Chronic coughing

●       

Wheezing

●       

Breathing difficulties

Persons with respiratory issues such as asthma

or lung disease should probably avoid vaping CBD oil. If you have questions or

concerns about possible side effects from using CBD oil, you should consult

with your physician for more information or advice.

Another possible risk when using CBD oil is

the lack of regulation.Even the best CBD oil and cannabis products including medical marijuana don’t have FDA approval for

treating migraines, so regulators are not actively monitoring CBD oils marketed

in the US for quality control, potency, and purity.

Consumers should also look for evidence of

testing and certification for CBD products—especially products sold online. CBD

oil containing THC is illegal still in many states, so be sure to check the

content of the product you’re purchasing.

Is it legal to use CBD oil for

migraine pain?

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

has declared CBD products derived from cannabis are legal only in those states

where medical marijuana or recreational is also legal. However, CBD products

derived from hemp are legal to purchase. Since marijuana is still illegal under

federal law, CBD oil containing THC is illegal, too. The 2018 Farm Bill cleared

the way for hemp producers to cultivate CBD oil for sale and distribution to

suppliers.

However, some state laws explicitly forbid the

sale and distribution of CBD products. You can check

the websites of various advocacy groups and legal organizations that track

cannabis legalization across the US and determine if CBD is legal to buy in

your state.

Can I get CBD oil for migraines

from my doctor?

Persons who suffer from migraines may find

their physician recommends trying a conventional migraine treatment before they

approve or prescribe CBD oil use. There are also proven strategies for

identifying and avoiding your migraine triggers, which can reduce their

frequency, like stress management, avoiding bright lights and allergens, and

getting plenty of sleep.

Migraine sufferers respond differently to

different treatments, conventional or otherwise. Discuss what has worked in the

past with your doctor and what isn’t working now. If you’re going to pursue CBD

oil for migraines, check with your doctor first to make sure there aren’t any

known side effects from using CBD oil with any other medications you’re

currently taking.

The only FDA-approved prescription form of CBD

oil is Epidiolex,

and it is usually only prescribed for rare forms of epilepsy. Talk with your

doctor to discuss your migraine treatment options so you can make an informed

decision about your migraine care. Non-prescription CBD oils may provide

relief, but be sure to verify their purity and quality before using them.