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headache and migraine

Cannabis for headache and migraine

An illustration of woman sitting down with her hands clasped over the side of her head and electrical shocks at either side of her head, representing headache and migraine pain, stress, and tension.

A headache or migraine can be debilitating and affect your  work, daily activities, and overall well-being. Migraine in particular can cause intense pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Many treatments are available to help soothe headache and migraine symptoms, and some people turn to cannabis for relief, as well. Cannabis has been used for centuries to relieve pain. Today, researchers are still exploring its role in managing headache and migraine pain, specifically.

Research on cannabis for headache and migraine

Scientists are still learning how cannabis might help with headaches and migraine.

According to results from a 2020 study, using cannabis may result in less severe migraine attacks. Meanwhile, a 2021 review found that using medical cannabis may decrease migraine length and frequency.

Some research shows that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may help manage:

  • Pain
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Appetite loss

Other research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) can help:

  • Lower inflammation
  • Lower anxiety
  • Alter pain signals in the body, which may reduce the frequency and severity of attacks

One review notes that terpenes in cannabis, like beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, may help manage pain and stress related to headaches and migraine. Terpenes are the compounds that give cannabis plants a distinct smell or taste. They may also enhance the medicinal effects of cannabis.

Another study found that many people use cannabis to rely less on other medications that help with chronic pain or migraine, including:

Despite these promising findings, more research is needed. Many of these studies rely on patient-reported data rather than clinical trials. Plus, researchers don’t fully understand exactly how cannabis helps with headaches and migraine attacks.

Additional research and clinical trials can help clarify the best way to use cannabis for headache and migraine pain.

Using cannabis for headache and migraine

People who experience headaches or migraine may use cannabis for different reasons. Some may not find enough relief from traditional treatments, while others might prefer a more natural approach to manage their symptoms.

However, it’s important to consider both the benefits and risks before using cannabis for headache or migraine relief.

Benefits

Cannabis could help with migraine and headaches in several ways.

  • Pain relief: Cannabis may help reduce the intensity and frequency of headaches and migraine attacks.
  • Lower inflammation: Some cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties that could help with certain types of headaches.
  • Nausea relief: Cannabis is known to help with nausea, a common migraine symptom.
  • Better sleep: Poor sleep is a known migraine trigger, and cannabis may help improve sleep quality.

Risks and side effects

As with any medication, cannabis can come with certain side effects.

  • Dizziness: Some people experience lightheadedness after using cannabis.
  • Cognitive impairment: Short-term memory and focus may be affected by cannabis.
  • Increased headache risk: Repeated use of cannabis can sometimes cause a follow-up attack known as a medication overuse headache or rebound headache.
  • Tolerance: Over time, your body can build up a tolerance to cannabis, so you may require a higher dose to experience the same benefits for headache and migraine pain.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary by state. Some states may approve medical cannabis to help relieve headache or migraine pain, while others may not. Chronic headaches or migraine pain may also fall under other qualifying conditions such as chronic, severe, or intractable pain.

If you’re considering medical cannabis, check your state’s laws on whether migraine or headaches are a qualifying condition for a medical cannabis card.

Best strains and products for headache and migraine

Choosing the right cannabis product can make a difference for headache and migraine relief. The effects can vary based on factors such as strains, CBD:THC ratios, terpenes, and flavonoids.

One study found that people who experience headaches or migraine preferred OG Shark, a high-THC, low-CBD strain that’s also high in terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and myrcene. Another clinical trial showed that vaporizing a product with 6% THC and 9% CBD effectively treated migraine pain.

Strains (aka cultivars)

Cannabis strains that are high in terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and myrcene may offer the most symptom relief. High-THC, high-CBD, and 1:1 CBD:THC strains each come with other benefits that can help people with headaches or migraine. Preferences can vary from person to person.

  • Harlequin: Contains high CBD content that may provide pain without strong psychoactive effects
  • OG Kush: Is known for relaxation and pain relief
  • OG Shark: Is known to help with headache symptoms due to its high caryophyllene and myrcene content
  • ACDC: Has a high-CBD strain that may reduce inflammation and tension in the head
  • Headband: Is high in THC and beta-caryophyllene, which may help with various types of pain
  • Gelato: May relieve pain and stress due to high levels of humulene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene, and a moderate amount of THC

CBD:THC ratios

Any CBD:THC ratio could be useful for managing headaches or migraine. It all depends on your personal preferences. For example, you might prefer a high CBD ratio for daytime, while the sedative effects of THC may be better for nighttime.

  • CBD:THC 20:1: Is best for those who want relief without psychoactive effects
  • CBD:THC 1:1: May provide both pain relief and relaxation
  • CBD:THC 1:3 or 1:5: Is suitable for those needing stronger pain relief

Terpenes

Terpenes found in cannabis offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may contribute to pain relief for people with headaches or migraine. Several terpenes may also help manage related symptoms like stress or anxiety.

  • Beta-caryophyllene: Has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with nerve pain, which can contribute to headaches or migraine
  • Linalool: May help reduce stress and tension
  • Myrcene: Is known for its relaxing and pain-relieving effects
  • Limonene: Can help reduce stress and improve mood
  • Pinene: Could help reduce stress and anxiety

Researchers are particularly interested in pinene and linalool for treating migraine.

Flavonoids

A flavonoid-rich diet is associated with lower migraine severity. As such, the flavonoids found in cannabis may be useful for managing headaches or migraine.

More about headache and migraine

Around one in six U.S. adults experience severe headaches or migraine.

Symptoms of a headache include dull, achy pain that affects both sides of the head.

Common migraine symptoms include:

  • Throbbing and/or shooting pain on one side of the head
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Visual disturbances known as aura

A doctor can usually diagnose headache or migraine based on symptoms and medical history.

While there’s no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing future attacks.

Part of treatment involves identifying potential triggers and taking steps to avoid them. Common triggers include:

  • Stress
  • Injury
  • Illness
  • Dehydration
  • Medications
  • Hormonal changes
  • Diet
  • Environmental factors

Anxiety, depression, and insomnia may contribute to or worsen headache or migraine pain.

Other treatments for headache and migraine

Several options are available for treating and managing headaches and migraine, from traditional medications to alternative therapies.

Traditional therapies

Drug and non-drug treatments are available, including:

  • Prescription medications, such as triptans, beta-blockers, and CGRP inhibitors
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin (Bayer); or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Lifestyle changes, such as stress management, proper hydration, and sleep strategies (sleep hygiene)

Natural and alternative therapies

Some more natural therapies can be combined with more traditional forms of treatment to provide relief include:

  • Magnesium supplements:May help prevent migraine attacks
  • Acupuncture: May offer relief for some people
  • Essential oils: May help with headache symptoms, especially peppermint or lavender oils

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for headache and migraine

Cannabis can be a helpful addition to your headache or migraine treatment plan However, it’s important to consult with a doctor before starting.

If you’re considering applying for a medical cannabis card, check if headache or migraine are qualifying conditions in your state.

For more guidance, contact a healthcare professional at Leafwell. Our team of licensed doctors can help you find a cannabis routine that fits your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Get the answers to these common questions on medical cannabis for headaches and migraine.

Does weed help get rid of migraines?

Some people report that cannabis helps reduce the intensity of a migraine once it begins. However, the effects vary from person to person.

Is CBD or THC better for headaches or migraine attacks?

Some people prefer CBD for its anti-inflammatory properties. Others find that THC provides stronger pain relief. Consider a balanced ratio of CBD to THC to maximize the benefits of both cannabinoids.

How much CBD should I take for a headache?

If you’re new to CBD, start with 10 to 20 milligrams (mg) and see how you feel.

What type of cannabis is best for migraines?

Vaporizers and tinctures can deliver rapid relief, while edibles offer longer-lasting effects but also take longer to kick in.

Can I use cannabis for migraine if I’m taking medications?

If you take any medications, ask your doctor if it’s safe to use medical marijuana for headaches or migraine episodes. Certain compounds in cannabis, including CBD, can interact with some medications, including opioids and steroids. If you’re taking sedative drugs, the drowsiness-inducing effects of THC can enhance sedation.

Resources

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Animal Study

6

Clinical Meta-analysis

1

Clinical Trial

8

Double Blind Clinical Trial

1

Laboratory Study

1

Meta-analysis

48

Total studies

headache and migraine

65

Positive

54 studies

83%

Inconclusive

8 studies

12%

Negative

3 studies

5%

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