Migraine attacks can last anywhere from between 4 to 72 hours. They are often worse than stress or sinsus headache; painkillers are a great way to alleviate the symptoms of a migraine, but those who prefer a natural or herbal remedy CBD (cannabidiol) oil may of use. 

 

 

CBD is an of the ingredients found in Cannabis. It is often confused as Cannabis, but it is the “dull” non-Trippy part of Cannabis.

 

 

 

It is becoming more popular in the use of certain types of pain, including migraine headaches and chronic back pain. There are a few studies that examine the use of CBD oil for headaches.

 

Some small studies have been carried on CBD use with THC (another ingredient in Cannabis). Several other preliminary medical studies (i.e., of less than 50 people) showed a 50%+ reduction in pain when over 200mg of CBD were taken orally. No pain-reducing effect was found at lower doses. Their impact is as effective as Amitriptyline (a tricyclic antidepressant) in those with severe recurrent migraines.

 

The CBD / THC combination reduced the incidence of migraines by 40% and the severity of pain due to migraines by 40%. Their effectiveness in the treatment of cluster headaches was less successful, with only a small reduction in their frequency of these headaches. Nonetheless, they did reduce the severity of the pain by almost 50%. 

 

 

More research is required before any clear conclusions can be drawn on the use of CBD and migraines/cluster headaches. A more extensive previous study using Cannabis did find a significant reduction in the pain experienced by people with migraines, headaches, and arthritis, but these patients did experience marked drowsiness.

 

 

 

 

How CBD Works as a Painkiller

 

 

We are still unsure how exactly CBD may reduce both the occurrence and the intensity of pain in migraines. We know that CBD works on the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 & CB2) throughout the body. We also know that these receptors have a direct impact on the body’s immune system. One theory is that CBD may increase levels of anandamide in the body. This anandamide is a naturally occurring painkiller in the body. CBD is also thought to reduce inflammation, and hence this may contribute to its positive effect on arthritis. The theory in CBD’s mechanism of action in pain control is still only speculative and requires much more research.

 

 

 

How to use CBD oil

 

While much more research is needed before accurate dosing for pain relief can be specified, it is suggested that you should start at the smallest dose possible. Gradually increasing the dose allows your body to adjust to this drug, reducing the risk of you suffering its side effects. One dropperful a day is usually adequate to achieve the correct pain relief. With 5% CBD oil, this equates to 35mg of CBD Oil. With 10% CBD oil, this equates to 70mg.

 

The preliminary studies have found higher doses are required but it is always safest to work up to higher doses.

 

 

 

 

Side effects of CBD Oil

 

The most common Side effects of CBD oil include:

  • Drowsiness & tiredness 
  • Upset stomach 

 

Some people report changes in appetite and weight changes. There is an increased risk of liver toxicity in those with a history of hepatic (liver) disorders.

 

Vaping CBD often irritates your lungs and should not be recommended in people with asthma.

 

As CBD oils generally contain no or low THC levels, they should not make you get high.

 

CBD oil does interact with several medicines, and you should speak with your pharmacist before taking CBD oil if you are on any other medication. Drugs to be particularly careful with include certain antibiotics. Antidepressants and blood thinners. CBD oil also interacts with grapefruit juice. 

 

 

 

Talk to your pharmacist.

 

As we have already stated, much more research is needed on CBD before we could wholeheartedly recommend it for the use of pain relief in migraines. It would help if you always spoke with your pharmacist when taking medicines or suffering from a migraine.

 

 

 

 

 

Ann O’Flynn B.Pharm, MA, BSc, MPSI

 

Ann is the owner of dPharmacy and has a particular interest in Health foods and supplements. Ann is a Tutor pharmacist and has gained numerous qualifications in alternative therapies - which she uses alongside her extensive clinical training. If you have any queries on medicines or health foods please reach out to us by email, text or phone.

 

 

 

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