Migraines and cluster headaches can wear you down, particularly if they occur on a regular basis. Often accompanied by nausea, visual disturbances and tearing eyes, migraines affect around 12 percent of Americans. They tend to last anywhere between 4 and 72 hours, and make everyday activities unbearable. While painkillers are often used to reduce the pain of migraines and cluster headaches, they often come with side effects and can have drug interactions. This is where CBD, or cannabidiol, can help. One of the main substances found in the cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as marijuana, CBD has recently become the go-to remedy for a wide range of ailments. Keep reading to learn how this natural substance can help to alleviate your migraines or cluster headaches.
So What’s the Deal with CBD?
Even though CBD is derived from the marijuana plant, it will not get you high. This is because marijuan contains another compound that is responsible for its psychoactive properties, namely THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. This is also why under the U.S. Farm Bill passed in late 2018, CBD is legal as long as it contains less than 0.03 percent of THC. As this is federal legislation, you will also need to check the legal status of CBD in your respective state before embarking on a course of treatment.
Benefits of CBD on Migraines and Cluster Headaches
While studies on the therapeutic uses of CBD for migraines and cluster headaches are still limited, CBD has been shown to have a positive effect on pain and inflammation. According to hemppedia.org, a 2017 study of 48 people suffering from chronic migraines found that 200 milligrams of a compound with 9 percent of CBD and minimal traces of THC reduced their pain by 55 percent. Many CBD users have also reported that the compound has reduced the severity and length of their migraine attacks.
How to Use CBD
CBD can be taken in a variety of ways. It can be ingested, applied topically and even vaped. Probably the easiest way to consume CBD for migraines and cluster headaches is by taking it in the form of a capsule or placing a few drops under your tongue. Since currently there are no guidelines on how much CBD to take for migraine attacks or cluster headaches, it is best to talk to your doctor to determine your dosing. Generally, it is recommended that you start with a small dose and increase it as required. This will let your body adjust to the substance and help you determine the right dosing for your specific situation.
