Fight headaches and migraines with CBD

What are headaches and migraines?

Headache is generally called a "pain in the head". Migraine, however, is a specific type of headache.

 

Headaches, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), are a major health problem [1]. They rank tenth worldwide among the most disabling conditions.

 

During the year: 50% of the adult population is affected by headaches, 30% of which are in the form of migraines.

 

2 to 4% of the world's adult population suffers from headaches for more than half the month (at least 15 days per month).

The different types of headaches

Headaches can be primary or secondary:

• A headache is said to be secondary when it is linked to another pathology. This includes: ENT conditions (such as sinusitis), stomatological conditions, vision problems, ophthalmological conditions (glaucoma) or head trauma.[2]
• A primary headache is said to be primary when it corresponds to the pathology itself, without identifiable trauma or associated pathologies.

The main primary headaches are:

• Tension headache (6% of the world's population, 3% chronically).
• Migraine (affecting 12% of the world's adult population) [3]

Tension headache:

Affecting both sides of the head, the pain is characterized by a "helmet-like" pressure at the temples and tension in the forehead and neck. Generally, the pain is bearable and there are no other associated symptoms. Tension headaches can be episodic or chronic.

 

This type of headache could occur with stress or be related to cervical muscular and skeletal problems4]

Migraine

Migraine is characterized by hypersensitivity to light and sound. The pain is always located on one side of the head. Migraine is throbbing: a pulsating pain that follows the heartbeat. The intensity of the pain varies. It is sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The causes of the disease are still unknown, although heredity seems to play an important role;[5] certain factors are known to promote its occurrence:

 

• Hormonal changes (menopause, menstruation)
• Psychological causes (stress, overwork and fatigue)
• Alcohol consumption
• Drug or medication abuse
• The noise
• Dehydration

 

 

The impact of CBD on headaches in general and migraines in particular

There is no real treatment to cure the underlying causes of headaches, and migraines in particular. Traditional solutions consist of either taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) and analgesics (e.g., paracetamol), or usingusa* in cases of severe attacks. These solutions do not address the root causes, acting only on the pain, and are not without side effects.

 

CBD, a molecule extracted from the hemp plant and devoid of psychotropic effects, acts directly on the cannabinoid neurotransmitters CB1 and CB2 in the brain, impacting the nervous system, inflammation, and pain. CBD has virtually no side effects and has been the subject of numerous scientific studies.

 

*Triptans are medications intended for the acute treatment of migraine attacks.

Clinical studies of CBD on migraines and headaches

In 2017, a study presented at the third congress of the European Academy of Neurology [6] tended to demonstrate the positive impact of CBD on the treatment of migraines. This study compared the effects of different substances administered to test groups. It concluded that the cannabinoid solution provided the best results. "In the treatment of acute pain, cannabinoids reduced the intensity of pain in migraine patients by 43.5%."

 

In 2016, let's consider two other studies that point in the same direction:

 

– A preliminary study conducted by the University of California [7] highlights a possible dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system during migraines. CBD, by activating this system, could be an effective treatment.

 

A second study conducted by the University of Colorado [8] concluded that nearly 40% of patients tested experienced improvement, with some minor side effects such as drowsiness (due to the doses needing to be tailored to each individual). This study also showed a reduction in migraine episodes from 10.4 to 4.6 episodes per month on average.

 

CBD works by directly stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are responsible for the proper functioning of the endocannabinoid system, which ensures the balance of several functions such as sleep, inflammation and pain management.

 

By stimulating these receptors, CBD contributes to the system's balance. It can be helpful in many cases, particularly against autoimmune inflammations such as Crohn's disease, or in cases ofsevere rheumatic inflammation like fibromyalgia.

 

It may also help increase levels of glutamate and serotonin, which are involved in pain management. A recent 2018 study [9] also demonstrates that CBD may have a positive effect on vascular phenomena associated with migraines or other headaches.

Practical information on CBD for migraines

In general, a low dose [10] of CBD oil is sufficient to relieve migraines and headaches.

 

It is advisable to start with a low dose, then gradually increase it until you get relief. Feel free to consult our article to help you find the ideal dosage for you.

 

 

How to take CBD oil

CBD oil is one of the most effective ways to take cannabidiol. CBD is absorbed quickly, within about 20 minutes, and is very efficient (excellent bioavailability). Simply place a few drops directly under your tongue.

 

Not convinced by CBD oil? Prefer a more natural approach with flowers? Discover our practical guide to consuming CBD flowers and fully enjoy their benefits. And if you're looking for maximum potency, try our pure CBD concentrates, up to 99.7%!

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