Anyone who has ever suffered a migraine headache knows how debilitating the pain is. It's impossible to do anything other than sit in a dark room and hope whatever pain treatment used works sooner rather than later. Both genetics and environmental factors are believed to cause migraines, with 80% of people who suffer from these headaches having a migraine-prone family member. Headaches last anywhere from four hours to three days.
The neurotransmitter serotonin is believed to play a role in the development of migraines, as do changes in the trigeminal nerve, a major pain pathway. Known triggers for migraines include certain foods, such as cheese and chocolate, hormonal changes, stress, missing a meal, and changes in weather.
However, many of the few treatments available for migraines come with unpleasant side effects, such as feeling weak, hot, cold or "strange." And while studies on the use of marijuana for migraines is limited, doctors have actually used the green plant to treat headaches since the late 1800s.
"Cannabis indica is probably the most satisfactory remedy [for migraines]," wrote Dr. Sir William Osler, the father of internal medicine, in 1892's The Principles and Practice of Medicine. Osler was in agreement with Edward Constant Seguin, the president of the New York Neurological Society and Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons professor.
Marijuana's Analgesic Properties
Evidence has long pointed out the herb's analgesic properties, which has made marijuana a popular option for cancer and HIV patients, and others dealing with pain from assorted medical treatments. It is believed smoking the dried version of the plant masks the pain associated with migraines, as many patients who use marijuana to relieve migraines have found no other treatment necessary. Others note the plant's other effects, such as reduced anxiety and improved sleep, also contribute to how frequently migraines occur.
Recent studies have pointed to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, as a main contributor to the cessation of migraines. THC inhibits the release of serotonin from the blood during an acute attack, thus reducing pain symptoms.
Recommended Strains
Recommended strains for migraines and other headaches include Free Leonard, a Sativa/Indica strain that appears bright green when growing. It features a smooth taste and is believed to work well for headaches, hunger and nausea. Afghan Kush AK-47 is a MMJ strain that offers a head high following a body high. A less-harsh option, it's recommended for migraines, insomnia, stress, anxiety, nausea, lack of appetite, depression and muscle spasms.
Big Buddha Cheese is an Indica dominant 70/30 that smells like "rotten cheese" and works for relaxation, pain, sex drive, anxiety and insomnia in addition to headaches. Purple Nepal is a smooth and fruity strain of Indica that's hailed as "great for pain and relaxation," including pain from headaches. It is also believed to lessen problems associated with mood swings.
Jack Herer is a Sativa/Indica Hybrid with an earthy, lemon taste that eases anxiety and stress and also works for migraines, depression, chronic pain and more.
Have you used marijuana to reduce migraine pain? Tell us what works for you.
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