Cannabis has grown into one of the hottest topics in the medical industry around the world. With more amount of research conducted on the plant, its therapeutic benefits are being brought into the light. Along with the normalization of its use, cannabis is now becoming legalized rapidly as medical marijuana all over the world. Cannabis comprises many cannabinoids, out of which the two most abundant and most researched are CBD and THC.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the toxic part of marijuana, which is solely responsible for producing most of the plant’s psychoactive effects. On the other hand, its relative CBD is the complete opposite. It is the non-psychoactive part of the plant – the most non-toxic one among the cannabinoids – that is useful for its health benefits. Recently, CBD has gained popularity among the public and has proven quite beneficial for the sufferers who consume it CBD for pain relief. Let’s take a look at how this compound can be used in different forms.
Forms of CBD:
CBD or Cannabidiol is available in various forms for the users to consume according to the method that suits them. Some of the commonly consumed forms of CBD include:
- CBD oil and tinctures
- CBD edibles
- Vapes and Cigarettes
- Creams and ointments
- CBD patches, etc.
Proceeding with this article, we shall understand the use and benefits of CBD oil and how it works within our body.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is made up of hemp oil, MCT oil, coconut oil, and vegetable glycerin base. This form is responsible for the diminution of CBD into a milder tendency to make it more bioavailable. CBD oil can be used in different ways. It can be applied directly to the affected area or can be used as an edible and consumed through the mouth.
Both ways of consuming CBD have their significance. If taken as an edible, CBD oil will start functioning a little late since it has to travel through the whole digestive system to get to the brain. However, in the case of applying the oil, it gets absorbed directly into the bloodstream and reaches the brain to show its effects.
How CBD oil works?
Once consumed, CBD oil enters the bloodstream directly. Through the blood, it travels to the brain and influences the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The endocannabinoid system is a complex system of our body, which is responsible for maintaining different conditions of our body. These conditions include pain, inflammation, memory, emotions, feelings, etc. The cannabinoids from CBD oil interact with the endocannabinoid system and helps improve its functions. It binds with the receptors present in the system – mainly CB1 and CB2 receptors – and produces impact any changes that are produced in the body e.g. pain. CBD is said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help the compound to fight against pain and other distress.
Let’s take a look at how CBD oil works for severe pain like a migraine.
Migraines:
Migraines are a type of headache that occurs repeatedly. Migraines can be severe or moderate and often causes pain on one side of the head. The throbbing in the head due to migraines can be quite frustrating for the sufferer and cause other symptoms like nausea, sleeplessness, and weakness. So what causes these migraines?
Experts believe that migraines mainly result from a genetic cause. You can inherit this distress from someone in your family. There are some other factors as well that can trigger this pain. These reasons may vary from person to person. They include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Bright lights
- Loud noises
- Sharp smells
- Overusing medicines and drugs
- Lack of sleep
- Too much sleep
- A lot of physical exertion
- Hormonal changes in a woman
- Skipping meals, etc.
What happens in a migraine?
Migraines usually occur in the morning when you wake up. They can also be initiated at probable times, like before or after menstruation. Migraines have four different phases. However, you don't need to experience each of the phases when a migraine hits you.
- In the first phase of a migraine, you start experiencing early signs like mood changes, food cravings before a day of the migraine.
- If you experience the second phase, you might suffer from muscle weakness and see bright lights and lines hindering your vision.
- In the third phase, the migraine gets more severe and starts causing a pulsating pain in one side of your head. You may also experience vomiting, sneezing, coughing in this phase.
- Once the migraine gradually ceases, you start feeling exhausted and weak. This fatigue can last up to a day or two.
How does CBD oil help with migraines?
With numerous benefits to its name, CBD is also known for its effects against a harsh distress like migraine. There is no cannabis research specifically performed on migraines. However, despite the lack of evidence, in this case, researchers believe, with its therapeutic effects, CBD oil can help address migraine.
According to research by National Centers for Complementary and Integrative Health, there is evidence that cannabis is a potent remedy for chronic pain. Further studies performed in 2016, 2018, 2020 also proved that cannabis – specifically CBD – can help provide relief from pain, reduce inflammation, and induce calming effects in the sufferer.
In 2016, a study by Pharmacotherapy on marijuana for pain suggested that consuming CBD resulted in reducing migraine attacks. Among the 48 people used as the research, about 40% of them reported reduced pain and fewer migraine attacks overall.
How to use CBD oil for migraines?
CBD oil can be consumed through various methods. It is often taken in the form of droplets and tinctures. Taking CBD oil drops directly under the tongue or as capsules or tablets can be quite effective. However, vaping CBD oil is said to be the most beneficial method of its consumption. If you are suffering from a severe migraine headache, inhaling a few CBD oil vapors can help resolve the issue rapidly. The cannabinoids travel through the bloodstream quickly in this case and ensure a fast response. There is no ‘right’ dose decided for taking CBD oil for migraines. However, it is recommended to start taking it in small amounts and increasing the dose gradually.
Are there any risks?
CBD oil has mild side-effects that you might experience due to the long-term use of the product. Some of these include:
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Appetite changes
- Sleepiness
Even though there are not many studies regarding the subject, it can still be believed that CBD does help in reducing the effects of migraines to some extent. However, before deciding what to do, it is preferable to consult a doctor and take their word regarding the matter.
Getting a medical marijuana card for your migraines headaches is great option
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