does CBD help with headaches?

Headaches, a universal ailment, manifest in various intensities and can shift from mild niggles to full-blown, debilitating migraines that cripple daily functionality. Across the world, these painful experiences unite countless individuals in their quest for relief. In recent years, the surge in interest and usage of natural remedies has led to a particular compound emerging as a potential alleviator: Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD. With its growing popularity, the pressing question on everyone's mind is: Does CBD help with headaches? As we journey through this article, we aim to explore the science, testimonies, and expert opinions on CBD's potential role in providing solace from these cranial pains.

What are Migraines and How Does CBD Help with Them?

Migraines stand apart from ordinary headaches. These are not just fleeting pains but intense, often pulsating aches, commonly concentrated on one side of the head, that can persist for hours, if not days. More than just physical pain, migraines represent a neurological condition with a complex array of symptoms. The intensity and duration can leave those affected debilitated, raising the question: does CBD help with headaches of this magnitude? As we delve into the nature of migraines, we'll also explore the potential role of CBD in offering relief.

1. Symptoms of Migraines

• Aura: Some migraine sufferers experience auras before the onset of the migraine. Auras are visual disturbances like seeing flashing lights, zig-zag patterns, or blind spots. They can also include sensory disturbances, like tingling in the arms or face.
• Sensitivity: During a migraine, there is often an increased sensitivity to light, sound, and even certain smells, leading many migraine sufferers to retreat to a dark, quiet room.
• Nausea and Vomiting: It's not uncommon for those experiencing a migraine to also feel nauseous or even vomit.
• Mood Changes: Some people report feeling depressed, irritable, or euphoric before a migraine begins.

2. Triggers of Migraines

Several factors can trigger migraines, and they can vary significantly from person to person. Some common triggers include:

• Dietary factors such as caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, and some cheeses.
• Hormonal changes in women, particularly during menstruation.
• Stress or high levels of tension.
• Sensory stimuli, like bright lights, sun glare, or loud sounds.
• Changes in sleep pattern or irregular sleep.
• Physical factors like intense physical exertion.

3. Migraine Phases

Migraines usually progress through several phases:

• Prodrome Phase: This precedes the headache. Symptoms during this phase can include mood changes, neck stiffness, increased thirst, and frequent yawning.
• Aura Phase: Not everyone will experience this phase. It usually lasts less than an hour.
• Attack Phase: This is when the actual migraine pain occurs. If untreated, it can last from 4 to 72 hours.
• Post-drome Phase: After the attack, sufferers may feel drained or washed out, but some report feeling elated. Mild headache pain might linger.

4. Treatment

Traditional treatments for migraines include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and preventative measures like avoiding known triggers. In recent years, some have turned to holistic approaches, including the use of CBD, to manage their migraine symptoms.

5. Importance of Understanding Migraines

Migraines can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Recognizing the signs and understanding triggers can help manage and reduce the occurrence of this debilitating condition. Research, including the potential role of CBD in treatment, offers hope for those seeking more effective and less invasive solutions.

Understanding Headaches and Their Relation to CBD

Before we explore the question, “does CBD help with headaches?”, it's imperative to first distinguish between the different types of headaches that people experience.

1. Tension Headaches: Often described as a band tightening around the head, these are the most common headaches. Stress, anxiety, and muscle strain typically trigger them.
2. Migraines: Intense and throbbing, migraines can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
3. Cluster Headaches: These are severe headaches that occur in clusters or cyclical patterns.
4. Sinus Headaches: Often confused with migraines, these result from sinusitis.

How CBD Works in Addressing Headaches

Cannabidiol (CBD), a prominent cannabinoid from the cannabis plant, differs from its notorious sibling, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), in that it doesn't induce the euphoric “high” commonly associated with marijuana. The intriguing aspect, particularly for those plagued by headaches, is CBD's potential therapeutic effects. The pressing query then becomes: How does CBD help with headaches, and what mechanisms drive its potential relief in the body?

1. Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

• What is the ECS? The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system present in our bodies, playing a crucial role in regulating a range of functions and processes, including mood, appetite, sleep, and pain.
• CBD's Role: CBD doesn't directly activate the primary receptors of the ECS (CB1 and CB2) like THC does. Instead, it seems to inhibit the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids, the body's natural cannabinoids, enhancing their effects.

2. Impact on Serotonin Receptors

• Serotonin and Mood: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. Low serotonin levels are often associated with depression and anxiety.
• CBD's Role: CBD appears to interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, which can result in reduced anxiety and improved mood, making it of interest for potential mental health applications.

3. Anti-inflammatory Effects

• Inflammation and Pain: Chronic inflammation is known to play a role in ailments such as arthritis and migraines.
• CBD's Role: CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This could be a reason for its potential as a natural remedy for pain relief.

4. Antioxidant Properties

• Oxidative Stress and Diseases: Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants, has been linked to several chronic diseases, including Alzheimer's and heart disease.
• CBD's Role: CBD acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and potentially playing a role in preventing related diseases.

5. Potential Neuroprotective Effects

• CBD and the Brain: Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, result from the brain and nerves' degeneration over time.
• CBD's Role: Studies have suggested that CBD's interaction with the CB1 receptor could offer neuroprotective effects against these disorders, although more research is required.

CBD and Its Potential Effects on Headaches

Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Since many headaches, especially migraines, have been linked to inflammation, CBD's ability to reduce it might offer relief.

Pain Modulation: CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in pain perception. Through its influence on the ECS, CBD might reduce pain signals, alleviating headache symptoms.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Since tension headaches are often stress-induced, CBD's potential anti-anxiety effects could prevent their onset or reduce their severity.

Scientific Studies on CBD and Headaches

While research on CBD specifically targeting headaches is limited, some studies have shown promise:

1. A 2017 review published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research noted that cannabis (including CBD) could be beneficial for treating migraines. However, the mechanisms remain uncertain.
2. Another 2016 study in Pharmacotherapy observed that the frequency of migraines reduced in patients using medical marijuana, which contains CBD.

However, it's crucial to note that more comprehensive, direct research on CBD and headaches is needed.

Considerations for Using CBD for Headaches

1. Dosage: Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it helps in finding the most effective amount without adverse effects.
2. Type of CBD: Full-spectrum may offer broader relief due to the entourage effect, while isolates might be more suitable for those sensitive to THC.
3. Method of Consumption: Tinctures and vapes offer rapid relief, while edibles might be slower but provide longer-lasting effects.
4. Consultation: It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before integrating CBD for headache relief.

Conclusion

Headaches, both mild and severe, have been a pervasive ailment, impacting countless individuals on a daily basis. In the midst of traditional treatments, the question, “does CBD help with headaches?” has become increasingly prevalent. While CBD indeed shows promising signs as a potential remedy for headache relief, it's crucial to underline the need for more comprehensive and in-depth research. As scientific studies advance and our understanding of CBD's specific effects on headaches deepens, it could very well rise as a game-changer, offering a natural, alternative solution in combatting these frequently debilitating cranial discomforts. Until then, it remains essential for individuals to approach CBD with an informed perspective, always considering the balance of anecdotal testimonies and scientific evidence.

Where to Buy CBD Online

Pure Spectrum CBD

Established in 2015, Pure Spectrum CBD is an online CBD store that serves customers throughout America and offers free shipping for orders over $100.

Their product range comes in four categories: pure CBD and CBDA isolates, tinctures, hemp seed oil, and CBD for pets. All their CBD products are hemp based and contain less than 0.3% THC, which means that they are not intoxicating. The company is committed to organic cultivation practices and high processing standards including third-party testing.

Kanibi

Established in 2019, Kanibi is an online CBD store that's committed to “raising the bar” on CBD standards. Their product range is diverse, even including CBD chewing gum and sports creams. They also offer high potency CBD up to 1,500 mgs. All their CBD products are made from hemp that is grown in the US using organic practices.

They believe that CBD manufacturing process should be transparent, meaning they double-test every single one of their products never contain artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners,  or dyes. To top things off they offer free shipping on domestic orders exceeding $100.

Zatural

Established in 2018, Zatural was started by a naturopathic doctor and offers CBD products in three categories: recovery & relief, mood support, and sleep. They go the extra mile to offer free shipping on domestic orders over $5. This company has been featured on several reputable media outlets including WebMD, Men’s Journal, US Weekly, and Ministry of Hemp. What we love most about this company is the extensive and creative product range.

Zatural's extensive list of products is sourced from trusted sources here in the U.S. and worldwide. Each product is organically grown and is free from harmful chemicals and additives. Zatural products are third-party tested to ensure each product is safe.