CBD, alongside THC, is one of the main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. A wide range of therapeutic benefits can come from CBD, and there’s anecdotal evidence people have been using this cannabinoid to treat pain for decades. Taking CBD for headaches offers a natural alternative to drugs such as NSAIDs and narcotics which can have unwanted side effects.
The Useful Properties of CBD
CBD is thought to work best in synergy with the whole host of cannabinoids and terpenes found naturally in the cannabis plant, rather than when the compound is isolated. This coaction is known as the ‘entourage effect’.
Headaches are often caused by inflammation. And there’s growing evidence that it has anti-inflammatory properties, including a study in 2018 which tested the effectiveness of cannabis in fighting chronic pain conditions.
It can also be used to relieve other conditions where headaches are often an unfortunate side-effect. These include anxiety, depression, and epilepsy.
How to Take CBD for Headaches
Some people who treat pain with cannabis deliver doses by administering a tincture or consuming an edible. For more localized pain relief, massaging a topical cream into the source of the pain can be more effective. Some headache sufferers choose to gently rub CBD oil onto their temples every day to prevent recurrences.
However, some headaches may need a different approach. They develop for many different reasons – rubbing a topical onto the spot where it hurts may not be a remedy if the cause originated elsewhere. It’s important to try and figure out the source of your headaches and aim doses there.
Popular High-CBD Strains for Headaches
The huge variety of cannabis strains available on the market provide just as many different properties. If you’re keen to dabble with cannabis in your search for headache relief, you need to find the right strain for you.
Users seeking relief from pain often aren’t looking to get high, so a strain high in CBD and low in THC is perfect for them. Here are some of the most common strains used to treat headaches.
ACDC
With a 1:20 THC/CBD ratio, ACDC is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects, as well as fighting depression, anxiety, and seizures. It’s the perfect choice for both headache and migraine relief. CBD levels in ACDC can reach as high as 19%, and the strain delivers mellow and calm vibes without inducing lethargy.
Remedy
Like ACDC, the Remedy strain is incredibly low in THC and usually packs in around 15% CBD. Its relaxing and gentle effects differ greatly from a harsh THC-high. Remedy is commonly used to treat pain, seizures, anxiety, and inflammation.
Harlequin
Although Harlequin has more THC than ACDC and Remedy – with a 5:2 CBD/THC ratio – users can still enjoy headache and migraine relief without an intense high. Sativa-dominant harlequin helps users feel alert, and it’s one of the most effective strains for treating pain and anxiety.
Using CBD To Relieve Headache Pain
Unlike many conventional medicines, when dosed cautiously CBD has an especially low chance of causing adverse effects. There’s nothing to lose by trying it out as a daily supplement to relieve your headaches.