Best Cannabis Strains For Headaches and Migraines

A lot of people swear by cannabis for more than its tendency to deliver euphoria and relaxation.  After all, the medical marijuana market has proven that there are substantial potential benefits to cannabis – among them a profound ability to relieve us of headaches and migraines, thanks to the unique configuration of chemical compounds in the plant. 

If headache/migraine relief is what you’re chasing, we’ve got you covered with some outstanding strains that could give you the strongest effects pertaining to these symptoms, specifically. 

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What are Headaches and Migraines and How Do They Occur?

Headaches and migraines are common neurological conditions that affect many people worldwide.  They can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.  While they are related, headaches and migraines have distinct characteristics and causes.

Headaches

Headaches can occur in any part of the head, on both sides, or in just one location.  There are various types of headaches, including tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, among others.  The causes and mechanisms behind headaches can vary widely:

• Tension Headaches: These are the most common type of headache and are often caused by muscle tension in the neck, scalp, and jaw.  They are typically described as a constant pressure or ache around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
• Cluster Headaches: Characterized by severe, piercing pain on one side of the head, often around the eye.  Cluster headaches occur in cyclical patterns or clusters, and the exact cause is unknown but is thought to be related to the body’s biological clock (hypothalamus).
• Sinus Headaches: Caused by sinus infection or inflammation, these headaches come with a deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose.  The pain usually intensifies with sudden head movement or straining.

Migraines

Migraines are a more severe form of headache characterized by intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head.  They can be accompanied by other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.  Migraines can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities. There are several theories about how migraines occur:

• Vascular Theory: Initially, it was thought that migraines were primarily due to changes in blood vessel size in the brain.  While now considered overly simplistic, vascular changes are still believed to play a role.
• Neurovascular Theory: This current understanding combines elements of vascular changes with neurological influences.  It suggests that migraines begin with a neurological phenomenon (often triggered by hormonal changes, stress, or dietary factors) that then affects cerebral blood flow.
• Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD): This theory proposes that migraines are caused by a wave of electrical depression that spreads across the cortex of the brain, leading to the release of inflammatory substances that irritate the brain’s blood vessels.

How are Headaches and Migraines Treated?

Both headaches and migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, lack of sleep, certain foods and beverages, hormonal changes (especially in women), weather changes, and certain medications.  Treatment varies depending on the type and cause of the headache or migraine and may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or relaxation techniques.

How Can Certain Cannabis Strains Help with Headaches and Migraines?

Cannabis strains can help alleviate headaches and migraines through several mechanisms, thanks to the active compounds found in the plant, primarily cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), as well as other components such as terpenes. 

Here’s how they may work:

1. Pain Relief: THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, is known for its pain-relieving properties.  It can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in regulating pain.  By activating the ECS, THC can help reduce the sensation of pain, which is beneficial for those suffering from headaches and migraines.
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: CBD, another major cannabinoid, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties.  Since inflammation can contribute to the severity and frequency of headaches and migraines, CBD can help by reducing inflammation, potentially alleviating the intensity of these episodes.
3. Reduction of Nausea and Vomiting: Many people who experience migraines also suffer from nausea and vomiting.  Both THC and CBD have antiemetic properties, which can help control these symptoms, making the migraine experience less debilitating.
4. Muscle Relaxation: Cannabis has muscle relaxant properties, which can be beneficial in cases where tension headaches are present.  By relaxing muscle tension, especially around the neck and head, cannabis can provide relief from this type of headache.
5. Stress Reduction: Stress is a well-known trigger for both headaches and migraines.  Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can have calming effects, reducing stress and potentially preventing stress-induced headaches and migraines.
6. Improved Sleep: Poor sleep is another trigger for migraines and headaches. Certain cannabis strains, especially those with a balance of THC and CBD, can help improve sleep quality, thus potentially reducing the frequency of headaches and migraines associated with sleep disturbances.

Why Does the Cannabis Strain You Select Matter So Much Then?

Before going over the strains we’ve picked out, let’s talk about why strains matter a lot more than you might think.  The cultivar of cannabis is its strain, and different parts of the world naturally leave us with distinctive cultivars that have unique chemical compositions based on environmental factors.  At the same time, breeders are developing new strains constantly, combining specific cultivars together to produce unique desirable effects.

There are three types of strains:

• Sativa strains are regarded as “daytime” strains, with more uplifting, focus-enhancing, sociable, and energizing effects.
• Indica strains are a perfect nighttime fav since they can produce deep feelings of relaxation and calm in the body and mind.  
• Hybrid strains come from crossing an indica with a sativa, producing a unique balance between the two.

When choosing a cannabis strain for headaches and migraines, it’s important to consider the strain’s THC:CBD ratio, as well as the presence of specific terpenes that can also influence its effects.  Strains high in CBD and low in THC might be preferred during the day to avoid psychoactive effects, while those with a higher THC content might be more suitable for nighttime use to also aid with sleep.

However, it’s crucial to note that the effectiveness of cannabis can vary greatly from person to person, and what works for one individual may not work for another.

Top Cannabis Strains For Headache and Migraine

We get it – headaches and migraines can really inhibit your life, so you want a strain that can deliver the strongest and fastest-acting relief.

Anti-Headache and Migraine Strain #5: Green Crack

Green Crack is a notorious strain that may be overlooked for its therapeutic value because of its reputation.  The name speaks for itself, promising an absolutely intense high complete with a powerful energizing sensation that’s out of this world.  This 65% sativa-dominant strain is the result of inbreeding Skunk #1, and it’s got about 20%-25% THC.

Green Crack gives you a stimulating effect unlike any other strain on the planet, and its euphoric effects are nothing short of legendary, giving you a giddy, hyper type of feeling that lasts for a while.  But, one thing you can’t overlook is that it’s also one of the very best strains for headache and migraine pain.

Anti-Headache and Migraine Strain #4: Pineapple Express

A household name, Pineapple Express has enjoyed huge popularity for literally generations.  It’s a 60% sativa-dominant hybrid with 25% THC, and it was considered one of the most potent strains of all time until high-THC cultivars became the norm.  People are also all about its distinctive flavor profile of fresh pineapple and pine.

Pineapple Express can give you a high that makes you feel motivated and eager to socialize, while when enjoyed alone, it can help you get things done, and take on projects around the house.  Aside from that, it’s one of the most commonly recommended strains for headaches and migraines on the medical market.

Anti-Headache and Migraine Strain #3: Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a 60% sativa-leaning hybrid that can help you feel both relaxed and joyous, and its blueberry flavor is the kind of stuff that dreams are made of.  It’s also one of the few strains that can be great for daytime and nighttime due to how balanced it is.

Blue Dream is known for being one of the very best strains for those who are struggling with nausea, as it can knock out this symptom in no time.  As for headaches and migraines, this one can deliver major, major relief.

Anti-Headache and Migraine Strain #2: OG Kush

One of the most recognizable names in the strain world is OG Kush – after all, the “OG” part says it all – and it’s a 55% sativa-dominant hybrid with a stunning 25% or so THC.  OG Kush has that balanced sativa/indica effect that so many people crave, as the strain is known for its versatility.  It has a woodsy and citrusy taste that’s also appealing, and its high can rid the mind of negativity, giving you a social boost that gets you feeling lively, chatty, and giggly around your friends.  

OG Kush is a super common choice among those with headaches and migraines, and it’s considered one of the absolute best for this specific and very common issue.

Anti-Headache and Migraine Strain #1: Northern Lights

Finally, we have Northern Lights, which is easily the very best strain for headaches and migraines.  Its chemical composition is simply filled with high concentrations of terpenes that can have a direct effect on these symptoms.  It’s a pure indica that’s been one of the most sought-after strains in the world for ages, and a descendent of Afghani.  It yields a moderately high level of THC, making it very inclusive to all kinds of partakers.

Northern Lights is a very sedating strain, as you’d expect from a pure indica.  In addition to offering potential relief from headaches and migraines, it can offer a seriously calming high that alleviates stress, and may even put you to sleep.

These Cannabis Strains Can Knock Out Headaches and Migraines in No Time 

The bottom line is that cannabis has substantial potential when it comes to addressing the needs of those who suffer from headaches and migraines.  And, while most cannabis strains can have a positive effect in this regard, these amazing THC strains really go above and beyond to give you the most exceptional and reliable relief of all.

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