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Introduction 

To date, migraines persist as a poorly ascertained neurological disease as it is rarely diagnosed and incurable. Migraineurs often experience unique life challenges; studies reveal that 90% of migraineurs cannot function when attacked by a migraine. The challenges brought about by the frequent migraine disruption, which, if constant, can erode a sense of oneself. Marijuana is an illegal drug to most states used for recreational purposes, religious purposes, and treatments. The plant is used in the medical field majorly for its analgesic properties; to relieve chronic pain where normal pain killer drugs are not effective.  

Migraines and Marijuana 

Migraine is typically an intense pain, is experienced on one side of the head, and is usually accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to noise and light. The symptoms occur at a prodrome stage where an individual experiences hyperactivity and irritability. The next stage is often preceded by an ‘aura’ that acts as a warning and is characterized by vision problems, speech, and movement difficulties. 

Pain resulting from migraines is usually described as debilitating, throbbing, perforating, and pounding, commonly attacking the forehead area. Currently, there is no known cure for migraines, usually, migraines are treated with pain medication; however, due to migraines’ frequent and recurring nature, most medications are rendered ineffective and overuse of these medications is a major concern. The treatments prevent some migraines from occurring, reduce their frequency, and make the condition less painful. 

How It Works 

Over the years, more effective and long-lasting treatment for migraines has been discovered, such as the use of medical marijuana. Although the drugs and treatments commonly prescribed don’t relieve migraines completely for all patients, a study reported that marijuana could reduce migraine severity by 50%. Smoking marijuana to relieve migraines has been effective for most patients. 

Marijuana consists of two active cannabinoid ingredients that impact our brains, Cannabidiol ( CBC ) and Tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC ). Our brains and certain body parts naturally produce endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system directly reduces migraine pain when activated by the naturally produced cannabinoids in our bodies or by medical marijuana. The cannabinoid receptors are tiny protein loops that perceive pain. Since marijuana has natural cannabinoids, the CBD, upon smoking it, these cannabinoids enter the system and latch onto the body receptors. The marijuana’s cannabinoids change the functioning of the receptors, calming down the pain signals and bring about a sense of relief. Marijuana functions in reducing inflammation in the protective dura tissue covering the brain, and it also inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory substances that contribute to migraine onset. 

Marijuana’s Side Effects 

It is not yet clear that marijuana is safe for medical purposes. There is an ongoing debate in the medical and scientific fields regarding safety, legality, access, and use. Even though medical marijuana’s use outweighs other migraine treatments in terms of effectiveness, long-term use of such treatment negatively impacts the user. 

Smoking in itself is known to cause heart-related conditions, smoking marijuana regularly could cause heart and lung health complications. Smoking marijuana to relieve migraines however effective can make one feel sleepy, moody, weak, confused, and dizzy. In cases of overdose, the effects include psychosis and hallucinations. In addition, long-term side effects of marijuana include lowered intelligence quotient, apathy, memory loss, and addiction. Migraineurs should use medical marijuana within supervised medical routine care. 

Conclusion 

While there are various migraine treatments, medical marijuana is proven to be the most effective treatment. However, in the majority of the states, marijuana use whether for recreational or medical purposes is illegal; it is therefore of utmost importance to find out your state’s laws on marijuana. Smoking marijuana to relieve migraines could bring light to individuals suffering from chronic frequent migraines.