Marijuana for Migraines
Written By QuickMedCards. Reviewed by Dr. Shatha Atiya, PsyD. Updated August 1, 2025
Migraines don’t just hurt. They steal your life. Days disappear. Sometimes weeks vanish, too.
You’ve tried the usual suspects. Pain relievers perch in your medicine cabinet. Triptans promise relief. Preventive drugs make big claims. However, here’s the truth: they don’t work for everyone. And the side effects? They can be brutal.
Does weed help with headaches? This guide breaks it down for you. You’ll see what the science says. You’ll learn how cannabis works in your body. And you’ll know how to use it safely and legally if you choose to try it.
By the end of this page, you will have the answers to these questions:
- What’s the difference between headaches and migraines?
- How do conventional migraine treatments work?
- Does weed help with migraines?
- Can smoking weed cause migraines?
- What’s the best weed for migraines?
- How do you get a medical marijuana card for migraines?
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Difference between Headaches and Migraines
Headaches aren’t a disease. They’re a symptom. Think of them as your body sounding an alarm that something’s wrong.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) lists the main types into three categories:
- Tension headaches
- Migraines
- Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TACs)
Migraines start with changes in the brain’s nerves and blood vessels. Often, a spike in a chemical called CGRP is responsible. This surge can trigger intense throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light.
Types of Headaches: Tension, TACs, and Migraine
Here are the main types of headaches and their key characteristics:
- Tension headaches: They feel like a tight band around your head. They usually respond well to common painkillers.
- TACs: They affect one side of the head. It can cause a stuffy nose, sweating, or a swollen eyelid.
- Cluster headaches: the most common form of TACs. They come in cycles and usually hit behind one eye. Oxygen therapy or CGRP blockers might help.
- Migraines: They can last from 4 to 72 hours. About one-third of people get an aura. If you get migraines on 15 or more days each month, it’s considered chronic.
Knowing your headache type matters. Cannabis seems to help most with migraines and cluster headaches. It may not work as well for other types.
Conventional Treatments for Migraines
Doctors usually start with these migraine drugs:
- NSAIDs
- Acetaminophen
- Triptans
- Gepants
- Ditans
- CGRP monoclonal antibodies
- Beta-blockers
- Anti-seizure medicines
Many people try more than one. That’s because side effects can be a problem. These may include rebound headaches, stomach issues, or heart risks. It’s best to avoid opioids if you can.
Since migraines cause both pain and brain inflammation, researchers are exploring cannabinoids as a new option. These are compounds that work with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
How Cannabis Interacts with Pain
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps control pain, inflammation, and blood flow. It includes receptors (CB1 and CB2), natural cannabinoids like anandamide and 2-AG, plus special enzymes.
CB1 receptors mostly occupy the brain’s trigeminal pathway. That’s the same path migraine pain takes. CB2 receptors sit on immune cells and help reduce the inflammation that can trigger headaches.
The Endocannabinoid System & CGRP
Early studies suggest THC and CBD boost your body’s natural cannabinoids. They may also block CGRP, the chemical that triggers migraines.
This has led researchers to ask a key question: can cannabis fix low endocannabinoid levels and stop migraines before they get worse?
Evidence: Does Weed Help With Headaches?
Human research on marijuana for migraines is still limited, but early results look promising. Here are some key findings:
- A review of 121 patients showed a drop in monthly migraines from 10.4 to 4.6 after using medical cannabis.
- Data from a free medical cannabis app (Strainprint) revealed that users who inhaled cannabis cut headache and migraine pain by approximately 50%.
- A review of multiple studies found that cannabis may help with pain, including headaches and migraines. Still, the review emphasized the need for more comprehensive studies before coming to definitive conclusions.
Potential Benefits of Using Cannabis for Migraines
Early studies and patient reports suggest that cannabis might help with migraine-related headaches. But we still need large, placebo-controlled trials to confirm the benefits.
If you choose to try cannabis, here are some possible advantages:
- Faster pain relief. Inhaled flower or vapor may ease pain in 5 to 10 minutes. That’s faster than oral triptans, which can take 30 to 60 minutes.
- Fewer migraine days: Some patients report cutting their monthly attacks in half by using low-dose tinctures or other cannabis products.
- Less nausea and vomiting: THC may help settle your stomach, making it easier to keep down fluids and meds during an attack.
Best Cannabis for Migraines
Picking the best weed for migraines can be confusing. Marijuana dispensaries offer a lot of strains and product types.
This guide helps you focus on what matters most for migraines. It covers the cannabinoid profiles, terpenes, and delivery methods that patients and early studies find most helpful.
Indica or Sativa for Headaches?
Many patients opt for balanced hybrids or indica-leaning strains to relax at night. For daytime, they often go with low-THC sativas or CBD-rich strains.
Instead of relying on indica or sativa labels, focus on the key ingredients:
- THC helps with pain and mood, but may cause anxiety in high doses.
- CBD eases inflammation and anxiety and may reduce CGRP-linked pain.
- β-Caryophyllene is a terpene that targets CB2 receptors and may soothe pain.
- Linalool and myrcene are calming terpenes that may help you sleep during a migraine.
Weed Strains for Migraines
Here are some strains patients often use for migraine relief:
- ACDC: A CBD-dominant strain with little to no THC. Good for daytime use. It may help with clear thinking, relaxed muscles, and a steady mood.
- Harlequin: Has a near 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio. The light high can ease pain, while CBD helps reduce anxiety. Many use it to stay functional during the day.
- Purple Kush: A THC-rich indica. Known for deep body relaxation and better sleep. It’s often used at night when migraines make it hard to rest.
- OG Kush Breath: A hybrid rich in β-caryophyllene. Offers earthy flavor and lasting relief from headache pressure without making you feel too drowsy.
Find the Best Cannabis Strain for You!
How do you want to feel?
What condition are you treating?
Edibles vs. Inhalation vs. Sublingual
Here are the most common ways to use cannabis for migraine relief:
- Inhalation: Works in 5 to 10 minutes and lasts 2 to 4 hours. It’s great for quick relief. It may irritate your lungs, however.
- Sublingual oils or sprays: Start working in 15 to 45 minutes and last 4 to 6 hours. Easy to dose and discreet. Not as fast as inhalation.
- Edibles: Take 45 to 120 minutes to kick in and last 6 to 8 hours. Great for long-lasting relief. Unfortunately, the delay makes it easier to take too much.
Dosing & Using Cannabis Safely
To use cannabis safely for migraines, keep these tips in mind:
- Start low. Begin with 1 to 2.5 mg of THC or try a 1:1 THC-CBD tincture. Wait at least two hours before taking more.
- Track your results. Use a headache journal. Write down the strain, dose, method, timing, and pain level.
- Avoid daily high-THC vaping. This helps prevent tolerance and rebound headaches.
- Support your routine. Stay hydrated, get good sleep, and manage your triggers.
Note: Talk to your MMJ doctor before starting cannabis, especially if you take medications like beta-blockers or antidepressants. Some of these can interact with cannabinoids.
Medical Marijuana Laws
Medical marijuana laws differ by state. Before you buy anything, make sure to:
- Check if your state’s qualifying conditions: Some states list migraine directly, while others include it under chronic pain. Use our updated state-by-state guide to be sure.
- Understand your state’s possession limits: States allow different amounts for patients. Most range from one to eight ounces of flower or THC equivalents.
- See what products are allowed: Some states ban smokable flower. Others allow oils, vapes, or capsules.
- Renew your medical marijuana card on time: Most programs require yearly renewal. Many also have strict rules for out-of-state use (reciprocity).
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online
The process of getting your medical marijuana card largely depends on the state you live in.
Generally, getting your MMJ card through Quick Med Cards involves the following simple process:
- Complete our information form and create your Quick Med Cards account.
- Pick a convenient time for your marijuana evaluation.
- Attend your consultation online via telehealth or in-person, depending on your state.
- Get certified for medical marijuana if you’re eligible.
- Apply for your medical marijuana card through your state’s medical cannabis program.
- Get medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary.
Key Takeaways
- Migraines involve brain and blood vessel changes that many medications can’t fully remedy.
- Early research shows medical cannabis may cut migraine days by about half and ease symptoms quickly.
- Strains with both THC and CBD, plus pain-fighting terpenes, seem to work best. The way you take it and the dose also matter.
- Using too much or relying on high-THC products can backfire. This may lead to rebound headaches or, in rare cases, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
- Always follow your state’s rules and talk to a doctor first. Safe and effective relief depends on the right product and dose for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions on marijuana for migraines.
Does weed help with headaches immediately, or does it take weeks to work?
Weed can help with headaches almost immediately if inhaled. Oral tinctures may take 30–60 minutes. For prevention, daily low-dose oils may require several weeks to show a reduction in attacks.
What’s the best edible for migraines?
Look for a balanced 1:1 or 2:1 CBD: THC ratio in a precisely dosed gummy or capsule (for example, 5 mg CBD + 2.5 mg THC per piece). Start with half a serving to gauge response.
Is indica or sativa better for headaches?
Chemistry beats labels. Choose products high in CBD, myrcene, and β‑caryophyllene for nighttime relief, or balanced CBD/THC profiles for daytime function.
Could I fail a workplace drug test?
Yes. Even hemp‑derived CBD products may contain trace THC that accumulates. If drug testing is a concern, check if your state’s medical marijuana laws have employment protections. Alternatively, discuss other migraine therapies with your doctor.
Can I combine cannabis with CGRP inhibitors or triptans?
Limited data on this subject exists. Although researchers report no significant interactions, both cannabis and triptans can affect blood vessel tone. Monitor blood pressure and discuss any combination therapy with a healthcare professional.
Can pot give you a headache?
Yes. Some people get a mild headache the morning after using cannabis, which is often called a “weed hangover.”
Will smoking weed make a migraine worse?
High‑THC strains can trigger anxiety or rebound headaches in sensitive users, especially if inhaled in large amounts or mixed with tobacco. Edibles with too much THC may also prolong an attack due to delayed onset and over‑consumption.
What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?
Long‑term, heavy use can lead to CHS, which is a rare cycle of severe vomiting and abdominal pain that stops only after quitting cannabis. Although uncommon, CHS can mimic migraine‑related nausea, so doctors should rule it out if vomiting dominates your attacks.
Pace your dosing, and track your response. If cannabis worsens your headaches, pause use and speak with a medical marijuana doctor.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Cannabis is not FDA‑approved for migraine treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any headache regimen. Use cannabis only where legal and by following the state regulations.
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