A migraine is characterized by recurrent headaches that may be moderate to severe. They usually effect one side of the head and tend to be pulsating in nature and last from a few hours to 3 days. Associated symptoms may include nausea, vomiting and light sound or smell sensitivity. One third may have an aura which precedes the migraine. Onset may start as early as puberty. Causes may include environmental stimuli and genetics (15% worldwide). Risk factors include family history (genetics) and being female (3 times more prevalent). Preventative treatment (pharmacological) includes metoprolol, valproate and topiramate. Treatment includes ibuprofen, triptans and ergotamines. The underlying mechanisms are not completely known, however it appears that the mediator is small protein called CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide). It is highly prevalent in the sensory nerves that supply the head and the neck and is involved in pain transmission as well as being a very potent vasodilator (may be part of the pathology). The big question is, and knowing that CGRP seems to be involved at the outset, are there other (more natural/less onerous options)? The following papers identify interventions that directly/indirectly address CGRP.
Endocannabinoids in Chronic Migraine: CSF findings suggest a system failure. Neuropsychopharmacology. The endocannabionoid system responds to CBD (in this case I use ONEcbd) and an endocannabionid that is natural to the body (PEA-palmitoylethanolamide)
2. Tolerability of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)in a Pediatric Population Suffering from Migraine:A pilot study. Pain Research and Management.
The Preventive Treatment of Migraine with Low Dose Naltrexone(LDN)/Acetaminophen Combination: Findings of a Small, Randomized Double Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial with an Open Label Extension for None-Responders.
Herbal supplements that impact CGRP include Sangre de Grado (Dragons blood) and grape pomace.
In summary, and ignoring all of the science, ONEcbd,PEA and the herbal supplements have an important role in treating migraine.