{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/headaches/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3823-markdown","title":"Does Medical Marijuana Help with COVID-Related Symptoms?","slug":"does-medical-marijuana-help-with-covid-related-symptoms","content":"*Note: Cannabis has not been proven to cure COVID-19 or stop you from contracting the virus. This article is meant to be used for educational purposes to highlight the homeopathic benefits of cannabis that can be used to alleviate some of the symptoms commonly associated with C*OVID-19. \n\n![COVID is more and more common as Omicron surges. Cannabis can help with COVID related symptoms.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_11_49_31_AM_6a7d3047ae.png)\n\n\nWith the Omicron variant rapidly spreading across the globe, COVID-19 is once again surging. Even with the vaccine, most people are still at risk of contracting the virus and may still experience various symptoms from COVID-19. [According to the CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html), some common symptoms of COVID-19 are: \n \n- Fever or chills\n- Cough\n- Fatigue\n- Muscle or body aches\n- Headache\n- Sore throat\n- Congestion or runny nose\n- Nausea or vomiting\n- Diarrhea\n\n![COVID is more and more common as Omicron surges. Cannabis can help with COVID related symptoms.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_11_50_57_AM_178ff42ddc.png)\n\nThough it hasn't been proven to protect you from getting COVID-19, cannabis can certainly help ease or eliminate some of the symptoms associated with the virus. It's well documented that marijuana consumers have historically used medical marijuana to help with body aches, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and to sleep better. \n\n### Cannabis Relieves Body Pain\n\n![COVID is more and more common as Omicron surges. Cannabis can help with COVID related symptoms.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_11_52_05_AM_332d779c39.png)\n\nFor many people, cannabis has reduces the sensation of pain. A report published by an ad hoc committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found there was \"conclusive or substantial evidence that cannabis or cannabinoids are effective in the treatment of chronic pain in adults.\"\n\nMore specifically, cannabidinol (CBD) can help reduce pain. CBD has been proven to be [anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and can also limit anxiety associated with pain](https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/patient/treatments/marijuana-cannabis/empowered-pain-patient-guide-cbd). If you're suffering from body aches, joint pain, nerve pain, or headaches due to COVID-19, you may find relief with cannabis — specifically high CBD weed products.\n\n### Curb Nausea with Medical Marijuana\n\n![COVID is more and more common as Omicron surges. Cannabis can help with COVID related symptoms.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_11_53_00_AM_9ec3b90c8f.png)\n\nMedical marijuana also has a long history as a treatment for nausea [leading back to chemotherapy patients in the 1970s](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-next-step-for-nausea-treatment-medical-marijuana) and [AIDS patients in the 1980s](https://www.sfchronicle.com/style/article/How-San-Francisco-s-HIV-AIDS-warriors-paved-the-13826035.php#:~:text=At%20the%20height%20of%20the,them%20at%20increased%20risk%20for). Cannabis' anti-nausea effect is likely due to its ability to block receptors [in the 5-HT or serotonin](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23121618) family.\n\n![Doug's Varin is a strain high in THCV](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_11_at_4_09_34_PM_8c1ef30606.png)\n\nBoth THC and CBD have antiemetic properties, meaning they can decrease vomiting and nausea. [Jacob Vigil, associate professor, UNM psychology department, explained that](http://news.unm.edu/news/cannabis-offers-mmediate-relief-from-symptoms-of-nausea-but-product-use-matters) \"THC, typically associated with recreational use, seemed to improve [nausea] treatment among consumers of Cannabis flower.\" Look for strains and products with a balanced level of CBD and THC, such as a 1:1. \n\n### Medical Marijuana for Anxiety & Sleep\n\n![African landrace strains have higher amounts of THCV](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_11_at_4_08_00_PM_e26aceb40a.png)\n\nMedical marijuana has been shown to help people achieve a better night's sleep. Sleep can be difficult when you are not feeling well, either because you feel pain, or are experiencing other symptoms. In particular, the anxiety caused by contracting COVID, can keep you awake. Not knowing what is going to happen next, and the sudden onset of symptoms, like losing taste and smell, can be anxiety-inducing. \n\nCBD has been shown to [help alleviate acute anxiety](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-taking-cbd-daily-can-help-reduce-your-anxiety) in medical marijuana patients. Some scientists believe that CBD works well at reducing anxiety, because of the way it interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain; lack of serotonin may be a principal cause of anxiety and depression. And CBD may act similarly to prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This makes serotonin more available in the synaptic space (the space between neurons in the brain), increasing serotonin signaling.\n\n![Cannabis can help you sleep better.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_7_07_01_PM_caace57c88.png)\n\nTHC and CBD have been shown to help many people [get a better night's sleep](https://hellomd.com/articles/5-sleep-disorders-cannabis-can-help-alleviate), while also decreasing the feeling of anxiety. Cannabis works by triggering receptors in our endocannabinoid systems. These triggers help regulate hormones, immunity, pain, hunger, and (You guessed it!) sleep! There are several reasons that cannabis can help with a good night's sleep and the secret is in the cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis Sativa plant (marijuana), which help cause medicinal and therapeutic effects. Three of the cannabinoids that are well-known for inducing a sleep-filled night are THC, CBD, and now, CBN.\n\n### Cannabis and Your Immune System\n\n![What medical marijuana can help me lose weight?](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_11_at_3_56_23_PM_770def7d71.png)\n\nYou can even bolster your immune system with medical marijuana. If you'd like help fighting off additional illnesseses, [both THC and CBD possess antiviral and antifungal properties](https://hellomd.com/articles/supporting-the-immune-system-during-cold-and-flu-season-with-plant-based-supplements) to help your immune system. Antiviral substances work by inhibiting the development of target pathogens instead of merely killing them, similar to antibiotics.\n\nWhile you're quarantining, adopt a daily cannabis regimen to keep your immune system strong. Rather than vaping or smoking, which may irritate your lungs, try edibles.\n\n### Top Cannabis Products for COVID-19 Symptoms\n\nTo combat COVID-19 symptoms, look to these three cannabis products:\n\n### Proof 1:1 Tincture\n\n![Proof 1:1 tincture is good COVID-related symptoms](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_11_55_55_AM_9b04f8177f.png)\n\n\n[Proof 1:1 Tincture](https://proofcannabis.com/productsproof/1to1tincture) provides the balanced benefits of CBD and the psychoactive impact of THC. This product is perfect for those seeking relief from COVID-19 symptoms like headache, sore back, or body aches without an especially strong \"high.\" You can find this tincture across many California retailers, [check out Proof's website for exact locations](https://proofcannabis.com/locationsproof).\n\n### Kiva Camino Midnight Blueberry Gummies\n\n![Screen Shot 2022-01-12 at 12.10.54 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_12_10_54_PM_c54e2d0a3d.png)\n\n\n[Kiva Camino Midnight Blueberry Gummies](https://www.kivaconfections.com/flavor/midnight-blueberry) can help you fall asleep when fevers and aches are keeping you restlessly awake. These gummies offer a calming combination of 5 MG of THC, 1 MG of CBN and relaxing terpenes with chamomile and lavender extracts to promote restful sleep. You can find these gummies in California and across the U.S. in specific states.\n\n### Dosist's Relief \n\n![Dosist Relief can help with pain associated with COVID](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_12_12_13_PM_7e8cb1b3cd.png)\n\n[Dosist's Relief cannabis vape pen](https://dosist.com/formula-detail/relief) is a 2:1 THC to CBD formula designed to ease mild to moderate aches and pains naturally. It will help bring on instant relief from your COVID symptoms and can help you get out of bed or ease you to sleep — depending on what suits your needs most. The pen is available in a 200 dose/500mg dosist formula pod and in a 100 dose/250mg dose pen and can be purchased at [select retailers in California](https://dosist.com/find-dosist).\n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Marijuana\n\n![Get your medical marijuana card through HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_12_13_40_PM_0165a81efd.png)\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/14b42/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/f836f/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 200w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/2244e/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 400w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/14b42/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 800w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/47498/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/0e329/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/947df/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.jpg 5472w","srcWebp":"/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/58556/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/61e93/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 200w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/1f5c5/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 400w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/58556/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 800w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/99238/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 1200w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/7c22d/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 1600w,\n/static/f432524a83c1e2c22b5e57c67b2a5bbf/f8fd9/32114ebcc8bb1f3845fdb5ee36a6206e.webp 5472w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2782-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Tension Headaches","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-tension-headaches","content":"While we may not all suffer from migraines, chances are everyone at some point in their life has experienced a tension headache. You’re probably familiar with tension headache symptoms: pressure in your forehead, neck or the back of your head; aches, pain or tightness in your head, neck or shoulders. \n\nMost people tend to pop a few Advil or Tylenol and go about their day when they have a headache. But it’s possible to overuse over-the-counter drugs—and sometimes this can cause even more headaches. \n\nSo, if you’re looking for an alternative to the usual headache treatments, you may want to consider cannabis. Here are our top three Q&As about how marijuana can help ease tension headaches. These Q&As come from our [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) page, where members of the HelloMD community get answers to their cannabis questions from qualified doctors, nurses and cannabis industry experts. Head over there if you still have questions about how marijuana could help you when you’ve got a headache that just won’t quit. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: Is marijuana good for tension headaches?\n\n**_What type of marijuana products should I use and how often?_**\n\nAnswer: [@drolson](https://www.hellomd.com/people/550c5a786336370003010000/drolson/my-story) Yes, cannabis can be an excellent medication for tension headaches but if you don’t deal with the origin of the tension, your symptoms could manifest as a bigger medical problem later. \n\nConsider using a topical cannabidiol, or CBD-dominant salve on your neck or anywhere you feel the muscles are tense. You can reapply the salve every 10 minutes until the pain resolves. You could also try a CBD-dominant 4:1, spray-in-the-mouth tincture that should help with a headache. Or you may want to vaporize a CBD-dominant vape pen, such as one with the strain AC/DC. This way, it will be in your bloodstream in one to two minutes giving you relief in approximately 10 minutes.\n\nI think tension headaches respond well to a daily dose of CBD because you learn to deal with stress much better taking CBD-rich cannabis. At first, you must dose CBD frequently to get rid of the symptoms and then you can start spacing out the frequency of your CBD doses. Because if you only take one dose of CBD per 24 hours, you may be imprinting on your nerves that you want the pain to return, so please, treat your symptoms frequently to get the pain under control before you start to space out your CBD dose. Too much THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) may increase pain especially if due to tension. \n\nI also encourage reading the book or listening to the audiotape, “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle to get in the present moment since the present moment is the only time we experience joy.\n\nRELATED: [WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT CANNABIDIOL, OR CBD?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8dafa0f24d1300077ccb59/whats-so-great-about-cannabidiol-or-cbd)\n\n### Q: Can anyone recommend 1 or 2 good strains to prevent headaches?\n\n**_They aren't migraines, just tension headaches. I also suffer from a large degree of anxiety concerning them, so need something for evening time that would help me relax. As an additional piece of information, I tend to be sensitive to psychoactivity; THC makes me paranoid and then I really cannot relax._**\n\nAnswer: [@drjacquelynlew]( https://www.hellomd.com/people/58aba9f5005f8b001769728e/drjacquelynlew/my-story) Hello! Sounds like you would be a good candidate for cannabidiol, or CBD, which is non-psychoactive and can help decrease both headaches and anxiety. I would recommend using CBD in a vaporized form, starting with 1–2 puffs. I typically recommend CBD in a 20:1 ratio with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient of cannabis) because a small amount of THC helps the CBD work. \n\nCannabis can also be applied topically on the temples when you have a headache. Topical forms of cannabis, such as balms or salves, are usually non-psychoactive. If this doesn't quite help, you may want to seek a more in-depth consultation from us or an evaluation from your regular health provider. Best of luck!\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/5af7985a8bf343000746aa81/can-anyone-recommend-1-or-2-good-strains-to-prevent-headaches)\n\n### Q: How does cannabis act to stop headaches?\n**_My neurologist has told me never to take aspirin, and Tylenol rarely, because it acts by slowly compromising the nerves. I’m 79 and had one very small stroke four years ago. Sometimes I still feel it clearly where it occurred in my head._**\n\nAnswer: [@drblair]( https://www.hellomd.com/people/5984d0c740044a391b932f61/drblair/my-story) Hemp CBD is effective for many people. At 79 you will not need much to get relief, perhaps 5–10 mg. CBD will not make you high or cause any impairment. And, it protects against stroke and heart disease. Preclinical studies showed that CBD given up to five hours after a stroke provided major protection against the complications of stroke and brain injury.\n\nPhoto credit: [Maaike Nienhuis](https://unsplash.com/@maaikenienhuis)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/14b42/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/f836f/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 200w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/2244e/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 400w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/14b42/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 800w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/47498/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/0e329/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/02768/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.jpg 3662w","srcWebp":"/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/58556/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/61e93/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 200w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/1f5c5/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 400w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/58556/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 800w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/99238/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 1200w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/7c22d/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 1600w,\n/static/6040b4dd4e36faaf32a6dfe8142d7502/83969/212c87e62ccfd092c9bd8643471bf79e.webp 3662w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2747-markdown","title":"Staff Picks: Top 6 Marijuana Strains for Headache Relief","slug":"staff-picks-top-6-marijuana-strains-for-headache-relief","content":"Ever get the kind of pain where your head feels like it’s locked in a vice grip? And the pressure around your head and neck just won’t let up? You’re not alone. It’s estimated that as many as [1.4 billion folks in the U.S. experience this kind of pain](https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/792384-overview#showall), commonly known as a tension, or stress, headache.\n\nTension headaches can flare up at any time, typically when you’re exposed to stress, either physical or mental. Maybe you’ve pulled one too many all-nighters, your workload has doubled, or you just haven’t had enough to eat. All of these things can set off a tension headache as can anxiety, depression, and even poor posture or tight muscles in your head, neck and shoulders. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nAs it happens, [cannabis has been used to treat headaches](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5436334/) dating back as far as the second millennium BCE. It was an established headache remedy in the U.S. from 1839 until 1937, when the government made the plant illegal. During this time, distinguished doctors who touted cannabis’s effectiveness included Silas Weir Mitchell, then president of the NY Neurological Society, and William Gowers, considered a founding father of modern neurology.\n\nFast forward to today, and cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, making peer-reviewed, clinical studies on the plant’s efficacy extremely challenging. That said, a number of preliminary studies along with plenty of anecdotal evidence point to marijuana as a good option for relieving headaches—not to mention its various triggers.\n\nFollowing are our team’s go-to cannabis strains for easing the pain in their noggin.\n\n### 1. OG Kush\n\n![OG Kush cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-572c35a3-1df9-41f4-9069-005388241a02/original.jpg)\n\n**Dmitry B., marketing videographer/editor:** “My favorite cannabis strain to help with tension headaches is OG Kush because it comes on fast and is very cerebral. It contains high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) for effective pain relief. So, the combination of potency, rapid onset and the cerebral high of OG Kush basically makes it possible for me to combat any headache.\n\n“OG Kush has a very distinct aroma and smell. OG Kush tastes really fruity, punchy. You can definitely taste the diesel in there.\n\n“When it comes to OG Kush, don't overdo it. I’d suggest consuming OG Kush at the end of the day. And don't overmedicate because it could have the reverse effect and make the headache flare up again. Instead, go low and slow. Take one to three puffs, depending on your tolerance level, and see how you feel.”\n\n### 2. Jack Herer\n\n![Jack Herer cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-91dbcca4-f11c-4dd3-914a-e0abaff4ec06/original.jpg)\n\n**Ryan G., customer service lead:** “I really enjoy Jack Herer, because it's very fast-acting and an effective pain reliever. This is one of the more reliable marijuana strains. It's not only uplifting and energetic, but because it's a sativa, it allows me to go about my day and do things that I need to get done. I don't feel couch-locked as I would if I took an indica.\n\n“When I smoke Jack Herer, it takes effect within 10 minutes. So, if you smoke it or use a flower vaporizer, I find that it tends to be more effective—stronger and heavier—than using an oil cartridge. \n\n“Jack Herer, which tastes and smells very piney with notes of citrus, is a cannabis strain that I’d recommend for all experience levels. Of course, if you're a novice user, you should go slow and take care, because certain Jack Herer strains are a little bit on the potent side.”\n\n### 3. Chemdawg\n\n![Chemdawg cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-613667ac-aa23-4db7-9421-b14acbb752d7/original.jpg)\n\n**Veronica B, customer service specialist:** “I’ve been very fortunate in that I don’t experience headaches very frequently. However, if the pain starts pounding in my head, I like to turn to an indica-dominant strain to alleviate the symptoms. Chemdawg is the perfect cannabis strain for me as it provides strong cerebral effects, but also a full body relaxation to distract me from my headache.\n\n“Chemdawg has a gasoline smell, with flavors that are earthy, woody, reminiscent of pine. This is a potent strain, so novice cannabis consumers should start with a small amount.\n\n“Upon consumption, you can expect to feel relaxed from head to toe. Depending on the patient, Chemdawg can be a great choice for day or night. In any case, the headaches will no longer be a nuisance.”\n\n### 4. Harlequin\n\n![Harlequin cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-1da9487e-143e-4339-8139-cec1ae8975bc/original.jpg)\n\n**Kevin P., customer service specialist:** “I tend to prefer CBD-rich (cannabidiol-rich) strains, specifically Harlequin when I'm experiencing headaches—and I’m a seasoned cannabis user, so I’m comfortable with THC.\n\n“Harlequin is unique for two different reasons. First, it's almost always at 5:2 or more commonly a 3:1 ratio, meaning three-parts CBD to one-part THC. It's also sativa dominant with that little bit of THC that's in there.\n\n“When I have a headache, I’m trying to relieve the pain and also that foggy feeling that I get with a headache. So, something like a 3:1 has just enough CBD to relieve the pain, with just enough THC to amplify that painkilling ability. But it’s also just enough THC to distract from the headache without leaving me stoned.\n\n“When I experience a headache, I don't burn Harlequin. Because the last thing I want to do is be coughing all of the time, since that amplifies the pain in my head. So, I use a Pax device. I'll grind up the flower and then vaporize it, so it's a lot smoother. It's a lot easier to medicate that way.\n\n“In terms of taste and smell, you definitely get some earthiness and sweetness with Harlequin. I want to say that there's a little bit of mango in it, but it really does depend on the batch.”\n\n### 5. Gelato\n\n![Gelato cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-1d984c1e-6a20-40ef-94fb-d43ce5e0a900/original.jpg)\n\n**Nik S., customer service specialist:** “My favorite marijuana strain to relieve tension headaches is Gelato because of the hybrid effect that it provides. Gelato provides good feelings; it's not such a heavy couch-locker, and it's going to also give you those euphoric feelings. \n\n“And it tastes like gelato. It takes very creamy depending on the phenotype. There's the #25, #33, #41, #45—those are the popular ones. And the 25, 33 and also the 45 are going to taste very creamy. The 41 is going to have that creamy taste as well, but also a little bit of like kind of a nutty taste as well. It's very flavorful.\n\n“When Gelato first takes effect, it brings on the feeling of an indica: You may feel kind of slow at first. But then, it starts to balance out with the sativa effects. It kills the pain. In terms of how much to consume, I think it just depends on the person and how great your pain is.\n\nThis cannabis strain isn’t for beginners. It’s definitely for the more experienced consumer. If a novice user wanted to try it, you may be able to find lighter versions of Gelato. There may be some indoor varieties that may not be grown to yield as much THC.”\n\n### 6. ACDC\n\n![ACDC cannabis strain](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-1b57c4c3-8a42-4cda-b862-717b76986055/original.jpg)\n\n**Bart S., customer service specialist:** “With tension headaches, I would do a high-CBD cannabis strain likeACDC. And I’d do that with an indica like Granddaddy Purple. Granddaddy Purple—really almost any indica strain—helps me when I have a migraine. I prefer Granddaddy Purple, because of the taste and flavor, which is like a piney berry. It puts me to sleep, and I’ll wake up without a migraine.\n\n“But for tension headaches, ACDC, which has a 3:1 ratio of CBD to THC, is a good choice. I’d dab it, because it’s a lot stronger; as a dab, it’s a more concentrated form of cannabis. When I have a tension headache, I want to take care of it quickly. I don’t really want to take the chance of smoking a bowl and having it not work. I want to attack the headache right away.”\n\nPhoto credits: [Anh Nguyen](https://unsplash.com/@pwign) (main image); [Nickel Bag of Funk](https://www.flickr.com/photos/nickel_bag_of_funk/) (OG Kush)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/14b42/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/f836f/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 200w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/2244e/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 400w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/14b42/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 800w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/47498/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/0e329/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/00d1c/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.jpg 2936w","srcWebp":"/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/58556/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/61e93/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 200w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/1f5c5/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 400w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/58556/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 800w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/99238/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 1200w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/7c22d/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 1600w,\n/static/337ff5155b38675e0ed033d7bf387959/d5e32/2936095150826d1f9c163294605652b4.webp 2936w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5324,"name":"Headaches","slug":"headaches","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}