15 Weed Strains That Can Help Relieve Migraines

May 9, 2025

When a migraine strikes, everything else fades into the background.
The throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity can knock you off your feet for hours or even days. Many people are now turning to weed for migraines as a natural, effective alternative to over-the-counter medications. Research suggests that cannabis, specifically strains rich in CBD and certain terpenes, can offer significant relief from the symptoms of migraines. If you're exploring relief through cannabis, here are 15 strains known for their soothing, migraine-relieving effects.

As a local cannabis shop in Etobicoke, Toronto, we are happy to share these expert picks, chosen to help alleviate the discomfort of migraines and provide relief when you need it most.

1. ACDC (CBD-rich Hybrid)

ACDC is a high-CBD, low-THC strain that’s ideal for those who need relief without the high. It’s widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it effective for migraine sufferers. The strain’s calming nature helps reduce head pressure and tension without causing a mental fog. It’s the go-to choice for those seeking functional relief throughout the day.

Research: CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing migraine pain.

2. OG Kush (Hybrid)

OG Kush is famous for its relaxing and pain-relieving effects, making it a favorite for migraine relief. The strain’s full-body relaxation helps ease muscle tightness and headache pain, especially those induced by stress. It offers a balanced effect that calms both the mind and body, helping to reduce tension. Its ability to soothe and relax makes it perfect for use in the evening or after a long day.

Research: OG Kush is rich in myrcene, a terpene known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing effects.

3. Harlequin (Sativa-dominant Hybrid)

Harlequin is known for its balanced THC to CBD ratio, providing moderate pain relief without the heavy high. It’s often used to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with migraines. The strain also promotes mental clarity, making it great for daytime use, especially when you want to stay alert. Its calming effects help reduce the intensity of migraine symptoms while keeping you productive.

Research: A study showed that a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio can provide pain relief and anxiety reduction.

4. Purple Kush (Indica)

Purple Kush is a potent indica strain known for its deep sedative effects. It’s perfect for those who need to rest and recover when migraines disrupt sleep or cause muscle tension. The strain helps relieve head pain while also promoting full-body relaxation. Ideal for nighttime use, Purple Kush ensures you get the rest you need to recover from a migraine attack.

Research: Indica strains, including Purple Kush, are known for their sedative effects that may aid with migraine recovery.

5. Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) (Hybrid)

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) is a popular hybrid strain that provides relief from both physical and mental migraine symptoms. Its euphoric effects uplift mood while its body relaxation properties ease head and neck tension. GSC can help relieve the irritability and fatigue that often accompanies a migraine. This strain is perfect for users who need balanced relief without feeling overly sedated.

Research: GSC has a rich terpene profile, including limonene, which has mood-elevating properties.

6. White Widow (Hybrid)

White Widow is a hybrid strain known for its quick onset and steady, balanced effects. It helps relieve pain and reduce tension without making you feel overly relaxed or sluggish. White Widow is often chosen by migraine sufferers for its ability to promote both pain relief and alertness. This strain is ideal for those who need relief but still want to be functional throughout the day.

Research: White Widow contains high levels of terpinolene, known for its anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting properties.

7. Cannatonic (CBD-rich Hybrid)

Cannatonic offers a high-CBD content with minimal THC, making it a great option for those seeking subtle, effective migraine relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties target the root causes of migraine pain, helping to reduce head pressure. This strain provides calming relief without the psychoactive effects, making it suitable for daytime use. It's a go-to for those who need gentle relief while staying clear-headed.

Research: High-CBD strains like Cannatonic have shown promising results for migraine relief due to their anti-inflammatory effects.

8. Sour Diesel (Sativa)

Sour Diesel is a highly energetic sativa that offers both migraine relief and mood elevation. It’s ideal for those who experience migraines alongside fatigue or brain fog. The strain's uplifting effects help combat mental exhaustion, while its pain-relieving properties address physical migraine symptoms. Sour Diesel is great for daytime use when you need a boost without exacerbating migraine pain.

Research: Sour Diesel’s uplifting effects are partly due to its high levels of limonene, which has mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety properties.

9. Northern Lights (Indica)

Northern Lights is a potent indica known for its soothing and sedative effects, making it a great choice for nighttime migraine relief. It helps ease both mental and physical tension, allowing users to relax deeply. The strain’s calming effects reduce the severity of migraines, especially those that disrupt sleep. It’s perfect for when you need a restful night after a migraine attack.

Research: Northern Lights is a favorite among users with sleep disturbances due to its calming effects.

10. Blue Dream (Hybrid)

Blue Dream is a hybrid strain that balances the effects of both sativa and indica, making it ideal for mild to moderate migraine relief. It’s known for its ability to relieve pain while uplifting mood and providing mental clarity. This strain’s soothing properties can help alleviate tension and discomfort associated with migraines. Blue Dream is perfect for daytime use, providing relief without heavy sedation.

Research: Blue Dream is rich in terpenes like pinene and myrcene, which are linked to pain and inflammation relief.

11. Skywalker OG (Indica-dominant Hybrid)

Skywalker OG is a potent indica-dominant hybrid that offers deep relaxation and pain relief, making it effective for migraine sufferers. The strain’s calming properties help release built-up tension in the body, especially around the neck and shoulders. Skywalker OG promotes sleep and relaxation, which are essential during a migraine attack. This strain is best used in the evening when rest is needed the most.

Research: Indica-dominant hybrids like Skywalker OG are often recommended for pain and stress relief.

12. Remedy (CBD-rich Hybrid)

Remedy is a high-CBD strain known for its gentle yet effective pain relief. It offers significant anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to reduce the swelling and pressure associated with migraines. Remedy is perfect for those who want migraine relief without feeling overly intoxicated. The strain’s calming effects make it a good choice for managing symptoms throughout the day or evening.

Research: Remedy’s high CBD content makes it effective for inflammation-related pain, such as migraines.

13. Jack Herer (Sativa)

Jack Herer is a classic sativa that offers an uplifting, clear-headed high, making it a great choice for daytime migraine relief. It helps alleviate brain fog and mental fatigue, which are common with migraines. This strain also provides pain relief while keeping you mentally sharp and focused. Jack Herer is ideal for those who need to be productive while managing mild to moderate migraine symptoms.

Research: Sativa strains like Jack Herer are known for their uplifting effects, which can be beneficial for mood and cognitive clarity.

14. Canna-Tsu (CBD-rich Hybrid)

Canna-Tsu is a CBD-rich hybrid known for its calming and pain-relieving properties. It offers relief from both migraine pain and the anxiety that often accompanies it. The strain’s mild effects make it a good option for users who are sensitive to THC but still need relief. Canna-Tsu helps reduce the intensity of migraine symptoms without causing any mental impairment.

Research: Canna-Tsu is a great example of the effectiveness of CBD for pain and anxiety relief.

15. Bubba Kush (Indica)

Bubba Kush is a heavy indica that delivers powerful relaxation and pain relief. It’s an excellent choice for those suffering from intense migraine pain or chronic migraines that interfere with daily life. The strain’s sedative effects help promote restful sleep, which is crucial for migraine recovery. Bubba Kush is best used at night when you need complete relaxation and pain management.

Research: Bubba Kush’s indica-dominant profile makes it ideal for relaxation and sleep, which are key for migraine recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Indica or Sativa: Which is Better for Migraines?
A: Both indica and sativa strains can be effective for migraine relief, but the choice depends on your personal needs. Indica strains are generally better for evening use, as they offer deep relaxation and pain relief, helping you rest. Sativa strains are more suitable for daytime use, offering uplifting effects and mental clarity while still alleviating pain. It may be helpful to try both types to see which suits your body and migraine symptoms best.

Q: Which is the Best Strain for Tension Headache?
A: For tension headaches, strains that provide both muscle relaxation and pain relief are ideal. Indica-dominant strains like Purple Kush or Skywalker OG are great choices, as they help relax the body and alleviate head and neck tension. Alternatively, hybrids such as Harlequin offer a good balance of relaxation and mental clarity, which can also help reduce the intensity of tension headaches.

Q: How Much CBD Should You Take for Migraines?
A: The amount of CBD needed for migraine relief can vary depending on individual tolerance and the severity of the migraine. A common starting dose is 10-25 mg of CBD, and it can be gradually increased until you find the right dose for you. Many migraine sufferers report positive results with higher doses, up to 50 mg or more, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before adjusting your dosage.

References

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