CBG for Migraines: What the Research Shows

Migraines are more than bad headaches. They can be completely debilitating — forcing people into dark rooms for hours or even days. Finding effective relief is a real priority for millions of people worldwide.

Interest in CBG for migraines is growing. Some people are exploring cannabinoids as part of a broader approach to managing migraine frequency and pain. Research into cannabis and migraines is still at an early stage, but what we have so far is worth understanding.

This article explains what CBG is, what the current research says, and what it cannot tell us yet.

What Are Migraines?

A migraine is not simply a severe headache. It is a neurological condition that can cause intense pulsing or throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound commonly accompany it.

Many people experience an aura before the headache begins. Auras can include visual disturbances — blind spots, flashing lights, or zigzag patterns. Some people experience tingling in the face or hands. These symptoms serve as warning signs that an attack is coming.

Migraines typically progress through four stages: prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome.

The causes of migraines are not fully understood. Both genetic and environmental factors appear to play a role. Common triggers include:

• Hormonal changes — Many women notice migraines linked to fluctuations in oestrogen, including before or during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Stress — One of the most frequently reported migraine triggers.
• Alcohol — Likely linked to dehydration as a secondary mechanism.
• Sensory stimuli — Bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells.
• Sleep disruption — Too little or too much sleep can both increase frequency.
• Weather changes — Shifts in barometric pressure are a known trigger.
• Diet — Aged cheeses, processed foods, MSG, and aspartame have been linked to attacks in some people.
• Certain medications — Including oral contraceptives and vasodilators.

Keeping a migraine diary can help identify personal triggers. Lifestyle changes around sleep, diet, and stress management may reduce frequency for some people.

What Is CBG?

Cannabigerol — CBG — is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is present only in trace amounts in most cannabis strains.

CBG is sometimes called the “mother of all cannabinoids.” This is because cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is the chemical precursor from which THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are synthesised as the plant matures.

Unlike THC, CBG is non-intoxicating. It does not produce a psychoactive effect.

Research into CBG is still limited compared to CBD and THC. However, early findings suggest several areas of potential interest:

• Pain and inflammation — A 2021 study found that CBG demonstrated pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical models.
• Anxiety — A survey of CBG users found that a majority reported significant anxiety relief from CBG-predominant cannabis products.
• Eye pressure — Cannabinoids including CBG have been studied for potential effects on intraocular pressure.
• Cardiovascular effects — A mouse study found CBG was associated with reduced blood pressure, though this requires further research in humans.

All of these findings are preliminary. More research is needed before any clinical conclusions can be drawn about CBG’s effects in humans.

What Does the Research Say About CBG and Migraines?

Research specifically on CBG and migraines is limited. However, broader research on medical cannabis and migraines does exist — and it includes cannabinoids such as CBG.

One study on medical cannabis found that migraine patients reported a significant reduction in migraine frequency after using cannabis-based products. Patients also reported less intense headache pain and improved sleep quality.

Researchers have proposed a possible mechanism. Endocannabinoids — cannabinoids produced naturally in the body — appear to have an inhibitory effect on serotonin receptors that modulate pain signals. THC and other plant-derived cannabinoids may interact with similar pathways.

Whether CBG specifically contributes to this effect, and to what degree, is not yet established. Studies on cannabis and migraines typically use full-spectrum or broad-spectrum preparations. Isolating CBG’s individual contribution requires dedicated research that does not yet exist at scale.

More research is needed before we can make any firm statements about CBG for migraines specifically.

How CBG May Support Migraine Management

Based on what we currently know, there are two possible ways CBG could be relevant to migraines.

Pain relief during an attack. CBG has shown anti-inflammatory and pain-modulating properties in preclinical research. If these translate to humans, CBG may help reduce the intensity of migraine pain during an attack. This has not been confirmed in clinical trials.

Reducing common triggers. Stress and poor sleep are among the most common migraine triggers. CBG, along with CBD, has been associated with potential anxiolytic and sleep-supportive effects in some research. Addressing these triggers may help reduce the frequency of attacks for some people — though individual results vary and this is not guaranteed.

Neither of these mechanisms has been confirmed in human clinical trials specifically focused on migraines and CBG.

CBG Products That May Be Worth Exploring

If you are interested in trying CBG as part of your approach to migraine management, two products from Canna Health Amsterdam are worth considering:

Canna Health Amsterdam 15% Full Spectrum CBD CBG Oil — A full-spectrum oil combining CBD and CBG. Full-spectrum products include a range of cannabinoids that may work together through the entourage effect. Easy to use and consistent in dosing.

Canna Health Amsterdam CBD CBG Massage Oil — Contains CBD, CBG, argan oil, camphor, and mint. Apply a small amount to the back of the neck and temples. Some people find topical application during an attack provides localised comfort.

For best results, use CBG products consistently over several weeks. Like many supplements, cannabinoids may take time to build up before effects become noticeable.

Always speak with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before changing your current migraine treatment plan. CBG products are not medications and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Conclusion

CBG for migraines is an area of genuine scientific interest, but one where the evidence is still developing. Preclinical research suggests CBG has anti-inflammatory and pain-modulating properties. Broader cannabis research points to potential benefits for migraine frequency and pain intensity.

However, dedicated clinical trials on CBG and migraines in humans do not yet exist. Any claims beyond “this is being researched” go further than the current evidence supports.

If you are managing migraines, speak with a healthcare professional. CBG may be worth discussing as a complementary option — but it should not replace proven treatments.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. We review and reference available studies and reputable sources; however, content may not reflect the most current research or regulations and should not be taken as medical, legal, or professional advice. We do not make or imply health claims. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and statements have not been evaluated by EFSA or the FDA. Effects can vary between individuals. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before use and verify that any product or ingredient is lawful in your jurisdiction.