The period. A monthly recurring nightmare for many women, as it is associated with cramp-like pain, mood swings, hot flushes, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, cravings, breast tenderness, skin blemishes and irritability. For some, menstruation can therefore become a real stress test. But what if there was a natural alternative that could help through this unpleasant time without having to constantly rely on ibuprofen and the like, which put even more strain on the body? This is where CBD comes into play. CBD, or cannabidiol, has received a lot of attention in recent years as a natural active ingredient for relieving various ailments - and not without reason. This is because CBD has a whole range of potential benefits that could also help treat menstrual cramps. Let's take a closer look at the benefits
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Menstrual pain is a familiar phenomenon for most women. During menstruation, the uterus contracts like a cramp, which can lead to abdominal pain, circulatory problems and nausea. Around 10 out of 100 women, mainly young women, suffer from such severe symptoms (dysmenorrhea) that they interfere with their everyday lives [1]. Constantly taking painkillers can also very quickly become an additional burden. Thanks to its pain-relieving properties, CBD could be a natural alternative that is gentler on the body. Dr. Gudrun Lorenz-Eberhardt is a specialist in gynaecology and obstetrics in Graz and is one of the doctors who recommend CBD as a natural alternative to painkillers. She explains: "I myself conducted an observational study with 30 test subjects. The women put CBD oil either under their tongue or directly on the tampon. The feedback was consistently positive. Of course, every woman has to try it out for herself to see if it works for her." [2]
Studies have also shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help to reduce the intensity of cramps and relax the muscles [3].
Mood swings are another common symptom during periods and CBD could also provide relief here. CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood and emotions. CBD can help to keep you physically and emotionally calm during mood swings and noticeably increase your sense of well-being. Before and during menstruation, a possible serotonin deficiency can put the body into a low mood, which can promote depression and anxiety. CBD can be supportive here thanks to its anxiolytic effect.
During your period or immediately before it, skin impurities can be an additional burden. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD could counteract this and give you a better complexion [4].
There are various ways to use CBD. Some women find relief by taking CBD oil, either sublingually (under the tongue) or in capsule form. Others prefer topical applications such as CBD creams or ointments, which can be applied directly to the affected areas to provide localized relief.
It's worth noting, however, that everyone's body is different and what works for one woman may not work for another. But for many women, CBD could be a natural and effective alternative to conventional painkillers and medications. Listen to your gut and feel free to consult your gynecologist.
An important point is that you should pay attention to the quality of CBD products. Not all CBD products are the same, and there are many inferior products on the market. Make sure you buy CBD from trustworthy manufacturers who have their products tested for purity and quality.
Overall, CBD offers a promising way to relieve menstrual cramps in a natural way. Instead of putting extra strain on the body with painkillers, CBD could be a gentler and more holistic alternative - and maybe even one that helps you feel a little better during your period. So, why not give it a try and see if CBD could help you too?
[1] IQWiG (2019) Menstrual pain. Retrieved 5/25/2022 from www.gesundheitsinformation.de
[2] https://www.vice.com/de/article/a3p9w8/frauen-erzahlen-wie-sie-mit-cbd-gras-ihre-menstruationsbeschwerden-in-den-griff-bekommen
[3] Russo, E. (2008). Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. 4(1): 245-259. Downloaded April 09, 2020.
[4] Bruni, N. et al. (2018). Cannabinoid Delivery Systems for Pain and Inflammation Treatment. 23(10): 2478. Download from April 09, 2020.