If you are one of the many women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), you know how frustrating and debilitating it can be.
PMS is a complex condition that involves physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that occur before and during your menstrual cycle. Some of the common symptoms of PMS include:
- Cramps
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
Menstrual cramps are typically common, with approximately 75% of women experiencing cramps during their periods “Medical News Today”
While there is no definitive cure for PMS, some treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and distress. One of the natural remedies that has gained popularity in recent years is cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from the cannabis plant.
CBD for PMS is not psychoactive, meaning it does not make you high, unlike its cousin tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors and molecules that regulates various functions in the body, such as pain, inflammation, mood, sleep, and immune response.
But how exactly can CBD for PMS help with ? Here are some of the potential benefits of CBD for PMS, based on scientific evidence and anecdotal reports.
CBD for cramps
One of the most common and painful symptoms of PMS is cramps, which are caused by the contraction of the uterus to shed its lining.
Cramps can range from mild to severe, and can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life. CBD may help reduce cramps by relaxing the muscles and nerves in the pelvic area, as well as lowering inflammation and sensitivity to pain.
A study in 2019 found that CBD could inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme that produces inflammatory prostaglandins, which are responsible for cramps and other PMS symptoms..
CBD for mood swings
Another common symptom of PMS is mood swings, which can make you feel irritable, angry, sad, or anxious for no apparent reason. Mood swings are influenced by the hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, especially the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels.
CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can potentially treat headaches, backaches, and other PMS symptoms.(MoodyHealth)
CBD may help balance mood swings by modulating the activity of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, emotion, and stress.
CBD can act as a serotonin receptor agonist, meaning it can enhance the effects of serotonin in the brain.
CBD may also help reduce anxiety and depression, which are often associated with PMS, by activating the ECS and other brain regions involved in emotional processing.
CBD for insomnia
Insomnia, or difficulty falling or staying asleep, is another symptom that can affect women with PMS. Insomnia can worsen other PMS symptoms, such as fatigue, mood swings, and pain, and can impair your cognitive and physical performance.
CBD may help improve sleep quality and duration by reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation, which are common causes of insomnia. CBD may also regulate the circadian rhythm, which is the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, by influencing the production of melatonin, a hormone that controls sleepiness and alertness.
CBD for acne
Acne, or the inflammation of the skin glands and hair follicles, is another symptom that can affect women with PMS. Acne is triggered by the increase in androgen hormones, such as testosterone, which stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance that clogs the pores and causes pimples.
CBD may help prevent and treat acne by reducing sebum production, inflammation, and bacterial growth. A study in 2014 found that CBD could inhibit the activity of sebocytes, the cells that produce sebum, and exert anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects on the skin.
CBD for breast tenderness
Breast tenderness, or the swelling and soreness of the breasts, is another symptom that can affect women with PMS. Breast tenderness is caused by the increase in estrogen and progesterone levels, which stimulate the growth of the breast tissue and the retention of fluid. CBD may help relieve breast tenderness by reducing inflammation, pain, and fluid retention. CBD can also modulate the activity of estrogen receptors, which may help balance the hormonal levels and prevent excessive breast stimulation .
How to use CBD for PMS
If you are interested in trying CBD for PMS, there are several factors to consider, such as the dosage, the method of administration, the quality, and the safety of the product.
Here are some tips to help you use CBD for PMS effectively and safely:
Dosage: There is no universal dosage for CBD, as it depends on various factors, such as your weight, metabolism, tolerance, and severity of symptoms. The best way to find your optimal dosage is to start low and go slow, meaning you start with a small amount and gradually increase it until you find the dose that works for you. A general guideline is to take 1-6 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, depending on your desired effects .
Method of administration: There are different ways to consume CBD, such as oils, capsules, gummies, vapes, creams, and suppositories. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as the onset, duration, and bioavailability of the effects. The most common and convenient way to take CBD for PMS is to use oils or capsules, which can be taken orally or sublingually (under the tongue).
Oils and capsules can take 15-60 minutes to kick in and last for 4-6 hours. Another option is to use gummies, which are edible products that contain CBD and other ingredients, such as sugar, flavors, and colors. Gummies can take 30-90 minutes to kick in and last for 6-8 hours. Another option is to use vapes, which are devices that heat and vaporize CBD, allowing you to inhale it. Vapes can take 5-10 minutes to kick in and last for 2-4 hours.
Another option is to use creams, which are topical products that contain CBD and other ingredients, such as oils, waxes, and herbs. Creams can be applied directly to the affected area, such as the lower abdomen, back, or breasts, and can take 10-20 minutes to kick in and last for 3-4 hours.
Another option is to use suppositories, which are solid or semi-solid products that contain CBD and other ingredients, such as cocoa butter or coconut oil. Suppositories can be inserted into the vagina or rectum and can take 10-15 minutes to kick in and last for 6-8 hours.
Quality: Not all CBD products are created equal, as there are different types, sources, and extraction methods of CBD. The most common types of CBD are full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate.
Full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC. Broad-spectrum CBD contains all the compounds except THC. Isolate CBD contains only CBD and no other compounds.
The type of CBD for PMS you choose depends on your personal preference and the legal status of THC in your area. The source and extraction method of CBD also affect the quality and purity of the product.
The best source of CBD is organic hemp, which is a variety of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC and is legal in most countries.
To ensure the quality and safety of the CBD product you buy, you should look for third-party lab reports, which are certificates that verify the content, potency, and purity of the product.
– Safety: CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, but it can still cause some side effects and interactions with other medications.
Some of the possible side effects of CBD include:
Some of the possible interactions of CBD with other medications include:
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Anticoagulants
- Anticonvulsants
- Opioids
- NSAIDs
To avoid or minimize these side effects and interactions, you should consult your doctor before using CBD for PMS , especially if you have a medical condition or take any medications. You should also monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage accordingly.
You should also avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing any tasks that require alertness or coordination while using CBD for PMS.
Conclusion
CBD is a natural compound that may offer some relief for women who suffer from PMS. CBD may help reduce cramps, mood swings, insomnia, acne, and breast tenderness by interacting with the ECS and other systems in the body. CBD for PMS is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it can still cause some side effects and interactions with other medications. Therefore, you should consult your doctor before using CBD for PMS , especially if you have a medical condition or take any medications.
You should also choose a high-quality CBD for PMS product that suits your needs and preferences. You should also start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the dose that works for you. You should also monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage accordingly.
FAQs
What is CBD and how can it help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound derived from cannabis that has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties. It can help relieve PMS symptoms, such as cramps and mood swings, by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
How does CBD work to reduce menstrual cramps?
CBD may help reduce menstrual cramps by interacting with specific receptors in the nervous system and muscle tissues. This can lead to a reduction in pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
Can CBD Help Stabilize Mood Swings During PMS?
Yes, CBD can help stabilize mood swings during PMS by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin. This can help improve mood and reduce irritability and anxiety associated with PMS.
Are there any side effects associated with using CBD for PMS?
Although CBD is generally considered safe, some people may experience mild side effects such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or diarrhea. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting to use CBD for PMS, especially if you are taking other medications.
What is the best way to consume CBD for PMS?
How to consume CBD for PMS can vary depending on personal preference and convenience. Some options include sublingual oils, capsules, edibles, topicals, and vaping. It’s important to experiment with different forms and dosages to find what works best for you.
What is the recommended dosage of CBD to relieve PMS symptoms?
CBD for PMS dosage may vary depending on factors such as body weight, individual tolerance, and severity of symptoms. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. It is important to consult with a doctor or health professional to determine the appropriate dosage for you.
