CBD is touted as being the magical fix-all for everything these days, from acne to anxiety. But while there is still a lot of research that needs to be done, there are a handful of studies that prove certain reports (like the claims that CBD is anti-inflammatory) are true.
This is great news for people with periods, especially the kind that leave you curled up in a ball on the couch for a few days every month. The struggle is freaking real…
Could CBD really be the perfect answer to the fiery knives inside your uterus every month? If you are part of the “can’t get off the couch during *that* time of the month because CRAMPS crew” you’re going to want to keep scrolling.
We’re diving into all the ways that you can use CBD to support your period cramps below.
Why Do We Get Period Cramps, Anyway?
Even though menstrual cycles are a really beautiful part of life, they can come with a fair share of pain and discomfort. Sometimes, they even interfere with everyday life, like school, work or time with family + friends. Cramps can range from mildly annoying, to absolutely debilitating, and basically no one enjoys having them.
When you’re curled-up around your pillow because you are in so much pain, it might help to get your mind off of it and remember that there’s some crazy science at play!
To help you understand a little more about the science behind period cramps, here’s a quick rundown on why people experience bloating, pain and aching during their menstrual cycles:
Once a month, your body realizes it’s not going to be hosting a baby, so your uterus contracts in order to shed the uterine lining. The naturally-produced chemicals your body creates, called prostaglandins, trigger these contractions, which is what causes the pain and cramping sensation. (Higher levels of prostaglandins = higher levels of pain.)
It’s important to note that there are some severe complications that might be making your cramps worse, so it’s important that you talk to your doctor or gyno if you’re in serious pain every month.
Many people resort to popping ibuprofen to help them survive the worst of their cramps each month. NSAIDs supposedly work by blocking the production of prostaglandins. This isn’t really a sustainable option, though. NSAIDS come with a whole host of potential side effects, especially when they’re taken consistently.
Because of this, people everywhere are turning to more natural methods of pain relief for menstrual cramps. We’re big fans of using CBD to support our periods around here, so we thought we’d share a few ways that you can incorporate this natural compound into your wellness routine when Aunt Flo is in town. 🩸
How to Use CBD for Painful Menstrual Cramps
If you experience painful menstrual cramps, you’ve probably tried just about everything; heating pads, Midol, Chinese herbs, THC (where legal, obviously) acupuncture… maybe even witchcraft? But the hottest new PMS solution out there? It’s looking promising in the CBD department.
Here’s are a few ways to use CBD for period cramps:
Take a Warm CBD Bath
It’s common knowledge: heat is a great way to get cramping muscles to chill. A warm bath helps increase blood flow to your uterus, which in turn encourages your uterine muscles to relax.
Adding CBD to your warm bath effectively doubles down on the comfort. Your CBD can be rubbed into your abdomen right before your bath, or added to the water so you can soak in it while you float. You can also add a dropper-full of CBD to your favorite bath salts, if you’re feeling like treating yourself. 👑
(FYI: We think you should always feel like treating yourself.)
Plop some CBD oil or CBD bath salts to your tub, light your favorite candle, and queue up a relaxing playlist on Spotify. You can thank us later...
Add CBD to Your Morning Drink
When you’re on your period, self-care should be top priority. Whether it’s an iced matcha, a blueberry smoothie, or a warm green tea, chances are you’ve got a go-to drink to get your morning started. Adding a few drops of CBD to your daily drink is a great way to alleviate painful cramps and get your daily dose of caffeine at the same time.
Some research even indicates that CBD oil can help enhance the benefits of CBD (like alertness and clarity) while reducing the sometimes-negative side effects of caffeine (like jitters and anxiety). When you’re on your period, the last thing you need is to feel jittery and anxious. If this happens to you after your daily caffeine boost, you might benefit from adding CBD to your coffee!
Rub In Some CBD
We think CBD tinctures taste pretty darn good. But, if you’re not a huge fan of taking your CBD for period cramps orally, rubbing it on sore body parts works ✨wonders✨ too.
Applying CBD topically to the inflamed muscles of your abdomen is a great way to reduce pain during your period. Bonus points if you rub CBD in and then place a heating pad or hot pack on top. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD mixed with the warmth of the pad should have you feeling right as rain in less time than it takes you to find a new show to watch on Netflix.
You can also rub CBD on your lower back and hips, since many people report experiencing pain there during their menstrual cycle as well.
When it comes to taking CBD for period cramps, it won’t completely erase your pain, but it should offer some calming comfort and make it so that you can go about your day–or at least be able to crawl out of bed.
Whip Up Some Chocolate CBD Brownies
We get it; you probably don’t want to spend a ton of time on your feet standing in the kitchen.
BUT.
What if we told you it’s possible to treat your period cramps and satisfy your chocolate cravings at the same time? Totally possible with some CBD brownie. When you’re on your period, your body craves magnesium. This is where the chocolate comes in. So, next time you’re at the store, stock up on some extra brownie mixes. You’ll definitely be glad to have them next month.
As far as adding CBD to brownie, the amount is up to you. We typically add 2 full droppers to each mix. Just remember: high heat can reduce CBD’s effectiveness, so try to pick a brownie recipe that bakes at 350°F or less.
One Last Thing...
They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Honestly, we respectfully disagree. We think cannabinoids are a girl’s best friend. CBD–to be specific. Especially during THAT time of the month.
But even though we swear by CBD for period cramps, we encourage you to do your own research. Talk to your doctor, your gyno, or your trusted healthcare professional if you’re struggling with cramps each month. Even though it’s frustrating, it’s helpful to know that you’re not alone.
Head over to our Instagram to join our community of self-care, CBD-loving babes!
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