How CBD Helps Soothe PMS
If you suffer from poor sleep, anxiety, depression, or chronic aches and pains, you may have considered using CBD to help treat your ailments. But before you reach for CBD oil or edibles (or whatever form it’s in), let’s understand CBD and how it can soothe PMS symptoms.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound in the Cannabis sativa plant. It belongs to a group of compounds known as cannabinoids. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce psychoactive effects or the feeling of being "high." This makes it a popular option for those seeking the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the mind-altering consequences.
CBD can be extracted from hemp or marijuana plants, although it is more commonly sourced from industrial hemp due to its lower THC content. It is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more. These products are often marketed as dietary supplements or used in medicinal applications.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters involved in regulating various physiological functions. CBD indirectly influences ECS receptors, particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the body.
By interacting with these receptors, CBD can modulate the release of neurotransmitters, reduce inflammation, and impact various bodily processes. CBD also affects other non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which affect mood regulation and pain perception. Research into CBD's potential benefits is ongoing, but it has shown promise in several areas.
How CBD Helps Soothe PMS
Below are some ways CBD can offer relief during PMS:
Pain Relief
CBD's analgesic properties help alleviate menstrual cramps and pelvic pain by reducing pain sensation and inflammation.
Mood Stabilization
CBD helps promote a sense of calmness and reduces anxiety, mood swings, and irritability by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain.
Hormonal Balance
CBD regulates hormonal fluctuations by interacting with the endocrine system. It promotes hormonal balance and potentially alleviates symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and acne.
Headache Relief
CBD's anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects help relieve headaches or migraines.
Sleep Improvement
CBD can aid in improving sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Digestive Comfort
Anti-inflammatory properties in CBD help alleviate gastrointestinal issues like bloating, constipation, and nausea.
Stress Reduction
CBD interacts with receptors in the ECS, alleviating overall stress and tension.
Know When To Take CBD With the Orchyd App
Tracking your menstrual cycle with the Orchyd app provides insight into when to take CBD for optimal relief. By noting your flow and recording symptoms like pain, mood swings, and bloating, you identify patterns and anticipate when symptoms will likely occur. This knowledge allows you to take CBD a few days before your expected symptoms arise, maximizing the benefits. By syncing CBD with your cycle, you address symptoms more effectively and have an overall better cycle.
What To Look Out For
When selecting, purchasing, and taking CBD, there are several factors to consider to ensure safety, quality, and effectiveness:
Source and Quality
Look for CBD products derived from organically grown hemp plants to minimize the risk of exposure to pesticides and contaminants. Third-party lab testing is essential to verify the product's potency and purity.
THC Content
Check the THC content in CBD products, especially if you want to avoid any psychoactive effects. In most countries, CBD products derived from hemp should contain less than 0.3% THC, ensuring they are non-intoxicating.
Extraction Method
Choose products made using safe and reliable extraction methods such as CO2 extraction, which ensures a clean and pure CBD extract.
Product Form and Delivery Method
Consider your preferences and desired effects when selecting a product form, such as oils, capsules, edibles, or topicals. Different delivery methods have varying onset times and durations, affecting how quickly and how long the CBD takes effect.
Dosage
Start with a low CBD dosage and gradually increase it as needed. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dosage for your specific needs.
Transparency and Labeling
Look for products with clear and accurate labeling, including CBD concentration, serving sizes, and any additional ingredients. Avoid products with vague or misleading claims.
Legal Considerations
Understand the legal status of CBD in your region. CBD laws can vary, so ensure compliance with local regulations to avoid legal issues.
Possible Drug Interactions
Consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you take other medications, as CBD can interact with certain drugs.
Adverse Effects
Be aware of potential side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
If you have any CBD questions, consult your doctor or use Orchyd MD™ in the Orchyd app. Orchyd MD™ connects users to a network of healthcare providers to chat privately and receive medical advice. Discuss your symptoms and get personalized professional advice about CBD. One visit costs $29, and no insurance is needed. Compared to the average co-pay, which can cost anywhere from $35 to $70, Orchyd MD™ is affordable, saves time, and helps you get the answers you need immediately.
Best CBD PMS Products
We know it is a lot to look out for, and it can be overwhelming to find the right product for you, and that is why we created the Orchyd Marketplace! The Orchyd Marketplace gathers verified brands offering unique and effective products that ease your cycle. Below are some of our favorite CBD products for soothing PMS symptoms.
RENEW Drops - NOON
Say yes to joy, feel-good vibes, and feeling fully balanced. RENEW is made of NOON's proprietary blend of Bacopa Monnieri, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Ginkgo Biloba Leaf extracts, enriched with pure CBD isolate to support immune health and neural function and elevate mood. The drops are water-soluble, so enjoy them with your favorite drink.
NOON drops use the whole plant and extract from organically sun-grown hemp native to Colorado. NOON uses CELLg8® Technology to enhance the absorption of their plant-based formulations, meaning you absorb more nutrients faster.
Period - The Good Patch
The Period patch has premium hemp, black cohosh, and black pepper extract. The Period patches are manufactured in the United States with premium quality hemp grown locally with organic practices. With the Good Patch, you get a sustained release of the ingredients over 8 - 12 hours. All you have to do is peel, stick, and go. When you're done, you just peel off the patch.
CBD Bath Soak - Not Pot
Not Pot has two bath soaks for you! Their CBD Muscle Soak is optimal post-workout, and their CBD Sleep Soak is the answer to restless, sleepless nights. Each bag contains three cups of bath soak for three heavenly baths.
Not Pot bath soaks contain 300 mg of sustainably sourced, hemp-derived CBD that’s USA grown, lab-tested, and gently extracted. The ingredients include CO2-extracted CBD, Epsom sea salt, dead sea salt, and peppermint or lavender essential oils, depending on the soak you select.
Cycle Duo - Xula
Cycle Duo is the perfect team to tackle both period cramps and PMS issues in two phases. Take the Happy Period drops for optimal cramp support on day one of your period. When your period ends, take Happy Hormones to encourage a better mood and find balance. Xula tests all their formulas with 3rd party labs to ensure efficacy, consistency, and safety. Click here to see their certificate of analysis.
