As women, it’s critical that we feel comfortable and empowered, especially when it comes to understanding and managing our bodies. One aspect of our physical health that often gets overlooked is menstrual health.
Enter the unexpected hero — weed. Yes, you heard that right.
Weed and periods might seem like an odd combo, but there’s actually more to it than meets the eye.
Contrary to popular belief, using weed during your period isn’t about getting high or escaping reality. Instead, it’s about leveraging the natural properties of cannabis to help alleviate some of the discomforts that come with menstruation.
In this article, we’re going to unpack 8 surprising benefits of using weed during your period. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or a curious newbie, this guide will shed some light on how weed can make your period a less daunting affair.
1) Alleviates menstrual pain
The most notable benefit that I’ve observed from using weed during periods is its effectiveness in alleviating menstrual pain.
For many, this point alone can be a game-changer.
The active components of weed, particularly cannabinoids like THC and CBD, have been widely recognized for their analgesic properties.
What does this mean?
Simply put, they work within the body to reduce the perception of pain. During menstruation, this can make a significant difference in managing discomfort and cramps.
Not just an immediate relief, using weed for pain management during your period can transform your experience over time, making each cycle more bearable.
This can significantly improve your quality of life, especially if you have been grappling with severe menstrual pain for years. It’s a relief that goes beyond the physical, impacting your emotional well-being as well.
For me, witnessing this transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
2) Eases mood swings
Let’s face it, periods can make us feel like we’re on an emotional roller coaster.
You know, it’s like one minute you’re laughing at a cat video, and the next you’re sobbing because your favorite character didn’t end up with the person you were rooting for.
Sounds familiar?
Well, then this is where weed comes in.
Certain strains of cannabis are known for their mood-stabilizing effects. They can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
The thing is that cannabinoids in weed interact with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies, which plays a significant role in regulating our mood and emotional response.
And the best part?
This interaction can help stabilize mood fluctuations, reducing feelings of anxiety, irritability, or depression that often accompany menstruation.
The potential of weed to ease mood swings offers a holistic approach to menstrual wellness, addressing not just physical but also emotional aspects of this monthly cycle.
This can be particularly beneficial if you’ve been finding it challenging to manage your moods during your period.
3) Enhances sleep quality
Following on from mood regulation, an often-underestimated benefit of using weed during your period is its potential to enhance sleep quality.
Surprising, isn’t it?
Well, let’s delve a bit deeper.
Menstrual discomfort and hormonal fluctuations can interfere with your sleep cycle, leading to restless nights. However, certain strains of weed, particularly those high in CBD, have been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep.
This means that by incorporating weed into your menstrual wellness routine, you could enhance not only your daytime mood but also your nighttime rest.
Now, imagine getting a good night’s sleep during your period. That would be a game-changer, wouldn’t it?
This is a tangible benefit that could significantly improve your overall well-being during menstruation.
4) Reduces inflammation
Have you ever wondered why menstrual cramps can be so painful?
Well, the answer lies in inflammation.
During your period, the release of certain compounds called prostaglandins triggers inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort.
But here’s the surprising benefit – weed has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Cannabinoids like CBD and THC have been shown to reduce inflammation, offering relief from painful menstrual cramps.
Therefore, using weed during your period could help regulate this inflammatory response, potentially reducing the severity of cramps.
So, while it may seem counterintuitive, using weed during your period could actually provide an effective, natural means of managing inflammation and associated pain.
5) Appetite regulation
We’ve all heard of the infamous “munchies” associated with cannabis use.
So, it might be surprising to hear that weed could actually help regulate your appetite during your period.
During menstruation, hormonal fluctuations can sometimes lead to intense food cravings or overeating.
However, certain strains of cannabis, particularly those high in the compound THCV, have been found to suppress appetite rather than stimulate it.
So while it might seem like reaching for weed would have you raiding the snack cupboard, the reality could be quite different.
In fact, it could help you maintain a balanced diet during your period, helping you feel more in control and less subject to the whims of your hormonal shifts.
6) Lessens bloating
We’ve all been there.
It’s the first day of your period and you feel like a balloon about to pop.
Bloating is a common, yet uncomfortable, symptom of menstruation that can make you feel sluggish and self-conscious.
Here’s where weed can lend a hand.
Cannabis is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When you consume weed during your period, it can help reduce inflammation and, in turn, lessen the severity of bloating.
No one should have to feel uncomfortable in their own body, especially not because of a natural process like menstruation.
While weed isn’t a magic potion that’ll completely eliminate bloating, it might help take the edge off and make your period a little more bearable.
7) Promotes a sense of calm
As I’ve observed and experienced, using weed during your period can promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
Menstruation can be a stressful time for many, with physical discomfort often accompanied by emotional and psychological stress. This is where weed steps in.
The cannabinoids present in weed, particularly CBD, are known for their calming effects. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, helping to regulate stress responses and promote a state of calm.
Think of it as a natural stress reliever during your period, promoting a sense of tranquility amidst the typical menstrual chaos.
Let’s not underestimate the power of this calmness.
It’s much more than just feeling relaxed; it’s about taking control of your menstrual experience. And trust me, it makes a world of difference.
8) Improves overall well-being
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, regularly using weed during your period can significantly improve your overall well-being.
When dealing with menstrual discomfort, pain, and mood swings, it’s easy to overlook the broader impact on your overall sense of wellness.
Here’s what using weed can do:
- Provide relief from physical discomfort
- Improve mood stability
- Enhance sleep quality
- Reduce inflammation
These benefits add up to a significant improvement in your quality of life during menstruation. It’s not just about alleviating individual symptoms but also about holistic well-being.
In essence, using weed during your period could help transform a typically uncomfortable time into a more manageable and even comfortable experience.
What’s next in your wellness journey?
Now that we’ve delved into the benefits of using weed during your period, it’s time to think about the next steps.
- Research: Start by doing more in-depth research on the topic. Understand the different strains of weed and their specific effects.
- Consultation: Talk to a healthcare professional or a cannabis expert to get personalized advice based on your health history and needs.
- Experimentation: Experiment with different strains, dosages, and consumption methods to find what works best for you.
By incorporating weed into your menstrual wellness routine, you’re stepping towards a more balanced and holistic approach to personal health. It’s about making informed choices that best serve your body and well-being.
Take some time to reflect on this new insight.
Consider how it could fit into your wellness routine and potentially transform your menstrual experience.
After all, wellness is a lifelong commitment to exploring and understanding what makes us feel our best.
