Cannabis has been used for centuries to alleviate a wide variety of health conditions. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) both include symptoms of insomnia, irritability, depression, and joint pain. PMDD, as defined by The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders, is a cyclical, hormone-based disorder with symptoms arising during the premenstrual, or luteal phase, of the menstrual cycle and subsiding within a few days of menstruation.
About 80% of the menstruating population experiences some sort of PMS. Those who experience PMS are at a higher risk for developing major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders. Women and AFAB individuals who struggle with these emotional and physical symptoms each month often depend on antidepressants and other medications to manage. Menstruators with severe (pre)menstrual related conditions often go decades without answers to their health concerns, and current treatments such as synthetic hormones can exacerbate symptoms. Cannabis, in its many forms, has been shown to help with PMS and PMDD.
Terpenes for PMS Symptoms
For Cramps: Beta caryophyllene or pinene dominant strains such as Sour Diesel
For Fatigue: Pinene or limonene dominant strains, such as Super Lemon Haze or Blue Dream
For Moodiness: Linalool and limonene heavy strains, such as Lavender or Pink Kush
Cannabinoids
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid that acts as a muscle relaxant and anti-inflammatory. This helps relax the uterine muscles where cramps occur.
CBG, or cannabigerol, is the mother of all cannabinoids. It is antibacterial, antifungal, and aids in pain relief, sleep, gut health, and stress relief.
Product Highlight:
Avexia Strawberry Orange Cream 1:1 Tincture
Ingredients: 100 mg CBD, 100 mg THC
Serving size: 10 drops (0.5 mL)
A tincture is a mixture of a cannabis extract and a liquid that is administered orally or sublingually via a dropper. It is a great way for consumers to get inhalation-free relief.
Product Highlight:
Bits Yuzu Zone 1:1 Edibles
Bits Yuzu Zone gummies come as a 20 pack of 1:1 gummies with 5mg of THC and 5mg of CBG each. They also contain ginseng and reishi mushrooms, as well as ashwagandha for a natural boost of happiness.
*Both product suggestions are considered low dose. For our dispensary newbies and seasoned stoners alike, the budtenders at Leaf Haus always recommend having a cannabis journal to log how certain ways of consuming affect them.
Microdosing
Microdosing cannabis, in combination with healthy lifestyle choices, can also ease PMS and PMDD symptoms. The 1906 Chill drops are the perfect everyday dosage. With 7.5 mg Magnolia and 100 mg L-Theanine in each drop, the plant-based materials naturally provide a solution to stress. It is formulated with a ratio of 5 mg THC to 25 mg of CBD.
On the days you have an important meeting and just-so-happen to be starting the luteal phase of your cycle, the Bliss drops will be your best friend. Kanna, a traditional South African medicine, is known to improve mood and enhance the effects of cannabis. Customers love Bliss for its quick onset of only 20 minutes.
Sources
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2018.01969/full#B37
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1148&context=masters202029
https://womensmentalhealth.org/specialty-clinics-2/pms-and-pmdd/the-etiology-of-pmdd/
https://www.thinx.com/thinx/blogs/periodical/health/science-behind-cannabis-pms-helping-period-pain