Every month, women across the globe face a natural phenomenon that brings with it a unique set of challenges – menstruation. From debilitating cramps to mood swings and hormonal imbalances, the menstrual cycle can be an emotionally and physically taxing experience for many. But what if there was a natural, alternative solution that could provide relief?
In this blog, we will embark on a journey through the intersection of cannabis and menstrual cycles. We will explore the limited but intriguing research on the subject, discover the potential of various cannabis strains, and delve into the historical use of cannabis in women's health. Through this exploration, we aim to provide insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis as a source of empowerment and relief for women during their monthly cycles. It's time to demystify the connection between cannabis and menstrual well-being, offering a new perspective on managing the challenges that accompany the natural rhythm of womanhood.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, is a versatile plant that has been used for various purposes for centuries. It contains over 100 different chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most prominent. These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a remarkable regulatory network found throughout the human body. Cannabis consumption, whether through smoking, vaping, or ingestion, introduces these cannabinoids into the body, influencing the ECS and thereby affecting various physiological processes.
Cannabis and the ECS
The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that play a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis. It consists of two primary types of receptors, known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the central nervous system, including the brain, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in the peripheral nervous system, immune cells, and other tissues. Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are naturally occurring compounds produced by the body that bind to these receptors.
When cannabinoids from cannabis enter the body, they can mimic the effects of endocannabinoids, leading to various physiological responses. THC, for instance, has a strong affinity for CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the characteristic psychoactive "high." This interaction influences mood, appetite, and pain perception. In contrast, CBD does not directly bind to these receptors but has a more indirect effect on the ECS. It can influence the endocannabinoid system in ways that promote balance and well-being, potentially reducing anxiety and mitigating inflammation. The complex interplay between cannabinoids, receptors, and the ECS offers a promising avenue for medical research and therapeutic applications, although more research is needed to fully comprehend these interactions and their potential benefits.
Cannabis and Menstrual Cycles
In recent years, the world of cannabis, often shrouded in myth and misconception, has started to unveil its secrets as an increasingly popular and legitimate avenue for alleviating menstrual discomfort. The idea of using cannabis to address menstrual issues is not entirely new; it has roots in history that date back centuries. However, as more states and countries embrace the legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational use, a fresh wave of scientific exploration is shedding light on the potential benefits it may offer to women navigating their menstrual cycles.
Can Cannabis Help with Period Cramps?
The relationship between cannabis and menstrual cramps remains a topic of interest, but federal restrictions on cannabis make scientific research challenging. Menstrual cramps are caused by inflammatory compounds called prostaglandins. While medications like ibuprofen help by reducing these compounds and inflammation, cannabis is also believed to have pain-relieving properties, partly through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. However, the exact mechanism of how cannabis alleviates menstrual pain is still unclear due to limited scientific data.
In 2015, a study conducted by researchers from the University of British Columbia explored the use of cannabis for menstrual pain relief. They surveyed 192 women, and the results were intriguing. An astounding 85 percent of these women reported using cannabis to alleviate menstrual pain, with nearly 90 percent stating that it was effective in reducing their discomfort. The most common methods of consumption among these participants were smoking and eating cannabis.
Cannabis Research and Gynecology
Gynecology, the medical field dedicated to women's health, addresses conditions affecting the female reproductive system, such as infections, cancers, infertility, incontinence, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Researchers are now investigating how cannabis might become a part of gynecological treatments:
Period Pain:
A questionnaire study found that around 84% of women experience period pain, with 43% reporting pain during every period. While controlled studies are still needed, qualitative studies suggest that cannabis may be effective in relieving period pain. Companies are already developing tampons containing THC and CBD.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
PMS encompasses a range of symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and irritability. Although few studies have directly examined cannabis's impact on PMS, ongoing research is investigating whether it can help with symptoms like insomnia, irritability, depression, and joint pain, which often overlap with PMS.
Endometriosis:
Endometriosis can cause pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, infertility, and excessive bleeding. A study involving 252 women reported that both inhaled and orally ingested cannabis had a positive impact on endometriosis symptoms, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms, pain, and mood. However, further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.
While more research is needed, there is already evidence that cannabis has the potential to help with symptoms of menstrual cycles.
E1011 Labs: Innovating Women's Wellness with Cannabis and CBD
In the realm of cannabis innovation, companies like us at E1011 Labs are at the forefront, pioneering the development of products that cater to women's wellness, especially during their menstrual cycles. With a commitment to enhancing the overall cannabis experience, we are embracing technology and convenience in a way that's both empowering and flower focused.
Convenience and technology meet with our stelo™ flower pods and elon® device. Our stelo are prefilled with full spectrum hemp flower and predosed with just the right amount for a session. We offer 10 count packs of stelo in resealable packaging so you can take them on the go and always be prepared for whatever the time of the month throws at you.
To use stelo, simply insert a flower pod arrow side down and wait for the elon device to heat up. The device’s innovative heat-not-burn technology quickly heats the flower to the optimal temperature so you can find relief within seconds. And for those worried about discreteness, the vapor produced by elon dissipates quickly and doesn’t stick to fabrics like traditional smoke.
While we offer a rainbow of flavors for our stelo, our staff has selected a few to highlight here for women’s wellness:
stelo™ Relief
The combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in stelo™ Relief make it ideal to use for discomforts during your period and any time of the month. Use the fruity scents and citrus flavors in Relief to transport yourself away from the heating pad to tropical vibes.
stelo™ Calm
Our stelo™ Calm is formulated to help keep you centered, even on the most emotional and irritable days. Experience the entourage effect as the chosen cannabinoids and terpenes work together to soothe your mind and body.
stelo™ Uplift
Use stelo™ Uplift when you need an extra boost right before, during, or after a menstrual cycle. Uplift’s unique flower blend is expertly crafted to encourage productivity and inspire creativity, even on days you feel down in the dumps or uninspired.
The marriage of innovation and women's wellness that E1011 Labs embodies is emblematic of the evolution in the cannabis industry. It's not only about providing relief and comfort during challenging menstrual cycles but also about doing so in a way that aligns with contemporary cannabis values. E1011 Labs offers a promising glimpse into the future of cannabis products, where wellness and convenience harmonize to empower women in their pursuit of well-being.
