Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG) are two important compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant, both renowned for their therapeutic potential. A growing body of research suggests that these two non-intoxicating cannabinoids can work in tandem to help reduce pain and inflammation, providing a natural alternative to traditional painkillers.
This is revolutionary for people who menstruate, because for too long the options for brief relief have been NSAIDs, hormones, and opioids—why should we have to take such unnatural things for something that is naturally occurring?
This article will delve into the scientific mechanisms underlying the workings of CBD and CBG and their help in pain and inflammation management generally and in period health.
Understanding CBD and CBG
Cannabis sativa, aka the weed plant, is home to more than a hundred cannabinoids, with the majority of ‘buzz’ around its psychoactive compound Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is important to know that the word ‘psychoactive’ simply means a compound that affects the way the brain works. So, to that point, THC, CBD and CBG are all psychoactive components. However, CBD and CBGdo not produce the "high" associated with weed.
Many folks reach for CBD thanks to its unique ability to alleviate various ailments, including chronic pain, anxiety, and seizures. It functions by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the body, a complex cell-signaling system that plays a key role in maintaining physiological homeostasis.
CBG, while a little less discussed, is no less significant. In the weed plant's early life stages, CBG is abundant, and as the plant grows and matures, the majority of CBG is converted into other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, making it a minor component in mature plants. Despite its low concentration, research suggests that CBG has potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective effects.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and Cannabinoid Receptors
To properly appreciate CBD and CBG’s goodness, we have to do a quick run-through of the ECS. This incredibly vital system is involved in various physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.
The ECS, which occurs in the reproductive organs of women and those assigned female at birth, consists of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Cannabinoid receptors are located on the surface of cells and “listen” to conditions outside the cell and transmit information about changing conditions to the cell's interior called a cellular response.
Read more: Can Having Sex Make Your Period Start and Vagina Pain During Period
The Entourage Effect
Cannabinoids are believed to be more effective when used together, a phenomenon known as the "entourage effect." While CBD and CBG can independently influence the ECS and help manage pain and inflammation, their combined use produces a synergistic effect, which can be particularly beneficial for period pain. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of these cannabinoids may provide an effective natural treatment for menstrual discomfort.
CBD and CBG can be effective natural remedies for managing the discomfort and pain associated with menstrual periods. Menstrual cramps are often caused by the release of hormones called prostaglandins that trigger inflammation and uterine contractions. Here's how CBD and CBG can play a role in alleviating these symptoms:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation plays a critical role in period pain, and CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. By interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, CBD can reduce the release and effect of pro-inflammatory substances during menstruation. Similarly, CBG has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce the production of inflammatory markers, which could be beneficial in managing the inflammation-induced pain experienced during periods.
Pain Relief: CBD can interact with various neurotransmitters and modulate the pain perception pathways in the central nervous system. It inhibits the absorption of anandamide, a natural cannabinoid molecule associated with pain regulation. Higher levels of anandamide in the bloodstream can lessen the perception of pain.CBG is known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. It works by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. These receptors play a key role in pain regulation, and their activation can help alleviate period pain.
Muscle Relaxation: CBD has been shown to have muscle relaxant properties, which can be beneficial in alleviating the muscle contractions and cramps that occur during menstruation.
Mood Regulation: CBG can aid in regulating mood, acting as an antidepressant and anxiolytic, helping to manage mood swings and anxiety that can often accompany periods.
Conclusion
The therapeutic potential of CBD and CBG, particularly in reducing pain and inflammation, for periods is increasingly recognized in the scientific community. This all matters because we are on a mission at AIMA to revolutionize period health and pain. Through science-backed research, we created OVY RELIEF, a vaginal suppository that delivers high doses of CBD and CBG for you to enjoy up to 8 hours of a “thank goodness I can't believe I've lived without this” type of relief. Shop here!