Did you know that Ayurveda has a long history of cannabis use, dating right back to 5,000 years ago? One of world’s oldest holistic medical treatment systems to originate in India, Ayurveda is a strong advocate of the therapeutic use of the cannabis plant. In fact, the Atharva Veda goes as far as calling it one of the five most sacred plants on Earth.
What makes the cannabis plant so special?
It is fascinating to know that this plant has been lauded for medicinal purposes by emperors, warriors, and commoners throughout history. Historically, it has been used to aid various issues including,
- Digestion
- Diseases of the nervous system
- Ailments such as spasms, convulsions, malaria, rheumatism
- Provide relief from pain
This brings us to the vast therapeutic effects of cannabis for period pain. Persian texts dating back to the 9th century cite the use of cannabis to “calm uterine pains”. Likewise, in ancient China, it was prescribed to treat various maladies related to menstrual disorders. Medically known as dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps cause varying degrees of discomfort and pain for most women around the world. During menstruation, the body releases inflammatory compounds called prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing debilitating pain. The higher the level of prostaglandins, the more severe the cramps.
In modern medicine or Allopathy, the go-to treatment for period pain is often over the counter pain killers. These medicines provide relief by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandins, and while this method can curb the pain, it could entail several side effects in the long run. Pain killers can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and sweating, among other things. Continued use over the years can weaken the immune system and reduce the overall tolerance level of women.
Taking the natural route
With more women taking their health seriously and wanting to improve their well-being holistically, Ayurveda is fast gaining popularity. These are tried and tested treatments from our rich cultural heritage that are passed down through generations. In fact, the widely trusted ‘dadi ke nuskhe’ are also deeply rooted in Ayurveda.
An increasing number of women are keen on adopting natural ways to deal with their cramps, rather than popping allopathic pills each month. Responsible usage of medicinal cannabis is an effective Ayurvedic alternative treatment for period pain. A study conducted by the University of British Columbia revealed that 85% of the women surveyed had used cannabis for menstrual pain, and 90% of them said it was effective in relieving their pain. These numbers definitely look promising.
But how does medicinal cannabis work?
Unlike most allopathic medicines, it does not interfere with the release of prostaglandins. Rather, medicinal cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the effect of compounds such as prostaglandins. Additionally, it releases a chemical called dopamine – a feel-good neurotransmitter – in the brain. This chemical is vital to a person’s well-being, motor functioning, mood and emotions, physiological functioning, stress response, blood flow, and period pain processing.
Relief from menstrual cramps is just one of the many benefits of medicinal cannabis. This natural remedy has proven to help patients suffering from inflammatory joint disorders, neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and even act as an antiemetic to reduce nausea and vomiting in those undergoing chemotherapy.
Due to its many advantages, there is now increased attention on how this plant can play a crucial role in the overall well-being during a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. To learn more about how it can help you, reach out to the professionals at Hempstreet and bid adieu to painful cramps with the profound qualities of one of Ayurveda’s most significant plants.
Sources:
https://www.himalayanhemp.in/post/the-ayurvedic-view-on-cannabis
https://www.healthline.com/health/dopamine-effects#definition
https://helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/can-weed-help-in-the-relief-of-menstrual-pain
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/complementary-and-alternative-medicine/marijuana-and-cancer.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/marijuana-and-epilepsy
