Premenstrual Syndrome

One of the most famous historical examples of medical cannabis use comes from the late 19th century when respected British physician, John R. Reynolds, precriped cannabis concoction to ease Queen Victoria's menstrual pain.

This tradition has seen a comeback in the 21st cenury – at least in some parts of the world. For example, when you go see a “medical marijuana doctor” in California with severe menstrual pain, he or she will likely recommend cannabis in addition to pharmaceuticals – and perhaps cannabis on its own.

What Science Has to Say

The fact than cannabis helps to relieve pain is widely known. In addition, THC can suppress nausea and increase appetite, while CBD alleviates anxiety and possesses anti-inflammatory effects – all of this may mitigate convulsion, headache, depression and anxiety associated with PMS and PMDD.

A study conducted in Canada says that 92% of women who have used cannabis for treating morning nausea caused by menstruation have found the plant to be “extremely effective” when it comes to easing the symptoms.

Watch Out for Too High Dosage

“If you have PMS and consume too much THC, it may cause anxiety or even further worsening of the symptoms,” warns Dr. Ethan Russo, a renowned American neurologist who has published many studies on the effects of cannabis. “The ideal dose in this case is the lowest one which can suppress the symptoms of PMS.”