CBD patches, essential oils... what alternatives to drugs?

Menstrual pain affects a large proportion of women of childbearing age. While anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or paracetamol are often the preferred solutions for relieving menstrual cramps, some people prefer to turn to natural alternatives. CBD patches, essential oils, or even certain medicinal plants can offer effective relief without the side effects sometimes associated with drugs.

In this article, we explore the best natural alternatives to drugs for soothing menstrual pain.

CBD patches: a natural and sustainable solution

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive component of cannabis recognized for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. CBD transdermal patches are an interesting alternative for people suffering from moderate to intense menstrual pain.

How do CBD patches work?

The patches diffuse CBD directly into the skin, enabling localized action on uterine muscles and painful areas. CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain and inflammation management.

Advantages :

• Prolonged relief (up to 12 hours)
• Reduces cramps and inflammation
• No gastrointestinal side effects

Disadvantages :

• High cost compared with conventional drugs
• Effectiveness varies from person to person

CBD patches are particularly suitable for people who want to avoid traditional drugs and prefer a natural approach.

Essential oils: soothing body and mind

Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. Certain oils, such as lavender, chamomile or clary sage, are particularly effective in relieving menstrual cramps and promoting relaxation.

Which essential oils to use?

1. Lavender essential oil
   • Properties: Relaxing, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory
   • Use: Apply a few drops diluted in a vegetable oil (sweet almond, jojoba) and massage into the lower abdomen.
2. Roman chamomile essential oil
   • Properties: Soothing, anti-inflammatory
   • Use: Diffuse to calm the mind, or massage to relax muscles.
3. Clary sage essential oil
   • Properties: regulates the menstrual cycle, antispasmodic
   • Use: Apply diluted, massaging into the lower abdomen or lower back.

Precautions to be taken :

• Always dilute essential oils in a vegetable oil before applying to the skin.
• Do not use certain essential oils during pregnancy.
• Avoid photosensitizing essential oils before exposure to the sun.

Herbal infusions for natural relief

Herbal remedies are another natural alternative for relieving menstrual pain. Certain herbal teas can help reduce cramps, ease inflammation and soothe the mind.

Recommended plants :

1. Ginger
   • Anti-inflammatory properties
   • Helps reduce cramps and nausea.
2. Chamomile
   • Relaxing and antispasmodic properties
   • Soothes cramps and promotes better sleep.
3. Peppermint
   • Antispasmodic properties
   • Reduces abdominal pain and bloating.
4. Fennel
   • Anti-inflammatory and digestive properties
   • Helps reduce menstrual cramps.

How to prepare an infusion :

• Boil some water.
• Add a spoonful of the chosen dried plant.
• Leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Strain and drink 2 to 3 cups a day during your period.

Yoga and relaxation techniques: relax body and mind

Yoga and relaxation techniques can be very effective in relieving menstrual pain and reducing period-related stress.

Recommended yoga postures:

1. Child's pose (Balasana)
   • Helps relax the lower back and relieve cramps.
2. Butterfly pose (Baddha Konasana)
   • Stretches the hips and releases tension in the lower abdomen.
3. Legs against the wall posture (Viparita Karani)
   • Promotes blood circulation and soothes the body.

In addition to yoga, deep breathing techniques can also help reduce pain and improve sleep.

Massages and self-massages: relieving muscular tension

Massage is a simple but highly effective technique for relieving muscle tension and reducing cramps.

How to perform a self-massage:

1. Warm a few drops ofvegetable oil (sweet almond, jojoba) in your hands.
2. Add a few drops of lavender or clary sageessential oil.
3. Gently massage the lower abdomen with circular movements.
4. Repeat several times a day during your period.

🛀 Hot baths: a moment of comfort

A warm bath can help relax muscles and soothe menstrual cramps. Add Epsom salts or a few drops of lavenderessential oil to enhance the relaxing effect.

A warm bath also promotes better sleep, essential for coping with the menstrual period.

Summary

There are many natural alternatives to drugs for relieving menstrual pain. Among the most effective are CBD patches, essential oils, herbal infusions, yoga, massage and hot baths. These solutions reduce cramps andimprove general well-being, while limiting the side effects often associated with traditional drugs.

Taking care of yourself during your period means first and foremost listening to your body and choosing the solutions that best suit your needs.

References

1. Russo, E. B. (2011). Cannabinoids in the management of pain and inflammation. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management. Available here
2. Proctor, M., et al. (2009). Managing menstrual pain with lifestyle changes. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Available here
3. Harel, Z. (2006). Dysmenorrhea in Adolescents and Young Adults: Etiology and Management. Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Available here
4. Shannon, S., et al. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: A large case series. The Permanente Journal. Available here
5. Blakey, H., et al. (2010). Natural remedies for menstrual pain relief. Journal of Herbal Medicine. Available here