CBD and The Menopause

As with all stages of life, the sooner we notice a change in our bodies, the faster we can adapt our lifestyle and habits for the better.

For decades, researchers have been looking into herbal remedies to help menopausal women manage their symptoms.

Now research is beginning to emerge to show CBD may help to combat these signs and symptoms, by interacting with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).

 

Endocannabinoid System

The ECS is made up of two types of receptors – CB1 and CB2 – which are located throughout the body. These receptors interact with cannabinoids like CBD and in turn regulate physiological functions, fertility being one.

In women, both receptors are present in the ovaries, thanks to an endocannabinoid called Anandamide. Reproductive system experts say Anandamide plays a role in egg maturity and release during the menstrual cycle and that boosting levels of endocannabinoids or stimulating these CB1 and CB2 receptors with a compound like CBD may help delay menopause.
Studies also suggest a link between oestrogen and the ECS. In women, this hormone is said to use the ECS to regulate emotional responses and relieve anxiety. As oestrogen levels fluctuate and may be lowered pre, during and post-menopause, this may result in anxiety and mood swings.

 

Which menopause symptoms can CBD help?

1. Aches and pains

We already know CBD has incredible anti-inflammatory powers. And as the body matures, we become more susceptible to feeling the effects of life. When women are perimenopausal (pre-menopause), those all-important oestrogen levels tend to fluctuate, and this could be another reason why women of this category feel those aches and pains more intensely than they would in their previous decades.
How can CBD help with aches and pains?

When CBD interacts with our ECS receptors, it can stimulate the counter production of pro-inflammatory cells, and also creates more anti-inflammatory cells via the immune system.

Studies show that this interaction, coupled with the therapeutic effects of this cannabinoid may lead to reduced inflammation, particularly where chronic inflammation is concerned.

2. Sleep patterns

A global review from 2014 looked at menopausal symptoms and their knock-on effects from women living in the US, Africa, Australia and Eurasia. It was quite significant because it examined the results from 64 international studies on the topic.

The review concluded that 50% of women around the world aged 40 to 64 reported suffering with some sort of sleep disorder.

3. Forget sweet dreams. Meet hot flashes and night sweats!

As we know, the ECS works in regulating physiological functions, such as: mood, memory, certain immune functions, pain, sleep, fertility and body temperature.

Research on the menopause and CBD is limited, however in theory, menopause could disrupt the ECS, as there are both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors based throughout the female reproductive system – this is why many women find CBD to be effective in relieving menstruation cramps.

Researchers believe a reduction in endocannbinoid activity may be responsible for some of the negative symptoms we associate with menopause.

On that theory, it is possible that taking CBD could reduce some of the symptoms like body temperature.

4. HRT doesn’t work for everyone

Hormone replacement therapy is prescribed to millions of women worldwide. For some women, HRT isn’t an option. This can be due to a history of breast or ovarian cancer or heart disease.

Researchers now believe that legal cannabis compounds, such as CBD, CBC and CBG, may offer an alternative to HRT because they have been shown to stimulate bone growth and may be able to prevent osteoporosis after menopause.

One particular piece of research of note used a synthetic drug that activated CB2 receptors within the ECS. This was shown to prevent bone loss after surgical menopause.

 

I’m curious to know if CBD may help ease my pre, mid or post-menopause symptoms.  What CBD products should I try?

Try combining our Stay Active Gel or Cream with a quarter of a pipette of Oil Drops under the tongue before bed, as these get to work throughout the night while the body is in rest mode.

Our Stay Active range works from the outside in, while the Oil Drops soothe from the inside out, improving sleep quality, counteracting inflammation and regulating body temperature.

Remember to always consult your doctor before trying CBD if you are already taking medication, such as HRT or if you have any underlying health conditions.