Can Cannabis Make Menopause Easier?
What is Menopause? Menopause is an unavoidable change that a woman's body goes through as she gets older. It occurs most often in women in their mid 40s to early 50s, most commonly around 51 years of age1. This is the time in which a woman's body no longer maintains a menstrual cycle, thereby shifting the entire reproductive system. There are three stages to menopause: 1. Perimenopause - This is when the body begins to slow estrogen production in preparation for menopause. 2. Menopause - This is the 12 month period in which ovulation stops completely and estrogen levels drop significantly. 3. Post-Menopause - This signifies the end of menopause and fertility where-in a woman enters a new homeostasis.
1
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/menopause/article_em.htm
How Cannabis Can Help
Menopause is a long process that takes 12 months to complete and is not the most pleasant for women to go through. It is accompanied by hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, weight gain, fatigue, low libido, pain and even osteoporosis. These are a lot of symptoms for any individual to manage on top of their everyday life, which is why menopause can be a very hard time for women. Fortunately, cannabis can provide much needed relief and support! Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD work within the endocannabinoid system found within the human body. This system is also affected by hormones, such as estrogen. As these levels peak, so do endocannabinoid levels and they will drop together as well. There is some belief that early-onset menopause is caused by endocannabinoid deficiencies as well. According to current evidence, estrogen utilizes endocannabinoids in order to help regulate mood and emotional response. Therefore, when estrogen levels plummet during menopause, it can lead to mood swings. That is where cannabis comes in! Cannabis able to help regulate and balance the endocannabinoid system to help with a variety of menopausal symptoms.
Cannabis and Mood Swings Reduction in estrogen production can cause a dip in the endocannabinoid system, resulting in mood swings. As both CBD and THC, which are found in cannabis, are able to regulate the endocannabinoid system and our neurotransmitters, they can regulate mood and also manage feelings of anxiety and depression. Some of the best strains for managing mood are Sativa’s, as they tend to be energizing, but Indica and Hybrid can also be effective. Some good strains to consider when looking to manage mood swings include: � God Bud - This strain is known for the intense and uplifting euphoria and hint of creativity along with relaxation and a slight body buzz. Click here to learn more!
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Jack Herer - This strain is 55% Sativa dominant and produces a euphoric, energetic and creative high that helps to spur activity and get things done! Click here to learn more! Sour Diesel - This strain has potent Sativa effects that invigorate the mind to boost mood, creativity and energy. Click here to learn more! Green Crack - This strain has a particularly cerebral high accompanied with a jolt of energy and a boost in mood. Click here to learn more!
Cannabis and Hot Flashes Perhaps one of the most frustrating side-effects of menopause for most women are "hot flashes". As hormone production shifts, it can have an adverse effect on body temperature, thereby causing uncomfortable hot flashes. The body maintains many natural cannabinoids, such as anandamide, which manages body temperature. Both THC and CBD can influence this cannabinoid and help to regulate body temperature. According to a 2002 study2, high does of THC can have a cooling effect, however smaller amounts can rise body temperature, so it is crucial to find the right dose for you.
Cannabis and Pain Another unfortunate side effect of menopause is pain caused by hormonal fluctuations. These can be similar to premenstrual and menstrual symptoms and typically include migraines, breast tenderness, joint pain, cramping and pain during sex. Cannabis has very potent antiinflammatory and pain-relieving properties which are ideal for helping provide relief. Some of the best strains for pain relief are Indica’s, as they tend to have more body effects, but Hybrid strains and Sativa’s can also be effective. Some good strains to consider when looking to manage pain include: ● Blue Dream - This strain begins with an electrifying, energic high that is accompanied by body relaxation to leave you pain free. Click here to learn more! ● Purple Kush - This strain has a blissful, long-lasting euphoric high that is uplifting and goes well with soft physical relaxation that leaves you pain-free. Click here to learn more! ● MK Ultra - This strain has powerful cerebral effects that instantly calms the nerves and relaxes the body, managing mild to moderate pain. Click here to learn more! ● Rockstar - This strain is a favorite for pain and sleeping disorders thanks to its powerful body effects. Click here to learn more! ● Skywalker OG - This strain has a very heavy high that leaves the user couch-locked and relaxed, which is ideal for helping manage pain. Click here to learn more!
Cannabis and Bone Loss Bone loss or osteoporosis is perhaps one of the most concerning side-effects that occurs with menopause. As estrogen regulates cell regeneration, a drop in estrogen can result in bone loss of varying degrees. However, studies have shown that cannabinoids found in cannabis can
2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12052044
have a positive effect on stimulating bone growth and helping to correct the effects of menopause.
Cannabis and Libido If there weren't enough side effects from menopause, low libido is perhaps one of the more frustrating ones - especially for women with a healthy appetite for sex. This can be especially hard for some women, making them feel even more out-of-touch with their own bodies. In one poll by PsychologyToday3, it was reported that 67% of individuals believed cannabis helped their sex lives. Some women prefer THC and find it helps to put them in touch with their body and makes them more comfortable, while others prefer CBD for relaxation and keeping a clear mind. It may take some trial and error to find the right strain for you, but it is worth it!
Buy Cannabis Online FairCannaCare is an online cannabis dispensary that believes in providing affordable, quality cannabis to anyone looking to manage symptoms of menopause. There is a large variety of options including flower, shatter, hash, live resin, edibles, distillates and even vape pens and replacement cartridges. Click here to browse the shop or check out the F.A.Q’s for more information.
3
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-about-sex/201105/marijuana-and-sex-surprising-resultsblogger-s-informal-survey