Hemp Benefits for Women’s Health: Using CBD Oil for Period Cramps & More
CBD oil might seem like a nuance fad, but hemp remedies have been used for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Queen Victoria’s physician, Sir J Russel Reynolds, encouraged administering cannabis tincture for dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) in the 1800s. If the Queen used CBD oil for period pain, then think of hemp as the royal treatment for women’s health.
The reason CBD oil can make such a strong impression on the reproductive system relates to its interactions with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system, and the one in women’s bodies is particularly useful in interacting with hormones like estrogen to make the menstrual cycle run smoothly. To learn more about the complexity of the ECS and its benefits, read our endocannabinoid system blog post.
CBD Oil for Period Cramps
Estrogen and endocannabinoid levels both peak during monthly ovulation. Estrogen controls the levels of FAAH enzymes that break down anandamide (an endocannabinoid neurotransmitter responsible for pain, appetite, pleasure, and bone growth). Anandamide is most abundantly found in the uterus. But right before menstruation, anandamide levels drastically lower which causes cramps, bloating, and back pain.
If the endocannabinoid system is so closely related to hormones, then what does that mean for using CBD oil for period cramps, menopause, and libido?
Studies show estrogen works symbiotically with cannabinoids to assess mood, stress, and pain. Together, the estrogen and cannabinoid receptors produce greater effects of arousal and pleasure during ovulation.
On the other hand, estrogen levels are low during menstruation, suggesting that there are less cannabinoids being stimulated. This is one reason why uncomfortable cramps, mood swings, and irregular appetites are common during periods.
CBD Livity broad spectrum or isolate tinctures can supplement more cannabinoids in the ECS while levels are low during menstruation. The additional cannabinoids might help ease the symptoms of painful periods.
CBD Oil for Menopause
Since estrogen helps activate the endocannabinoid system in women, this means there are less cannabinoids regulating stress and anxiety during and after menopause.
Lower endocannabinoid levels in the body can trigger menopause to occur earlier than usual. A healthy amount of cannabinoids and hormones in the body encourages sex drive, lubrication, proper body temperature (no hot flashes), and elevated moods.
Most of these endocannabinoid levels are managed by the cannabinoids naturally made in the human body. But if levels are low, phytocannabinoids in CBD oil might urge menopause to delay. CBD Livity Broad Spectrum Oil is full of enriched hemp extract to help maintain homeostasis before and during menopause.
The list below helps summarize endocannabinoid system research related to CBD oil and women’s health.
Endocannabinoid System Effects on Women’s Health:
- Regulates bone loss due to menopause
- Controls hormone levels within the adrenal glands
- Helps lessen menopause-related insomnia and heat flashes
- Prevents menopause from occurring too early
- Manages hormone levels in the uterus
If you want to support healthy body functions related to women’s health, CBD oil can help by bolstering the endocannabinoid system with more cannabinoids. Seeing how closely connected the ECS is to the female reproductive system is yet another example of why hemp can promote balance and well-being in countless ways!
We encourage you to discuss CBD with your physician or healthcare practitioner if you have any specific health related questions or concerns. There are also many independent research studies about CBD available on the internet.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease.