What is menopause?
According to the National Health Service:
“Menopause is when your periods stop due to lower hormone levels. It usually affects women between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier.
It affects anyone who has periods.
Menopause can happen naturally, or for reasons such as surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy), cancer treatments like chemotherapy, or a genetic reason. Sometimes the reason is unknown.
Perimenopause is when you have symptoms of menopause but your periods have not stopped. Perimenopause ends and you reach menopause when you have not had a period for 12 months.
Menopause and perimenopause can cause symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, ‘brain fog’, hot flushes and irregular periods. These symptoms can start years before your periods stop and carry on afterwards.
Menopause and perimenopause symptoms can have a big impact on your life, including relationships and work.
There are things you can do to help with symptoms…”
So can CBD help with perimenopause and menopause?
Let’s be very clear CBD is not a cure for menopause.
It may however help you in support with some of the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause such as:
Anxiety, stress and depression
During menopause, mood changes are frequently reported, including increased anxiety and depressive symptoms. Oestrogen and progesterone influence the activity of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain — which directly affect mood. As levels of these hormones become erratic and eventually plummet, your neurochemistry will change. CBD could be a help, as it is known for its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Some studies suggest that CBD may modulate the levels of some neurotransmitters, and particularly may stimulate serotonin receptors, promoting a sense of well-being.
Sleep disturbances
Predominantly due to night sweats and hot flushes that are common during menopause, CBDs potential to improve sleep quality may be attributed to its ability to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. By interacting with receptors in the ECS, CBD may promote relaxation, reduce pain and anxiety, and indirectly support a good night's sleep.
Skin health
The decrease in oestrogen levels during menopause can lead to dry skin, loss of elasticity and acne. CBD infused balms could be of great help, given CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate sebum production.
Joint pain
As oestrogen levels decrease during menopause our bodies produce higher levels of inflammatory molecules (specifically, tumor necrosis factor, or TNFα). This means arthritis symptoms could skyrocket during menopause. More than 60 percent of women aged 40 to 64 suffer from muscle and joint discomfort., inflammation can mean joint pain in the knees, shoulders, neck, hands, and elbows. Old injuries in the joints can also begin aching again. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil may help reduce pain associated with arthritis and inflammation. CBD's interaction with receptors in the ECS can also lead to pain relief and relaxation of muscles.
What else can help?
It is important to be aware that hormonal changes and menopause are a natural process.
Information is power: Staying informed about the menopausal process will make you more confident and empowered.
Look for natural remedies: If you suffer from perimenopausal or menopausal discomfort and want to find a natural solution that will nourish and care for your body try the Humble Herb’s balms.
Medical: Consult with your health professionals before beginning any treatment for the relief of menopause-related symptoms. At this time there is no clinical evidence to indicate that CBD interferes with HRT and generally CBD is a very safe and well tolerated substance. However as we always recommend speak to your Doctor before starting CBD if you are already on Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Focus on your overall wellness: A balanced diet, regular exercise and relaxation techniques that nourish the body and mind can significantly influence the menopausal experience.
Conclusion
Now, more than ever, is an important time to observe the changes happening within your body and life. Be honest with yourself and others about how much support you may need.
CBD balms can support your self-care and promote wellness. CBD balms can nurture balance within your Endocannabinoid System which could support you to manage some of the perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. CBD is widely considered safe for most healthy adults so why not add our powerful all-natural balms into your menopause care routine?