Menopause is an unavoidable phenomenon for every woman. It can bring a lot of suffering for those who are going through the phase where irritability and heat flashes are just some of the most common symptoms.
Even though menopause cannot be evaded or prevented, the symptoms can be alleviated – at least according to some studies. A bit of cannabis can aid menopausal women as well as those who may be experiencing early onset of the signals.
Cannabis’ Endocannabinoid System and a Woman’s Estrogen Levels
Research has proven that endocannabinoid levels are connected to estrogen. Both are highest when a woman is ovulating. One of the primary roles of estrogen is to control the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) to synthesize endocannabinoid anandamide in the body.
Estrogen insufficiency can lead to lower levels of the naturally-occurring endocannabinoids in the system. Smoking weed can help supplement the loss while reducing the effects of the breakdown of endocannabinoids in the body as it can lead to a deficiency.
Different medical conditions can result in early menopause, and it can have stronger symptoms, along with the high risk of developing breast cancer. One conventional treatment is Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT), especially for those who experience severe symptoms.
Cannabis vs. ERT
Some women are not recommended to go through ERT, while others may not have access to this type of therapy. Marijuana is an excellent alternative to ERT, especially those who have heart disease or ovarian cancer.
Often, ERT is administered to stop adverse problems due to menopause, such as bone loss. Cannabinoids, on the other hand, have been discovered to have the power to stimulate the growth of the bones in the body. CBD, CBC, THCV, and CBG are cannabinoids that can help in the prevention of osteoporosis after menopause.
When there are enough levels of endocannabinoids in the system, the effects of premature menopause can be reduced. Additionally, cannabis can assist in regulating the body’s function. Post-menopausal women produce less estrogen than those who have not gone through the transition. It can lead to a variety of problems, including the inability to cope with stress.
Symptom Relief Thanks to Cannabis
Marijuana has been associated with easy-to-manage menopause symptoms. It is believed that cannabis can help in decreasing stress and anxiety, which are both common symptoms in women who are suffering from mood swings due to menopause.
Another menopause symptom is insomnia. An indica strain that has high THC levels can be a huge help in promoting good sleep. Aside from these mentioned symptoms, discomfort in sexual activities is also a problem for menopausal and postmenopausal women. From decreased sex drive to vaginal dryness, marijuana has been tested to reduce these adverse effects.
Hot flashes, which are also a common complaint and often lead to insomnia in women, can be alleviated by the THC content in cannabis. THC can control and lower body temperature. Finally, those who are worried about weight gain, which can also be a result of menopause, can turn to marijuana. Weight gain after 40 increases the risk for depression, breast cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Cannabis can help regulate metabolism with its THCV and CBD components.
Compared to other drugs, cannabis boasts a higher margin of safety. It is why more women prefer the plant and its products like teas and edibles over other over-the-counter medications.
