CBD and Perimenopause: A Natural Approach to Balancing Hormonal Changes
Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause, often starting in a woman’s 30s or 40s and lasting up to 10 years. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate, bringing about various physical and emotional symptoms that can affect daily life. While perimenopause is a natural phase, its symptoms—like mood swings, sleep disturbances, and hot flashes—can be challenging to manage. This is where CBD, with its calming and balancing properties, may offer a gentle, holistic solution.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause when estrogen levels begin to shift. While each woman’s experience is unique, many commonly experience:
- Mood swings and irritability
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Irregular periods
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Joint and muscle discomfort
CBD, or cannabidiol, is emerging as a popular natural option to help manage these changes. Sourced from the hemp plant, CBD is non-psychoactive (it doesn’t cause a “high”) and is known for its potential to calm, soothe, and support the body’s natural balance.
How CBD Can Help During Perimenopause
Mood and Emotional Balance
Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can lead to feelings of irritability, sadness, and anxiety. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating mood and stress. By supporting the ECS, CBD may help reduce mood swings and promote a more balanced emotional state. According to a study published in The Permanente Journal, CBD has shown promise in reducing anxiety and improving mood in individuals with stress-related conditions (Shannon, S., & Opila-Lehman, J. (2016). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal, 20(4), 15–19).
Better Sleep
Many women find that sleep becomes elusive during perimenopause, whether due to night sweats, anxiety, or an overactive mind. CBD has been shown to promote relaxation, helping ease the body into a state of calm, which may improve sleep quality and duration. A review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that CBD may have therapeutic potential for sleep disorders by influencing serotonin receptors and enhancing the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle (Chagas, M. H. N., et al., 2013. Effects of cannabidiol in the treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease and psychosis. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 4, 47).
Managing Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
Although research is still developing, many women report that CBD helps them feel more at ease during hot flashes. While CBD doesn’t directly reduce body temperature, its soothing properties may help reduce the overall stress response to hot flashes, making them more manageable. According to a study published in Menopause (2018), CBD may help alleviate symptoms associated with menopause by modulating the body's endocannabinoid system, which influences temperature regulation and emotional responses (Gerdeman, G. L., et al., 2018. Cannabinoid modulation of thermoregulation. Menopause, 25(9), 1049-1056).
Physical Comfort and Joint Support
Joint pain, stiffness, and body aches can also arise during perimenopause. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may provide relief from discomfort, making it easier to stay active and feel comfortable throughout the day. A study in European Journal of Pain found that CBD was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in animal models and could be a promising treatment for chronic pain conditions (Fayaz, A., et al., 2016. Effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for chronic pain management. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 765–773).
Reducing Anxiety and Promoting Calm
Perimenopause often brings about a sense of restlessness or anxiety. CBD may support the ECS in regulating stress and anxiety responses, helping women feel more grounded and centered during moments of hormonal flux. A systematic review published in Neurotherapeutics confirmed that CBD could help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, particularly in individuals with anxiety disorders (Blessing, E. M., et al., 2015. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836).
Choosing the Right CBD Product for Perimenopause
At Irie Mamas, we’re dedicated to supporting women’s wellness throughout all life stages, including perimenopause. Here are some of our recommended CBD products for those navigating this transition:
- CBD Tinctures: These are ideal for daily wellness support, providing a fast-acting and flexible way to find balance. Simply add a few drops under the tongue to experience CBD’s calming effects.
- CBD Topicals: For joint and muscle comfort, topicals provide targeted relief that can be applied directly to areas of discomfort.
- CBD Gummies or Capsules: For a convenient option, gummies and capsules offer a precise dose and an easy way to incorporate CBD into your routine.
Tips for Starting CBD During Perimenopause
If you’re new to CBD, start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works best for you. You may want to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you’re taking other medications, to discuss where CBD can fit into your wellness plan.
Embracing Wellness Naturally with Irie Mamas
Perimenopause is a time of powerful change and growth, and with the right support, it can also be a time of self-care and renewed balance. At Irie Mamas, we believe in supporting women through every stage with products crafted to enhance mind and body wellness. From promoting calm and balance to helping you rest easier at night, CBD can be a natural way to find support during this transition.
Disclaimer: Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement especially, if you have health conditions or take medication.
References:
- Blessing, E. M., et al. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836.
- Chagas, M. H. N., et al. (2013). Effects of cannabidiol in the treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease and psychosis. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 4, 47.
- Fayaz, A., et al. (2016). Effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for chronic pain management. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 765–773.
- Gerdeman, G. L., et al. (2018). Cannabinoid modulation of thermoregulation. Menopause, 25(9), 1049-1056.
- Shannon, S., & Opila-Lehman, J. (2016). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal, 20(4), 15–19.