CBD is becoming increasingly popular in health and wellness as many people begin recognizing the value of including it in their health and fitness regimen. There are many ways to consume it, including CBD flower, CBD oil, CBD chocolate, Galaxy Treats, and tinctures. Its therapeutic powers help some people with pain, anxiety, stress, nervousness, insomnia, appetite, and other issues. Below, let’s look at CBD for women to understand the potential health benefits better.
What is CBD?
CBD, commonly known as hemp or marijuana, is derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant, which was initially used medicinally in Central Asia in approximately 750 BC. While the compound has recently gained popularity, it has long been overshadowed by its sister, Tetrahydrocannabinol. More commonly known as THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol is the psychoactive element responsible for a mental “high.”
As you likely already know, cannabis has varying degrees of legality worldwide. In the United States, federal law allows for a maximum of 0.3% THC content in CBD. However, different states have their own standards. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the limit is 0.2%.
CBD for women’s health: 5 potential benefits
Women often face various physical and health changes throughout their lives, such as pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, and hormonal imbalance. These major events cause bodily and mental discomfort that can seem impossible to ease.
Women also tend to feel more pressure to maintain a youthful appearance, whether it’s seeing magazine ads of women’s airbrushed bodies and faces or feeling a double standard regarding what is attractive in aging men versus women. Ageism is leading to a fear of aging, and the number of skin serums and other anti-aging products on the market is huge.
Below, let’s look at some benefits CBD can have on women’s health and overall well-being.
1. Hormonal imbalance and period pain
Achieving hormonal balance appears to be an impossible task, especially for women. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects most women before their monthly period (menstrual cycle) at some point in their life.
PMS symptoms are often noticeable a week or two before menstruation. These symptoms can range from moderate to severe and are very unpleasant. Bloating, headaches, lower back discomfort, moodiness, and other symptoms are among them. So, how can CBD assist with these symptoms?
CBD can help lower the menstrual cycle’s anxiety and tension, making some women feel more relaxed and peaceful. It also can act as a pain reliever to help lessen lower back and lower tummy discomfort during PMS.
In addition to PMS, there is preliminary evidence that CBD may aid with endometriosis. The condition, which causes extended periods, stomach cramps, and sex discomfort in addition to pelvic pain, affects 11% of women in the United States and 10% in the United Kingdom. A study of how women best managed their symptoms discovered that those who used CBD reported the “highest self-rated effectiveness.” Research suggests that, in addition to helping to regulate symptoms, it also appeared to limit the development of endometrial cysts.
2. Anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression affect both men and women. Hormonal imbalance may have a significant impact on a woman’s emotions. Mood fluctuations, ranging from mild to severe anxiety, during or before their period, may occur. It usually subsides within a few weeks.
CBD’s soothing effects have been extensively studied. In one study, 79% of participants claimed it lowered their anxiety levels. Another study discovered that individuals who took 300 milligrams of CBD had considerably reduced anxiety during a public speaking exam.
CBD is a compound remarkably similar to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which means that when CBD crosses the “blood-brain barrier.” By flowing from the blood system into the brain, it generates the same impact of its feel-good advantages. This implies that when the body is under stress, CBD can trick the brain into thinking there is more serotonin, causing the body to relax.
3. CBD for women: Menopause
All women will go through menopause at some time in their lives, except for those who had their ovaries removed prior to puberty. While perimenopause commonly occurs in your mid-40s, menopause begins at 51.
Moreover, CBD is increasingly being suggested as a therapy for symptoms such as hot flashes, difficulties sleeping, and anxiety. According to data from Europe’s leading CBD and alternative health marketplace Alphagreen.io, 15% of women buy CBD for this reason.
Other CBD benefits are that it reduces anxiety, which can be effective in regulating mood swings. It can also assist in strengthening the bones during the menopausal period, preventing bone loss or osteoporosis.
4. Skincare, including acne
CBD is produced from a plant; therefore, it should be no surprise that it contains antioxidant effects. The antioxidants included in CBD oil are one method that topical usage has helped women reduce physical symptoms associated with aging by combating free radical damage and lowering skin inflammation. CBD anti-aging lotions can help improve the appearance of dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles in some people.
Acne is often triggered when pores get clogged and inflammation ensues. Although several variables might cause acne, whatever product is applied to the skin that is specifically designed to minimize inflammation and soothe skin can help reduce acne outbreaks and irritation.
According to studies, CBD oil has anti-inflammatory qualities when applied to the skin. CBD is, therefore, an appropriate element for combating acne inflammation, and its relaxing properties can help the skin look and feel healthier.
5. Sleep and sex
Consistent difficulty falling asleep or poor quality sleep can contribute to long-term health concerns. Some examples are obesity, depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as fatigue and cognitive impairments, such as brain fog.
That is where CBD might help. The calming effects can aid sleep. A study indicated that after just one month of taking it, 67% of participants reported having improved sleep, and additional research discovered that those who took 160mg slept substantially longer.
If you have sexual anxiety—CBD may help you relax too. TRPA1, a cannabinoid receptor in the clitoris, is found in the female reproductive system. When activated, this receptor increases nitric oxide production, which leads to increased blood flow and sensitivity.
A few more words on CBD for women
CBD can improve women’s health in the ways noted above. See a doctor before trying CBD for the first time to ensure it is right for you. Also, note that what product and dosage works well for one person may not have the same benefits for another. In other words, everyone is different and results are not guaranteed.
Great article Christy!
Appreciative!