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Does Marijuana Help Ease Menopause Symptoms
Marijuana is getting popular for its therapeutic effects among people of different age groups. Some studies indicate that the herb has the potential to ease menopause symptoms. According to results presented at a virtual annual meeting of the North American Menopause Society, around ⅓ of older female veterans in the United States agreed that they either tried cannabis for treating menopause symptoms or planned to use it in the future.
So, how marijuana for menopause symptoms work? Let’s discuss it.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is associated with a natural decline in the ending of menstrual cycles, which usually occurs when women reach their 40s or 50s. Their ovaries are unable to produce high levels of hormones. Some of the common symptoms of menopause are—night sweats, hot flashes, trouble sleeping, irritability, mood swings, and forgetfulness.
In some cases, patients may notice some physical changes, such as dry and thin skin and hair, weight gain, stiff joints, etc.
Using Cannabis For Menopause Symptoms
There’s no direct research between marijuana and menopause treatment available. However, science says that there’s a connection between the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and menopause symptoms. The endocannabinoid system is a complex cell-signaling system responsible for controlling various important functions. The list includes mood, memory, appetite, sleep, etc.
The ECS comprises endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes, which work together to maintain homeostasis. The marijuana plant contains more than 100 cannabinoids, which are similar to endocannabinoids produced by the body naturally. So, the phytocannabinoids bind to receptors just like endocannabinoids do and promote wellness.
Studies show fluctuating levels of estrogen in the body can lead to premenopause symptoms, such as depression, low libido, mood swings, and sleep problems. Cannabinoids in marijuana can help alleviate these symptoms by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.
CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, is known for its amazing anti-anxiety effects. So, it can help patients get off anxiety without getting high.
Related- Learn About The 4 Ways to Take CBD Oil
With studies showing marijuana as an effective, safe treatment for various conditions, more states are legalizing the medical use of the herb. Currently, more than 30 states allow their residents to use medical marijuana. For this, they need to apply for medical marijuana evaluations.
Carolyn Gibson says that the wave of marijuana legalization countrywide leads more women to try cannabis for menopause relief. Gibson is a psychologist and health service researcher with the San Francisco VA Health Care System.
Top marijuana strains for fighting menopause symptoms-
- Sweet Tooth
- Pineapple
- Jilly Bean
- Vanilla Kush
- Sour Diesel
- Strawberry Banana
There Are Some Concerns
Consuming marijuana, either through smoking, edibles, etc., doesn’t bring the same results for all women looking for relief for menopause. This is because everyone has a different condition. Moreover, cannabis effects on the body and mind depend on factors such as metabolism and body chemistry apart from dosage, strains, and consumption methods.
Studies show that marijuana delivers sedative effects, thus helping patients deal with sleep problems. But, there’s some evidence that taking large amounts of THC (50mg or more) can lead to increased anxiety, lethargy, psychosis, heart attack, etc.
Additionally, taking higher doses regularly or using marijuana over a long period of time can increase the risks of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). Common symptoms of CHS include nausea and vomiting.
So, when buying marijuana, make sure you get the right products by checking the labels carefully. It’s good to talk to your doctor for professional help for marijuana or CBD dosage, strains, and consumption methods.
Related- 5 Tips For Talking to a Medical Marijuana Doctor
Final Thoughts
If you are experiencing menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, irritability, sleep problems, etc., you can use marijuana for managing them. Studies show that cannabis compounds can help promote wellness by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The herb can provide feelings of relaxation and relieve anxiety.
To avoid side effects such as dry mouth, anxiety, psychosis, etc., you must learn how to use marijuana for menopause. Choose strains containing optimal levels of THC and CBD and terpenes. Additionally, select the right dosage and consumption method. Talk to your doctor for professional help.
Want to access cannabis products legally? Apply for medical marijuana evaluations online today. The process is very easy and involves three simple steps-
- Sign up for an account online
- See a doctor through the HIPAA-compliant software
- Receive MMJ recs in PDF format via email
