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CBD for Menopause: The Research on If It Helps
Discover what the science says about CBD for menopause, and how to add it to your daily routine for best results with this guide.
Key Takeaways:
- CBD is a hemp-derived compound that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in balance, mood, and overall wellness.
- Research suggests CBD may support emotional wellness, relaxation, and relief from feelings of tension.
- CBD is not a cure for menopause, but it may be used alongside other lifestyle strategies as part of a holistic wellness approach.
Menopause may be a natural life stage, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to navigate. From hot flashes and night sweats to mood swings and sleep disturbances, this period of biological adjustments can feel overwhelming and unwelcome.
In recent years, CBD has gained attention as a potential wellness tool for those navigating this transition. CBD is a compound derived from the hemp plant.
Researchers are still learning how CBD may be connected to menopause-related experiences. Early studies suggest that it could support areas such as emotional wellness, relaxation, sleep quality, and relief from feelings of tension.
This article will explore what CBD is, how it works in the body, what happens during menopause, and what current research says about its potential role. It will also look at how CBD may fit into a larger wellness plan that includes other supportive lifestyle choices.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over a hundred naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis and hemp plant. These compounds are known as cannabinoids. Hemp also contains terpenes, which contribute to its aroma and may influence how cannabinoids interact in the body.
CBD stands apart from hemp-derived THC in a few important ways. While hemp-derived THC is associated with intoxicating effects, CBD is not psychoactive and does not cause a high. Instead, it has been studied for its potential calming and balancing effects on the body’s systems. Because of this, CBD has become a popular choice for those seeking support for relaxation, stress management, and overall wellness.
What forms of CBD are available?
There are several different types of CBD products to choose from:
- Tinctures: Liquid extracts that can be taken under the tongue for relatively quick absorption.
- Capsules or softgels: Pre-measured servings for convenient daily use.
- Gummies: Popular for their taste and easy integration into routines.
- Topicals: Creams, lotions, or balms applied directly to the skin, often used for targeted support.
CBD has grown into a diverse wellness category because of its adaptability. Some people prefer CBD tinctures for whole-body support, while others incorporate topicals into their routines to help ease tension in specific areas. No matter the format, CBD offers an approachable way to engage with plant-based wellness.
How does CBD work in the body?
To understand how CBD may be relevant to menopause, it helps to explore the endocannabinoid system, or ECS. This system, discovered in the 1990s, is made up of cannabinoid receptors, naturally produced endocannabinoids, and enzymes that break them down.
The two primary receptors are:
- CB1 receptors, which are found mostly in the brain and central nervous system.
- CB2 receptors, which are located in the immune system and throughout the body.
Endocannabinoids are molecules our bodies naturally produce that bind to these receptors. Together, they help regulate processes such as mood, sleep, memory, stress response, appetite, and immune function. This is often referred to as maintaining homeostasis, or balance.
CBD does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it may influence the ECS indirectly by supporting how endocannabinoids interact with these receptors. Research suggests that CBD may also interact with other receptor systems, such as serotonin receptors, which are involved in mood regulation.
Because the ECS is linked to so many body functions, it may play a role during hormonal transitions like menopause.
What happens in the body during menopause?
Menopause occurs when a woman or period-having person has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The transition leading up to this stage, called perimenopause, often starts in the mid-to-late 40s and can last several years.
During this time, estrogen and progesterone levels begin to decline, and these hormonal shifts create wide-ranging effects.
Some of the most common changes include:
- Sleep disturbances: Hormonal fluctuations can affect the body’s natural rhythms, making falling or staying asleep harder. Night sweats can further disrupt rest.
- Mood changes: Shifting hormone levels may contribute to irritability, feelings of stress, or emotional ups and downs.
- Hot flashes and night sweats: These sudden waves of heat and sweating can interfere with daily life and sleep quality.
- Joint and muscle discomfort: Some women experience stiffness or general tension in their muscles and joints.
- Cognitive shifts: Difficulty with concentration or memory lapses, sometimes called “brain fog,” may occur.
While these experiences are common, every person’s journey through menopause is different. Some may have only mild changes, while others find the transition more disruptive. Regardless, it is important to recognize that these shifts are natural and not a sign of poor health.
Because menopause affects multiple systems in the body, many women seek out supportive approaches to help ease the transition. This is where wellness tools such as CBD have entered the conversation.
CBD and menopause: what does the science say?
The role of CBD in supporting menopausal wellness is an area of growing interest. While more research is needed, early studies and surveys suggest that CBD may have potential benefits in several areas.
Sleep quality
One of the most common struggles during menopause is poor sleep quality. Hormonal changes and night sweats can make it difficult to get consistent rest.
Research on CBD and sleep has found that it may help calm the mind and promote better rest in some individuals. A 2019 study observed improvements in sleep scores among participants who took CBD for one month, though more targeted research is needed to understand its role specifically in menopause.
Emotional wellness
Mood fluctuations and increased feelings of tension are another hallmark of menopause. CBD has been studied for its potential impact on the body’s stress response. Research suggests that CBD may help support a calmer state of mind in individuals experiencing social stress.
While this research is not menopause-specific, it suggests that CBD could play a role in promoting relaxation and emotional wellness.
Discomfort and tension
Joint stiffness and muscular discomfort are frequently reported during menopause. Some studies suggest that CBD may soothe physical discomfort by interacting with ECS receptors and other tension-related pathways.
Studies have found that CBD may work with pathways related to discomfort perception. By supporting endocannabinoids at CB receptors in muscles, joints, and immune cells, CBD may help soothe some of the physical discomfort that can accompany menopause.
Temperature regulation
Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most disruptive experiences of menopause. The ECS has been connected to body temperature regulation in preliminary studies, which raises questions about whether CBD might be supportive in this area.
However, there is currently limited direct evidence linking CBD with relief from hot flashes, so this remains an area where future research is important.
Everyday balance
Perhaps one of the most overlooked aspects of CBD is its potential to support overall balance within the body.
Because the ECS plays such a wide-ranging role in maintaining homeostasis, many researchers believe CBD’s value lies in its broad, regulatory influence. For those experiencing menopause, this may translate into subtle yet meaningful support across emotional, physical, and cognitive areas.
It is important to acknowledge the limitations of current research. Most studies involving CBD are small in scale, and many are not focused specifically on menopause. Still, the growing interest in CBD’s role in supporting wellness during menopause is encouraging.
Researchers are continuing to investigate how the ECS interacts with hormonal shifts and how plant-based cannabinoids may play a role in easing the transition.
The bottom line is that CBD is not a cure for menopause or its symptoms. What it may offer, based on current research, is support in areas like sleep quality, relaxation, and relief from feelings of tension — areas that many women find challenging during this stage of life.
Is CBD legal?
Hemp-derived CBD is legal, within limits, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. This legislation federally legalized hemp-derived products, provided they are sourced from industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% hemp-derived THC by dry weight.
This distinction separates hemp from cannabis and ensures that CBD products meeting these standards are federally compliant.
It’s important to note that while CBD is federally legal under these guidelines, state laws can vary. Many states have legalized both hemp and cannabis-derived products, while other states still have stricter regulations.
If you’re considering adding CBD to your wellness routine, we recommend checking the regulations in your area to ensure compliance.
Are there any risks to using CBD?
CBD is considered safe and is generally well-tolerated by most people. Occasionally, temporary side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, or changes in appetite can occur. Sticking to the recommended serving size and using a trusted product from a reputable company can help reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.
CBD can also interact with other supplements and medications, such as blood thinners or blood pressure medication. If you’re taking any medications or have a medical condition, we recommend checking in with a healthcare provider to see if CBD is right for you.
How to use CBD for best results
CBD is not one-size-fits-all. Here are a few points to consider when exploring CBD:
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Start low and go slow : Beginning with a smaller serving size and gradually adjusting allows you to find what feels right for your body.
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Consistency matters : Some people notice effects quickly, while others find benefits build over time with regular use.
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Choose a delivery method that fits your lifestyle : Tinctures may provide flexibility in serving size, gummies offer convenience, and topicals can be applied to specific areas of tension.
- Pay attention to timing : Some prefer CBD in the evening to promote restful sleep, while others use it in the morning to support a calm, balanced mindset throughout the day.
- Choose trusted products : Look for products that are transparent with sourcing and testing practices. Hemp should be grown using safe, responsible practices. Each product should be third-party tested, with searchable lab reports that verify cannabinoid content and confirm the absence of harmful contaminants.
Because every woman’s experience with menopause is unique, CBD use will look different for everyone. The most important thing is listening to your body and approaching CBD as one part of a personalized wellness plan.
Holistic approaches to menopause relief
While CBD may offer supportive effects, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Taking a holistic approach to menopause can make the transition smoother and empower women to feel more in control of their health.
Nutrition for hormone health
Eating a nutrient-rich diet can support overall wellness during menopause. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as flaxseeds, soybeans, and legumes, may help mimic some of the effects of estrogen in the body.
Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts may also be supportive for joint and cardiovascular health. Staying hydrated is equally important, especially for those experiencing hot flashes or night sweats.
Movement and exercise
Regular physical activity can support strength, mobility, and circulation. Weight-bearing exercises like walking, light strength training, or yoga may also contribute to bone health, which becomes increasingly important during and after menopause.
Exercise has the added benefit of supporting mood and sleep quality, making it a powerful tool during this stage of life.
Stress management
Techniques like meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or journaling can help women navigate emotional changes. Reducing stress may also lessen the intensity of hot flashes or sleep disturbances in some cases.
CBD may complement these practices by supporting relaxation and helping the mind feel calmer.
Sleep hygiene
Improving sleep often requires more than one strategy. Simple changes such as keeping the bedroom cool, creating a calming bedtime routine, limiting caffeine late in the day, and unplugging from screens before bed can help promote more restful sleep.
Some women find that combining these practices with CBD in the evening makes it easier to settle into restorative rest.
By weaving together these approaches, women can build a comprehensive wellness plan that addresses both physical and emotional needs. CBD can be a valuable part of this plan, complementing healthy habits that support long-term well-being.
The bottom line
CBD is not a cure for menopause, but the research so far suggests it may provide meaningful support in areas like emotional wellness, sleep quality, and relief from everyday discomfort. For many, CBD can become part of a larger wellness plan that also includes proper nutrition, regular movement, stress management, and healthy sleep habits.
We believe in helping users approach this life stage with confidence and clarity. CBD may be a helpful tool, but the most powerful approach is holistic.
If you’re considering CBD as part of your routine, we encourage you to choose thoughtfully, stay consistent, and work closely with your healthcare provider to find what feels best for you.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
FAQs
Is CBD safe to take during menopause?
CBD is considered well-tolerated for most people. That said, every woman’s health is unique. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding CBD to your routine, especially if you take other medications.
How long does it take to feel CBD’s effects?
It varies. Some people notice calming effects quickly, while others find benefits build gradually with consistent use. Factors such as delivery method, serving size, and body chemistry all play a role.
Sources:
An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system | PMC
CB1 & CB2 Receptor Pharmacology | PMC
Menopause: What It Is, Age, Stages, Signs & Side Effects | Cleveland Clinic
Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series | The Permanente Journal
Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol | PMC
The Importance of Nutrition in Menopause and Perimenopause | A Review - PMC