{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/menopause/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3939-markdown","title":"The 5 Best Medical Marijuana Products for Menopause in Illinois","slug":"the-5-best-medical-marijuana-products-for-menopause-in-illinois","content":"Menopause is a normal part of life, but it can bring unpleasant symptoms that interfere with daily life. There are available remedies for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. Some of these options include lifestyle changes, holistic therapies, and hormonal treatments.  \n \nBut for a large and growing number of women, cannabis [is seen as an all-natural and effective alternative](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-some-experts-say-cannabis-can-be-effective-in-treating-menopause-symptoms)\nfor managing many of the symptoms of menopause. Luckily, if you're a resident of Illinois, you can choose from a long list of innovative cannabis products for the relief of menopause symptoms. \n\n![Cannabis can be an effective treatment for menopause](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_12_00_PM_746969a743.png)\n \n### Menopause: A Natural but Uncomfortable Transition\n\nMenopause marks the end of menstrual periods, and it's formally defined as  12 months after experiencing the last period. Menopause is a natural life transition, but it can come with a list of troubling symptoms that range from mild to severely disruptive. \n \nMenopause symptoms include the famous hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia and fatigue, brain fog, night sweats, anxiety, depression, and even digestive upsets.   These and other symptoms, such as libido changes and vaginal dryness, can begin in perimenopause, which are the years leading up to menopause. Some of these symptoms can even continue into postmenopause – the time after menopause occurs.  \n \nFor the lucky few, menopause can also occur without any symptoms. But for most women, it disrupts life on multiple levels. Hot flashes and anxiety can disrupt sleep, and hormone fluctuations can cause anxiety and mood changes that affect relationships, work, and daily living. \n\nTreatments for menopause symptoms range from herbal teas and lifestyle changes to medications such as anti-anxiety drugs and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can have side effects such as prolonged vaginal bleeding. \n\nBut cannabis in all its forms [may relieve menopause symptoms](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause) for some women safely, naturally – and effectively.\n\n![Cannabis can be an effective treatment for menopause](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_13_46_PM_e9a8cfb524.png)\n \n### Cannabis: A Natural Alternative for Menopause Symptoms\n \nAlthough there's limited research on the [benefits of cannabis for menopause symptoms](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33759668/), a [growing number of women](https://www.chicagotribune.com/marijuana/sns-tft-women-menopause-cannabis-treatment-20201009-oebp6uholnbnvdgjjc4fnol3iy-story.html) are opting for the weed as a safer alternative to potentially risky medications. \n\nThe benefits of cannabis for relieving menopause symptoms arise from the interactions between the hormone estrogen, compounds found in cannabis, and the endocannabinoid system, or ECS. This system is a network of cell receptors that respond both to natural cannabinoid chemicals produced by the body and cannabinoids from cannabis. The endocannabinoid system plays a vital role in [maintaining homeostasis or balance](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-cannabinoids-and-homeostasis-a-balancing-act) among many subsystems, including temperature regulation, pain signaling, and mood. \n\n![Cannabis may ease menopause symptoms](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_25_31_PM_41b2d48df6.png)\n \nDuring menopause, levels of hormones, including estrogen, can fluctuate dramatically, and some research suggests that these changes can affect the functioning of the endocannabinoid system. Estrogen [helps to regulate](https://www.endocrineweb.com/cannabis-menopause)\n the production of a fatty acid called FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), which breaks down natural cannabinoids. This disruption explains menopause symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and hot flashes, as mechanisms for temperature regulation are disrupted. \n \nStandard treatments for menopause symptoms target symptoms, with pain relief, anxiety, or depression medications. Hormone replacement therapy aims to stabilize estrogen levels and maintain them at pre-menopause levels, which staves off symptoms. But estrogen therapy raises the risk of stroke and blood clots, and it isn't recommended for long-term use. \n \nCannabis can't replace lost estrogen or alter the menopause process. But compounds such as THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) can activate endocannabinoid receptors in subsystems that contribute to menopause symptoms such as mood swings, [hot flashes](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-help-with-hot-flashes)and [disrupted sleep](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/5-sleep-disorders-cannabis-can-help-alleviate). This is why many people are turning to cannabis for safer, more natural relief without the considerable side effects of hormones or pharmaceuticals.\n \n### The 5 Best Medical Marijuana Products for Menopause Symptoms\n \nIn Illinois, cannabis is [legally available to anyone over 21](https://www.illinoispolicy.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana-legalization-in-illinois/) for both recreational and medical purposes, and the state's many dispensaries carry a variety of premium products for relieving the discomforts of menopause. \n\nHere's a look at five of the best options.\n \n### Black Raspberry Road 1:1 CBN Tincture from Avexia\n\n![1:1 Black Raspberry Road](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_20_30_PM_71e763c019.png)\n\nCBN is formed from the breakdown of THC, and this lesser-known cannabis compound has mild sedative effects for better sleep and relief of pain. Avexia's [Black Raspberry Road 1:1 CBN tincture](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/498725) may help relieve insomnia and the physical discomforts that come with menopause.\n \n\n### 2:1 Comfort Tablets from Avexia\n\n![2:1 Comfort Tablets from Avexia](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_21_23_PM_16cd357c02.png)\n\nAvexia’s [2:1 Comfort Tablets](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/360432) contain 100mg (2.5 mg per tablet) of CBD to 50 mg (1.25 mg per tablet) of THC. This high-CBD product delivers reliable dosing for long-lasting relief of pain and anxiety that can interfere with sleep.\n \n### Counting Sheep Black Cherry Gummies with CBN from Good News\n\n![Counting Sheep Black Cherry Gummies with CBN from Good News](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_22_22_PM_8f28ae9a05.png)\n\nWith 100 mg THC and 50 mg CBN, [Counting Sheep Black Cherry Gummies with CBN](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/523127) from Good News is an Indica strain designed to deliver quiet nights and relief from the anxiety and insomnia that often occur during menopause.\n \n### Face Mints Flower from Cresco\n\n![Face Mints Flower from Cresco](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_23_14_PM_57f5b3983a.png)\n\nFor those who prefer smoking, Cresco's [Face Mints Flower](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/512584) is an Indica strain that's high in THCA. This non-psychoactive cannabinoid is the precursor to THC that helps to reduce inflammation and gastric distress. Fast-acting Face Mints have strong sedative effects for relaxation and relief from anxiety.\n \n### Ice Cream Cake Flower from Aeriz\n\n![Ice Cream Cake Flower from Aeriz](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_12_at_1_24_11_PM_9ed6514d68.png)\n\nWith a high THC (22.5 percent) to CBD (0.15 percent),[ Ice Cream Cake premium flower](https://beyond-hello.com/illinois-dispensaries/sauget/medical-menu/)  from Aeriz offers relief from stress, anxiety, insomnia, and pain. This Indica strain also contains several soothing terpenes, including  limonene, beta-caryophyllene, linalool, and alpha-humulene.\n \n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAANCAIAAAAmMtkJAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAADIklEQVQozw3O608TBwAA8PsLNMaMYUF2SJ/Xlrs+rs9r76693vVxba/X3qPl+gptKZSWYoAKIgazIXxYwmAG/CBmGDeJboyNEE2WheKGmVOXzQ/6dTFLlmV/hP7+gh8gj9EV2UfD/VbwLASeG6uNbNz6tFBNwTDIROxJiYjxHj9jVmpcY0bJlSOMgPljdioHI7Qa8NLGRBx2wiq7sSfJE0e7m0/vbV5bbEc5V1KmGInIFph0nhCzgXKLV6pcQgiKZZbKWawxEICQXldE44iaorJbUphv1zqHa9Nrc0VeCUr1ZKYUlUrBfDs+0uR9nN1Oa4VilJXIUMplJQcAjNF7Ga2XN1XnculCbKkSvzuRmFkYFaYkvh6fuFziREKqsHwtYWUgLX4BY221liTkQg5cA4RFD0qCpIQo04JQjd6cKxx9vfHr0c72ciGU8lSbslik5aZIpDE667aHIQQ3KnlWkIlA0geUW6IzoCcllB8lv9vuvHl9+u///7zcap9cJj+fivFycGKmJNbSaEzn4DQE74/KYUYgHRhEp9xAoSG5aaOdgcamuL/fPH/337vXz472atgdGd4b99crXHYi60vZuEpUbAhe3ummPGgQdVDwhz+w2FGwiMnkGbi2MvXXn09/6u7fW7+ynjAsh9RfKdabC6PhfHxmpTO+0KI/FDmbk9Co1OeHMYPZAwG5fJAJq1FiYOPW0h+vuvuHuztbN1ZZqIaqFqmh2VK4sthJj0kuyoAzkAvXekOQwd03qOv7SHUWMNM9YWU4JurmG6knTx7uH+zufbN5PW6exfq308bP2lmqkDEFVGasP5lxOXGDHYdgQnfJOHCh9wxApBFcghje8sVS/cdHW93uwbPTx/dXWg+azKpgyRSF0EjEwlx0knqW85iQi3qzCtT1GiyXhvQ9AIoNoUGwPJ08OX50f2ft+Pjg7dvfXr74eX2cnRT8WIYNiQwS0BabhdkbV32UbVD7sdoEIj6DavAcgNgGSUo7eXX09OT7w/3bv3R/+P354y+vN1YDffWE00r7zQ6TjQC5EXxyvt1cntcPf6KBQYNNbXXo3wPLqQzRSSfxhwAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/ee604/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.png","srcSet":"/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/69585/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.png 200w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/497c6/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.png 400w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/ee604/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.png 800w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/f3583/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/58556/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/61e93/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.webp 200w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/1f5c5/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.webp 400w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/58556/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.webp 800w,\n/static/46cbf62017e0eaa6de7fabfe142863c0/99238/9701130f8660449a480ece372f3efb14.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3975-markdown","title":"5 Best Medical Marijuana Products for Menopause in Illinois","slug":"5-best-medical-marijuana-products-for-menopause-in-illinois","content":"[Menopause](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-menopause) is a normal part of life, but it can bring some unpleasant symptoms that interfere with daily life. Remedies for the hot flashes, mood swings, and other issues that accompany menopause range from lifestyle changes and holistic remedies to powerful, but risky, hormonal treatments.  \n\nBut for a large and growing number of women, cannabis [may be a safer and more effective option](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-some-experts-say-cannabis-can-be-effective-in-treating-menopause-symptoms) for managing many of the symptoms of menopause. If you’re a resident of Illinois who’s over 21, you can choose from a long list of innovative cannabis products for relief of menopause symptoms, all available from the state’s many legal cannabis dispensaries. \n\n![Hello6-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_1_591593d290.png)\n\n### Menopause: A Natural but Uncomfortable Transition\nMenopause marks the end of menstrual periods, and it’s formally defined as 12 months after experiencing the last period. Menopause is a natural life transition, but it can come with a long list of symptoms that range from mild to severely disruptive.\n\nMenopause symptoms include the famous hot flashes, along with mood swings, insomnia and fatigue, brain fog, and digestive upsets. These and other symptoms such as libido changes and vaginal dryness can begin in perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause. Some symptoms can even continue into postmenopause – the time after menopause occurs.  \n\nMenopause can occur without many symptoms at all. But for many women, it disrupts life on multiple levels. Hot flashes and anxiety can disrupt sleep, and hormone fluctuations can cause anxiety and mood changes that affect relationships, work, and daily living in general. Treatments for menopause symptoms range from herbal teas and lifestyle changes to medications such as antianxiety drugs and hormone replacement therapy, which can have serious side effects. But cannabis in all its forms [may be able to relieve menopause symptoms](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause) safely, naturally – and effectively.\n\n![Hello7-min.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello7_min_8fb7bf1124.png)\n\n### Cannabis: A Natural Alternative for Menopause Symptoms\n\nAlthough there’s limited research on the[benefits of cannabis for menopause symptoms] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33759668/), a [growing number of women]\n(https://www.chicagotribune.com/marijuana/sns-tft-women-menopause-cannabis-treatment-20201009-oebp6uholnbnvdgjjc4fnol3iy-story.html) are opting for the weed as a safer alternative to potentially risky medications. \n\nThe benefits of cannabis for relieving menopause symptoms arise from the interactions between the hormone estrogen, compounds found in cannabis, and the [endocannabinoid syste](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system)m, or ECS. This system is a network of cell receptors that respond both to natural cannabinoid chemicals produced by the body, and to cannabinoids from cannabis. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in [maintaining homeostasis, or balance](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-cannabinoids-and-homeostasis-a-balancing-act) among many subsystems including temperature regulation, pain signaling, and mood. \n\nDuring menopause, levels of hormones including estrogen can fluctuate dramatically, and some research suggests that these changes can affect the functioning of the endocannabinoid system. Estrogen [helps to regulate]\n(https://www.endocrineweb.com/cannabis-menopause) the production of a fatty acid called FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), which breaks down natural cannabinoids. That can explain menopause symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and hot flashes, as mechanisms for temperature regulation are disrupted. \n\nStandard treatments for menopause symptoms target symptoms themselves, with medications for pain relief, anxiety, or depression. Hormone replacement therapy aims to stabilize estrogen levels and maintain them at pre-menopause levels, which staves off symptoms. But estrogen therapy raises the risk of stroke and blood clots, and it isn’t recommended for long-term use. \n\nCannabis can’t replace lost estrogen or alter the menopause process. But compounds such as [THC](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/thc) (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) and [CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/cbd) (cannabidiol) can activate endocannabinoid receptors in subsystems that contribute to menopause symptoms such as mood swings, [hot flashes](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-help-with-hot-flashes)and [disrupted sleep]\n(https://www.hellomd.com/articles/5-sleep-disorders-cannabis-can-help-alleviate). That’s why many people today are turning to cannabis for safer, more natural relief without the considerable side effects of hormones or pharmaceuticals.\n\n### The 5 Best Medical Marijuana Products for Menopause Symptoms\n\nIn Illinois, cannabis is [legally available to anyone over 21](https://www.illinoispolicy.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana-legalization-in-illinois/) for both recreational and medical purposes, and the state’s many dispensaries carry a variety of premium products for relieving the discomforts of menopause. Here’s a look at five of the best options.\n\n![Hello1-min (2).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_2_3f974b3f82.png)\n\n### Black Raspberry Road 1:1 CBN Tincture from Avexia\nCBN is formed from the breakdown of THC, and this lesser-known cannabis compound has mild sedative effects for better sleep and relief of pain. Avexia’s [Black Raspberry Road 1:1 CBN tincture](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/498725) may provide relief from insomnia and physical discomforts that come with menopause.\n\n![Hello2-min (2).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_2_29913159b3.png)\n\n### 2:1 Comfort Tablets from Avexia\nAvexia’s [2:1 Comfort Tablets](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/360432) contain 100mg (2.5 mg per tablet) of CBD to 50 mg (1.25 mg per tablet) of THC. This high-CBD product delivers reliable dosing every time for long-lasting relief of pain and anxiety that can interfere with sleep.\n\n![Hello3-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_1_f64f3f3774.png)\n\n### Counting Sheep Black Cherry Gummies with CBN from Good News\nWith 100 mg THC and 50 mg CBN, [Counting Sheep Black Cherry Gummies with CBN](https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/523127) from Good News is an Indica strain designed to deliver quiet nights and relief from the anxiety and insomnia that often occur during menopause.\n\n![Hello4-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_1_ced8a5df0a.png)\n\n### Face Mints Flower from Cresco\nFor those who prefer smoking, Cresco’s [Face Mints Flower]\n(https://www.sunnyside.shop/product/512584) is an Indica strain that’s high in THCA, a non-psychoactive precursor to THC that has been shown to reduce inflammation and gastric distress. Fast-acting Face Mints has strong sedative effects for relaxation and relief from anxiety.\n\n![Hello5-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_1_b48ba85e67.png)\n\n### Ice Cream Cake Flower from Aeriz\nWith a high THC (22.5 percent) to CBD (0.15 percent),[ Ice Cream Cake premium flower](https://beyond-hello.com/illinois-dispensaries/sauget/medical-menu/)  from Aeriz offers relief from stress, anxiety, insomnia, and pain.  This Indica strain also contains several soothing terpenes including  Limonene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Linalool, and Alpha-Humulene.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAAUCAIAAAAC64paAAAACXBIWXMAAA7DAAAOwwHHb6hkAAAEaUlEQVQ4y1WS109bVwCH79/R9z5UqtQ+VAoSaqQmiqiSQJqdlDZhxVACJRRIISyTQBlmGQ8gDIMpBtuYvWzAZTtME7CNfe+17942y7FIW7XpIVFVVfpev/MdnfODtlzubZdn273v9Hh3fQjABaMIxTkcKzpVlbqmzNChHhk07eOUFyP2YHTHC5/hg197YWjPB7tgxA2j+36/D8MQHEcIcmZi0NBU0pif/HPSN782FGiKUnrbmjBGQHBqP0B4/DjA7ccg4Hj9AW8gADSUIAiOt00N9ypLxprlFnXpeMvzhcHOXYe1t7FwaWGW5IMoQcM4BfBhJASf1c6CfoIgeWHPtddeL7fUFQQmuo63piM7s97BZtfqjMNmHNErUZIhWN5PMghBIwQFIQSBEqSfpHCaZoMhk761qTTjdb/yD6f1d/fCX4jj7fY0PGf0bNrHuhTrr5Zo8SBAMSgBoCE/eWYGKIoRxP19T4M8W1uUtqIuQizaU6c1sjUdXrGgg1rnnGV9xjisV+GMgNFcgGIBENAwigZwocPleVu+7I7i0Y2mtFvlCXHYgGpFVVgnuzn5Ir0h+dqcuc2kkTuW56mzOAuOgHCKxmkGZxgueGAdNcZfOtcgu0FM6jCbgZvpwcfb7R0Kp+4X5f0LmVeju8rTTToVkDGKxRkeIhiWYFmS4yiWR1BEp1E0psS+Weg/WDS59VWctfsdsRmydXcnxuRdO6+vyenRVNNiCGQJVoBIYLIczQsMLwSPwuCzq9NuThQkrGuLx0tke/oatK/eVpT07EqURV1m7dcaXtaDHsVLZzLDcQzHs7zAC5IUOtpYnlU9TTDnP1yszlmrLV5XlWy3lJgzb2XFfTmsKVocaNZrKnecm1zoiAQy0D6YLCf4vO75KbOuOrdGdn2jtexowUwOt8xX//jy26+K717sL39sqnpiH2idmzCTLE/zQSCLAEEMMiznWJqbGTUMdda218lzYr5Q3D5fdOnz0gufTuTeVyVebsl9YK7IHFBkt5fKNl4tcwfHECdI/HtEKcRyPOx1+1HY7XEpHlxN++yjvOiPLVm3PfqqLeXTppS4xifxhqqs+szbK/Zp4SgM8f/KvBgEfvDgOHgSCYUjSx210y8ee8za4LzRp1cETEqbPDXvSpQ697v++gIYhWlR+p8MLi+eRCjEI61bxQWL16xdby13tVX4uirp0Va4r64n626DLG6yo3x2RL/n2v3v2oIUkk4imGuLthvJsfbmh5cbkq4bfvo+ZO+LbE2yUzpnW2lv9j2wvLXfRl272xQnQBwvfvCl4zf+7WVqUhfenHrrtLn7m6afZzib5X/Dq8drY76+upXGPEP2vVlTNwsyh2GwyPevLQji4UnA58JG2wJDLWvNpZ0Zd7K+jlInx4LgsWPY11tjr0ifrcjoTo1dHOo7+fMdw4s0L0FgWzTHS+HTnfkp/4BquFj2Q/Qnj2LOaZ6leY3Kk9UhdrJjrTF3ojBxSp6qjr9oVlWGwqe0IIGR/QMAemkNNx3NJwAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/97f33/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.png","srcSet":"/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/69585/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.png 200w,\n/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/497c6/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.png 400w,\n/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/97f33/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.png 483w","srcWebp":"/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/e4e06/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/61e93/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.webp 200w,\n/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/1f5c5/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.webp 400w,\n/static/d0b7e87b0d5005fc9d10ebf88ef4e0ce/e4e06/3914718907604a3aeaa87e3802edb7fb.webp 483w","sizes":"(max-width: 483px) 100vw, 483px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3696-markdown","title":"Women's Health Conditions are Overlooked by Mainstream Healthcare. Can Cannabis Help?","slug":"women's-health-conditions-are-overlooked-by-mainstream-healthcare.-can-cannabis-help","content":"Women disproportionately suffer from anxiety, depression, fibromyalgia, and migraines. We also suffer from conditions that men do not experience, such as PMS and menopause. When looking at the pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal options available to women, they are woefully inadequate. \n\nThis is because clinical trials for new drug development are heavily skewed towards male biology, meaning most drugs are more effective or designed for men. Due to the gender gap in clinical trials, women are also far more likely to suffer the adverse side effects of medications. \n\n### Women's Health is Overlooked \n[Research](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/08/200812161318.htm) from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Chicago suggests this is because drug dosages are largely based on clinical trials conducted on men. The theory of the one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work when it comes to drug discovery and development. \n\nIrving Zucker, a professor emeritus of psychology and of integrative biology at UC Berkeley, says, \"For decades, women have been excluded from clinical drug trials based, in part, on unfounded concerns that female hormone fluctuations render women difficult to study.\"\n\nTo complicate matters, medical professionals often downplay women's health issues, and female health problems are vastly under-researched. One school of thought believes that the problem exists because funding and research panels have historically been male-dominated. \n\nBut overall, female reproductive health, among other conditions, are under-addressed. A good example is endometriosis; although this condition affects 1 in 10 women, the same number as diabetes, it has a fraction of research funding. When we look at the bigger picture, medicinal options for female-focused care is limited if not anitquated. Amy Miller, Ph.D. and CEO of the [Society for Women's Health Research](https://nypost.com/2019/08/05/medicine-ignored-womens-health-for-years-thats-finally-changing/) says, \"Women's health has pretty much been ignored in biomedical pathology for our entire human history.\"\n\n### Cannabis as a Natural Medicine \n\nAlthough women's health issues have been overlooked by mainstream drug discovery and development, medical cannabis is a natural solution that helps millions of women feel better. Cannabis is not only a natural anti-inflammatory, for many people, it can help relieve anxiety, depression and improve the overall quality of sleep. \n\nIt has also proven effective for women suffering from PMS, whether it be body aches or menstrual cramping, to those feeling the general malaise and difficulties of transitioning into menopause. Dr. Julie Holland, a psychopharmacology specialist and well-known author of the book [Moody Bitches](https://www.amazon.com/Moody-Bitches-Taking-Missing-Having/dp/0143107909) says, \n\n\"In general, women are much more likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety than men, which means they are being prescribed antidepressants more than men are. Cannabis can potentially help with many symptoms that women who take antidepressants (as well as those who don’t) experience—including irritability, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.\"\n\nDr. Holland goes on to explain that the reason cannabis is so effective is due to its interaction with our body's endocannabinoid system. She says, \n\"Stress and inflammation are inextricably linked, and the key to combating both lies in a system called the endocannabinoid system, which is made of cannabis receptors throughout the body and internal cannabis-like molecules. \n\nWhen stress nearly knocks you overboard, your internal cannabinoid system helps to right the ship....cannabinoids (from cannabis) tamp down inflammation and reactivity in the body, maintaining your metabolism, immune functioning, learning and growing processes. The endocannabinoid system is involved in nearly everything we do: eating, sleeping, exercising, having sex, giving birth, and nursing.\"\n\nBelow we list five conditions where cannabis may be an effective remedy or complement to traditional pharmaceuticals and western intervention.\n\n### Fibromyalgia\n\n[Fibromyalgia](https://hellomd.com/articles/alternative-and-emerging-treatments-for-fibromyalgia-subheading:-could-one-of-them-work-for-you/) is a complex, irritating, and difficult condition with few medical answers. It affects over four million adults, and primarily women. The disease is mainly associated with widespread pain across the body, including muscles, tendons, and tissues. Unfortunately, there is no resolution as to why fibromyalgia happens to some and not others; however, it is linked to acute stress.\n\nIn a 2011 study, the majority of participants found that their [fibromyalgia symptoms became measurably more tolerable](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0018440) after taking cannabis. Not only did participants feel their pain symptoms decreased, but they also noted improvements in their quality of life. It's believed that THC, CBD and numerous other cannabinoids help to bolster a flagging endocannabinoid system, reestablishing homeostasis within the body.\n\n### Anxiety\nDuring this past pandemic year, [four out of ten American adults](https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/the-implications-of-covid-19-for-mental-health-and-substance-use/#:~:text=During%20the%20pandemic%2C%20about%204,June%202019%20Figure%201) reported having symptoms of anxiety. That’s a fourfold increase from 2019 when just one in ten Americans were experiencing those symptoms. [Anxiety](https://hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-decrease-social-anxiety-as-the-covid-pandemic-winds-down/) is one of the most common mental disorders and can be incredibly debilitating.\n\nCBD is one of the most well-known cannabinoids within the cannabis sativa plant. It’s non-intoxicating, which means you will not feel the typical high associated with THC. CBD is ideal for those who suffer from anxiety as it can help to balance mood and support the production of brain chemicals that produce feelings of calm and well-being.\n\nCBD also supports the activity of other neurotransmitters that can quell the intensity of anxiety. Serotonin is a well-known “feel good” chemical that helps us \"feel good\". Meanwhile, CBD excites thethe brain’s serotonin receptors, which allows the brain’s natural production of serotonin and encourages its mood-boosting effects.\n\n### Migraines\n\n[Migraines](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-does-cannabis-work-to-relieve-migraines/) can be excruciating. The symptoms may include a throbbing headache, nausea and a heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli like light, sounds, flavors, smells or touch. You may even experience an aura, a visual experience caused by migraine pain which may partially or fully block vision for some time.\n\nSimilar to fibromyalgia, the endocannabinoid system may play a role in migraines. An endocannabinoid deficiency may actually be one of the primary reasons migraines occur in the first place.Generally, the most effective cannabis products for migraines are typically high in CBD.\n\nThat said, everyone has a unique endocannabinoid system and biochemistry—so experimentation is necessary and a high ratio of CBD to THC may work best or for many, a one to one ratio of CBD to THC works best for chronic pain.\n\n### PMS\n[PMS or premenstrual syndrome](https://hellomd.com/articles/womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause/) encompasses a wide range of unpleasant symptoms including: bloating, fatigue, headaches, cramping, lower back pain, breast swelling and tenderness, constipation, diarrhea, and change in mood. These symptoms can start two weeks before your menstrual period or a few days leading up to it. Although the cause of PMS is unknown it is believed to be linked to the hormonal fluctuations that occur during a woman's cycle.\n\nMany women feel the effects of PMS during their lifetime, and some have a more severe form, PMDD—premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which [affects 3% to 8% of women during menstrual years](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24161307). PMDD wreaks havoc on women's lives, and can in some cases, leads to suicidal ideation.\n\nThere are no set cannabis dosages to alleviate PMS symptoms, but a good place to start is with a high CBD to THC ratio, due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory and mood-balancing properties. THC can help some women alleviate the physical pain associated with PMS, especially with cramping. When pain is acute vaping, or smoking flower, can help  \n\n### Menopause\nPeri menopause, or the phase of life that happens just before a woman hits menopause, and menopause, is a normal phase of life during a woman's life. This transition, which in the past was somewhat taboo,  signals the end of reproductive years. But in recent years, to many women, it signals not only a new chapter but a new lease on life.\n\nUnfortunately, the fluctuation of hormones during this time can cause some unwanted side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, disregulated sleep, thinning hair, changes in muscle tone, sexual dysfunction, and more.\n\nMany women turn to cannabis during this transition for the mood-regulating, and anti-inflammatory benefits mentioned earlier. But cannabis has something additional to offer: phytoestrogens. This plant-based hormone is similar to human estrogen in many ways and can help to make up for the estrogen dip experienced during perimenopause and menopause. If you’re ready to give cannabis and its hit of phytoestrogens a whirl, you may consider trying cannabis strains containing higher CBD ratios to THC.\n\nDr. Julie Holland believes cannabis is a powerful aid for women entering, or within, menopause, \"CBD can help with anxiety and THC can help with mood swings, irritability, and low resilience (your ability to handle stress).\"","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/ee604/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png","srcSet":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/69585/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 200w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/497c6/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 400w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/ee604/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 800w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/f3583/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/58556/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/61e93/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 200w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/1f5c5/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 400w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/58556/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 800w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/99238/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3652-markdown","title":"Easing the Symptoms of PMS, Perimenopause and Menopause with Cannabis ","slug":"ease-the-symptoms-of-pms-perimenopause-and-menopause-with-cannabis-and-beyond","content":"\nPremenstrual syndrome, perimenopause, and menopause are all natural parts of women’s reproductive cycles and each come with their own set of discomforts, disruptions, anxieties and challenges. The fact that they’re natural, however, doesn’t mean they need to go unattended. There is powerful help in the form of plant medicine for each of these life stages. All you have to do is find the solution/s that work for you!. \n\n### Premenstrual Syndrome\nThough there is still so much we don’t know about the causes of [premenstrual syndrome (PMS),](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780) it is generally thought to be caused by hormonal fluctuations, including drops in serotonin levels. Common symptoms and side-effects of PMS can include mood swings, anxiety, sleep disruption, physical pain, depression, bloating, joint pain, heaches and more. There is no “cure” for PMS-- it’s a natural part of life and not an illness. But there is help and hope to be found in the [world of plant medicines](https://hellomd.com/articles/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-womens-health-answered/).\n\n### Cannabis and PMS\nIn a [recent interview,](https://goop.com/wellness/sexual-health/can-cannabis-help-with-pms/) Psychiatrist Dr. Julie Holland, a psychopharmacology specialist and [bestselling author](https://www.amazon.com/Julie-Holland-M-D/e/B002G5S71Q?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1618599816&sr=8-2) said, “I started asking my patients about their cannabis use and learned many of them were using it for cramps, and some for PMS...Cannabis can potentially help with many symptoms that women who take antidepressants (as well as those who don’t) experience—including irritability, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.” \n\n[Dr. Holland](https://www.naturalmood.com/) goes on to explain that when it comes to PMS, cannabis, which most often contains both CBD and THC, can be a one-stop-shop for many women. ”CBD can help with anxiety and THC can help with mood swings, irritability, and low resilience (your ability to handle stress). Both can help relax the uterine muscle where cramps occur, and alleviate many PMS symptoms.” Many patients seeking pain relief seem to benefit from the use of the whole plant or from products that feature both CBD and THC. But, Dr. Holland is quick to note, “if you don’t like the altered feeling of THC, you can get a lot of PMS relief just using CBD.”\n\nIf you’re ready to try cannabis for relief of your PMS symptoms, but are unsure where to start, Dr. Holland recommends smoking or vaping, as it can bring the quickest relief. If this sounds like a plan, you might find [this list of go-to strains](https://www.shethinx.com/blogs/thinx-womens-health/science-behind-cannabis-pms-helping-period-pain) compiled by Portland-based cannabis shaman, Meryl Montgomery helpful. \n\n “For cramps, I recommend a beta caryophyllene or pinene terpene dominant strain, such as Sour Diesel. CBD (cannabidiol) also acts as a muscle relaxant and is anti-inflammatory. \n\nTo alleviate fatigue, I recommend pinene or limonene dominant strains, such as Super Lemon Haze or Blue Dream.\n\nFor malaise or moodiness, I recommend linalool and limonene heavy strains such as Lavender and Pink Kush.”\n\nThis is what works for Meryl, but keep in mind it may take a few tries to find [which strains work for you.](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-pms-and-menopause/) The common practice around cannabis is to start low and go slow, especially if you opt for edibles over inhaling. Low doses taken over longer periods of time can help you monitor your reactions and avoid the unpleasant experience of adding cannabis-induced annoyances like anxiety, hunger, irritability or horniness to your already PMS-filled day.\n\n### Supplements for PMS\nA [study published in the Journal of Caring Sciences](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25276694/)points to magnesium and b6 supplements as effective ways to calm PMS symptoms. Other studies recommend [calcium supplements as a way to reduce moodiness,](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28217679/) and [vitamin D as an anti-inflammatory supplement that may reduce cramping, aches and bloating](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31624297/).\n\n\n### Entering Perimenopause\nIn their 30s and 40s, when estrogen levels rise and fall less predictably, women may experience perimenopause: the phase leading up to menopause. During this time women may retain some of the symptoms of their PMS, gain new symptoms of PMS or begin to experience symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness and problems sleeping. \n\nAs with PMS symptoms and solutions, each woman will have her own. Cannabis and supplements, however, can be a great place to start.\n\n### Cannabis and Perimenopause\nWhen interviewed, Dr. Holland offers encouraging advice saying “the symptom cluster associated with perimenopause can be relieved with cannabis.”  It’s not surprising then, that at the [2020 Virtual Annual Meeting of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) it was announced that more women than ever are considering the use of cannabis for relief of common menopause symptoms.](https://www.contemporaryobgyn.net/view/cannabis-for-managing-menopause-symptoms)\n\nWomen turn to cannabis in perimenopause for the same [mood-regulating]( https://hellomd.com/articles/8-cannabis-products-to-brighten-your-mood), and anti-inflammatory benefits mentioned earlier, but in this perimenopause cannabis has something additional to offer: phytoestrogens. This plant-based hormone is similar to human estrogen in many ways and can help to make up for the estrogen dip experienced during perimenopause.\n\nHere’s how it works. We all have an endocannabinoid system in our bodies that helps us regulate homeostasis: general physical, mental and emotional stability. This system is made of receptors that respond to the cannabinoids made by our bodies. Estrogen, a hormone found in both women and men, helps break these cannabinoids down so the receptors can use them as efficiently as possible. When estrogen decreases, so does access to these stabilizing cannabinoids. This natural process may be to credit (or blame, depending on how you look at it) for the symptoms that arise during perimenopause. This is where cannabis’ phytoestrogen saves the day with it’s endocannabinoid-activating powers!\n\nIf you’re ready to give cannabis and its hit of phytoestrogens a whirl, you may consider trying cannabis strains containing higher CBD ratios to THC.\n\n### Supplements and Perimenopause\nCompelled by [studies linking phytoestrogens to relieve symptoms of perimenopause,](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13697137.2014.966241) but not sure cannabis is for you? Great news! Other supplements and plant medicines are ready to rise to the challenge, but there are a few things you should know.\n\nDon’t be lulled into thinking that “plant medicine” means “safe medicine”. There is some thought, and a growing body of evidence, suggesting that [phytoestrogen supplements may carry with them the same risks of estrogen supplements](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074428/). For advice, you may want to do some research and consider expert advice.\n\nA safer alternative would be to add foods containing safe doses of phytoestrogens to your diet in slightly larger amounts. Chances are, you’ve been eating phytoestrogen-rich foods like broccoli, carrots, beans, peas, peanuts, oranges, tofu, tempeh, miso and soy milk all of your life! Red clover, green and black teas and coffee are phytoestrogen-rich too and easy to incorporate into your diet. These small changes can have big benefits. Give them a try!\n\n### Entering Menopause\nAfter perimenopause comes [menopause, complete with hot flashes](https://hellomd.com/articles/womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause/), mood swings, insomnia, pain, low libido, weight gain, fatigue, osteoporosis and anxiety. Due to a history of shame around aging and menopause there has been a lack of education (among girlfriends, family members and even the medical community!) that can add to this anxiety. While they won’t cure hot flashes, pain or insomnia, [books](https://www.amazon.com/Moody-Bitches-Taking-Missing-Having/dp/0143107909/), [lectures](https://www.ted.com/search?q=menopause) and other forms of education may relieve anxiety and remind you that this phase of life is experienced by every biological woman with the privilege of making it to middle age.\n\nFor the things that education can’t calm, there’s always plant medicine!\n\n### Cannabis for Menopause\nThe use of cannabis helps relieve menopause symptoms in the same ways it helps relieve symptoms of perimenopause. This is for all the reasons explored above, only more so. Hot flashes that were occasional during perimenopause may become a more regular occurrence. Vaginal dryness that was just inconvenient earlier may cause pain during menopause. As symptoms change, it can be beneficial to tweak your cannabis use to suit. Whether it means increasing THC levels to combat hot flashes or trying an indica strain to enhance intimacy, help can be just a toke, gummy or vape away.\n\n### Hot Flashes and Menopause\n During menopause [anandamide,](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41401-018-0075-x#:~:text=Anandamide%20is%20a%20lipid%20mediator,psychoactive%20ingredient%20in%20Cannabis%20sativa.) a temperature-regulating neurotransmitter made by the body, decreases. It is thought that this is one of the reasons women experience [hot flashes during menopause.](https://hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-help-with-hot-flashes/) Cannabis doesn’t contain anandamide, but it does contain THC which binds to the same heat-regulating receptors. [Research shows that increasing THC doses can relieve hot flashes by having a cooling effect on the body.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12052044/).  Ann Arbor’s [Bloom City Club](https://www.bloomcityclub.com/about-us/) suggests taking “a few small draws on a cannabis vape pen is a discreet way to manage the onset of hot flashes.” But you should experiment to see what works best for you.\n\nBonus: Anandamide can also increase feelings of happiness or bliss. That may be the sexiest thing to happen to menopause since [Claire Underwood took a moment to cool her hot flash]( https://maryguiden.com/2013/05/12/claire-the-refrigerator-and-the-heat/)by the freezer. \n\n### Hormone Driven Weight Gain \nLike THC and CBD, [THCV](https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-thcv-and-what-are-the-benefits-of-this-cannabinoid) is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. It’s superpower when it comes to menopausal weight gain is its ability to suppress appetite. Bloom City Club recommends craft cannabis strains and cartridges like [Durban Poison](https://www.leafly.com/strains/durban-poison), [XJ-13](https://www.leafly.com/search?q=xj-13&searchCategory=strain/) , and [Blue Dream](https://www.leafly.com/strains/blue-dream) as go-to sources of THCV.\n\n### Headaches from Hormones\nHormonal fluctuations can cause intense headaches. Lucky for you, cannabis can bring intense relief. A [recent study published in the Journal of Pain](https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(19)30848-X/fulltext) found that the severity of headaches was decreased by 50% for women who used cannabis. The study also found that cannabis concentrates appeared to offer more significant relief than whole plant preparations.. There is a [wide range of concentrates on the market today.](https://urbnleaf.com/blog/concentrates-101-a-quick-breakdown-for-710/) Whether you try dabbing a bit of concentrate through a dab rig, e-ri or vaporizer or add a little resin to your bowl, it’s important to remember that concentrates are more powerful than flower. Start low and slow and proceed gently until you find a solution that works for you.\n\n### Vaginal Dryness from Menopause\nTaking cannabis in the usual ways is widely known to support arousal, feelings of love and relaxation. This can go a long way toward easing vaginal dryness and supporting sexual pleasure. Other alternatives include [microdosing cannabis](https://hellomd.com/articles/microdosing-cannabis-for-a-more-blissful-menopause/) with an arousal focused product like [1906 Love Drops or Chocolates](https://1906newhighs.com/products/love/), using a cannabis-infused lubricant like [Foria](https://hellomd.com/articles/foria-on-the-hellomd-set/) or an intimate oil like [Night Moves from Quim](https://itsquim.com/product/night-moves/). If you live outside California or in an area where cannabis is not yet legally sold, try Quim’s CBD-infused [Smooth Operator](https://itsquim.com/shop/) or Happy Clam which is billed as an “eye cream for your vagina.” All three topical products are focused on relaxation, moisturization and lubrication that can make sex more pleasurable for all involved--even those not yet in menopause!\n\n### Menopause and Osteoporosis \nA recent study reveals that [cannabis can help prevent osteoperosis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12052044/) and is shown to stimulate bone formation and protect against age-related bone loss. What a great way to guard against frailty and injury. It’s certainly more fun than broccoli or milk. \n\n### Supplements to Ease the Transition\nThere are as many supplements and herbal remedies for menopause as there are grains of sand on the beach. Dipping your toes in this market can be daunting at best. Whether you look for a single-ingredient supplement or a multi-ingredient product formulated to address a range of symptoms, you’ll benefit from knowing some of the more tried and true vitamins, herbs and plants to try.\n\nThe [Mayo Clinic’s recommendations](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hot-flashes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352795) include plant estrogens like soy, which may reduce hot flashes and other symptoms, ginseng which may help stabilize mood and [promote healthy sleep patterns](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia/) and vitamin E which can offer some relief from mild hot flashes. St. John’s Wort is a popular herbal remedy shown to even mood swings that may come with menopause. \n\nIf you want to take things to the next level, consider Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy.\n\n### Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)\n[BHRT uses hormones derived from plants to work with the endocannabinoid system to reduce the symptoms of menopause.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/natural-hormone-replacements#definition) The goal is to replace the naturally decreasing hormones with plant-derived hormones so that the system is supported in working as it did before. These hormones include [estriol: a weaker form of estrogen](https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/estradiol); [progesterone: associated with menstruation cycles and pregnancy](https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-760/progesterone); [dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): a hormone that supports production of estrogen and testosterone](https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-dhea/art-20364199); and [melatonin: which helps regulate the sleep cycle.](https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-940/melatonin) BHRT medications are available in the form of [(FDA)-approved medications](https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/fda-approved-bioidentical-hormones-for-menopausal-symptoms) or as [custom-compounded BHRT medications,](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28509626/) which can be tailored by your doctor to suit your needs. Both sources offer medications in the form of [pills, creams, gels, sprays, and vaginal inserts.](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15660-bioidentical-hormones)\n\nIn recent years BHRT has become quite popular. The [North American Menopause Society (NAMS) reports](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15660-bioidentical-hormones) that about 1.4 million women are using BHRT and that 40% of those women are in menopause. BHRT comes with risk of some side effects like weight gain, blurred vision, facial hair, tiredness, acne, bloating and even bleeding, but these side effects sometimes disappear after the first few doses. Charting pros and cons, listening to your body and working with a professional can help you find solutions that work for you.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5873015873015872,"src":"/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/ee604/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.png","srcSet":"/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/69585/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.png 200w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/497c6/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.png 400w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/ee604/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.png 800w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/8ed91/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.png 1115w","srcWebp":"/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/58556/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/61e93/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.webp 200w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/1f5c5/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.webp 400w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/58556/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.webp 800w,\n/static/57cb4c7f43ce97fea03189ac082abfd8/ac735/342d259cd1759c7a155683774b33eb00.webp 1115w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3035-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Help With Hot Flashes? ","slug":"can-cannabis-help-with-hot-flashes","content":"Hot flashes are the bane of many women in their menopausal years. But while we most often associate hot flashes with older women, the reality is that these uncomfortable sensations can also be due to stress, thyroid problems, certain types of tumors or side effects from certain medications.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nTreatment is typically focused on hormone therapy, which isn’t a viable option for a number of folks. Meanwhile, lifestyle changes can sometimes, but not always help with hot flashes.\n\nEnter cannabis, which—according to recent research—appears to help ease the severity of hot flashes.\n\n### What Are Hot Flashes? \n\nHot flashes are intense feelings of warmth that aren’t caused by an external source. Hot flashes can come about suddenly, or the sensation can build up over the course of a few minutes. \n\nSome common hot flash symptoms are: \n\n* Sweating or redness of the skin, especially above the waist\n* A faster than usual heartbeat\n* Tingling in the fingers\n\nHot flashes that occur at night are also called night sweats. These night sweats are one of reasons why women who are going through menopause also suffer from insomnia. \n\n### What Causes Hot Flashes in Menopause? \n\nFor menopausal women, hot flashes are thought to arise due to hormonal changes with estrogen playing an important role. \n\nDuring menopause, estrogen levels fall. This can cause the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature, to go haywire and read a rise in body temperature when there isn’t one. \n\nIn response, the brain may release other hormones to help reduce body heat. These hormones can cause an increase in heart rate and the dilation of blood vessels, which in turn increases blood flow, causing the body to sweat and cool off. \n\nHot flashes often have triggers. Some common ones are: \n\n* Spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine \n* Being in a warm room \n* Smoking\n* Stress and anxiety \n\nHot flashes themselves aren’t life-threatening, though they can be severe enough that they lower your quality of life. \n\nThere’s no cure for hot flashes. For menopausal women, the most common way to treat them is via hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which supplies the body with estrogen. And for women who can’t undergo HRT, other treatment options include antidepressant and antiseizure medications. \n\nWhile these drugs work for some, for others, they don’t work well enough or can have unwanted side effects like bloating, headaches and mood swings. And HRT can increase the risk of stroke, blood clots and breast cancer. \n\nSo, if you decide to go the natural route to help address your hot flashes, avoiding or managing them is dependent on lifestyle changes such as: \n\n* Limiting alcohol, hot beverages, caffeine and spicy foods\n* Lowering room temperature\n* Reducing stress \n\nAnother lifestyle adjustment that folks who experience hot flashes may want to consider is adding cannabis to their daily regimen. \n\nRELATED: [MICRODOSING CANNABIS FOR A MORE BLISSFUL MENOPAUSE](https://hellomd.com/articles/microdosing-cannabis-for-a-more-blissful-menopause/)\n\n### Cannabis May Be Able to Reduce Night Sweats & Body Temperature\n\nA case study from the _Journal of Palliative Medicine_ suggests that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that’s found in cannabis could [reduce the severity of night sweats experienced by cancer patients](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30759037).  \n\nResearchers retroactively looked at case studies of five cancer patients who all reported that night sweats interfered with their quality of life. After agreeing to take dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC, all reported a positive outcome. \n\nTwo of the subjects said that dronabinol completely resolved their night sweats, while the other three said that their symptoms were less severe. It seems that once these subjects were able to manage their night sweats, other symptoms like fatigue and anxiety also began to improve.\n\nAll reported that they saw these improvements within just one week of starting dronabinol treatment. \n\nWhile this case report was small and has many shortcomings, it aligns closely with the anecdotal reports of many women who say that cannabis helps them [manage their menopause-induced insomnia](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia/). It also fits in well with animal studies that point to [THC’s ability to reduce body temperature](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2071615/). \n\nStudies in the future will have to look at a larger sample size. And double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials addressing night sweats in both cancer patients and menopausal women will also be necessary. \n\nPhoto credit: pixelheadphoto digitalskillet/Shutterstock.com\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/14b42/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/f836f/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 200w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/2244e/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 400w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/14b42/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 800w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/47498/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/0e329/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/7c918/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.jpg 3590w","srcWebp":"/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/58556/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/61e93/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 200w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/1f5c5/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 400w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/58556/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 800w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/99238/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 1200w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/7c22d/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 1600w,\n/static/d67c2c0287069dedbdb5b93e08ee96af/b0b9a/94b219652bbeaf0ea2eb31a6c7b48c56.webp 3590w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2838-markdown","title":"Microdosing Cannabis for a More Blissful Menopause","slug":"microdosing-cannabis-for-a-more-blissful-menopause","content":"Night sweats. Anxiety. Irritability. Sleeplessness. Brain fog. Sound familiar? \n\nThese are common symptoms of **[menopause](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/)**, changes in women’s bodies that signal the end of our reproductive years. Menopause typically happens when we hit our early 50s, but is preceded by **perimenopause**. This natural transition can take five to seven years on average to complete and even longer for some women. Other women may experience early menopause for various reasons, including when they go undergo hysterectomies.\n\nI went into menopause relatively early, with a number of symptoms exacerbated by a late pregnancy at 41. I’ve [described before my postpartum symptoms](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia), which included intense night sweats where I was not only drenched in sweat each morning but covered in a rash. I would also wake up at 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. after struggling to get to sleep in the first place, so I was averaging four hours of sleep.\n\nThis [lack of sleep](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn) was devastating to my mental state. \n\n![Hello3-min (21).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_21_3d833653f4.png)\n\nMy period completely stopped by the time I was 48, and by then, I was in the throes of depression. For me, depression shows itself as extreme irritability and a total lack of ability to cope with life’s stressors. I felt like I was living a nightmare. \n\nHormone replacement therapy was off the table because of cancer in my family, breast and ovarian cancer in particular.\n\nCannabis changed everything—and I only needed a little bit to make a big difference. Literally, a few puffs on a vape pen at bedtime changed my life:\n\n* better sleep\n* reduction in pain\n* less stress and irritability\n\nWhy did it work so well for me?\n\nTo understand the connection between [cannabis and menopause](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause), I spoke with Elizabeth Moriarty, who’s a clinical herbalist and formulator, and founder of Luminary Medicine Company. She first explains menopause this way:\n\n“Menopause is characterized by a **decline in estrogen production**. Many of the uncomfortable changes we experience are authored by the impact of the decline in estrogen on the choreography of biochemicals that affect mood and cognition.”\n\nSo less estrogen means more anxiety, irritability, and brain fog. \n\n![Hello2-min (25).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_25_f0fdecc748.png)\n\n### Getting Your Bliss Back After Menopause \n\nWhile scientists and doctors understand the chemical changes in women’s bodies as we age, the entire process can be confusing and frustrating. Elizabeth explains that all humans have an [endocannabinoid](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system) that’s a neurotransmitter in our brains called anandamide. Scientists refer to [anandamide as our bliss molecule](https://hellomd.com/articles/eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule).\n\nIf our anandamide is deficient, we may experience stress-induced anxiety and irritability. And guess what? Declining estrogen disrupts the regulation of our anandamide. In short, the specific hormonal changes in women’s bodies that occur during menopause affect our bliss.\n\n![Hello4-min (23).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_23_489cb45ba1.png)\n\n### How Microdosing Marijuana Can Alleviate Menopause Symptoms\n\nSo how can [microdosing](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/microdosing) cannabis help you ease your way through menopause? A microdose is usually considered around 2.5 mg of [tetrahydrocannabinol](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/thc) (THC), But this may vary depending on someone’s tolerance, metabolism, and size. \n\nMicrodosing THC along with the cannabinoid [cannabidiol (CBD)](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/cbd) can help with menopause symptoms in a number of ways:\n\n- **Cannabis alleviates stress and anxiety.** In higher doses, cannabis may cause anxiety or paranoia in some people. However, in lower doses, the plant can have a calming, relaxing effect. \n\n- **Marijuana promotes sleep.** Lack of sleep can affect stress levels and increase irritability throughout the day. A deeper, more restful sleep can fortify your ability to cope with daily stressors and hormonal changes.\n \n- **Marijuana alleviates brain fog.** While some of the brain fog that comes with menopause is directly related to hormone deficiencies, better sleep plus THC via a [Sativa strain of cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/indica-and-sativa-do-these-cannabis-labels-mean-anything) could help improve focus and clarity.\n \n- **Cannabis reduces inflammation and pain.** “Many painful conditions are known to become more pronounced during menopause,” says Elizabeth. “It may well be that we become less tolerant of pain when we find ourselves deficient in anandamide, which contributes to our overall sense of well-being.” \n \n- **The plant promotes a feeling of well-being.** According to Elizabeth, research shows that CBD inhibits the degradation of anandamide. In essence, CBD works to protect your bliss.\n\nIn other words, microdosing cannabis reduces unpleasant physical and mental symptoms of menopause while still allowing you to function throughout your day. \n\n![Hello5-min (18).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_18_516a6f1386.png)\n\n### How Marijuana Helped One Woman With Her Menopause Symptoms \n\nOne woman I spoke to, Veronica, was experiencing typical symptoms of menopause: \n\n* Hot flashes\n* Night sweats\n* Stress \n* Mood swings\n* Lack of sleep \n* Irregular sleep patterns\n\nVeronica finds both cannabis with THC and CBD to be helpful.\n\n“Cannabis completely aids with sleep, whether it’s getting back to sleep after waking up from night sweats or assisting with getting a regular sleep pattern by medicating at bedtime,” says Veronica, who says she uses cannabis daily for menopause. “[I put] 10 mg in my coffee in the morning, and depending on my pain in the morning, I will use cannabis flower or a CBD vape pen and more throughout the day depending on anxiety levels from the stress of menopause,” she explains.\n\nWhen Veronica’s experiencing mental stress associated with hot flashes and hormone irregularity, she ingests microdoses of cannabis throughout her day. Sometimes, if work, caregiving, hot flashes, and just life, in general, have her feeling extra stressed, she takes a break to consume cannabis and even meditate for 10 minutes to help reduce her stress.\n\nIf you’re looking for stress relief during menopause, Veronica recommends using a **tincture**/or **sublingual tab** or **spray** to help the cannabinoids assimilate quickly into your system. [The mucus membranes in your mouth carry these cannabis compounds into your system more efficiently](https://hellomd.com/articles/getting-the-most-out-of-using-sublingual-cannabis) than when you smoke or vape marijuana.\n\nSpecifically for mental focus, Veronica says she consumes CBD oil in the morning daily and vapes or smokes CBD-rich cannabis flower throughout the day.\n\n“A good thing about all of the new science and technology is that it makes it very easy to microdose your cannabis when you need to increase just a little bit,” she explains. For example, you can cut edibles into smaller pieces to start with lower doses. For more accuracy, tinctures let you control the number of drops, so you can calculate up or down as needed. \n\nIf you try microdosing THC, and you feel more psychoactivity than you’d like, take a CBD oil under the tongue. CBD counteracts THC’s effects, plus you’ll be getting all of the benefits of CBD as well.\n\nMore bliss and less stress can mean a smoother transition into menopause.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) index of articles.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/ee604/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.png","srcSet":"/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/69585/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.png 200w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/497c6/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.png 400w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/ee604/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.png 800w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/12b05/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.png 836w","srcWebp":"/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/58556/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/61e93/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.webp 200w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/1f5c5/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.webp 400w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/58556/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.webp 800w,\n/static/edfdfe4ca44e4af6f4608b10716acacf/6c306/e7b69d7e42176cb6e8bff060e5aee3e8.webp 836w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2668-markdown","title":"How Women Can Use Marijuana as a Mood Lifter","slug":"how-women-can-use-marijuana-as-a-mood-lifter","content":"Mood swings, anxiety, depression—women approaching or over 40 often find that hormonal changes can wreak havoc on their mental and emotional state. And you thought PMS was bad. \n\nWhile our moodiness isn’t always related to hormones, there’s a scientific reason behind a woman’s typical hormonal mood swings. Science can also show us why cannabis can be helpful in bringing those hormones into check.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nI recently learned from Dr. Lakisha Jenkins, a naturopathic doctor and founding member of the [California Cannabis Industry Association](http://www.cacannabisindustry.org/), that as we age, our [endocrine system](https://www.livescience.com/26496-endocrine-system.html)—like all of our internal systems—doesn’t work as well as it should. Technically speaking, the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which are responsible for hormone production, can get out of whack. The result is an unpleasant rage of hormones.\n\nDr. Jenkins explains that our endocannabinoid system (ECS) affects our endocrine system as it does other systems throughout our bodies. Cannabis and its cannabinoids and terpenes can positively affect our ECS, bringing it into homeostasis or balance. When our ECS is more balanced, our endocrine system can be, too.\n\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\n\n### Women Report Marijuana Helps in Dealing With Moods\n\nWhether or not they know the science of the endocrine system and the ECS, women are finding that cannabis can help alleviate their negative emotional state, the kind that stems from unbalanced hormones.\n\n“Cannabis has been a huge help in my sometimes pretty severe depression,” says Laurie Wolf, founder of gourmet cannabis edibles company [Laurie + MaryJane](http://www.laurieandmaryjane.com/). “No matter how bad my day or dark mood, eating or smoking cannabis has _always_ improved my mood.”\n\nAt 52, Carolynn King in Colorado says she’s dealing with general irritability. “I’m irritable at everything and everybody for no reason. I can feel it coming down on me, and I hate everybody,” she says, attributing her moods to peri-menopause. \n\nJill Trinchero, founder of [SDK Snacks](http://www.sdksnacks.com/), a cannabis edibles company in Oregon, says she was motivated to create her line of cookies, vegan raw coconut bites and savory crackers to help with her own anxiety as well as the stress of parenting.\n\n“As a stay-at-home mom, I didn’t want to smoke and knew that consuming cannabis helped me be more present with my kids and deal with OCD and anxiety,” Jill says. “I didn’t want to be in that state, because it stresses people around me out; it stresses my kids.”\n\n### Best Forms of Cannabis Consumption for Better Moods\n\nWomen’s marijuana consumption preferences vary depending on the elevated mood they seek. \n\nFor Laurie, edibles are her favorite intake method, but she says smoking a joint is fun and a better option when she wants immediate results. \n\nCarolyn says vaping and edibles both help with her irritability.\n\nJill usually has a 5 mg edible. “I’m not laid out on the couch. I can still function for my kids and work and everything—with just a low-dose cookie,” she says.\n\nMarie P. in Wyoming has been dealing with hormonal issues since having a hysterectomy at 27. Now at 57, she smokes and consumes marijuana edibles to relax. “It’s helped my moods and also helps me sleep,” she says. “I have been dealing with this for years, but cannabis helps better than anything.”\n\nAccording to Dr. Jenkins, sublingual or oral forms of cannabis can provide more instantaneous results. “When you ingest an edible, it goes through your entire digestive system, so you’d have to be pretty precise with the number of milligrams you consume,” she explains. “And you’d need to know what your metabolism is like that day, even if your digestive system is sluggish, because hormones affect digestion. Edibles are not as specialized or dialed in.”\n\nTinctures, on the other hand, come with a dropper so you can titrate your dose, measuring out the number of drops to find your “personal sweet spot,” as Dr. Jenkins puts it. That personal sweet spot can also vary not just from woman to woman, but from time of day to the period of the month. Even in full menopause, Dr. Jenkins says, our bodies still follow a cycle. \n\n### Cannabis Strains for a Better Mood\n\nIn terms of marijuana strains, every woman has her own preferences similar to having a preferred form of consumption. \n\n“I tend to go towards indica-dominant or pure indica strains,” Laurie says. “There are times when certain sativas make me feel uncomfortably racy, occasionally paranoid. There are plenty of sativas I love. It's really only an occasional unpleasant experience.”\n\nJill says she goes with an indica because of her anxiety. Some sativas can exacerbate her anxious feelings, making her even more hyper alert.\n\nCarolynn says that her favorite strain is [Grape Ape](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce671d520d60009f4f4c0/grape-ape). “That just makes me happy. I’ve not found another strain that makes me as happy as Grape Ape,” she says.\n\nMarie’s preferred marijuana strains include [Blue Dream](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a70be4e6c30440008cafd14/blue-dream) and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights). She finds they mellow her out and don’t make her want to eat everything in sight.\n\n### Going Beyond Strains When Choosing Cannabis\n\nStrains may be a common way to pick your cannabis, but don’t limit your exploration based on strains, says Dr. Jenkins. “Unfortunately, strains can’t always run as true as they should,” she explains. “Look at cannabinoid and terpene profiles as well.”\n\nDr. Jenkins’ advice for picking the right cannabis product includes:\n\n* Looking for cannabidiol (CBD)-rich strains as CBD plays a strong role in balancing hormones \n\n* Making sure that the CBD-rich strain you choose also has [tetrahydrocannabolic acid (THCA)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a90bb3ef24d1300077ccb60/how-to-make-the-most-of-non-psychoactive-thca) to activate the CBD\n\n* Looking for terpenes that are uplifting, like [limonene](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8e1261f24d1300077ccb5b/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-limonene)\n\n* Knowing that if you have ADD or ADHD, indicas that are normally body relaxing could affect you more like a sativa that’s more cerebral and stimulating—meaning an indica’s effects could be reversed, so be aware\n\n“Do a lot of research and know yourself, know your body, know what _you_ need,” Dr. Jenkins advises. “Then take the research, and go on your road of self-discovery to find what’s right for you. Individuality takes precedence over any traditional medicine you take, especially cannabis.”\n\nWhat do you consume when your moods are darker or edgier than you’d like? What lifts your moods? Let us know in the comments below. \n\nPhoto credit: [Nicklas Hamann](https://unsplash.com/@lxsy)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/f836f/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/2244e/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/47498/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/0e329/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/8182b/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 3651w","srcWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/61e93/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/1f5c5/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/99238/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/7c22d/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/208dd/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 3651w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2643-markdown","title":"Menopause & Painful Sex: How Cannabis Can Help","slug":"menopause-and-painful-sex-how-cannabis-can-help","content":"Menopause may cause painful sex. There, I said it. Sex often hurts once your body changes due to the hormone fluctuations brought about by menopause. But painful sex isn’t the only symptom or result of the menopause process.\n\nSince I’m not a doctor or an expert on menopause, I turned to a trusted advisor of mine: Dr. Elaine Burns, founder and medical director of Southwest Medical Marijuana Evaluation Center and founder of DrBurns’ ReLeaf tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) products. Dr. Burns was working with bio-identical hormones for women before she entered the cannabis industry seven years ago. I asked her about cannabis and specifically CBD for women’s sexual health during peri-menopause and post-menopause.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nFirst, Dr. Burns wanted to get across that menopause is a “multifactorial issue,” meaning no woman can expect that what worked for someone else will work for them, too. She also emphasized that cannabis can be part of an overall health-care plan that could include botanicals (such as black cohosh, evening primrose and chamomile) for women before menopause or bio-identicals—non-synthetic, all-natural hormone replacements—for women no longer experiencing menses. She would never solely recommend cannabis or CBD to relieve menopausal symptoms.\n\n### Menopause Can Negatively Affect Sexual Activity & Pleasure\n\nSome of the main complaints women have during menopause that could adversely affect sexual activity and sexual pleasure include:\n\n* Painful sex, usually stemming from vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal walls, both signs of depleted estrogen\n\n* Low libido that could be caused by changing hormones, but also from lack of restful sleep\n\n* Mental and emotional aspects of menopause including depression and anxiety, also exacerbated by sleeplessness\n\nWhen I look at this list, I realize how I’ve experienced some of these symptoms myself. Previously, I wrote about my own sleep issues and how cannabis helped me get a good night’s sleep, which in turn reduced my depression. Being well rested and feeling good mentally can do wonders for your sex life.\n\nDepending on your health goals, marijuana—and specifically CBD—can be integrated into your overall care plan to alleviate specific menopause symptoms and also help with general good health as you age.\n\n### How Can CBD Help Women Through Menopause?\n\nAccording to Dr. Burns, there are two parts of support during menopause. First, women look for relief from unpleasant symptoms ranging from vaginal dryness to hot flashes to painful sex. After those symptoms recede, the longer-term conversation with a health-care provider should be about the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis. \n\nLooking more closely at some of the symptoms of menopause that can affect your sex life, here’s how cannabis might help:\n\n* **Lubricants:** THC and CBD in a lubricating carrier like coconut oil can not only help with vaginal dryness to address painful sex, but the THC in particular can also be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream to produce relaxation, heightened sexual arousal, and greater sensitivity and sensation. \n\n* **Vaping:** Vaporizing whole plant extracts or marijuana flower can help ease anxiety, lift mood and improve sleep. Good sleep means more energy for good sex, right? \n\n* **Tinctures:** When taken sublingually, cannabis tinctures using the whole plant can produce similar effects to that of vaping over a longer period of time. Note that some sexual lubricants are actually produced as edibles, so they can be introduced vaginally, topically and orally.\n\n* **Indica strains:** These types of marijuana strains are ideal for relaxation and relieving some of the sleep and emotional issues that could be barriers to sexual pleasure. But when you’re choosing your indica strain or indica cannabis product, choose a whole plant product when you can, for better results. Dr. Burns calls extracts that isolate THC or CBD “neutral strains”—not fully indica or indica hybrids—because they lack the complete profile of terpenes and cannabinoids that work well with our bodies. \n\n### One Woman’s Cannabis & Sex Story\n\nI sought out a woman who could speak about her own experiences with cannabis for sexual health and connected with Cyo Ray Nystrom, the founder and CEO of QuimRock, a cannabis-infused self-care line for women’s intimate care. Cyo says cannabis can be “powerful sex-medicine for anyone using it intentionally and with her own personal needs in mind.” \n\n“I personally faced quite the battle with my vagina the minute I started having sex,” Cyo recalls. “I've had years of awful UTIs, forcing me to take intense rounds of antibiotics that, in turn, killed off all the natural vaginal flora and caused yeast infections. It affected my life and sex life greatly as vaginal health is such an important part of intimacy and sex for so many people.”\n\nCyo also notes that the shame that's historically associated with vaginal health issues, including those related to menopause, can be “particularly scarring.” \n\n“Personally, cannabis has always been a great tool for getting me into my body, which is essential for me to really show up in my sex life,” Cyo explains, adding, “Cannabis has helped me in many ways—from cramp relief after getting a UTI to pain relief-focused topicals to the amazing benefits of cannabis-infused lubricants.”\n\nWhen it comes to cannabis, there’s no “one strain and consumption method fits all.” How you address menopausal symptoms and sexual health is as individual as each woman is. \n\nAs Cyo reminds us, “It’s hugely important to figure out what turns you on and what turns you off.” And that takes time and trying different things. Just as menopause is a journey, so is naturally addressing your sexual health with botanicals like cannabis.\n\nWhat has your sexual health journey through menopause been like so far? Have you used cannabis to help with any of the symptoms of menopause? Let us know in the comments below.\n\nPhoto credit: [Maru Lombardo](https://unsplash.com/@marustereo)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/f836f/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/2244e/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/47498/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/0e329/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/511f8/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 3504w","srcWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/61e93/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/1f5c5/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/99238/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/7c22d/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/ab2ae/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 3504w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2612-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Helped Solve My Menopause-Induced Insomnia","slug":"how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia","content":"When I began going into menopause, I wasn't sure what to do. All I knew is that I didn't want to take pharmaceuticals to treat what was a natural process in the female human body—the end of menstruation.  \r\n\r\nThe worst symptoms for me were depression, insomnia, night sweats and hair loss. Soaking wet pajamas woke me up in the middle of the night and usually resulted in full body rashes. My insomnia was not helping my depression. To say I was miserable would be an understatement. I tried modifying how I ate and began yoga to ease some of the symptoms I was experiencing, but I wasn’t finding relief.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nI read about cannabis and how it could be used for relaxation and as a sleep aid. Coming from the “Just Say No” generation, the idea of buying and smoking “pot” seemed wrong to me, but so did suffering for months on end.\r\n\r\nFinally, I pushed through my fear, got a medical marijuana card and learned to vape from a woman I know. I was terrified, paranoid and felt completely out of my element using cannabis as medicine in my 50s—but I wanted to feel better. \r\n\r\nThe first night I vaped a little cannabis before bedtime, I slept through the night. When I woke up the next morning after uninterrupted sleep, I cried from relief. With more sleep, many of my other menopause and stress-related symptoms began to diminish.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE INS AND OUTS OF VAPING MEDICAL MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1f473a100a820006562eb3/the-ins-and-outs-of-vaping-medical-marijuana)\r\n\r\n### Cannabis Tinctures Can Help for Menopause-Related Insomnia\r\n\r\nI’m not the only woman whose found relief from menopause-related insomnia through the use of cannabis. \r\n\r\nKim in Alaska began having problems sleeping through the night when she started menopause. \r\n\r\n“I would wake after five hours and not be able to return to sleep,” she recalls. “I tried many over-the-counter herbs and essential oils with mixed results.”\r\n\r\nHer sleep issues were compounded by her day job where she was constantly on the computer. This would cause her hands to tingle and fall asleep at night, which would wake her up and interrupt her sleep cycles.\r\n\r\n“I tried cannabis in tincture form to see if I could find some relief, and it helped,” Kim says. “My hands no longer wake me up, and I sleep through most nights.” Kim says she uses any indica strain tinctures to aid in a more restful night.\r\n\r\n### Powdered Cannabis & THC Pills for Sleep\r\n\r\nAshley in Colorado says her sleepless nights were caused by a combination of stress and [perimenopause](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666). Being a more regular consumer of cannabis, she didn’t feel that smoking was doing the trick in terms of promoting sleep. \r\n\r\nAfter some research and recommendations, she found two products, Ripple by Stillwater Brands and Altus, were well-suited for her.\r\n\r\n“They help me mellow out, lower my stress level and ease me into a more restful sleep,” says Ashley.\r\n\r\nRipple is a powdered, water-soluble tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) product while Altus makes pills in addition to gummies and topicals. The product Ashley found more sleep-inducing were the indica-dominant 5 mg pills, although it took some time for her to find her optimal dose.\r\n\r\n### Best Marijuana Strains for Sleep\r\n\r\nDepending on whom you ask, you’ll hear a variety of opinions and experiences around consuming cannabis for sleep. Some strains that seem to come up regularly from women I’ve spoken with and cannabis consultants alike as ideal for deep relaxation and slumber include Skywalker, Afghan Kush, and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights).\r\n\r\n### Tips for Solving Menopause-Related Sleep Issues With Cannabis\r\n\r\nEvery person’s body is different, so what works for one woman may not work for you. If menopause is disrupting your sleep, here are some things you can do:\r\n\r\n* **Monitor your sleep using an app.** Apps like SleepCycle, FitBit and Sleep Better, or a wearable device like FitBit or Misfit can be great tools for understanding how you sleep—or don’t sleep. By tracking your personal sleep data, you’ll gain a better understanding of what else besides hormones might be affecting your sleep including food, beverages—especially alcohol, electronics, sugar and pain.\r\n* **Keep a journal.** Record your marijuana consumption as you try different strains and forms of cannabis to address your sleep issues. Keep track of each product and watch your sleep data to see which ones are working for you.\r\n* **Have patience.** The right strain, intake form and amount are unique to each individual and can be affected by many factors including weight, frequency of cannabis use, metabolism and more. So don’t give up if you don’t find the right product right away.\r\n\r\nThe more you understand your sleep cycles and can spend the time finding the ideal cannabis strain, form and dose, the more likely you are to get a good night’s sleep. For me, my surefire sleep solution is a few puffs from a vape pen with an indica or indica-dominate strain. Let me know in the comments below what you use to help alleviate insomnia from menopause.\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg","srcSet":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/f836f/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/2244e/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/47498/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/0e329/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/86636/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 2630w","srcWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/61e93/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/1f5c5/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/99238/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/7c22d/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/6e55b/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 2630w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2549-markdown","title":"6 Marijuana Strains for Day & Night to Support Women’s Health","slug":"6-marijuana-strains-for-day-and-night-to-support-womens-health","content":"The saying “men are from Mars and women are from Venus” may have started as a lighthearted comment to highlight the differences between temperaments in women and men. But there’s a kernel of truth there.\n\nMen and women are different—especially when it comes to their health. Women’s bodies need different types of care for issues that don’t just affect them in obvious ways—like periods—but also with the not-always-easy-to-grasp conditions like hormone changes due to menopause, problems sleeping, mood swings, back pain or dysmenorrhea (aka menstrual cramps).\n\nRELATED: [5 WAYS MARIJUANA AFFECTS MEN & WOMEN DIFFERENTLY]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6786ed8425e40008273a37/5-ways-marijuana-affects-men-and-women-differently)\n\nWhen it comes to these types of health concerns, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Fortunately, cannabis has been shown to have healing properties for women, whether used for body aches, insomnia, menstrual cramps or anxiety. \n\n### How Women Can Use Medical Marijuana\n\nIt may take some trial and error to find just the right strain that works for you, but knowing the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) levels along with the type of strain helps narrow the field down quite a bit.\n\nThere’s also the question of when to use cannabis for a particular malady; some women may need to treat insomnia, while some may need help controlling anxiety during the daytime. With that in mind, here are six strains that have been shown to be effective for a variety of ills—three for daytime use and three for nighttime.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Strains for Daytime Use\n\n**Cannatonic**\n\nCannatonic has a higher level of CBD relative to THC. For most people, this means it won’t create any psychoactive effects—perfect for daytime use. Cannatonic is known for creating happy and uplifting feelings, making this hybrid strain best to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia—conditions some women experience during their period or menopause.\n\n**Durban Poison**\t\n\nWith a THC content that can get up to 24%, [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3) is a good choice for women who want to medicate during the day, but who also need to stay productive; consumers almost universally report that the strain doesn’t make them sleepy or drowsy. This sativa strain is often used to treat depression, anxiety and chronic pain—symptoms faced by many women who suffer from PMS and/or menstrual cramps.\n\n**OG Kush**\n\n[OG Kush](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cce66d520d60009f4f4ab) is a well-known hybrid with THC levels that can go as high as 26%, which can lead to elevated levels of psychoactivity. OG Kush also has fairly high levels of limonene and linalool, terpenes that can help fight against depression, migraines and stress. That’s why some women choose this strain when experiencing painful symptoms related to PMS and menstrual cramps.\n\n### Marijuana Strains for Nighttime Use\n\n**Arjan's Strawberry Haze** \n\nThis sativa strain is good for depression, fatigue and migraines. While Arjan's Strawberry Haze is popular for daytime use because it's known to encourage creativity and sociability, it also works well for some insomnia sufferers. This hybrid strain is a perfect nighttime choice for women going through a hormone imbalance.\n\n**Cherry Pie**\n\n[Cherry Pie](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5b90379e404e830001078775) is an indica-dominant strain that actually smells like cherries and is used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, pain and migraines. With 13–23% THC content, it’s known to create feelings of euphoria followed by deep sleep after two to three hours. This could be a great strain for women looking for an elevation in mood before a great night’s sleep.\n\n**Grape Ape** \n\n[Grape Ape](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce671d520d60009f4f4c0) is a popular strain used by many to treat insomnia, pain, depression and anxiety. Consumers also report improved mood, making this indica strain the right choice for women who need a pick-me-up at night. Sometimes Grape Ape’s effects can be strong, leading to “couch lock,” so if you’re in need of some pain relief from PMS, menopause or painful periods, choose this strain to relax and watch a movie before bed.\n\nPhoto credit: [Omar Lopez](https://unsplash.com/@omarlopez1)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/14b42/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/f836f/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 200w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/2244e/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 400w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/14b42/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 800w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/47498/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/0e329/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/77d93/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/58556/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/61e93/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 200w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/1f5c5/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 400w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/58556/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 800w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/99238/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 1200w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/7c22d/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 1600w,\n/static/0c43b1c6481331e2afafe215933c2846/d4378/6bb1f222123002fb01609304ffa03783.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2530-markdown","title":"A Holistic Approach to Living With Menopause","slug":"a-holistic-approach-to-living-with-menopause","content":"Let’s face it: For most women, menopause is no fun. This stage of a woman’s life can come with mood swings, abdominal pain, hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, a decreased sex drive and other not-so-pleasant symptoms. It can be a physically and emotionally demanding time, giving menopause a bad reputation. But what if we introduced a new way to look at this stage in a woman’s life—one that wasn’t so negative? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Foria Helping Women Cope With Menopause\n\nWe spoke to certified doula Kiana Reeves, who’s also the operations manager at [Foria, a cannabis company providing natural ways to cope with the health challenges that come with being a woman](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5760c7d0e4599e00070000d7/foria). You may have heard of Foria’s breakthrough cannabis suppositories that are intended to help ease menstrual cramps and other abdominal pain, or perhaps their personal lubricant that can heighten sexual arousal and pleasure. \n\nDuring our discussion, Kiana mentioned three “golden opportunities” in a woman’s life:\n\n* the first menstruation\n* post-pregnancy\n* menopause\n\nWhile these stages come with challenges, if given the proper care and attention, they can actually contribute to a woman’s overall health and wellness. According to a study published in the _Journal of Chinese Medicine_, [each one of these stages provides a woman the opportunity to “either improve, or else risk damaging their health.”](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289900196_The_'three_golden_opportunities'_Key_times_women_can_improve_or_damage_their_health)\n\n### Changing the Way We Think About Menopause\n\nThe idea that menopause can actually be an opportunity to make gains that can bolster overall good health is groundbreaking. No longer do women have to subscribe to the idea that menopause is the beginning of the end of a vibrant, healthy life. By paying attention and taking proper care of themselves during this time, women can emerge from menopause a stronger, healthier version of themselves. \n\nHere are a few holistic ways to treat the symptoms of menopause and take advantage of the positive opportunity this stage in a woman’s life can bring.\n\n### A Healthy Diet Can Help Ease Menopause Symptoms\n\nA proper diet can help fight off some of the most brutal symptoms of menopause. Kiana suggests [upping calcium intake to help fight against bone density loss](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2266953/), a common issue associated with this stage in a woman’s life. \n\nMuch of the pain attributed to menopause is inflammation-related. As such, menopausal women should [lower the intake of foods that can cause that inflammation](http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/foods-to-avoid-limit/food-ingredients-and-inflammation-12.php) like sugar, saturated and trans fats, refined carbs, gluten, dairy and alcohol. \n\nAnother thing to consider when thinking about your diet during menopause is eating foods that promote hormonal balance. Menopause will throw your hormones out of whack, resulting in mood changes and all sorts of other physical and emotional consequences. Eating processed food can aggravate this issue. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy, whole-food options that can help boost hormone production and balance, including broccoli, pomegranate, flaxseed, green tea, extra virgin olive oil, red wine, avocado and tofu. \n\n### Make Time for Daily Exercise During Menopause\n\nDaily exercise can help fight the symptoms of menopause on two fronts:\n\n* improving mood\n* increasing bone density\n\nKiana suggests doing high-weight, low-rep exercises to help combat the significant bone-density loss women can experience in the late stages of menopause and first few years after menopause passes. According to one study, [“Muscle force is a strong determinant of bone mass and strength.”](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2811354/) Weight-bearing exercises create more tension on the muscles, which in turn put more pressure on bones and signal that new, healthier bone must be generated. \n\n[Exercise also helps relieve stress and depression](http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/exercise.aspx), and can generally improve a person’s mood, according to the American Psychological Association. When we exercise, our brains release feel-good chemicals like endorphins and anandamide, the body’s natural version of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Regular exercise can help menopausal women by improving their emotional well-being during this challenging time. \n\n### Cannabis Can Be an Alternative to ERT\n\nMany women use estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to help augment hormones their bodies no longer produce at high levels. ERT is mostly reserved for those who are facing extreme symptoms. For women with a history of heart disease, breast or ovarian cancer, or simply without the funds or insurance to cover the therapy, ERT is not recommended.\n\nThat said, marijuana is showing promise as an alternative therapy. Cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant (CBD, CBG, CBC, THCV) have been shown to be effective in fighting the same symptoms as ERT. Cannabis can encourage bone growth, help fight stress and mood swings, and [shows promise as a natural alternative to ERT](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5817c7fad07155000b1f2f9f/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause). \n\nRELATED: [TOP 5 MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR PMS & MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58227fd8589a2b0008020469/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-pms-and-menopause)\n\n### Focus on Sexual Activity Throughout Menopause\n\nUnfortunately, our culture has spread the idea that menopause means the death of a woman’s sex drive. And while menopause can alter a woman’s desire for sex temporarily, that doesn’t have to remain the case.\n\nKiana suggests that women can help themselves by staying in touch with their sexuality throughout menopause. That means using orgasms and self-pleasure for the chemical and hormonal benefits they bring—and to help with mood regulation. \n\nPlacing a focus on sexual pleasure can help a woman become increasingly sexually active after menopause. Try [Foria’s cannabis-infused lube](https://www.hellomd.com/products/56a2c3d259ed4d000c000031/foria-pleasure) and [or Apothecanna’s intimacy oil] to heighten sexual arousal and pleasure whether you’re by yourself or with a partner.\n\n### Take Probiotics to Help Balance Hormones During Menopause\n\nGut health is also important during menopause. According to Kiana, a healthy diet doesn’t do much if your gut isn’t in proper working order. Less than optimal gut health can prevent the body from absorbing nutrient-rich foods in your diet and can lead to bloating, digestive issues and more. Hormonal imbalance that comes with menopause can further disrupt your gut health. \n\nAdding a probiotic supplement to your daily regimen can improve your digestive function, help stabilize hormonal production, and increase your absorption of vitamins and minerals from healthy foods. \n\nMenopause can be an extremely challenging time in a woman’s life, fraught with physical and emotional needs that require proper care and attention. But if menopause is dealt with using a mindful, holistic approach, women can actually come out the other end happier, healthier and stronger. \n\nPhoto credit: [Edward Cisneros](https://unsplash.com/@everythingcaptured)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/14b42/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/f836f/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/2244e/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 400w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/14b42/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 800w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/47498/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/0e329/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/79565/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 3570w","srcWebp":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/58556/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/61e93/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/1f5c5/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 400w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/58556/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 800w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/99238/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 1200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/7c22d/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 1600w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/2da49/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 3570w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2510-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Women’s Health Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-womens-health-answered","content":"From PMS to menopause and everything in between, women’s health issues can be some of the most painful conditions that half of the world’s population must face in their lifetime. Some go-to remedies include hot water bottles, ibuprofen and even hormone replacement therapy. \n\nBut many women are discovering the healing powers of cannabis for various women’s health conditions. Marijuana can deliver effective pain relief because the cannabinoids in the plant interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in our bodies. The ECS helps regulate processes that women experience during their periods like mood swings, heightened emotions and pain. Consuming cannabis boosts the cannabinoids in the body and helps ease these symptoms. There’s also been recent research into the relationship between tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and estrogen that suggests [THC may ease menopause symptoms](https://www.impactcannabis.org/medical-marijuana-menopause/).\n\nIf you or someone you know is looking for relief from painful cramps, hot flashes or mood swings, have a look at our top three questions and answers surrounding marijuana and women’s health from our [Answers](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) page. We hope these answers shed some light on how cannabis can help.\n \nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/564935726915516/united-states/san-francisco-california/hellomd/)\n\n### Q: How can marijuana make me feel better if I have PMS mood swings?\n**_A few days before my period I get mood swings and feel very tired—I feel like the world is against me. Can marijuana stop this feeling?_**\nAnswer @dredmunds: The short answer is, it might! The estrogen and progesterone cycles are responsible for mood swings many women experience during PMS and prostaglandins are responsible for pain and discomfort. There are several properties within cannabis that may be helpful for PMS in general.\n\nSome women report that an indica strain can be helpful for alleviating pain and inducing relaxation in the evening.\n\nHybrid strains with both indica for comfort and sativa for mood elevation/stabilization have also been helpful. Some examples include Obama Kush, Blue Dream, and Dutch Treat.\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVFAmq-rzAE#`\n\n### Q: I'm going through menopause, and the hot flashes keep me up at night. What can you recommend?\n**_I need to sleep, but am afraid that marijuana may exacerbate some of my issues with anxiety._**\n\nAnswer: @lauriel Hot flashes are indeed one of the most difficult side effects of menopause. And when they’re affecting your sleep, that adds an additional layer of stress to your day. Some things you can do near bedtime, that are not cannabis related, are to avoid caffeine (including chocolate), alcohol, spicy foods, tight clothing, extra blankets and cigarette smoke.\n\nWhoopi (Goldberg) and Maya make topical rubs, bath soaks and yummy sipping cacao chocolate treats specifically for women. At night, you can bathe in Whoopi & Maya’s Medical Cannabis Bath Soak. The soak promotes a state of deep relaxation and offers relief from the aches, pains and cramping associated with the menstrual cycle. Follow that bath with a Whoopi and Maya topical rub and you're on your way to deep relaxation.\n\nWhoopi and Maya's CBD chocolate sipping cacao that would be especially good for you in the daytime, since CBD is known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects. Cacao enters your body through your endocannabinoid receptors just like cannabis, and releases an array of “feel good” chemicals that physically improves your mood. Coupled with cannabis this raw, organic cacao can help with inflammation, sleep, pain, irritability, joint pain, and the uterine cramping and discomfort associated with the menstrual cycle, all while providing for a truly health beneficial experience.\n\nThe high content of magnesium and iron the chocolate contains makes it desirable as these deficiencies become heightened during menstruation. A study from the Virginia University Health System discovered that magnesium supplements can reduce hot flash frequency in women from 52 to 28 per week—a 41% reduction.\n\nRELATED: [5 PRODUCTS THAT HELP WITH INSOMNIA DURING MENOPAUSE](https://hellomd.com/articles/5-products-that-help-with-insomnia-during-menopause)\n\n### Q: Best cannabis product for cramps?\n**_ I just bought Foria Relief but haven't yet tried it._**\n\nAnswer: @VeronicaB: Hi there! We LOVE Foria products, and encourage our patients to try them out! Here is an article of ours that talks more about their suppositories:\nhttps://hellomd.com/articles/menstrual-cramps-be-damned-with-new-cannabis-vaginal-suppository\n\nYou may also find this article helpful: Top 5 Marijuana Strains for PMS and Menopause - https://www.hellomd.com/articles/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-pms-and-menopause\n[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jwJQL4m2bQ]\n\nPhoto credit: [Cagatay Orhan](https://unsplash.com/@cagatayorhan)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/14b42/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/f836f/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 200w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/2244e/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 400w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/14b42/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 800w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/47498/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/0e329/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/a4dca/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.jpg 1864w","srcWebp":"/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/58556/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/61e93/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 200w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/1f5c5/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 400w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/58556/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 800w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/99238/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 1200w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/7c22d/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 1600w,\n/static/ef3d3dd9da13dccf1993702471b9884f/21f96/70bd88cf3dc5f1c6550c4b46ceb226ba.webp 1864w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":2,"currentPage":1,"id":5501,"name":"Menopause","slug":"menopause","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}