Cannabis for Women: Does CBD Increase Estrogen?

May 9-15 is Women's Health Week and the perfect time to discuss how cannabis can affect our bodies as women. While many focus on cannabinoids' potential to help with pain, stomach distress, or a poor mood, some cannabinoids may assist with hormonal balance. We know that cannabis can impact our hormones, so does CBD increase estrogen levels?

Why is Estrogen Important to Women's Health?

Estrogen is essential for a woman's overall health and wellbeing. It helps regulate many body processes:

• Regulate the menstrual cycle

• Promote bone health

• Protect against heart disease

• Maintain healthy skin and hair

• Balance mood

• Manage weight

As we age, our estrogen levels naturally decline, which can cause menopause and many associated symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, and mood swings.

Does CBD Increase Estrogen Levels?

That's a complex question. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) may play a role in hormonal balance, but research is still in its early stages. A study on male rats found CBD might decrease testosterone levels, but we need more research to say for sure how it affects female humans.

Studies show that the ECS plays a critical role in female reproductive health. Research demonstrates endogenous cannabinoids inhibit ovulation in female rats. The ECS may also be involved in menstrual cycle regulation by interacting with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries.

This isn't enough information to make a definitive answer.

We have to leave CBD and estrogen as an open topic until we have more results.

CBD and ECS Balance

While we don't know as much as we should about CBD, estrogen, and women's health, there's much more research and information from the scientific community about CBD and its ability to support endocannabinoid function. The ECS is vital to our health, and while there are many ways to encourage a healthy ECS, cannabinoids like CBD can help keep it in balance.

The benefits of CBD also help maintain symmetry within the body. Many people use CBD for a range of wellness needs, including:

CBD for Anxiousness

Anxiety and stress aren't beneficial for your hormone levels. They can increase the production of cortisol, which can disrupt your menstrual cycle and make menopause more uncomfortable.

CBD may assist with relaxation and help to keep anxiety at bay. By keeping stress levels low, you may also be able to encourage a more regular menstrual cycle.

CBD for Sleep

Sleep is the best way to support your body and encourage hormonal balance. Our bodies produce growth hormones during sleep, essential for tissue repair, bone health, and regulating metabolism.

CBD may help you get a better night's sleep by interacting with the ECS to promote relaxation. A good night's rest can also improve your stress levels and help control weight.

CBD for Inflammation

Our research shows chronic inflammation may increase the risk of endometriosis, PCOS, and ovarian cancer. It can also worsen menopause symptoms, like hot flashes and night sweats. CBD's anti-inflammatory effects may help to ease pain and reduce swelling.

CBD for Skin Health

The skin is our largest organ, and it's also full of cannabinoid receptors. When your hormones are out of balance, your skin may suffer. CBD's potential to encourage cell regeneration and reduce inflammation may help improve the look and feel of your skin.

CBD may help to improve skin health by reducing inflammation and keeping the ECS in balance. A healthy ECS can promote cell growth and keep your skin looking its best.

CBD For Hair Health

A healthy scalp is vital for hair growth. CBD is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the hair from damage. It may also help to reduce inflammation and keep the scalp healthy.

CBD may help to improve hair health by reducing inflammation, keeping the scalp healthy, and encouraging cell growth.

CBD for Heart Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. A healthy ECS can reduce the risk of heart disease and support heart health. CBD may help protect the heart by reducing inflammation and keeping the ECS in balance.

CBD for Bone Health

Osteoporosis is a common problem for post-menopausal women. CBD may help to reduce inflammation and encourage bone growth. A healthy ECS may support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Overall, strong bones are essential for a healthy body.

CBD to Manage Weight

CBD may help manage weight by reducing inflammation and keeping the ECS in balance. A healthy ECS can encourage cell growth and regulate metabolism. As the body loses estrogen, weight management becomes more difficult. CBD may help offset this weight gain by supporting a healthy ECS.

CBD for Gut Health

A healthy gut is vital for a healthy ECS. A healthy gut can reduce the risk of gastrointestinal problems and support gut health. CBD may help to reduce inflammation and keep the gut healthy.

CBD for Overall Wellness

CBD may help support overall wellness by reducing inflammation and keeping the endocannabinoid system in balance. A healthy endocannabinoid system can encourage cell growth and support the body's natural ability to heal.

CBD may encourage hormonal balance through a healthy body by supporting the ECS.

Final Thoughts on Cannabis, CBD, and Estrogen

We need more research to say for sure how cannabis affects female hormones. We know that the endocannabinoid system regulates the menstrual cycle and ovulation. CBD may also help to reduce anxiety and inflammation and promote skin health.

If you're considering using CBD, or any cannabis product, talk to your doctor first. They can help you understand how it might interact with any medications you're taking and offer guidance on the best dosage for your needs.

Pantry Food Co. edibles are an excellent way to add CBD to your daily routine. Our cannabis bites are available in various flavors and make a wonderful mid-day or evening treat as part of your wellness plan. Check out our list of CBD edibles today!