CBD For Balancing Hormones
In today's fast-paced world, many of us experience prolonged stress, an overactive nervous system, and excessive inflammation. Fortunately, CBD, or Cannabidiol, can serve as a potential ally in addressing these issues.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
The Endocannabinoid System is a complex cell-signaling system that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes within our bodies, including mood, stress response, and immune function, with the goal of maintaining homeostasis - AKA BALANCE! The Endocannabinoid System consists of endocannabinoids (naturally occurring compounds produced by the body), receptors (found throughout the body), and enzymes that help break down endocannabinoids. The discovery of the endocannabinoid system has significantly advanced our understanding of how the body regulates various functions and maintains internal balance. The use of herbal cannabinoids, like CBD, within the endocannabinoid system has opened up new possibilities for treating imbalance in the body. CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System by influencing the receptors and enzymes associated with it. By doing so, CBD contributes to maintaining homeostasis.
CBD and the HPA Axis
The HPA axis, consisting of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, is a vital component of the body's stress response system. When stress occurs, the HPA axis releases hormones like cortisol to cope with the situation. CBD has been found to provide a profound connection between the mind and body. This modulation allows for better regulation of the HPA axis, potentially reducing the impact of stress on the body. CBD is known for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. Anxiety and stress can activate the HPA axis, leading to the release of stress hormones. By reducing anxiety, CBD may indirectly influence the HPA axis and contribute to a more balanced stress response. Chronic stress can have neurotoxic effects on the brain, affecting cognitive function and hormonal regulation. CBD's neuroprotective properties may play a role in safeguarding the brain from the negative impact of stress, indirectly influencing hormone balance. By nourishing the nervous system and smoothing out hormone imbalances through the HPA axis, CBD contributes to an overall sense of well-being.
My Story
When I lost my period due to a dysregulated nervous system, insulin resistance, inflammation, stress, and a very imbalanced microbiome, I spent years searching for answers and understanding. During my journey toward wellness, there were many little things that added up to really help me get back to baseline. But one thing really moved the needle for me: CBD Oil. It calmed my amygdala, provided support to my nervous system, and allowed my endocannabinoid system to manage my high cortisol and adrenaline levels. I still depend on it. There have been times that I have neglected to take my CBD regularly, and I have noticed serious declines in my overall health. It’s a very important part of my health routine.
That's not to say everyone is the same. Just because you are dealing with a hormone imbalance doesn't mean CBD will fix all of your problems. Everyone's imbalance and root cause is different, so CBD may not be something that moves the needle for you the way that it did for me. But I can't gatekeep what has been pivotal for me!
Incorporating CBD into a wellness routine may offer women a natural and effective way to address stress, regulate the HPA axis, reduce inflammation, and balance hormones. As always, everyone’s body, imbalances, and root causes differ, so nothing is a “cure-all.” Incorporating CBD into a wellness routine is only PART of a holistic approach to well-being.