If you ask most people what a hormone is, they might be able to tell you one of two of the better known ones but they probably wouldn’t be able to tell you what they do in the body.
Despite being not well understood by most people, hormones are critical molecules that are required for optimal bodily function, ranging from metabolism and growth to mood and reproductive processes.
So what happens when hormones aren’t doing what they should be? Well, you can get hormone imbalances, which can cause havoc on the body, ranging from mild and uncomfortable to potentially serious and life threatening.
But never fear, CBD is here – CBD oil for hormonal balance may offer a solution to your hormonal issues.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at hormones and the body’s endocrine system, CBD oil and hormone regulation, and how you may be able to achieve natural hormone balance with CBD.
What Are Hormones And What Do They Do In The Body?
Hormones are part of the body’s endocrine system, which is a complex network of glands throughout the body that produce and release hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate numerous bodily processes, including metabolism and digestion, growth and development, mood, reproduction and sleep. The glands of the endocrine system include the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, pancreas, ovaries in females, and testes in males, among others.
These glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, where they travel to target cells and organs throughout the body.
Hormones play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis (balance), coordinating various bodily functions and responding to changes in the environment or internal conditions. The endocrine system works in conjunction with the nervous system to ensure overall balance and optimal functioning of the body.
Common hormones are cortisol, adrenaline, testosterone, oestrogen and insulin.
For example, after you eat a meal, your pancreas (gland) releases the hormone insulin which regulates the amount of blood sugar. Diabetes is where the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar which, if left untreated, leads to serious health issues.
What Are Hormone Imbalances, And How Do They Affect The Body?
Unfortunately, hormone imbalances occur when there is either too much or too little of a hormone circulating in the bloodstream. This disruption can stem from a variety of factors, including stress, diet, environmental toxins, genetic predispositions and certain medical conditions. The effects of hormone imbalances can manifest differently depending on which hormones are involved and the individual’s overall health. Common symptoms of hormonal imbalance include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain or loss, mood swings, fatigue, insomnia and reproductive issues.
CBD Oil Benefits For Hormones
Luckily for people experiencing hormone imbalances, CBD oil may offer relief to common endocrine issues.
CBD oil and hormone regulation is a complex bodily process where the CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system’s (ECS) cannabinoid receptors, thereby potentially affecting hormone secretion and function. CBD also indirectly modulates the ECS to support homeostasis, which may aid in the regulation of cortisol levels linked to stress-induced hormonal disruptions.
Additionally, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may alleviate symptoms exacerbated by hormonal imbalances, such as pain and inflammation associated with menstrual disorders.
Some studies suggest CBD may impact insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, suggesting potential benefits for managing conditions like insulin resistance.
Furthermore, CBD’s ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality may indirectly support hormone regulation, as adequate sleep is crucial for hormone production and balance.
Women And Hormone Imbalances: Why Are Cisgender Women Generally More Affected By Imbalances?
While people of all genders can experience hormonal imbalances, cisgender women commonly experience hormonal fluctuations and imbalances throughout their lives, beginning with puberty and continuing through menstruation, pregnancy and menopause. These phases involve significant changes in oestrogen, progesterone and other hormone levels, making cisgender women more susceptible to hormonal imbalances compared to cisgender men. Factors such as childbirth, oral contraceptives and stress can further exacerbate hormonal fluctuations in cisgender women, leading to a wide array of symptoms and health challenges.
CBD Oil For Women’s Health
By interacting with the ECS, CBD oil for women’s health may be your best ally in regulating hormones, potentially balancing oestrogen and progesterone levels. This not only helps cisgender women during menstruation, it can also support women seeking relief from natural bodily changes during menopause.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can be particularly beneficial for menstruation-related conditions such as menstrual cramps, acne and inflammation-related pain. By reducing inflammation, CBD may help reduce discomfort and promote overall wellbeing during menstrual cycles or other hormonally sensitive periods.
Furthermore, CBD’s ability to alleviate stress and anxiety is significant in managing hormonal balance. Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which disrupt other hormone levels like oestrogen and progesterone. CBD’s calming effects on the nervous system may help reduce stress levels, thereby indirectly supporting healthier hormone levels over time.
Natural Hormone Balance With CBD From Down To Earth
Now we understand CBD oil benefits for hormones, you need to know where to get the best CBD oil Australia has to offer, which means you need look no further than Down To Earth’s huge range of the highest quality full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate oils.
And remember, if you have any medical conditions or take any medication, check with your doctor to ensure that adding CBD oil for hormonal balance to your regime is right for you.
Still have questions? Give one of our friendly Down To Earth team a hoy!
