Menopause is one of the most significant transitions a woman’s body can go through, and for many, one of the most challenging.
From hot flashes and sleep issues to anxiety, low libido, joint pain, and mood swings, the range of symptoms can feel overwhelming.
For women seeking alternatives to HRT or wanting to complement it with natural options, cannabis has increasingly become a point of interest.
But does it work? And how can it be used safely and effectively?
Today, we’ll be discussing the use of cannabis to support women through menopause, including what the research says, how it interacts with hormones, and how to use it responsibly.
Menopause and the endocannabinoid system
To understand how cannabis might help, we need to start with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is a widespread cell-signaling network that helps regulate everything from mood and sleep to temperature, metabolism, pain, and immune function – all areas that are disrupted during menopause.
It’s made up of endocannabinoids (your body’s own cannabis-like compounds), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that break them down.
Research suggests that the ECS plays a large role in reproductive hormone balance. For example, estrogen increases the sensitivity of the ECS, particularly the levels of anandamide, often called the “bliss molecule.”
As estrogen declines during menopause, the ECS can become less active, contributing to the wide range of symptoms many women experience.
Cannabis, particularly its active compounds like THC and CBD, interacts directly with the ECS.
In theory, by supplementing with cannabinoids, we may be able to restore balance to this system during times of hormonal disruption like menopause.
Symptom by symptom: where cannabis may help
Here are some of the most common menopausal symptoms, and how cannabis might support each:
1. Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia
Sleep issues are one of the most reported complaints in menopause, often driven by anxiety, hormonal shifts, and temperature dysregulation.
Research suggests that CBD may improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation [1], while THC can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep [2].
However, higher doses of THC can disrupt REM sleep or cause next-day grogginess, so dose and timing matter.
A full-spectrum product with both CBD and a small amount of THC may offer the best results for sleep support.
2. Anxiety and Mood Swings
The relationship between cannabis and anxiety is dose-dependent. Low to moderate doses of CBD have been shown to reduce anxiety in both human and animal studies [3].
THC can also be calming at low doses, but high doses may increase anxiety for some individuals, especially those new to cannabis.
This is where microdosing can shine! A small daily dose of cannabis (e.g. 2.5 mg of THC or less) taken via oil or vaporiser may take the edge off mood swings without impairing function.
3. Hot Flashes and Thermoregulation
Hot flashes are thought to be related to changes in the brain’s temperature regulation centres, which are influenced by estrogen. The ECS also plays a role in thermoregulation.
While studies in this area are limited, there’s anecdotal evidence that cannabinoids may help stabilise body temperature and reduce the severity of hot flashes for some women.
Animal studies have shown that CB1 receptor activation helps regulate body temperature, which supports the idea that cannabis could help [4].
4. Joint Pain and Muscle Aches
Estrogen has anti-inflammatory effects, so when levels drop, many women experience an uptick in joint and muscle pain. Cannabis is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.
A 2020 review in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that CBD has promise as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory conditions like arthritis, and many women report relief from cannabis topicals or orally consumed products.
5. Libido and Sexual Health
Menopause often brings changes to libido, vaginal dryness, and difficulty with arousal. Interestingly, the ECS also plays a role in sexual function and pleasure.
CB1 receptors are present in the female reproductive system, and activation of the ECS has been linked to increased sexual desire and sensitivity.
Some women report that cannabis heightens sensation, reduces anxiety around intimacy, and helps them feel more present during sex, especially when taken in low doses.
The importance of safe consumption methods
If you’re considering cannabis for menopause, your method of use matters, especially if you’re aiming for long-term health benefits.
We recommend avoiding smoking due to the obvious risks to lung health. Instead, opt for:
- Dry herb vaporisers (which heat the flower without combustion)
- CBD and THC oils or tinctures (easy to dose)
- Edibles, such as capsules or gummies
- Topicals, for localised pain or inflammation
Always start low and go slow, especially with THC. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s in your system.
Combining cannabis with lifestyle changes
While cannabis may offer symptom relief, it’s not a silver bullet. As always, the foundation of hormone health lies in metabolic function, and that means lifestyle changes still come first.
Support your transition through menopause by focusing on:
- Regular strength training and walking, to maintain muscle and improve insulin sensitivity
- Nutrient-dense meals, rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre
- Stress reduction, through breathwork, nature time, therapy, or adaptogens
- Sleep hygiene, including dark evenings and morning light
- Minimising exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals
- Targeted supplements, like magnesium, omega-3s, and vitamin D
In this broader context, cannabis becomes one tool among many in your natural medicine toolkit.
What the research still needs
While the anecdotal evidence is strong and early research is promising, we need more clinical trials focused specifically on menopause and cannabis.
Much of what we know comes from general ECS research or studies in adjacent areas like chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep.
Still, there’s growing interest in this area, and more women are sharing their positive experiences with cannabis during menopause.
The tide is turning, but we must stay informed, self-aware, and cautious with our usage.
Final thoughts
Menopause can be a difficult, disorienting time, but it’s also an invitation to tune into your body and explore new ways of supporting yourself.
At High & Polite, we believe in your right to try alternative medicines, including cannabis, when conventional options fall short or come with side effects you’d rather avoid.
This plant has been used by women for thousands of years. And while modern science is still catching up, the potential for cannabis to provide relief, connection, and calm during menopause is undeniable.
We’re not here to replace your doctor, but we are here to empower you with tools, knowledge, and support as you navigate your health on your terms.
If you’re curious about how to incorporate cannabis into your wellness routine, or you just want honest, science-backed guidance on natural medicine, our newsletter is where to start.
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