When our hormones are out of balance, we feel like nothing is right. It is interesting how can such small compounds have such a huge impact on how we feel. Everything from hunger and appetite regulation, to even sex drive and fertility is connected with hormones. They are known as chemical messengers- they are synthesized in endocrine glands and travel to specific receptors in organs and tissues where they cause changes by binding to receptors. If you are familiar with the basics of ECS, you already know that cannabinoids act the same way.
The purpose of hormones as well as cannabinoids is to keep our bodies in homeostasis. So, is there a possible connection between cannabinoids and hormones? As you probably already guessed, the answer is yes.
The connection between the ECS and the endocrine system
Since ECS and the endocrine system are closely related, cannabinoids can also impact the synthesis and secretion of hormones. Especially CBD does that as an antagonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors. By binding to receptors, CBD can also impact the strength of sensitivity for hormones. It can be weather increased or decreased. CBD can also speed up the enzymes to break down hormones after they have done their job. So, we can say that CBD has a role in hormonal regulation.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance
Most commonly, when we think of hormonal imbalance, we think of common issues that occur to many women around the world and are connected to monthly cycles. These are known as PMS symptoms:
Bloating and tummy pain
Mood swings
Breast tenderness
Food cravings
In some cases of hormonal imbalance, women can experience PCOS, which can include symptoms like:
Depression
Fatigue
Headaches
Acne
Weight gain
Difficulties getting pregnant
Taking into consideration the above symptoms, it is not a surprise that women around the world are willing to try anything that would solve their problems. Luckily, there are several methods available. Some women visit the doctor and try hormonal therapies, while others believe that “food is the medicine” and try to balance their hormones with diet. Ourselves, we are fans of nature and natural remedies, therefore we would suggest giving CBD products a chance.
Let’s take a look at some of the major hormones in our bodies and how CBD affects them:
Estrogen
CBD may lower estrogen levels, but additional research is needed to confirm that.
Until now it is known, that CBD may affect estrogen levels since they break down through the same enzyme pathway.
Thyroid hormones
CBD can either stimulate or diminish thyroid hormones, so it is expected that it can adapt to a person’s needs. CBD is, therefore, a promising agent to balance thyroid hormones, however, additional research is needed.
Cortisol
Maybe you already know, that cortisol is known as the “stress hormone”? It is also known that CBD may reduce stress levels, so it does not come as a surprise that CBD has an impact on cortisol. CBD has the ability to block cortisol production through CB1 receptors in the hypothalamus.
Insulin
CBD can reduce high insulin levels and keeps blood sugar low. As a consequence, it could help to reduce weight. The latest is however not proven yet, so additional research is needed.
Conclusion
Evidence suggests, that CBD can have an impact on several different hormones in our bodies. Even though there are additional studies needed to confirm some of the connections, we suggest trying CBD for your hormonal issues and seeing the results by yourself.