{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/women's-health/2","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2718-markdown","title":"Oh, My Aging Skin: How CBD Can Help","slug":"oh-my-aging-skin-how-cbd-can-help","content":"I’ve never wanted to be that mature woman whose response to “How are you?” was “Oh, my aching back.” I also didn’t want to look in the mirror and think, “Oh, my aging skin.” Since starting my day with a regular dose of cannabidiol (CBD) oil, I’m finding that the aches and pains that were becoming commonplace for me are now reduced. Lately, I’ve been thinking of exploring CBD topical creams for aging skin, so I asked several women about their experiences with CBD topicals.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Women Love Their CBD Topicals\n\nCBD topicals are typically creams, lotions, oils, ointments and salves. There are many to choose from in places where cannabis is legal, but Marie Peterson in Wyoming makes her own.\n\n“It helps my skin with breakouts due to hormonal changes and moisturizes for super-soft skin,” says Marie. She adds that in addition to helping her reduce skin irritations, CBD topicals have the added benefit of relieving underlying pain. Another bonus for Marie is that the CBD topicals help her grandson address his eczema better than the medications he was prescribed.\n\nCamille Ritchie in Vancouver says she uses a CBD-infused coconut oil on her face to treat eczema and for its anti-aging properties. She’s also using it to protect against another major cause of aging skin: the sun.\n\n“I’m trying [my CBD-infused coconut oil] as a sunscreen and after-sun treatment,” Camille explains. “I’m hoping it will help diminish dark spots too, but we shall see.”\n\nCamille says she saw fast, impressive results from the CBD topicals on her eczema and is waiting to see how well they help her on the aging skin front.\n\nWendy Pagaduan, founder of Clean Coconut Skincare & Wellness, points out that CBD—and the cannabis plant overall—is “packed full of vitamins, minerals, proteins and fatty acids, all of which encourage skin health.” Antioxidants may prevent or delay certain types of cell damage and can be found in foods and plants, including many fruits and vegetables. \n\nAccording to Wendy, CBD is also moisturizing and can reduce the itching that comes with dry skin. And she, too, mentioned how CBD topicals are effective for eczema as well as a natural way to treat other skin conditions.\n\n### Doctors Weigh In on CBD Topicals for Skin Issues\n\nI turned to a naturopath for a bit more about the skin-healing properties of CBD.\n\n“CBD is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, so it could help with inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis as well as acne,” says Dr. Elaine M. Burns of Southwest Medical Marijuana Evaluation Center. \n\nElise Ho in Southern California holds two doctoral degrees, one in naturopathic psychology and the other in natural health. She uses a CBD-based anti-aging cream and is impressed with the results.\n\n“CBD does amazing things for your skin,” says Elise, echoing that it has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can help with acne and dry skin. “It can also help with the overall balance of your endocannabinoid system [when consumed],” she says. Achieving balance, or homeostasis, is paramount to maintaining a healthy body. \n\n### Quick Tips on Using CBD Topicals\n\nAny CBD product you choose will only be as good as its ingredients and manufacturing process. As with any skincare product, particularly for anti-aging, beware of exaggerated claims about what the product will do for you. Shop around for a reasonably priced product, but know that CBD topicals can be pricey, in the $50–100 range for a small container.\n\nWhen looking for a CBD topical, also consider the following:\n\n* Hemp-derived CBD products are the easiest to obtain and ship, but may not be as effective as whole-plant CBD topicals. Still, they're a great option for people living in states without marijuana laws on the books. \n\n* Check the other ingredients in your CBD topical to ensure you aren’t sensitive to anything else in the product.\n\n* Start by applying the CBD product to a small patch of skin, and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction. If you do, don’t apply further and seek out another product. CBD itself should not be reactive, but there’s no guarantee of this.\n\n* Store CBD products in a place with a stable temperature and away from extreme light, heat or moisture. You can also store CBD products in the refrigerator. Depending on the carrier substance—such as coconut oil—it might solidify when cold, but return to its original consistency at room temperature.\n\nBecause of the legal issues surrounding cannabis and CBD, make sure you know the difference between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD products with THC. While many people say “hemp-derived CBD is legal everywhere,” that’s not entirely accurate. It’s critical to know the law in your area as there’s some confusion around what you can order online depending on where you live. \n\nPhoto credit: [Marivi Pazos](https://unsplash.com/@marivi)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/14b42/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/f836f/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/2244e/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 400w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/14b42/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 800w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/47498/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/0e329/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/6995d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 3637w","srcWebp":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/58556/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/61e93/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/1f5c5/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 400w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/58556/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 800w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/99238/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 1200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/7c22d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 1600w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/2a59d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 3637w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2674-markdown","title":"How CBD Can Help Relieve Endometriosis Pain","slug":"how-cbd-can-help-relieve-endometriosis-pain","content":"In endometriosis, the cells that form the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) occur outside of the organ, in places like the ovaries or Fallopian tubes. When a woman has her monthly menstrual cycle, the uterus sheds this endometrial lining—and the improperly growing cells along with it. Once shed, this tissue has nowhere to go and in some cases, it can cause pain that’s so severe that it can lead to hospitalization. \n\nWorldwide, 6–15% of women who are of reproductive age have endometriosis. Typical treatments for endometriosis usually involve painkillers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), hormonal birth control and surgery. However, these options can come up short for many women. \n\nJessica Peters, a cannabis clinician and founder of Moxie Meds, thinks that cannabidiol (CBD), one of cannabis’s many active compounds, can help women find relief from endometriosis—a condition she’s personally acquainted with.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### CBD Reduces Jessica’s Endometriosis Pain\n\nJessica first encountered CBD in 2010 when she was working at Market Street Cooperative, a now defunct dispensary that served a large portion of the San Francisco HIV/AIDS community. She took the position instead of pursuing work on a ship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—a move she says she made partly because of how severe her endometriosis symptoms were. \n\n“All I could think about was: If I have an endometriosis attack while I’m out at sea on a ship filled with 90% men and not at a hospital, I’m not going to make it through this. When I was younger, I can't recall any month in which I didn't miss school or work for at least one day [due to the pain caused by endometriosis],” she says. \n\nWhen she first tried CBD during her menstrual cycle, she could tell something was different: “I really noticed a reduction of cramps; I really noticed this pain relief, and I thought, ‘Wow, what might be going on here?’” she says. \n\nHer interest piqued, Jessica went on to work at Harborside Health Center, a medical cannabis dispensary in Oakland, CA, in hopes of further exploring CBD’s properties. At the time, CBD’s effects were largely unknown. She became the dispensary’s CBD specialist and began creating in-house products for them.  \n\n“At this point in time, my endometriosis [symptoms] had substantially changed. I could tell [CBD] was affecting it,” she says. “I would even withdraw it to see if my endo symptoms would come back, and in fact, they did—because that's what you do when you're science-minded: You torture your own body to see what might happen.” \n\n### The Endocannabinoid System Is Out of Whack When Endometriosis Is Present \n\nWhy did Jessica see such dramatic results from CBD, especially when nothing else she did—like conventional pharmaceuticals and alternative medicines—had much effect on her pain?  \n\nIn recent years, research has indicated that the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—the network of receptors located throughout the body that’s responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive and therapeutic effects—could have a role to play in the development of treatments for endometriosis.  \n\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\n\nThere are currently three receptors associated with the ECS: CB1, CB2 and TRPV1. Your body makes molecules called endocannabinoids that attach to these receptors; the most well-studied of these are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), though there are others as well. \n\nResearch indicates that [women with endometriosis have various imbalances in their ECS](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26887427). They tend to have lower levels of CB1 receptors in their endometrial tissue and higher levels of endocannabinoids, like AEA, in their blood. CB1 and AEA play a role in how our body perceives pain. Thus, the imbalance of these components is likely influencing how they work to manage pain. \n\nThe cannabis plant makes molecules called phytocannabinoids that can also attach to ECS receptors. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD are two of the most well-studied of these phytocannabinoids. THC is remarkably similar in structure to AEA, so it can attach to the same receptor in your body to elicit various therapeutic effects. \n\nWe still don’t fully understand how CBD influences the ECS. In some cases, it attaches directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors. In other instances, CBD slows the breakdown of your body’s endocannabinoids; it may even influence how other substances attach to ECS receptors. \n\n### The Terpene Beta-Caryophyllene Increases CBD’s Efficacy\n\nWorking at Harborside, Jessica had more access to CBD-rich extracts, as well as the resources to study CBD’s properties. She eventually stumbled on a paper that mentioned the terpene beta-caryophyllene as the first “dietary cannabinoid.” \n\nBeta-caryophyllene is [one of the many terpenes found in the cannabis plant](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a99e9f4f24d1300077ccb6f/cannabis-terpenes-pack-a-therapeutic-punch). Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are found in many different foods. They are what gives lemons their characteristic citrusy smell, for instance. \n\nTerpenes aren’t notable just for their aromas: It’s now thought that terpenes can affect the nature of the high you experience when consuming cannabis. Knowing this, Jessica set out to explore beta-caryophyllene’s properties. \n\nShe looked for food-based sources of beta-caryophyllene and created a handout to give to her patients at Harborside. She noticed that those who consumed more foods rich in beta-caryophyllene seemed to have more success in using cannabis for whatever their particular condition was. \n\nWhen Jessica was eventually approached by some investors to create cannabis products for the now-defunct Moxie Meds, she immediately knew she wanted to develop something for women. Her previous work led her to ask, \"Could you put beta-caryophyllene in the medication, and if you did, would that change it?\"\n\nTrue to her background in the sciences, Jessica found folks who were willing to serve as guinea pigs. As she was already familiar with their cannabis dosing regimen, she added safe levels of beta-caryophyllene into their medication and observed the effects. \n\nUltimately, she discovered that if beta-caryophyllene was added to a patient’s cannabis medication, they usually needed less CBD and THC to get the same—or in some cases, better—effect. \n\nRELATED: [KNOW YOUR TERPENES: BETA-CARYOPHYLLENE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ae15d2d049b4f000a64e8e7/know-your-terpenes-beta-caryophyllene)\n\nThis discovery also had an impact on Jessica’s own dosing regimen for her endometriosis. Prior to this revelation, Jessica was taking 40–50 mg of CBD and THC in a 1:1 ratio, three times a day. Since adding beta-caryophyllene, she takes about 7.5 mg of CBD in a 4:1 CBD to THC ratio and only uses the 1:1 CBD to THC ratio for pain relief, if needed. At this point, she hasn’t had an endometriosis attack in about five years; she now considers her endometriosis asymptomatic. \n\n“We don't have the science yet to prove this, but it’s strongly my belief that [CBD with the addition of beta-caryophyllene has] regulated my hormonal functioning,” she says. “If I’m doing my protocol correctly, I don't need a lot of pain relief. I don't need to bring out that 1:1 very often.”\n\n### Women With Endometriosis Have a Lot More CB2 Receptors \n\nWe don’t yet have the science to fully explain why Jessica and her patients saw such positive results, but there are some clues that may point us in the right direction. As previously mentioned, women with endometriosis tend to have fewer CB1 receptors in their endometrium. However, the opposite is true for CB2: Studies suggest that [women with endometriosis have a higher expression of this receptor](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18419603), perhaps as part of the body’s inflammatory response. \n\nCannabinoids that attach to CB2 receptors can control the release of cytokines, small proteins that can control the actions of cells. These cytokines are in turn responsible for a variety of immune responses, including the release of pro-inflammatory compounds. It’s thought that compounds that attach to CB2 can have therapeutic applications to many diseases.\n\nScientists are still working on [identifying compounds that bind to CB2](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27215781)—we know that THC can bind to this receptor, but it often doesn’t. However, research does indicate that [beta-caryophyllene selectively activates CB2](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18574142/). \n\nJessica acknowledges that there’s still a lot we don’t know about CBD’s relationship with the CB2 receptor, but based on what’s she’s witnessed, she’s made a few inferences. \n\n“The presence of beta-caryophyllene seems to allow CBD to either bind to those [CB2] receptors more efficiently, or more preferentially. It's doing something that’s allowing CBD to increase its efficacy,” she says.   \n\n### CBD Can Help With Endometriosis, But More Research & Education Are Needed\n\nUnfortunately, Jessica’s company, Moxie Meds, was forced to shut down after the 2017 fires in northern California. As a result, that magical formula of CBD and beta-caryophyllene is currently unavailable. It’s “brutal” to watch this happen, says Jessica. She has since referred patients back to her Harborside handout as a way for them to add more beta-caryophyllene into their diet. \n\nThough her next steps are unclear, it’s apparent that cannabis education as it relates to women’s health is of great importance to her, and she’ll likely continue to work in this context. \n\n“Women's health in a Western context is quite ignored. Other countries have endometriosis-specific medications pharmaceutical-wise; we don't even have that,”  she says. “We're not looking for this disease; we're not talking about it.”\n\n“I spent much of my life thinking I just had a really bad [menstrual] cycle,” she adds. “Now with just a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes and phytonutrients, [my endometriosis] isn’t present in any way. It’s shocking and amazing, and it should be of great scientific curiosity to medical practitioners. And it’s incredibly frustrating that it’s not.” \n\nJessica continues to consult with physicians in other states, educating them on cannabis’s effects on the body. Meanwhile, awareness of endometriosis is on the rise, with celebrities like Lena Dunham and Padma Lakshmi speaking out about their experiences. \n\nWhile women in the United States still don’t have access to medications specifically intended to treat the symptoms of endometriosis, cannabis and its constituents can provide hope for the many women whose lives are deeply impacted by this condition. \n\nPhoto credit: [Jasper Graetsch](https://unsplash.com/search/photos/jasper-graetsch)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/14b42/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/f836f/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/2244e/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 400w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/14b42/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 800w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/47498/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/0e329/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 1600w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/77d93/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/58556/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/61e93/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/1f5c5/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 400w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/58556/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 800w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/99238/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 1200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/7c22d/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 1600w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/d4378/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2671-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Help Defend Against Endometrial Cancer?","slug":"can-cannabis-help-defend-against-endometrial-cancer","content":"Endometrial cancer (EC), the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S., is on the rise. This year, the American Cancer Society estimates 63,280 women will be diagnosed with EC, and 11,350 will die from the disease. \n\nExposure to too much estrogen is believed to play a major role in the development of EC, because it can stimulate endometrial cells to grow and potentially become malignant. Women who have an increased risk of EC are those who:\n\n* Use certain hormone replacement therapies (to treat menopause)\n* Have started menstruating at an early age\n* Never had children\n* Are overweight or obese particularly after menopause\n\nAll of these factors increase a woman’s overall lifetime exposure to estrogen. Women with endometriosis—a pro-inflammatory disease in which tissues normally found in the uterine lining grow outside the uterus—are also at an increased risk of EC. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Role Do Cannabinoids Play When it Comes to Cancer?\n\nBesides the well-known painkilling and anti-emetic effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in cancer patients, there’s mounting evidence that these cannabinoids may inhibit in-vitro growth of various types of tumor cells. Animal studies also show that THC and CBD may impair the ability of certain types of cancer cells to invade tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body.\n\nHowever, the scales tip more toward CBD in the growing number of preliminary studies showing its potential to stop the growth and expansion of cancer cells.\n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS SWITCH OFF CANCER?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1362a0eea891000897e26a/can-cannabis-switch-off-cancer)\n\n### CBD Shows Therapeutic Promise With Hard-to-Treat Tumors\n\nIn a recent study, investigators from the University of Porto in Portugal tested the anti-cancer effects of THC and CBD in two endometrial cancer cell lines called Ishikawa and Hec50co. While Ishikawa is an estrogen-dependent EC cell line—meaning, it needs estrogen to continue to survive, Hec50co is able to develop other means of surviving without estrogen. ECs that don’t rely on estrogen to survive are more difficult to treat.\n\nResearchers also treated the EC cells with the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). AEA and 2-AG are compounds chemically akin to CBD and THC in cannabis. \n\nWhat researchers found was that the cannabinoids worked in various ways to kill EC cells. In estrogen-dependent EC, AEA and CBD induced apoptosis—a process of programmed cell death—by activating a receptor called transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1(TRPV1). TRPV1 is involved in the transmission and modulation of pain. Previous studies have shown that CBD’s action to reduce sensitivity to pain is through this receptor.\n\nThey also found that when estrogen-independent EC cells were treated with AEA and CBD, it resulted in a drastic cytotoxic—toxic to cells—effect, independent of TRPV1. Meanwhile, THC treatment didn’t have any effect on either EC cell line, and none of the cannabinoids had any effect on normal, non-cancerous cells.\n\nThe University of Porto researchers concluded that CBD and CBD-rich extracts may be more promising than THC for the potential treatment of endometrial tumors. These findings show that CBD is effective in inhibiting tumor cell growth regardless of whether the tumor needs estrogen to grow.\n\nOf course, more studies are needed to test these findings. However, this outcome suggests that CBD could have potential as a therapeutic agent for these hard-to-treat tumors.\n\nRELATED: [CBD: THE MEDICINE OF THE FUTURE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56c52e887c6109000800009a/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future)\n\n### Can CBD Be Used to Treat Endometrial Cancer?\n\nClinical studies are needed to determine the potential efficacy and dose of CBD as a therapy for EC in humans. It may be that CBD could be used in combination with current EC therapies to enhance their tumor-killing actions. It should be noted that at this point, there’s absolutely no evidence in humans to support women solely using CBD to treat their EC.\n\n### Should Women Use Cannabis to Reduce the Risk of Endometrial Cancer?\n\nCannabis may help protect against EC and perhaps other cancers by lowering inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation of tissues may lead to cellular DNA damage that could ultimately transform into cancer. This may be particularly relevant for women with endometriosis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects endometrial tissues. Although THC wasn’t shown to inhibit the growth of EC cells in the University of Porto study, both CBD and THC are potent anti-inflammatory agents that can help reduce inflammation.\n\nLowering circulating estrogen levels may also reduce risk of EC. Early studies in rats have found that acute administration of THC or AEA resulted in lower circulating estrogen levels. So, daily consumption of tinctures containing CBD and THC may help lower EC risk by reducing inflammation and circulating estrogen levels.\n\n### Other Ways Women Can Guard Against Endometrial Cancer\n\nKeep a healthy weight. Consuming an anti-inflammatory, anti-estrogenic diet can further protect against EC. Foods to avoid include:\n\n* Sugar\n* Red meat\n* Alcohol\n* Highly estrogenic foods such as soy and flaxseed\n\nFoods to eat more of include:\n\n* Green and other colored vegetables\n* Cruciferous vegetables\n* Foods containing anti-inflammatory and anti-estrogenic flavonoids such as green tea, apples and onions\n\nWomen may also want to add a specific type of seaweed to their daily diets. In animal, human and cell studies, which I conducted, an edible brown seaweed from the Maine coast called Fucus vesiculosus (aka bladderwrack) was found to have anti-estrogenic action and tumor-killing properties that can fight against endometrial, breast and ovarian cancer cells. It was also found that bladderwrack can effectively reduce pain and heavy menstrual bleeding in women with endometriosis. \n\nBesides regulating circadian rhythms and reproduction, melatonin has shown promising results as an anti-inflammatory, anti-estrogen and anti-cancer agent. Studies have also shown that it reduces inflammation and may help slow the spread of endometriosis. Because of its popularity as a sleep aid, a number of melatonin supplements are now currently on the market. \n\nIncorporating cannabis along with other dietary and lifestyle measures may help reduce a woman’s risk of EC, as well as provide other healthful benefits. That said, women experiencing any abnormal uterine bleeding or changes to their menstrual cycles should immediately consult with a physician.\n\nPhoto credit: [Ant rozetsky](https://unsplash.com/search/photos/ant-rozetsky)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/14b42/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/f836f/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/2244e/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 400w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/14b42/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 800w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/47498/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/0e329/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/b56c7/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 3640w","srcWebp":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/58556/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/61e93/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/1f5c5/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 400w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/58556/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 800w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/99238/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 1200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/7c22d/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 1600w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/fe53a/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 3640w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2668-markdown","title":"How Women Can Use Marijuana as a Mood Lifter","slug":"how-women-can-use-marijuana-as-a-mood-lifter","content":"Mood swings, anxiety, depression—women approaching or over 40 often find that hormonal changes can wreak havoc on their mental and emotional state. And you thought PMS was bad. \n\nWhile our moodiness isn’t always related to hormones, there’s a scientific reason behind a woman’s typical hormonal mood swings. Science can also show us why cannabis can be helpful in bringing those hormones into check.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nI recently learned from Dr. Lakisha Jenkins, a naturopathic doctor and founding member of the [California Cannabis Industry Association](http://www.cacannabisindustry.org/), that as we age, our [endocrine system](https://www.livescience.com/26496-endocrine-system.html)—like all of our internal systems—doesn’t work as well as it should. Technically speaking, the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which are responsible for hormone production, can get out of whack. The result is an unpleasant rage of hormones.\n\nDr. Jenkins explains that our endocannabinoid system (ECS) affects our endocrine system as it does other systems throughout our bodies. Cannabis and its cannabinoids and terpenes can positively affect our ECS, bringing it into homeostasis or balance. When our ECS is more balanced, our endocrine system can be, too.\n\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\n\n### Women Report Marijuana Helps in Dealing With Moods\n\nWhether or not they know the science of the endocrine system and the ECS, women are finding that cannabis can help alleviate their negative emotional state, the kind that stems from unbalanced hormones.\n\n“Cannabis has been a huge help in my sometimes pretty severe depression,” says Laurie Wolf, founder of gourmet cannabis edibles company [Laurie + MaryJane](http://www.laurieandmaryjane.com/). “No matter how bad my day or dark mood, eating or smoking cannabis has _always_ improved my mood.”\n\nAt 52, Carolynn King in Colorado says she’s dealing with general irritability. “I’m irritable at everything and everybody for no reason. I can feel it coming down on me, and I hate everybody,” she says, attributing her moods to peri-menopause. \n\nJill Trinchero, founder of [SDK Snacks](http://www.sdksnacks.com/), a cannabis edibles company in Oregon, says she was motivated to create her line of cookies, vegan raw coconut bites and savory crackers to help with her own anxiety as well as the stress of parenting.\n\n“As a stay-at-home mom, I didn’t want to smoke and knew that consuming cannabis helped me be more present with my kids and deal with OCD and anxiety,” Jill says. “I didn’t want to be in that state, because it stresses people around me out; it stresses my kids.”\n\n### Best Forms of Cannabis Consumption for Better Moods\n\nWomen’s marijuana consumption preferences vary depending on the elevated mood they seek. \n\nFor Laurie, edibles are her favorite intake method, but she says smoking a joint is fun and a better option when she wants immediate results. \n\nCarolyn says vaping and edibles both help with her irritability.\n\nJill usually has a 5 mg edible. “I’m not laid out on the couch. I can still function for my kids and work and everything—with just a low-dose cookie,” she says.\n\nMarie P. in Wyoming has been dealing with hormonal issues since having a hysterectomy at 27. Now at 57, she smokes and consumes marijuana edibles to relax. “It’s helped my moods and also helps me sleep,” she says. “I have been dealing with this for years, but cannabis helps better than anything.”\n\nAccording to Dr. Jenkins, sublingual or oral forms of cannabis can provide more instantaneous results. “When you ingest an edible, it goes through your entire digestive system, so you’d have to be pretty precise with the number of milligrams you consume,” she explains. “And you’d need to know what your metabolism is like that day, even if your digestive system is sluggish, because hormones affect digestion. Edibles are not as specialized or dialed in.”\n\nTinctures, on the other hand, come with a dropper so you can titrate your dose, measuring out the number of drops to find your “personal sweet spot,” as Dr. Jenkins puts it. That personal sweet spot can also vary not just from woman to woman, but from time of day to the period of the month. Even in full menopause, Dr. Jenkins says, our bodies still follow a cycle. \n\n### Cannabis Strains for a Better Mood\n\nIn terms of marijuana strains, every woman has her own preferences similar to having a preferred form of consumption. \n\n“I tend to go towards indica-dominant or pure indica strains,” Laurie says. “There are times when certain sativas make me feel uncomfortably racy, occasionally paranoid. There are plenty of sativas I love. It's really only an occasional unpleasant experience.”\n\nJill says she goes with an indica because of her anxiety. Some sativas can exacerbate her anxious feelings, making her even more hyper alert.\n\nCarolynn says that her favorite strain is [Grape Ape](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce671d520d60009f4f4c0/grape-ape). “That just makes me happy. I’ve not found another strain that makes me as happy as Grape Ape,” she says.\n\nMarie’s preferred marijuana strains include [Blue Dream](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a70be4e6c30440008cafd14/blue-dream) and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights). She finds they mellow her out and don’t make her want to eat everything in sight.\n\n### Going Beyond Strains When Choosing Cannabis\n\nStrains may be a common way to pick your cannabis, but don’t limit your exploration based on strains, says Dr. Jenkins. “Unfortunately, strains can’t always run as true as they should,” she explains. “Look at cannabinoid and terpene profiles as well.”\n\nDr. Jenkins’ advice for picking the right cannabis product includes:\n\n* Looking for cannabidiol (CBD)-rich strains as CBD plays a strong role in balancing hormones \n\n* Making sure that the CBD-rich strain you choose also has [tetrahydrocannabolic acid (THCA)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a90bb3ef24d1300077ccb60/how-to-make-the-most-of-non-psychoactive-thca) to activate the CBD\n\n* Looking for terpenes that are uplifting, like [limonene](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8e1261f24d1300077ccb5b/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-limonene)\n\n* Knowing that if you have ADD or ADHD, indicas that are normally body relaxing could affect you more like a sativa that’s more cerebral and stimulating—meaning an indica’s effects could be reversed, so be aware\n\n“Do a lot of research and know yourself, know your body, know what _you_ need,” Dr. Jenkins advises. “Then take the research, and go on your road of self-discovery to find what’s right for you. Individuality takes precedence over any traditional medicine you take, especially cannabis.”\n\nWhat do you consume when your moods are darker or edgier than you’d like? What lifts your moods? Let us know in the comments below. \n\nPhoto credit: [Nicklas Hamann](https://unsplash.com/@lxsy)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/f836f/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/2244e/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/47498/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/0e329/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/8182b/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 3651w","srcWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/61e93/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/1f5c5/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/99238/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/7c22d/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/208dd/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 3651w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2650-markdown","title":"5 Alternative Approaches to Managing Painful Periods","slug":"5-alternative-approaches-to-managing-painful-periods","content":"Painful periods have plagued women of all backgrounds for millennia. Yet for something that’s so frequently experienced, the [scientific evidence on how to alleviate this pain is remarkably inconclusive](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4205951/). The most common way to manage period pain is via the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal birth control. But it’s estimated that [NSAIDs don’t work for about 18% of women](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002937817310955), and some women can’t take hormonal birth control due to a family history of certain cancers.\r\n\r\nWomen who are unable to find relief from period pain by conventional means must explore alternative avenues of pain management. This is where cannabis’s powerful anti-spasmodic and pain-relieving properties come in. Marijuana has been used in women’s health for centuries, and as the modern cannabis industry continues to grow, more women are using it to address pain during menstruation. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nIn addition to cannabis, women can take a variety of other approaches to manage period pain. These methods have varying degrees of scientific backing or are traditional folk remedies passed down from generation to generation. This doesn’t mean these alternative strategies don’t work—it just indicates that more research is needed to explore all of the ways women around the world deal with this universal health issue. \r\n\r\nMany of these methods have worked anecdotally for women. It just takes time and a little bit of experimentation to find out what works best for your body. \r\n\r\n### What Causes Painful Periods? \r\n\r\nDuring menstruation, molecules called prostaglandins stimulate contractions in the uterus. These contractions cut off oxygen to the organ, resulting in cramping, pain and heaviness in the abdomen that can radiate to the lower back, hips and inner thighs. This type of menstrual pain has a medical name: dysmenorrhea.\r\n\r\nThere are two types of dysmenorrhea:\r\n\r\n* primary\r\n* secondary\r\n\r\nPain from primary dysmenorrhea is what women typically associate with being on their period. Pain usually begins one to two days before the start of menstruation and can last up to 72 hours—though in some women, pain can start at ovulation and continue until the last day of bleeding. \r\n\r\nPain from primary dysmenorrhea can be mild to severe; it can be accompanied by nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. For about 20% of women, pain from dysmenorrhea is so severe that it interferes with daily activities. \r\n\r\nSecondary dysmenorrhea is pain during menstruation that’s due to a disorder in the reproductive organs—examples include endometriosis, uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts. In these types of cases, pain usually starts earlier in the menstrual cycle and can last longer than pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea.\r\n\r\nPainful periods are a complex, lengthy topic, so for this article, we’ll focus on pain from primary dysmenorrhea. \r\n\r\n### 1. Diet & Nutritional Supplements May Reduce Painful Periods \r\n\r\nAs with many medical conditions, what you eat can play a role in the severity of your painful period symptoms. A study conducted among university students in Iran looked at women who reported having painful periods and those who didn’t. They found [significant differences in the nutrition between the two groups](https://f1000researchdata.s3.amazonaws.com/manuscripts/13494/a7179d4e-7da8-4cd0-b7d3-9541b6d9aaa8_12462_-_Mahrokh_Dolatian.pdf?doi=10.12688/f1000research.12462.1).\r\n\r\nThe researchers suggested eating foods that reduce the synthesis of prostaglandins—those pro-inflammatory molecules that cause uterine contractions—could help relieve pain from dysmenorrhea. \r\n\r\nFoods rich in magnesium and fiber could fit this bill. A 2017 pilot study in India found that [blood magnesium levels were lower in women who experience pain during their periods than women who don’t](https://nessapublishers.com/articles/5536Article%20Chhabra%20S-%20NJG.pdf).\r\n\r\nConsuming anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, may also help with reduce period pain. Omega-3s in particular may [interfere with the body’s production of prostaglandin](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3071802/). \r\n\r\nIn one double-blind, randomized clinical trial of 100 university students, [those who were given omega-3s in the form of fish oil, vitamin E or both in combination had less menstrual pain](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09513590.2018.1450377) than those given the placebo. The study also noted the group that took both supplements experienced the most pain reduction. \r\n\r\nSimilar results have also been found with vitamin B1. A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 240 students found that consumption of [100 mg of vitamin B1 a day over two months reduced period pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4796395/). \r\n\r\nIt’s also thought that meat, dairy and salty foods promote the production of prostaglandins, so avoiding those foods, especially during your periods could help manage pain. \r\n\r\n### 2. Exercise Increases Blood Flow, Easing Menstrual Pain\r\n\r\nThe same Iranian study found that dysmenorrhea is less prevalent in women who exercise regularly. Exercise reduces stress levels and increases blood flow to the pelvic area, disrupting the accumulation of prostaglandins and delaying the onset of pain, according to researchers. \r\n\r\nStudies also note that [stress can play a factor in how much pain women experience during their periods](https://academic.oup.com/epirev/article/36/1/104/566554). So, taking steps to reduce stress during this time of the month is also key. Overall, exercise is most effective if it’s a regular part of your daily routine.\r\n\r\n### 3. Cannabis’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties May Relieve Period Pain  \r\n\r\n[Cannabis and women’s health have been linked for centuries](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a43d73d100a820006562f3b/cannabis-use-for-womens-health-through-the-ages): Women in medieval Europe made hemp-based salves to rub on sore breasts. Meanwhile, Queen Victoria was famously prescribed cannabis by her physician to help with menstrual pain. \r\n\r\nIn spite of cannabis’s past applications in women’s health, there’s no research on cannabis as a treatment for painful periods. However, this shouldn’t discourage women who are searching for alternatives. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WOMEN’S HEALTH & MARIJUANA: PMS, DYSMENORRHEA, & MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a25da65100a820006562eb7/womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause)\r\n\r\n“The pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids are not specific to menstrual pain, but can be generalized to pain and inflammation throughout the body,” says [Christine Skibola](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5a5fd25a0b9de5000ac4926a/chrisskibola), co-founder of cannabis brand [Cosmic View](https://www.acosmicview.co/), international cancer researcher and former school of public health professor at UC Berkeley and the University of Alabama, Birmingham. \r\n\r\nChristine says that cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have shown significant promise in basic pain experiments. She adds that [CBD and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) can inhibit COX enzymes](https://www.theroc.us/researchlibrary/Evaluation%20of%20the%20Cyclooxygenase%20Inhibiting%20Effects%20of%20Six%20Major%20Cannabinoids%20Isolated%20from%20Cannabis%20sativa.pdf)—molecules involved in the production of those pesky prostaglandins, the main culprit of menstrual cramps. \r\n\r\n### 4. Acupuncture May Ease Menstrual Cramps \r\n\r\nIt’s hard to subject acupuncture to the Western gold standard of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials: It’s a technique that’s inherently difficult to placebo, and like cannabis, its effects are individualistic. Because of this, acupuncture isn’t given much credibility in helping with menstrual pain (or pain, in general), though there are some studies that suggest that it can. \r\n\r\nA study published in _PLOS One_ performed four different types of acupuncture on four groups of women with dysmenorrhea over a three-month period. [By the end of this period and in the nine-month follow up, all groups had a significant reduction in pain](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0180177).\r\n\r\nThere are many theories as to how acupuncture works; it might:\r\n\r\n* Reduce inflammation\r\n* Change prostaglandin levels\r\n* Stimulate blood flow in the uterus\r\n* Stimulate the release of the body’s natural opioids  \r\n\r\nStudies also indicate that [acupuncture affects the endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6267098425e40008273a32/how-acupuncture-interacts-with-the-endocannabinoid-system), the network of receptors located throughout your body that are responsible for the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These studies suggest that acupuncture also stimulates production of not only the body’s natural opioids, but also the body’s natural cannabinoids.  \r\n\r\n### 5. Vaginal Steaming Is an Unconventional Way to Address Period Pain \r\n\r\nThe Internet did a collective eye roll when [Gwyneth Paltrow featured vaginal steaming in her lifestyle magazine _Goop_](https://goop.com/health-and-beauty/california/los-angeles/santa-monica/tikkun-spa/), provoking responses like: “[Gwyneth Paltrow defends vaginal steaming against medical science](https://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2016/07/gwyneth-paltrow-defends-vaginal-steaming-against-medical-science/).” That said, in cultures around the world, it’s tied closely to vaginal health and wellness. And it’s one way women address painful periods. \r\n\r\nVaginal steaming is an old-world health technique that’s practiced in Africa, Asia and Central America. A woman sits over smoke or steam of a particular set of herbs for 15 to 45 minutes. The steam and heat are said to move up towards the cervix and uterus, promoting blood flow, which can loosen leftover debris, like blood clots. There are also other effects, depending on the types of herbs used. \r\n\t\r\n“It's a similar thing that [happens with] exercising or heat therapy or vasodilation—which is what the THC in cannabis does; it promotes blood flow to the tissue, optimizes tissue health and helps the uterus with its natural cleansing mechanism,” says Kiana Reeves, a birth and postpartum doula and operations manager at [Foria](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5760c7d0e4599e00070000d7/foria), a cannabis company that focuses on women’s health.\r\n\r\nKiana acknowledges that there’s no research on vaginal steaming—it’s not exactly the type of treatment likely to receive funding. But Kiana, who also owns a company that focuses on women’s pelvic health, says that she gets positive feedback from women who engage in the practice.\r\n\r\n“What the case studies [show] is that women who have experienced very dark, spotty painful periods, after five days of steaming in a row and regular upkeep on a steam regimen, start to get fresh red menses for five days straight,” she says. \r\n\r\nVaginal steaming isn’t without its controversies. Conventional gynecologists often caution against the practice because there’s no research on the topic. This hasn’t stopped women from trying it. If you’re thinking of using vaginal steaming as a way to manage dysmenorrhea, Kiana advises working with a holistic physician or functional medicine specialist. \r\n\r\n“I think it's really interesting how complex [women’s reproductive] systems are, and we have to be aware of that,” she says. She adds that the best way to manage painful periods is to take a holistic approach—there’s no silver bullet for period pain. \r\n\r\n“The trick,” says Kiana, “is to bring cannabis in as a wellness tool along with diet, along with the proper exercise and other tools that have been traditionally used.” \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Hadis Safari](https://unsplash.com/@hadissa)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/14b42/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/f836f/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/2244e/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/14b42/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 800w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/47498/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/0e329/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/4f346/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 2144w","srcWebp":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/58556/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/61e93/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/1f5c5/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 400w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/58556/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 800w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/99238/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 1200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/7c22d/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 1600w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/b477d/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 2144w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2643-markdown","title":"Menopause & Painful Sex: How Cannabis Can Help","slug":"menopause-and-painful-sex-how-cannabis-can-help","content":"Menopause may cause painful sex. There, I said it. Sex often hurts once your body changes due to the hormone fluctuations brought about by menopause. But painful sex isn’t the only symptom or result of the menopause process.\n\nSince I’m not a doctor or an expert on menopause, I turned to a trusted advisor of mine: Dr. Elaine Burns, founder and medical director of Southwest Medical Marijuana Evaluation Center and founder of DrBurns’ ReLeaf tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) products. Dr. Burns was working with bio-identical hormones for women before she entered the cannabis industry seven years ago. I asked her about cannabis and specifically CBD for women’s sexual health during peri-menopause and post-menopause.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nFirst, Dr. Burns wanted to get across that menopause is a “multifactorial issue,” meaning no woman can expect that what worked for someone else will work for them, too. She also emphasized that cannabis can be part of an overall health-care plan that could include botanicals (such as black cohosh, evening primrose and chamomile) for women before menopause or bio-identicals—non-synthetic, all-natural hormone replacements—for women no longer experiencing menses. She would never solely recommend cannabis or CBD to relieve menopausal symptoms.\n\n### Menopause Can Negatively Affect Sexual Activity & Pleasure\n\nSome of the main complaints women have during menopause that could adversely affect sexual activity and sexual pleasure include:\n\n* Painful sex, usually stemming from vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal walls, both signs of depleted estrogen\n\n* Low libido that could be caused by changing hormones, but also from lack of restful sleep\n\n* Mental and emotional aspects of menopause including depression and anxiety, also exacerbated by sleeplessness\n\nWhen I look at this list, I realize how I’ve experienced some of these symptoms myself. Previously, I wrote about my own sleep issues and how cannabis helped me get a good night’s sleep, which in turn reduced my depression. Being well rested and feeling good mentally can do wonders for your sex life.\n\nDepending on your health goals, marijuana—and specifically CBD—can be integrated into your overall care plan to alleviate specific menopause symptoms and also help with general good health as you age.\n\n### How Can CBD Help Women Through Menopause?\n\nAccording to Dr. Burns, there are two parts of support during menopause. First, women look for relief from unpleasant symptoms ranging from vaginal dryness to hot flashes to painful sex. After those symptoms recede, the longer-term conversation with a health-care provider should be about the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis. \n\nLooking more closely at some of the symptoms of menopause that can affect your sex life, here’s how cannabis might help:\n\n* **Lubricants:** THC and CBD in a lubricating carrier like coconut oil can not only help with vaginal dryness to address painful sex, but the THC in particular can also be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream to produce relaxation, heightened sexual arousal, and greater sensitivity and sensation. \n\n* **Vaping:** Vaporizing whole plant extracts or marijuana flower can help ease anxiety, lift mood and improve sleep. Good sleep means more energy for good sex, right? \n\n* **Tinctures:** When taken sublingually, cannabis tinctures using the whole plant can produce similar effects to that of vaping over a longer period of time. Note that some sexual lubricants are actually produced as edibles, so they can be introduced vaginally, topically and orally.\n\n* **Indica strains:** These types of marijuana strains are ideal for relaxation and relieving some of the sleep and emotional issues that could be barriers to sexual pleasure. But when you’re choosing your indica strain or indica cannabis product, choose a whole plant product when you can, for better results. Dr. Burns calls extracts that isolate THC or CBD “neutral strains”—not fully indica or indica hybrids—because they lack the complete profile of terpenes and cannabinoids that work well with our bodies. \n\n### One Woman’s Cannabis & Sex Story\n\nI sought out a woman who could speak about her own experiences with cannabis for sexual health and connected with Cyo Ray Nystrom, the founder and CEO of QuimRock, a cannabis-infused self-care line for women’s intimate care. Cyo says cannabis can be “powerful sex-medicine for anyone using it intentionally and with her own personal needs in mind.” \n\n“I personally faced quite the battle with my vagina the minute I started having sex,” Cyo recalls. “I've had years of awful UTIs, forcing me to take intense rounds of antibiotics that, in turn, killed off all the natural vaginal flora and caused yeast infections. It affected my life and sex life greatly as vaginal health is such an important part of intimacy and sex for so many people.”\n\nCyo also notes that the shame that's historically associated with vaginal health issues, including those related to menopause, can be “particularly scarring.” \n\n“Personally, cannabis has always been a great tool for getting me into my body, which is essential for me to really show up in my sex life,” Cyo explains, adding, “Cannabis has helped me in many ways—from cramp relief after getting a UTI to pain relief-focused topicals to the amazing benefits of cannabis-infused lubricants.”\n\nWhen it comes to cannabis, there’s no “one strain and consumption method fits all.” How you address menopausal symptoms and sexual health is as individual as each woman is. \n\nAs Cyo reminds us, “It’s hugely important to figure out what turns you on and what turns you off.” And that takes time and trying different things. Just as menopause is a journey, so is naturally addressing your sexual health with botanicals like cannabis.\n\nWhat has your sexual health journey through menopause been like so far? Have you used cannabis to help with any of the symptoms of menopause? Let us know in the comments below.\n\nPhoto credit: [Maru Lombardo](https://unsplash.com/@marustereo)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/f836f/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/2244e/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/47498/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/0e329/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/511f8/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 3504w","srcWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/61e93/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/1f5c5/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/99238/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/7c22d/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/ab2ae/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 3504w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2612-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Helped Solve My Menopause-Induced Insomnia","slug":"how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia","content":"When I began going into menopause, I wasn't sure what to do. All I knew is that I didn't want to take pharmaceuticals to treat what was a natural process in the female human body—the end of menstruation.  \r\n\r\nThe worst symptoms for me were depression, insomnia, night sweats and hair loss. Soaking wet pajamas woke me up in the middle of the night and usually resulted in full body rashes. My insomnia was not helping my depression. To say I was miserable would be an understatement. I tried modifying how I ate and began yoga to ease some of the symptoms I was experiencing, but I wasn’t finding relief.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nI read about cannabis and how it could be used for relaxation and as a sleep aid. Coming from the “Just Say No” generation, the idea of buying and smoking “pot” seemed wrong to me, but so did suffering for months on end.\r\n\r\nFinally, I pushed through my fear, got a medical marijuana card and learned to vape from a woman I know. I was terrified, paranoid and felt completely out of my element using cannabis as medicine in my 50s—but I wanted to feel better. \r\n\r\nThe first night I vaped a little cannabis before bedtime, I slept through the night. When I woke up the next morning after uninterrupted sleep, I cried from relief. With more sleep, many of my other menopause and stress-related symptoms began to diminish.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE INS AND OUTS OF VAPING MEDICAL MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1f473a100a820006562eb3/the-ins-and-outs-of-vaping-medical-marijuana)\r\n\r\n### Cannabis Tinctures Can Help for Menopause-Related Insomnia\r\n\r\nI’m not the only woman whose found relief from menopause-related insomnia through the use of cannabis. \r\n\r\nKim in Alaska began having problems sleeping through the night when she started menopause. \r\n\r\n“I would wake after five hours and not be able to return to sleep,” she recalls. “I tried many over-the-counter herbs and essential oils with mixed results.”\r\n\r\nHer sleep issues were compounded by her day job where she was constantly on the computer. This would cause her hands to tingle and fall asleep at night, which would wake her up and interrupt her sleep cycles.\r\n\r\n“I tried cannabis in tincture form to see if I could find some relief, and it helped,” Kim says. “My hands no longer wake me up, and I sleep through most nights.” Kim says she uses any indica strain tinctures to aid in a more restful night.\r\n\r\n### Powdered Cannabis & THC Pills for Sleep\r\n\r\nAshley in Colorado says her sleepless nights were caused by a combination of stress and [perimenopause](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666). Being a more regular consumer of cannabis, she didn’t feel that smoking was doing the trick in terms of promoting sleep. \r\n\r\nAfter some research and recommendations, she found two products, Ripple by Stillwater Brands and Altus, were well-suited for her.\r\n\r\n“They help me mellow out, lower my stress level and ease me into a more restful sleep,” says Ashley.\r\n\r\nRipple is a powdered, water-soluble tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) product while Altus makes pills in addition to gummies and topicals. The product Ashley found more sleep-inducing were the indica-dominant 5 mg pills, although it took some time for her to find her optimal dose.\r\n\r\n### Best Marijuana Strains for Sleep\r\n\r\nDepending on whom you ask, you’ll hear a variety of opinions and experiences around consuming cannabis for sleep. Some strains that seem to come up regularly from women I’ve spoken with and cannabis consultants alike as ideal for deep relaxation and slumber include Skywalker, Afghan Kush, and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights).\r\n\r\n### Tips for Solving Menopause-Related Sleep Issues With Cannabis\r\n\r\nEvery person’s body is different, so what works for one woman may not work for you. If menopause is disrupting your sleep, here are some things you can do:\r\n\r\n* **Monitor your sleep using an app.** Apps like SleepCycle, FitBit and Sleep Better, or a wearable device like FitBit or Misfit can be great tools for understanding how you sleep—or don’t sleep. By tracking your personal sleep data, you’ll gain a better understanding of what else besides hormones might be affecting your sleep including food, beverages—especially alcohol, electronics, sugar and pain.\r\n* **Keep a journal.** Record your marijuana consumption as you try different strains and forms of cannabis to address your sleep issues. Keep track of each product and watch your sleep data to see which ones are working for you.\r\n* **Have patience.** The right strain, intake form and amount are unique to each individual and can be affected by many factors including weight, frequency of cannabis use, metabolism and more. So don’t give up if you don’t find the right product right away.\r\n\r\nThe more you understand your sleep cycles and can spend the time finding the ideal cannabis strain, form and dose, the more likely you are to get a good night’s sleep. For me, my surefire sleep solution is a few puffs from a vape pen with an indica or indica-dominate strain. Let me know in the comments below what you use to help alleviate insomnia from menopause.\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg","srcSet":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/f836f/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/2244e/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/47498/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/0e329/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/86636/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 2630w","srcWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/61e93/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/1f5c5/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/99238/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/7c22d/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/6e55b/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 2630w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2598-markdown","title":"Ellementa Women Talk About Sex & Cannabis","slug":"ellementa-women-talk-about-sex-and-cannabis","content":"You may have heard that marijuana and sex go well together—especially for women—but if you’re thinking of trying out this concept for the first time, wouldn’t it be helpful to talk to someone with experience in the matter?\r\n\r\nEnter [Ellementa](http://ellementa.com/), a women’s network that’s focused on health, wellness and cannabis. There are 23 Ellementa groups located throughout the country, even in areas that aren’t known for their burgeoning cannabis cultures—places like Georgia, Michigan and Illinois—though most of its chapters are in California. \r\n\r\nThese groups host local gatherings that bring together women of all ages and backgrounds to talk about cannabis as it relates to their physical and emotional health. Each gathering is a based on a theme and usually hosts a guest (or guests) from the cannabis industry. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nEllementa’s most recent event was held at WestSide Art House in San Francisco and showcased the ever-popular topic of sex and cannabis. Guests for the event included Cyo Ray Nystrom, the CEO and cofounder of [Quim Rock](https://www.quimrock.com/), a company that makes a cannabis vaginal topical; and Maria Lara, a marriage and family therapist who also trains budtenders. Attendees included both women in the cannabis industry and those who were simply interested in learning more about the plant. \r\n\r\nHere are highlights from the sex and cannabis event: \r\n\r\n#### **CBD’s ant-inflammatory properties have applications in sex**\r\n\r\nAccording to Cyo, we think of cannabis—and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in particular—as a sexual stimulant: It heightens awareness, increases sensations and can make it easier to climax (though that’s not the only reason for having sex, she adds). But THC’s counterpart, cannabidiol (CBD) can also be used to quell inflammation post-sex, especially after a long love-making session. \r\n\r\n#### **Sex doesn’t have to be a partnered activity**\r\n\r\n “One of the most important things cannabis can help with is getting us used to our own bodies,” says Maria. “Growing up, we often get the message that sex is bad, so you might have stuff attached to it.”\r\n\r\nCannabis can be used to relax your mind and get you in the mood for self-experimentation. It can also help us work through any discomfort that we associate with sex or a particular sexual activity. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [TOP 5 CANNABIS STRAINS TO INCREASE YOUR SEX DRIVE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a80d19af24d1300077ccb3f/top-5-cannabis-strains-to-increase-your-sex-drive)\r\n\r\n“[Cannabis] fosters the relationship between yourself and your sexuality,” says Maria. She adds that we oftentimes have to discover what works for us on our own time before we can be with a partner, and cannabis is a great tool to help you in this self-discovery. \r\n\r\n#### **Linalool might get you in the mood**\r\n\r\nLinalool, a terpene found in cannabis and many other plants, might help get you going. We know that THC gets you high, but we now think that terpenes determine the nature of that high. According to Maria, linalool is thought to induce relaxation and be a mood enhancer—all great properties to help get you in the right mindset.\r\n\r\n#### **Ask yourself: What turns you on?**\r\n\r\n“The real question is: What makes you horny?” says Cyo. “I know … [cannabis] that’s more indica-heavy will help a lot of people get into their bodies, but that would just put me right to sleep.”\r\n\r\nCyo adds that she needs something with more sativa-like effects because she sees her brain as an erogenous zone. She advises that we ask ourselves what we’re looking for in our sexual experiences. Once we’ve figured that out, we’re in a better position to choose cannabis products that can help us meet our goals. \r\n\r\nMeanwhile, in her work as a budtender, Maria notes that folks interested in using cannabis as an aphrodisiac usually have to try a few products before they find a good match. \r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/ee604/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png","srcSet":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/69585/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/497c6/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 400w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/ee604/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 800w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/f3583/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 1200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/0dadc/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 1500w","srcWebp":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/58556/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/61e93/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/1f5c5/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 400w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/58556/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 800w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/99238/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 1200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/90fb1/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 1500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2575-markdown","title":"Is Cannabis Safe for Breastfeeding Moms?","slug":"is-cannabis-safe-for-breastfeeding-moms","content":"When considering that medical patients use cannabis to find relief from nausea and pain every day, it’s not hard to imagine how the herb might impact maternal care. From conception through to the post-partum period, pregnant women and nursing mothers experience symptoms ranging from irksome to debilitating.\r\nWhile a woman’s instinct might be to turn to cannabis for relief from first trimester nausea or post-partum pain, the topic engenders a lot of controversy and differing opinions. Though [29 states have legalized some form of medical marijuana](http://norml.org/legal/medical-marijuana-2), a dearth of medical research on maternal care offers mothers few answers on whether cannabis is safe for them. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Medical Studies on Maternal Care & Marijuana Use \r\n\r\nIttai Bushlin, MD/PhD, at the Department of Child Neurology at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), is currently overseeing a study on the effect of marijuana in breast milk. The study’s primary goal is to understand how cannabinoids transfer to maternal breast milk, while also measuring tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations in the breast milk of nursing mothers. As of 2018, research is still ongoing, so has yielded no conclusive medical evidence. \r\n\r\nIn October 2017, [the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) updated their official committee opinion](https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Obstetric-Practice/Marijuana-Use-During-Pregnancy-and-Lactation), writing that due to insufficient data of the effects of marijuana use on infants during breastfeeding, use is discouraged. The ACOG cites impaired neurodevelopment as the primary concern for maternal cannabis use and recommends that: “Pregnant women or women contemplating pregnancy should be encouraged to discontinue use of marijuana for medicinal purposes in favor of an alternative therapy for which there are better pregnancy-specific safety data.” \r\n\r\nRELATED: [SECONDHAND CANNABIS SMOKE & CHILDREN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58741204c67d2c000b8f5ffc/secondhand-cannabis-smoke-and-children)\r\n\r\nAt the Infant Risk Center at Texas Tech University, Dr. Thomas Hale is a leading expert on infant health and outspoken advocate for the health benefits of breastfeeding. The Infant Risk Center is regarded as the world’s leading research center for medication safety during lactation and breastfeeding. Yet, only one report published on the institute’s website, “[Effects of Marijuana on the Fetus and Breastfeeding Infants](https://www.infantrisk.com/content/effects-marijuana-fetus-and-breastfeeding-infants),” addresses cannabis. \r\n\r\nIn the report, Dr. Hale and his colleagues write that “an increased risk of motor, social and cognitive disturbances,” has been documented in some recent studies, citing lower birth rates and reduced head circumference in pre-exposed infants. Specifically regarding cannabis and breastfeeding, the Infant Risk Center reports only one study with conclusive results, noting, “no differences in growth, mental or motor development.” \r\n\r\nYet the same study suggests that “cannabis may produce long-term [consequences], such as reduced cognition and changes in mood and reward … early exposure to cannabis is not benign and cannabis exposure … may produce long-term changes in behavior and mental health.”\r\n\r\nDr. Hale’s final conclusion echoes ACOG’s and that of other mainstream medical associations: “While the effect of cannabis on infants from breastfeeding mothers is limited, cannabis use in breastfeeding mothers should be strongly discouraged.” \r\n\r\n### Co-Existing Behavioral & Socioeconomic Factors\r\n\r\nThe ACOG acknowledges that behavioral co-factors can accompany smoking marijuana, including tobacco, alcohol and drug use. For nursing mothers to make well-informed decisions about cannabis, research that divorces cannabis from socioeconomic impacts, including [proven high-risk behaviors like smoking tobacco](https://www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/articles/alcohol-and-smoking-after-pregnancy), needs to be undertaken.\r\nThe ACOG recognizes this gap in knowledge, stating, “Adverse socioeconomic conditions, such as poverty and malnutrition, may contribute to outcomes otherwise attributed to marijuana.” \r\n\r\n### Heavy Marijuana Use During Pregnancy in Jamaica\r\n\r\nMost folks who believe cannabis is safe for pregnant women cite a study conducted in Jamaica in the late 1980s. Dr. Melanie Dreher used funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to compare babies of Jamaican mothers who smoked cannabis during pregnancy and those that didn’t. She followed up after 30 days, comparing the cognitive function and motor skills of 59 Jamaican children. Her research team conducted studies on the children again at ages four and five.\r\n\r\nDr. Dreher’s conclusions found that no decrease in motor function or cognitive skill was apparent in the children of cannabis-using mothers at any age. In her ethnographic report published in _Pediatrics_ in 1994, she writes, “The neonates of heavy-marijuana-using mothers had better scores on autonomic stability, quality of alertness, irritability and self-regulation, and were judged to be more rewarding for caregivers.” \r\n\r\nSkeptics of the Jamaica study cite its age, small sample size and the fact that [marijuana has changed since the 1980s](https://www.livescience.com/53644-marijuana-is-stronger-now-than-20-years-ago.html) as reasons why it’s far from a definitive study. Cannabis is now more potent—with a higher THC content—than it was back when Dr. Dreher was in Jamaica. People are also ingesting cannabis in different ways today. One example is dabbing, where you [consume more concentrated doses of marijuana](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55d4b9616531660006070000/is-dabbing-good-for-you). It would be dangerous for nursing or expectant mothers to read the Jamaica study and conclude that consuming marijuana is absolutely safe for their growing baby. \r\n\r\n### In Humboldt County, Cannabis Is Medicine—But Is It Safe for Breastfeeding? \r\n\r\nIn Humboldt County, CA, cannabis is culturally interwoven into the community where [Dr. Pepper Hernandez runs a holistic medical practice](http://www.drpepperhernandez.com). A naturopathic doctor, Hernandez studied medicine at Trinity Holistic Wellness in Indiana before landing in Humboldt. A firm believer in “both worlds” of Western and holistic medicines, Dr. Hernandez is also a raw/live nutritionist, cannabis therapy consultant and spiritual guide. \r\n\r\nPersonally, she has used her own body as research, successfully reducing the size of a large tumor and managing epilepsy symptoms by [juicing raw cannabis leaves](https://theemeraldmagazine.com/2016/07/go-forth-go-cannabis/). Working with patients, Dr. Hernandez will “lightly suggest what type of cannabis strains are good for the patient’s ailment,” finding that strain-specific treatments can be especially effective. \r\n\r\nBut when it comes to maternal care, Dr. Hernandez flips her script almost entirely. For pregnant women and nursing moms, she views cannabis as a substance to eliminate entirely, along with sugar and caffeine. She doesn’t condone smoking cannabis, in any condition, but highly recommends salves, juicing and tinctures for her non-pregnant patients who aren’t breastfeeding. If a nursing mom approaches with a medical or personal need for cannabis, tinctures are a last resort, but she reaffirms that no level of cannabis is safe in breast milk until some definitive medical facts are published. \r\n\r\n### Dearth of Research, No Studies on CBD \r\nWhile it appears that 2018 brought significant cannabis reform, lifting the gates on prohibition far outpaces medical research. The disparity is particularly frustrating for those who already experience plenty of [stigma for using cannabis: women](https://www.forbes.com/sites/julieweed/2017/10/17/ellementa-founders-educate-women-about-cannabis-but-face-funding-stigmas/#32653b93762e). \r\nFor nursing mothers with chronic health conditions responsive to cannabis, evidence that supports safe or no-risk breastfeeding simply doesn’t exist. As research moves forward, pregnant women, nursing mothers or those with sensitive immune systems should remember that [smoking cannabis introduces carcinogens](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a467d02100a820006562f42/cannabis-and-carcinogens-whats-the-risk). \r\nFinally, though high-CBD salves, tinctures, extracts and edibles are bringing much relief to many patients with chronic pain or everyday anxiety, CBD contains a similar cannabinoid load to THC. So, while a CBD product might not alter the headspace of a nursing mom, the amount of cannabinoids in her breast milk won’t necessarily be lower than that of a mother consuming a THC product. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Mothering Touch](https://www.flickr.com/photos/motheringtouch/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/14b42/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/f836f/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/2244e/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 400w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/14b42/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 800w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/47498/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/0e329/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/cd170/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 3436w","srcWebp":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/58556/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/61e93/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/1f5c5/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 400w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/58556/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 800w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/99238/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 1200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/7c22d/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 1600w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/59feb/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 3436w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2553-markdown","title":"Can Marijuana Help With Endometriosis?","slug":"can-marijuana-help-with-endometriosis","content":"Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue that normally lines the endometrium—the mucous membrane lining of the uterus—grows in other places, like the ovaries or Fallopian tubes. When this tissue is shed during a woman’s menstrual cycle, the abnormally growing tissue outside of the uterus is shed as well. Oftentimes, this tissue has nowhere to go and becomes trapped in the body, causing pain that can be extreme enough to lead to hospitalization. \r\n\r\nEndometriosis is common: It occurs in about 10–15% of the female population. And yet, not much is known about it—there’s no cure, and pain management options are limited. A number of women have anecdotally reported that cannabis eases the pain associated with endometriosis. Given the lack of treatment options for this condition, exploring these claims and how the endocannabinoid system is involved in this disorder’s pathology could stand to benefit millions of women. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nTo review, the endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors located throughout the body. Your body makes endocannabinoids, compounds that attach to these receptors. These endocannabinoids are similar in structure to compounds found in cannabis, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). This means is that THC and other phytocannabinoids found in marijuana can act on this receptor system to bring about certain therapeutic effects. \r\n\r\nA 2016 study in _Act Histochemica_  attempted to look into [the endocannabinoid system’s role in endometriosis](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065128116303154?via%3Dihub). According to the study, the uterus contains endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Patients with endometriosis have the same amount of receptors as women without the disease. However, patients suffering from endometriosis lack the endocannabinoids to interact with their receptors. It would seem then that an increase in cannabinoids—such as when using cannabis—might help those with endometriosis.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\r\n\r\nTo explore this logic, the researchers first showed that the endometrial cells of patients with the disorder produced fewer endocannabinoids—but they also noticed that these cells proliferated more easily. Interestingly, endocannabinoids are known to assist in apoptosis—a type of programmed cell death. And cannabinoids in general have anti-proliferative actions on some cells, as well as analgesic effects for patients. \r\n\r\nUsing a cell culture, researchers added compounds that attach to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endometrial cells. They found that this led to anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects. What they concluded was that, if you were to add endocannabinoids, which also attach to these receptors, you might be able to get similar outcomes. \r\n\r\nThese findings could have applications to the endometrial cells that grow outside of the uterus in women who have this disorder. However, this has yet to be studied. Though the development of a cannabis-based medicine to treat endometriosis is being researched and attempted, studies like this lay the groundwork for such goals. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Asdrubal Luna](https://unsplash.com/@infectedluna)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/14b42/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/f836f/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/2244e/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 400w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/14b42/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 800w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/47498/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/0e329/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/77d93/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/58556/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/61e93/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/1f5c5/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 400w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/58556/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 800w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/99238/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 1200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/7c22d/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 1600w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/d4378/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2530-markdown","title":"A Holistic Approach to Living With Menopause","slug":"a-holistic-approach-to-living-with-menopause","content":"Let’s face it: For most women, menopause is no fun. This stage of a woman’s life can come with mood swings, abdominal pain, hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, a decreased sex drive and other not-so-pleasant symptoms. It can be a physically and emotionally demanding time, giving menopause a bad reputation. But what if we introduced a new way to look at this stage in a woman’s life—one that wasn’t so negative? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Foria Helping Women Cope With Menopause\n\nWe spoke to certified doula Kiana Reeves, who’s also the operations manager at [Foria, a cannabis company providing natural ways to cope with the health challenges that come with being a woman](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5760c7d0e4599e00070000d7/foria). You may have heard of Foria’s breakthrough cannabis suppositories that are intended to help ease menstrual cramps and other abdominal pain, or perhaps their personal lubricant that can heighten sexual arousal and pleasure. \n\nDuring our discussion, Kiana mentioned three “golden opportunities” in a woman’s life:\n\n* the first menstruation\n* post-pregnancy\n* menopause\n\nWhile these stages come with challenges, if given the proper care and attention, they can actually contribute to a woman’s overall health and wellness. According to a study published in the _Journal of Chinese Medicine_, [each one of these stages provides a woman the opportunity to “either improve, or else risk damaging their health.”](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289900196_The_'three_golden_opportunities'_Key_times_women_can_improve_or_damage_their_health)\n\n### Changing the Way We Think About Menopause\n\nThe idea that menopause can actually be an opportunity to make gains that can bolster overall good health is groundbreaking. No longer do women have to subscribe to the idea that menopause is the beginning of the end of a vibrant, healthy life. By paying attention and taking proper care of themselves during this time, women can emerge from menopause a stronger, healthier version of themselves. \n\nHere are a few holistic ways to treat the symptoms of menopause and take advantage of the positive opportunity this stage in a woman’s life can bring.\n\n### A Healthy Diet Can Help Ease Menopause Symptoms\n\nA proper diet can help fight off some of the most brutal symptoms of menopause. Kiana suggests [upping calcium intake to help fight against bone density loss](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2266953/), a common issue associated with this stage in a woman’s life. \n\nMuch of the pain attributed to menopause is inflammation-related. As such, menopausal women should [lower the intake of foods that can cause that inflammation](http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/foods-to-avoid-limit/food-ingredients-and-inflammation-12.php) like sugar, saturated and trans fats, refined carbs, gluten, dairy and alcohol. \n\nAnother thing to consider when thinking about your diet during menopause is eating foods that promote hormonal balance. Menopause will throw your hormones out of whack, resulting in mood changes and all sorts of other physical and emotional consequences. Eating processed food can aggravate this issue. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy, whole-food options that can help boost hormone production and balance, including broccoli, pomegranate, flaxseed, green tea, extra virgin olive oil, red wine, avocado and tofu. \n\n### Make Time for Daily Exercise During Menopause\n\nDaily exercise can help fight the symptoms of menopause on two fronts:\n\n* improving mood\n* increasing bone density\n\nKiana suggests doing high-weight, low-rep exercises to help combat the significant bone-density loss women can experience in the late stages of menopause and first few years after menopause passes. According to one study, [“Muscle force is a strong determinant of bone mass and strength.”](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2811354/) Weight-bearing exercises create more tension on the muscles, which in turn put more pressure on bones and signal that new, healthier bone must be generated. \n\n[Exercise also helps relieve stress and depression](http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/exercise.aspx), and can generally improve a person’s mood, according to the American Psychological Association. When we exercise, our brains release feel-good chemicals like endorphins and anandamide, the body’s natural version of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Regular exercise can help menopausal women by improving their emotional well-being during this challenging time. \n\n### Cannabis Can Be an Alternative to ERT\n\nMany women use estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to help augment hormones their bodies no longer produce at high levels. ERT is mostly reserved for those who are facing extreme symptoms. For women with a history of heart disease, breast or ovarian cancer, or simply without the funds or insurance to cover the therapy, ERT is not recommended.\n\nThat said, marijuana is showing promise as an alternative therapy. Cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant (CBD, CBG, CBC, THCV) have been shown to be effective in fighting the same symptoms as ERT. Cannabis can encourage bone growth, help fight stress and mood swings, and [shows promise as a natural alternative to ERT](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5817c7fad07155000b1f2f9f/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause). \n\nRELATED: [TOP 5 MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR PMS & MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58227fd8589a2b0008020469/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-pms-and-menopause)\n\n### Focus on Sexual Activity Throughout Menopause\n\nUnfortunately, our culture has spread the idea that menopause means the death of a woman’s sex drive. And while menopause can alter a woman’s desire for sex temporarily, that doesn’t have to remain the case.\n\nKiana suggests that women can help themselves by staying in touch with their sexuality throughout menopause. That means using orgasms and self-pleasure for the chemical and hormonal benefits they bring—and to help with mood regulation. \n\nPlacing a focus on sexual pleasure can help a woman become increasingly sexually active after menopause. Try [Foria’s cannabis-infused lube](https://www.hellomd.com/products/56a2c3d259ed4d000c000031/foria-pleasure) and [or Apothecanna’s intimacy oil] to heighten sexual arousal and pleasure whether you’re by yourself or with a partner.\n\n### Take Probiotics to Help Balance Hormones During Menopause\n\nGut health is also important during menopause. According to Kiana, a healthy diet doesn’t do much if your gut isn’t in proper working order. Less than optimal gut health can prevent the body from absorbing nutrient-rich foods in your diet and can lead to bloating, digestive issues and more. Hormonal imbalance that comes with menopause can further disrupt your gut health. \n\nAdding a probiotic supplement to your daily regimen can improve your digestive function, help stabilize hormonal production, and increase your absorption of vitamins and minerals from healthy foods. \n\nMenopause can be an extremely challenging time in a woman’s life, fraught with physical and emotional needs that require proper care and attention. But if menopause is dealt with using a mindful, holistic approach, women can actually come out the other end happier, healthier and stronger. \n\nPhoto credit: [Edward Cisneros](https://unsplash.com/@everythingcaptured)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/14b42/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/f836f/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/2244e/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 400w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/14b42/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 800w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/47498/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/0e329/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/79565/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.jpg 3570w","srcWebp":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/58556/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/61e93/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/1f5c5/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 400w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/58556/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 800w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/99238/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 1200w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/7c22d/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 1600w,\n/static/f5597e8f65fe901e7648c51437d148c4/2da49/fe86649e9e2f0598a2c6bc9f95eea4c0.webp 3570w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2511-markdown","title":"Cannabis Use for Women’s Health Through the Ages","slug":"cannabis-use-for-womens-health-through-the-ages","content":"The idea of medicinal cannabis might be more popular than it’s ever been in modern history, but it’s hardly a new concept. In fact, cannabis has been used for centuries all throughout the world. Women, in particular, have used marijuana as a medicine throughout centuries for everything from headaches to skin abrasions to childbirth to menstrual cramps and more.  \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### The Origins of Cannabis as Women’s Medicine\n\nAccording to an article published in the _Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics_ [“The earliest references to cannabis in female medical conditions probably originate in Ancient Mesopotamia.”](https://www.cannabis-med.org/data/pdf/2002-03-04-1_0.pdf) Hemp seeds were mixed with a beer-like beverage to help with an “unspecified female ailment” as early as 2000 B.C. \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA RELIEVES SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5817c7fad07155000b1f2f9f/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-menopause)\n\nIn ancient Egypt circa 1550 B.C., the Ebers Papyrus was a medical scroll full of herbal knowledge. This scroll listed cannabis as a gynecological medicine. It went so far as to advise women to insert a mixture of cannabis and honey into the vagina during childbirth to help with the associated pain. \n\n### Famous Women Who Reportedly Used Marijuana As Medicine\n\n**Hildegard von Bingen**\n\nBorn in the 12th century, Hildegard became a Benedictine abbess, but she was hardly just a woman of the cloth. She was a celebrated writer of theology, natural history and plant-based medicine. Hildegard was also an incredibly accomplished musician and became the first documented composer whose life story was known. \n\nHildegard suffered from extreme migraines that produced hallucinations, which were thought at the time to be heavenly visions. She used cannabis to treat these head pains and described it in her medical work _Physica_. In this book, [Hildegard described hemp’s medicinal power and various uses]( https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=qH-2Lj9x7L4C&pg=PT84&lpg=PT84&dq=hildegard+von+bingen+hemp&source=bl&ots=PC_UN75V-7&sig=qXd0N_xuH5qWqXWN9Yr7Sfsck5k&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjy5s3Fq5DMAhUL1RoKHWVnCAcQ6AEIIjAB#v=onepage&q=hildegard%20von%20bingen%20hemp&f=false).\n\nShe noted, “Whoever has an empty brain and head pains may eat it and the head pains will be reduced.” Hildegard also discussed using cannabis as a topical for skin wounds saying, “A towel prepared out of hemp laid upon sores and wounds works well.” \n\n**Harriet Martineau**\n\nBorn in 1802, [Harriet Martineau](http://historysheroes.e2bn.org/hero/whowerethey/4286) was the first female sociologist. She was also a social activist, celebrated novelist and children’s author. Harriet also happens to be the great great-great grandmother of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. \n\nHer life as a pioneering advocate for women’s rights and abolition took her all over the world, including the desert. During her travels through the desert, she recorded in one of her books that [_chibouqou_ (a pipe used to smoke hashish) was the best possible refreshment](https://www.vice.com/en_ca/article/exqexk/a-history-of-women-and-weed).\n\n**Queen Victoria**\n\nPerhaps one of the more surprising medicinal cannabis users on this list is Queen Victoria, the longest-ruling monarch of the United Kingdom from 1837–1901. \n\nHer majesty’s private doctor, Sir J. Russell Reynolds, expressed in one of his books that [cannabis is “one of the most valuable medicines we possess.”](https://longreads.com/2015/01/28/queen-victorias-cramps-and-the-history-of-medicinal-marijuana-in-europe/) The doctor is said to have prescribed Queen Victoria medicinal cannabis tinctures to help with her menstrual cramps. \n\nPhoto credit: [Omar Lopez](https://unsplash.com/@omarlopez1)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. 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