The human body is loaded with messages and messaging systems. Electrical systems transmit electrical impulses along chains of cells in the nervous system. And, there are hormones, chemical signals issued by the several endocrine glands. These hormones and their flow influence scores of human anatomical and psychological functions. People feel healthy when their hormones are balanced, and much current thought is focusing on how to use cannabis to restore hormonal balance.

Balanced hormones account for growth, mood, fertility, hunger, and more. Disruption and imbalances have direct and indirect effects on health, and their behavior may suggest other health problems. Although men and women have hormones, their chemical behavior differs.

Even though cannabis research has not met needs, you know this much. Cannabis contains cannabinoids that parallel the human endocannabinoid system. The external cannabinoids can perform as keys to endocannabinoid imbalance or misbehavior. For instance, anandamide is credited with keeping you happy and centered. In its natural behavior, the molecule is reabsorbed by the body as a balanced system produces more. Cannabis is known to reduce that reabsorption to enhance the “bliss” experience.

This intricate and widespread system threads through and around hormone-producing glands as the surrounding tissues and the systems carrying signals to and from the glands. This differs in men and women.

Men and their hormones

Men are differentiated by their testosterone levels. Testosterone productivity is influenced by the adrenal gland, thyroid, and gonads. As an androgen, it influences growth and signs of maturity in males. When testosterone levels are low, men feel low, moody, and tired. More importantly, they lose their libido and sexual performance.

Experiments on animals, administration of large quantities of THC have negatively impacted testosterone levels and the quantity and quality of the sperm produced. However, the limitations of research on humans have only led to disagreement on whether cannabis use affects testosterone positively or negatively.

Women and their hormones

Women also produce testosterone, but their estrogen levels define many of their characteristics. Estrogen includes a group of hormones including estradiol, estrone, and estriol. They co-exist in natural balances related to age and other factors.

Cannabis affects estradiol which seems to influence the female users’ tendency to cannabis dependency because it triggers sensations of satisfaction. But estradiol also affects emotions related to sexuality. Because of demonstrated effects on pain, cramps, soft muscle spasticity, and inflammation, cannabinoids aid women challenged by breast sensitivity, menstruation, PMS, and menopause. And, there is some indication cannabis can reduce metastasis in breast cancer and the need for hormone replacement therapy.

Female hormones also include Human Chorionic Gonadotropin to protect an embryo, Oxytocin to enhance orgasm and release breast milk, Progesterone to support pregnancy, and Prolactin to produce breast milk and improve sexual satisfaction. But the lack of research on cannabis and humans, as well as the fact that researchers tend to favor research on male issues, leaves us without a final word on the effect of cannabis on hormonal imbalance among women.

Other hormones

You may also recognize the values of other hormones:

Adrenaline (epinephrine) contributes to “fight or flight” responses.

Dopamine helps differentiate between things that are real and those that aren’t.

Melatonin is responsible for feelings of alertness and drowsiness.

Serotonin regulates mood and appetite.

Thyroxin increases metabolism.

What you can do!

Hormonal imbalances are common to men and women. But it’s a sign of male bias that more attention is paid to female hormonal problems. Man or woman, your hormonal balance depends on diet, lifestyle, stresses, health conditions, and more. The many variable influencers make research difficult, but it is obvious you can do a lot to restore hormonal balance with a conscientious and healthy lifestyle.

If problems continue, you should see a physician regarding the origin of the imbalance. Symptoms could be signs of endocrine issues affecting pancreas, thyroid, or glands. Beyond that, cannabis may supplement your care and comfort.

Vanilla Kush is an Indica-dominant hybrid with a moderately high 19-20% THC. The euphoric high might confuse new users, but you can learn to manage power. The taste and aroma of vanilla relax and help reduce mental stresses and depression. The full body relaxation that follows the head high fights the headaches, hot flashes, and insomnia associated with menopause. Vanilla Kush is easy to grow and could make for a go-to option for homegrown medicine.

Trainwreck has an impressive 18-25% THC to increase libido and sex drive. This sativa-dominant hybrid helps adults retain their sexual interest through menopause and “manopause.” Because of its quick hit, you should schedule your use to focus its arousing interest in intimacy. It does not correct sexual dysfunction, but it will reduce the barriers to interest and thereby help with the dysfunction.

Sunset Sherbet contains 85% Indica and up to 20% THC. It’s sweet, fruity, and minty with calming effects. Sunset Sherbet starts with a fast-hitting high for a happy euphoria strong enough to wipe out depression, pain, and stress associated with the incurable Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a reproductive disorder affecting metabolism, hormonal balance, and fertility in one out of 15 females.

Arjan’s Strawberry Haze has 1% CBD outdone by 22% THC in a 70% Indica-dominant strain. But the combination is enough to boost mood and energy to beat anxiety, chronic pain, depression, and migraines. It tastes and smells of sweet strawberries but can be hard to find in dispensaries near you.

Durban Poison is a THC-loaded (24%) choice for those who can manage the potent hit. It will boost productivity, creativity, and focus, but it won’t make you sleepy. Users feel relief from anxiety, depression, and pain, and women choose it for treating PMS, nausea, and menstrual cramps. Novice consumers should titrate their use because of the potential for paranoia.

Green Crack (Green Kush) has been around for some time. Perhaps, it’s the powerful 24% THC content. The potent high hits fast with an uplifted mood and energetic punch for lasting creativity and focus. Users claim positive results on ADHD and PTSD, and some find support for erectile dysfunction and sexual performance.

The final tip

Hormonal imbalances are often minor and short-lived. If the symptoms continue, you should see a specialist in endocrinology to rule out serious implications. If the doctor’s diagnosis has room for non-conventional therapies, you may find solutions in cannabis consumption.