National Hemp Day two blue hemp leaf illustrations on blue background

National Hemp Day: Celebrating the Plant's Perimenopause Potential

National Hemp Day, celebrated in the US on February 4, is the day to recognize and celebrate the humble hemp plant's role in our lives. Established in 2019, it's a day to build awareness of the value of hemp, the farmers who work hard to produce it, the innovators who use it in new ways and the people who enjoy its benefits in their everyday lives. It's also the perfect time to explore how the world of hemp-derived products may benefit perimenopausal women. 

Let's dive into the fascinating world of different hemp extracts like CBD oil and how they can help ease the symptoms of perimenopause.

 

What's the Difference Between Hemp and CBD Oil?

Hemp and CBD oils are often confused, but they're different things that offer different benefits.

Hemp oil, also called hemp seed oil, comes from the hemp plant's seeds. It's rich in nutrients and fatty acids but doesn't contain significant amounts of cannabinoids like CBD. 

CBD oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant and is known for its potential therapeutic benefits.

 

Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, and Isolate: What's the Difference?

CBD products are categorized by terms like full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate. Here's what they mean:

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: This contains all the compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes and trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%).

Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Similar to full-spectrum, but with THC removed.

CBD Isolate: This is pure CBD, with all other compounds removed.

 

The Power of Full-Spectrum Hemp-Derived CBD Oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil, like the 100% organic product by Opal & Joy, is believed to be more effective due to the "entourage effect." This theory suggests that the various compounds in hemp work together synergistically, enhancing each other's effects.

 

How Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Can Help with Perimenopause Symptoms

Perimenopause can bring a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including mood swings, sleep disturbances, and hot flashes. Full-spectrum CBD oil may help alleviate some of these symptoms by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system.

 

The Endocannabinoid System and the Entourage Effect

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system in our bodies. It plays a role in regulating various functions, including mood, sleep, and temperature regulation, all of which can be affected during perimenopause.

Full-spectrum CBD oil interacts with the ECS, potentially helping to balance these functions. The entourage effect suggests that combining CBD with other cannabinoids and terpenes in full-spectrum products may provide more significant benefits than CBD alone.

 

Terpenes and Other Cannabinoids in Hemp

Hemp contains more than just CBD. It's home to various compounds, including:

Terpenes: These aromatic compounds give all plants, including hemp, a distinct smell. They may also have therapeutic properties. Common terpenes in hemp include myrcene, which is also found in hops and lemongrass, and caryophyllene, which is present in black pepper and basil.

Other Cannabinoids: Hemp contains minor cannabinoids like CBN (cannabinol) and CBG (cannabigerol), which may have their own potential health benefits.

 

The Opal & Joy Difference

Opal & Joy's Relief Elixir is a 100% organic full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD oil that stands out in the crowded CBD market. Using full-spectrum extract means that our product contains the full range of beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes and nutrients that potentially provide more significant relief from symptoms of perimenopause.

Full-spectrum CBD is also used in our Relax sleep support supplement as part of our Restorative Sleep System.

 

Potential Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD Oil for Perimenopausal Women

While research is ongoing, many women report finding relief from perimenopause symptoms with full-spectrum CBD oil. Some potential benefits include:

  1. Improves sleep quality and reduces sleep disturbances
  2. Alleviates anxiety, depression, and mood swings
  3. May help manage hot flashes by regulating body temperature
  4. Reduces muscle aches and joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties
  5. Enhances cognitive function and may help with brain fog
  6. Potentially helps balance hormones by interacting with the endocannabinoid system
  7. May alleviate digestive issues like bloating and cramps
  8. Could improve libido and sexual function
  9. Promotes relaxation and calmness
  10. May help maintain bone density during the menopausal transition

 

How to Use Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Opal & Joy's full-spectrum CBD oil can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the right amount for your needs. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially during perimenopause.

 

The Importance of Quality

When choosing a CBD product, quality matters. Our commitment to using 100% USA-grown organic hemp ensures that our full-spectrum CBD oil is free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals. 

We also use third-party lab testing to verify the potency and purity of their products, giving you peace of mind about what you're putting into your body.

With its rich array of cannabinoids, terpenes and other beneficial compounds, our full-spectrum CBD oil may provide a natural way to ease the transition through perimenopause.

Remember, while CBD shows promise, it's not a magic cure-all. It's part of a holistic approach to health that should include a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep habits. 

As you ride the hormonal rollercoaster of perimenopause, consider adding full-spectrum CBD oil to your perimenopause survival toolkit and experience the potential benefits for yourself.

It's important to note that hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal at the federal level in the US. However, laws can vary by state, so it's always wise to check local regulations.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

FAQs About Using CBD for Hot Flashes

Can CBD stop a hot flash in its tracks?

This is an important expectation to set. It is unlikely that taking a dose of CBD oil will immediately stop a hot flash that has already begun. The benefits of CBD for hot flashes are proactive, not reactive. The goal of taking CBD consistently is to help balance your internal systems over time, which can lead to a reduction in the frequency and severity of your hot flashes. Think of it as preventative maintenance for your internal thermostat.

What's the best way to take CBD for hot flashes?

For a systemic issue like hot flashes, a daily, ingestible product like a CBD oil tincture or capsule is the most effective approach. This helps maintain a stable level of cannabinoids in your system, providing ongoing support to your ECS and nervous system. A good starting point for many women is 10-15 mg per day. You can take it in the morning or split the dose between morning and evening.

How long does it take for CBD to work for hot flashes?

Patience and consistency are key. Because CBD works by gently rebalancing your body's systems rather than overriding them, you won't feel a change overnight. It can take anywhere from two to four weeks of consistent, daily use to notice a meaningful shift in the number or intensity of your hot flashes. We recommend keeping a simple journal to track your symptoms.

Are there any other natural remedies that work well with CBD?

Absolutely! CBD is one tool in your "cooling" toolkit. Combine it with these strategies for the best results:

  • Mindful Breathing: When you feel a flash starting, practice slow, deep belly breaths to calm your nervous system.
  • Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what sets off your flashes. Common culprits include red wine, spicy foods, caffeine, and sugar.
  • Dress in Layers: Wear natural, breathable fabrics and dress in layers you can easily remove.
  • Stay Cool at Night: Keep your bedroom cool, use a cooling pillow or mattress pad, and have a glass of cold water by your bed. Get more tips on better sleep in this blog: How to Sleep Better During Perimenopause