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Healthline has sole editorial control over this article. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. The information in this article is intended to be general in nature. It’s not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional.

These days, cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming increasingly mainstream. Like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it’s a cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis plant, but it doesn’t cause feelings of intoxication. Instead, it’s gaining traction for its therapeutic benefits.

People use CBD for all kinds of reasons, including menopause. Menopause usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, and is diagnosed when a person hasn’t menstruated in more than 12 months and can no longer become pregnant. It’s associated with a number of symptoms, including hot flashes and weight gain.

Is it possible that CBD may be able to help mitigate some of these symptoms? Read on to find out.

CBD glossary

  • Full-spectrum CBD: These products retain all components of the cannabis plant, including up to 0.3% THC.
  • Broad-spectrum CBD: This type of CBD has all components of the cannabis plant except THC.
  • CBD isolate: These products are made with just CBD and no other compounds from the plant.
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To be clear, CBD isn’t a cure for menopause. There’s no specific scientific evidence that CBD is effective for easing menopausal symptoms as a whole, and it’s unlikely to help you manage things like hot flashes.

Still, it may help manage some other symptoms related to menopause.

Keep in mind that the research we’re sharing here wasn’t conducted on people with menopause, and some are animal studies.

Insomnia

Many people find that sleep quality becomes an issue during menopause. A small 2019 study looked at the clinical application of CBD for anxiety and sleep complaints, with researchers concluding that it may be beneficial, though sleep quality did fluctuate over the course of the study.

A 2020 review of clinical studies related to cannabinoids and sleep found that many suggest these compounds could improve sleep quality, decrease sleep disturbances, and decrease delays in falling asleep.

However, the authors note that many of these studies were limited by small sample sizes, examining sleep as a secondary factor, and the use of validated measurements.

Anxiety and depression

Changing hormones during menopause can mean a greater risk of depression and anxiety. One 2015 study noted that CBD has potential as a treatment for a number of anxiety disorders, but further study is needed.

Joint pain

As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, inflammation can mean joint pain in the knees, shoulders, neck, hands, and elbows. Old injuries in the joints can also begin aching again, leading to menopause-related arthritis.

There’s evidence that CBD could be a suitable treatment for arthritis. A 2015 animal study found that topical CBD reduced inflammation and pain-related behaviors. The authors concluded that topical CBD had therapeutic potential for arthritis-related pain and inflammation without side effects.

The right kind of CBD will depend on the menopause symptom you’re hoping to address. CBD is available in various forms:

  • CBD oils: These products are taken sublingually, or beneath the tongue, for full body relief. That makes these a good option if you’re dealing with insomnia or anxiety.
  • CBD capsules: These products are swallowed. They also offer full body relief, with effects taking longer to kick in than with sublingual products. Capsules are a good choice for sleep issues or anxiety.
  • CBD topicals: These products are applied directly to the skin for localized relief. This is the best option if you’re experiencing joint pain. Topicals can also include CBD bath salts and bath bombs, which may be relaxing and soothing to dry skin.
  • CBD edibles: These products, which include gummies, are ingested. They’re another good choice for managing symptoms of insomnia or anxiety.

If you’re researching CBD products, you may also find suppositories and personal lubricants that are designed to improve libido and vaginal dryness. Unfortunately, these are unproven options, without clinical studies to back up their efficacy.

We chose these products based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency. Each product in this article:

  • is made by a company that provides proof of third-party testing by an independent lab
  • is made with U.S.-grown hemp
  • contains no more than 0.3% THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
  • passes tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA

We also considered:

  • company certifications and manufacturing processes
  • product potency
  • overall ingredients
  • indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:

Remember, no CBD product will remedy every menopause symptom. But in instances of joint pain, insomnia, or anxiety, some products may be able to help.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $30
  • $$ = $30–$50
  • $$$ = over $50
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Best CBD oil for menopause

Brown Girl Jane Balance

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 750 milligram (mg) per 30-milliliter (mL) bottle
  • COA: available online
  • Flavor: orange

Balance from Brown Girl Jane is a best-selling tincture combining CBD with cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabinol (CBN) to minimize stress and anxiety. It’s made with broad-spectrum CBD oil, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, and organic orange essential oil.

Reviewers say this oil improves sleep and promotes a calmer, more focused state of being.

Pros

  • highly rated
  • woman of color-owned business
  • includes CBN and CBG

Cons

  • pricey
  • one flavor option
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Best budget-friendly CBD oil for menopause

CBDistillery Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

  • Price: $$
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 500 mg per 30-mL bottle
  • Flavor: flavorless
  • COA: available online

For a slightly lower potency and a lower price point, consider CBDistillery Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture. This 500-mg formula is a great pick for people just getting started with CBD or anyone who doesn’t want a flavored tincture. If this potency isn’t strong enough, our full review of CBDistillery includes a few other options.

All of CBDistillery’s products are made using U.S. Hemp Authority certified, non-GMO hemp grown in the United States. Because it’s full-spectrum, this option does include less than 0.3% THC.

Pros

  • lower price point
  • tasteless formula
  • U.S. Hemp Authority certified

Cons

  • lower potency
  • not organic
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Best CBD gummies for menopause

CBDfx Gummies

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 50 mg per 2-gummy serving
  • Count: 60 per container
  • Flavor: mixed berry
  • COA: available on product page

These fruit-flavored bears are vegan and gluten-free, with no corn syrup, artificial colors or sweeteners, or animal-based ingredients. If you prefer the idea of edible CBD, these are a good option.

Reviewers report that these gummies help minimize pain and calm anxiety, but some note a bit of an aftertaste.

Pros

  • no artificial ingredients
  • vegan
  • moderate potency

Cons

  • slight aftertaste
  • pricey if you use it every day
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Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.

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Best CBD capsules for menopause

R+R Medicinals THC-Free Hemp Extract Softgels

  • Price: $$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 30 mg per softgel
  • Count: 34 per container
  • COA: available on product page

These softgels are made with organic hemp grown on Colorado farms and offer an easy way to precisely dose. If you have trouble with the flavor of CBD oils, these are a good alternative.

R+R Medicinals offers a 25% discount to veterans.

Pros

  • flavorless capsules
  • precise dosages
  • uses organic hemp

Cons

  • pricey, depending on dosage
  • slower onset
  • MCT oil might not be for everyone
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Best CBD bath salts for menopause

Empower Bodycare CBD-Infused Soaking Salts

  • Price: $
  • CBD type: isolate
  • CBD potency: 30 mg per 4-ounce (oz.) bag or 118 mg per 16-oz. bag
  • COA: available on product page

Empower Bodycare blends Epsom, Dead Sea, and pink Himalayan salts with organic CBD oil for soothing full body relief. The salts are scented with a blend of lavender & bergamot essential and fragrance oils for bonus aromatherapy.

Empower Bodycare’s products are vegan and cruelty-free.

Pros

  • organic CBD
  • vegan, cruelty-free
  • budget-friendly prices

Cons

  • one scent option available
  • not a lot of reviews
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Best CBD salve for menopause

Joy Organics Organic CBD Salve

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz. container or 1,000 mg per 2-oz. container
  • Scent: lavender eucalyptus
  • COA: available on product page

Premium broad-spectrum CBD is mixed with organic beeswax and essential oils for a soothing, fragrant salve to nourish skin and soothe pain.

Customers say it’s not greasy — which is a plus for a CBD salve — and works well to ease joint pain.

Pros

  • nongreasy formula
  • organic ingredients
  • two size options

Cons

  • not for people who are sensitive to smells
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Use code “healthcbd” for 20% off.

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Best CBD lotion for menopause

Calm by Wellness CBD Lavender Lotion

  • Price: $$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 200 mg per 4-oz. bottle
  • Scent: lavender
  • COA: available online

The Calm by Wellness CBD Lavender Lotion is free of fillers and is made with hemp grown in the United States. It contains 200 mg in a 4-oz. bottle, which is a moderately low potency.

The formula includes moisturizing aloe, jojoba oil, and coconut oil. It also uses lavender flower water, which according to research, may help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed. Reviewers say it leaves skin soft and smooth and that the smell is nice.

Pros

  • moisturizing aloe, jojoba, and coconut oil
  • uses lavender to encourage better sleep
  • no filler ingredients

Cons

  • not for people who are sensitive to scents
  • lower potency might not be beneficial for everyone
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ProductCBD typePriceCBD potency
Brown Girl Jane Balancebroad-spectrum$$$750 mg per bottle
CBDistillery Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincturefull-Spectrum$$500 mg per bottle
CBDfx Gummiesbroad-spectrum$$$25 mg per gummy
R+R Medicinals THC-Free Hemp Extract Softgelsbroad-spectrum$$30 mg per capsule
Empower Bodycare CBD-Infused Soaking Saltsisolate$30 mg per 4 oz.
Joy Organics Organic CBD Salvebroad-spectrum$$$500 mg per 1 oz.
Calm by Wellness CBD Lavender Lotionbroad-spectrum$$200 mg per 4 oz.

Appropriate CBD use will vary depending on the product being used. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, but in general terms:

  • CBD oils are often taken sublingually, or beneath the tongue. They can also be added to foods and beverages. Follow the dosing recommendation on the packaging.
  • CBD gummies are chewed thoroughly and swallowed. Most companies will recommend one to two gummies as a standard dose.
  • CBD capsules are swallowed. One to two capsules is a standard serving size, depending on the product.
  • CBD bath salts are dissolved in bathwater for soaking. They can also be mixed with water for a hand or foot soak.
  • CBD salves are massaged directly into the skin to ease aches.

For tips on dosing, especially if you’re new to CBD, check out our CBD dosing guide. Appropriate dosing will depend on your body weight, body chemistry, the condition you’re treating, and the potency of your product.

It’s also a good idea to speak with a doctor for recommendations.

There’s no shortage of CBD brands online, but make sure anything you buy comes from a reputable company. The FDA doesn’t regulate CBD in the same way as they do prescription medication, so it’s up to you to shop wisely.

Check the COA

Don’t buy from a brand unless you can verify that they have a third-party lab test their products. Look for the COA online before you buy, and review it to make sure the CBD and THC potency matches what’s advertised. Though there can be slight variations, it shouldn’t be more than about 10% off.

The COA will also tell you whether the product has been tested for contaminants, like heavy metals, pesticides, and molds. Depending on the CBD extraction method that the brand uses, they might also test for residual solvents left over from extraction.

See if the brand is up front

Review the information on the brand’s site and see whether they tell you where they source their hemp and how they make their products.

Do a reputation check

FDA warning letters are sent to brands that make unverified health claims. These letters are available online, so you can see which brands have been sent one.

You can also check online reviews and do a Google search to see if the brand has been subject to any lawsuits.

According to the World Health Organization, CBD is generally considered safe, with very few side effects. Still, some people may experience side effects such as:

  • fatigue
  • diarrhea
  • changes in appetite or weight

The FDA also notes that there’s still much we don’t know about CBD, so it’s hard to say what the long-term effects are.

CBD may also interact with some medications, so it’s important to speak with a doctor before you try it.

If you aren’t interested in using CBD to treat symptoms of menopause, or it doesn’t seem to be working for you, there are other options. Home remedies, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments can all help manage symptoms.

  • Dress in layers: Manage hot flashes by dressing in loose, layered clothing. At night, keep your bedroom cool and use light blankets.
  • Exercise and manage your weight: Exercise moderately daily and eat well to maintain a healthy weight for your body size.
  • Speak up: Be up front with your family and friends about how you’re feeling. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, sadness, insomnia, or other challenges, speak with a therapist.
  • Supplement: Make sure to get daily recommended levels of calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium to keep your energy levels high.
  • Practice relaxation techniques: Yoga and meditation can help reduce anxiety.
  • Take care of your skin: Use moisturizers to minimize skin irritation.
  • Prioritize sleep: Explore natural sleep aids for short-term sleep help, and speak with a doctor for a long-term plan.
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol use: Exposure to smoke and alcohol use can worsen symptoms. If you need help quitting or limiting use, speak with a doctor, who can help create a cessation plan that meets your needs.

If you have any concerns about menopausal symptoms, or they’re getting in the way of daily life, speak with a doctor. You should also talk with a doctor if you’re under 45 and experiencing symptoms of menopause.

Does CBD oil help with hot flashes?

While CBD is unlikely to help you manage hot flashes, research suggests it may help you sleep better.

What types of CBD should you use for menopause?

There isn’t one specific type of CBD recommended for menopause, as there are no studies on the benefits of CBD on menopause. The right type of CBD for you will come down to your personal preferences and desired dosage.

How much CBD oil should I take to help with menopause?

The right dosage for you depends on a few factors, like your body weight, the condition you’re treating, and the potency of the product you’re using. Start with a small dosage of CBD (around 20 mg) and increase slowly until you reach your desired effect. It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor for recommendations.

Symptoms of menopause can be unpleasant, and it’s normal to want to look for solutions and methods of management. While there’s no evidence of the benefits of CBD on menopause specifically, there are studies that show it may be effective for treating some symptoms.

Speak with a doctor if this is something you want to explore.

Is CBD legal? The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC legal at the federal level. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them illegal at the federal level. Some states have legalized CBD, so be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.

Jessica Timmons has been working as a freelance writer since 2007, covering everything from pregnancy and parenting to cannabis, chiropractic, stand-up paddling, fitness, martial arts, home decor, and much more. Her work has appeared in mindbodygreen, Pregnancy & Newborn, Modern Parents Messy Kids, and Coffee + Crumbs. See what she’s up to now at jessicatimmons.com.