It’s no secret cannabis has therapeutic profits that women can benefit from, too. Although cannabis is for everyone and anyone, there are differences in how cannabis affects you based on your sex.
The benefits of cannabis for women’s health can be physical, emotional, or psychological. According to the Women’s Health.gov site, “More than 1 in 5 women in the United States experienced a mental health condition in the past year, such as depression or anxiety. Statistics like these, along with the continued revelations regarding the benefits of cannabis, begs the question, what are the benefits of cannabis for women?
Fortunately, we have the answers to those questions and more. It’s worth noting cannabis may benefit women in their day-to-day lives, whether they’re seeking physical relief or a way to unwind.
Psychological and Emotional Benefits of Cannabis for Women
Research is continually investigating the uses and benefits of cannabis, and studies have continually shown evidence of the various properties of cannabidiol (CBD). This includes antipsychotics and antidepressants to anxiety-reducing properties and benefits.
CBD is one of the non-intoxicating compounds found in the marijuana plant. This is akin to another component of the marijuana plant, hemp. Hemp was federally legalized as a result of the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. CBD and hemp might be explained as one species of roses that don’t have thorns. Yes, they are still roses, but without some of the common properties or traits typically associated with roses.
All of this simply means that CBD can offer a variety of potential psychological benefits without any of the “high” associated with cannabis use. In addition to offering benefits for women’s health in the emotional and cognitive realms, CBD can provide physical benefits too.
Physical Benefits of Cannabis for Women
The physical benefits of cannabis for women might even outweigh many of its other benefits in the psychological and emotional areas. Cannabis for moms, and in particular new moms, may be extremely helpful with physical pain related to PMS symptoms.
Every mom must contend with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), and it is reported that cannabis is beneficial in relieving common physical pains that come with PMS, such as cramping. Medically, it is thought that cannabis is effective as a result of the endocannabinoid system in the body that experiences chemical changes during the menstruation phases.
That means that cannabis for moms and new moms may be a solution to help women combat the pains related to PMS. The question is cannabis good for women, however, isn’t only referring to mothers. From working women, older women, younger women, and women with children, cannabis for women has been found to help with a variety of physical pains and ailments.
When it comes to menstruation in particular, cannabis may reduce the cramping, nausea, and stress associated with periods. These effects are the result of cannabis’ anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anxiety-reducing properties.
While the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) vary greatly among women, some of the common symptoms cannabis may help alleviate include:
- Mood changes, including irritability, depression, and anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping
- Bloating and digestive distress
- Appetite changes
- Breast tenderness
- Joint pain
In one study, 144 women were surveyed about their cannabis use as it relates to PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms (PMDD) The majority of them reported experiencing relief from most of the aforementioned symptoms after using cannabis. Changes in appetite and/or overeating were the only symptoms the majority of the participants did not report relief from.
Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory condition that causes the inner lining of your uterus to grow outside the organ, resulting in extremely painful periods. This condition affects over six and ½ million women in the United States.
Another study surveyed women about their cannabis use as it relates to their endometriosis symptoms. Based on the self-report data, the participants said inhaled or ingested forms of cannabis were able to reduce their pelvic pain and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Vaping, ingesting, or applying cannabis as a topical cream may help alleviate your symptoms. There are also CBD-infused tampons and cannabis suppositories that may provide relief for severe menstrual-related pain.
In addition to the emotional, psychological, and physical benefits, cannabis is good for the overall well-being of women.
Cannabis Can Improve the Overall Well-Being and Quality of Life of Women
There are many areas that cannabis can be used to address, improve, and better the overall quality of life for women everywhere. Here are a few issues that cannabis can be used to help treat or improve:
- Insomnia
- PMS and/or PMDD
- Endometriosis
- Arthritis
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Appetite loss
The benefits of cannabis are no longer a secret. There are also new discoveries and uses for cannabis being researched, developed, and discovered every day. That also includes benefits for women and their health, and the overall well-being of women of all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, and professions.
These are just a few ways that cannabis can be employed to help improve conditions and help to improve the overall quality of life for women. There are also many questions surrounding the use, safety, and legality of cannabis products.
FAQs
Are Cannabis products safe to use during pregnancy?
While most cannabis products have shown evidence of being safe and helpful when used properly, there is some discussion during the use of cannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or cannabis products during pregnancy.
The overwhelming consensus from experts and organizations like the FDA strongly advises against using any cannabis-related products during pregnancy. In most reviews and opinions, this has more to do with the developing system of the unborn child than the dangers of cannabis.
Will CBD Products Get Me “High”?
Many questions surround the safety of using CBD products, such as are they safe or will they get me “high?” While most CBD products have trace THC elements, it isn’t enough to produce the intoxicated or “high” feeling associated with smoking marijuana.
These products are also generally safe to use in most situations, but as with any product or treatment, it is advised to consult with your family physician before trying a CBD product.
Are CBD Products Legal?
Although there are varying laws governing the use of marijuana (the other rose), most CBD products have cleared FDA approval for over-the-counter sales. It is always a good idea to purchase any CBD products from a reliable and reputable source.