A new survey from the US has found that over 60% of women are ‘cannabis curious’, with many interested in it for a number of health and wellness reasons.
Increasing numbers of women are expressing an interest in cannabis for health and wellness purposes, from menopause to mental health, according to new figures from the US.
A survey conducted in October 2022, among more than 1,000 American women across the country reveals that 62% of respondents said they were ‘cannabis curious’.
But while women are increasingly interested in learning about the health benefits of using cannabis, they are more open to it if recommended by a doctor.
Findings also point to a need for more education, with many women unaware of how cannabis could specifically target common health issues, such as menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms.
The survey was carried out by Blissiva, a company selling cannabis-infused products designed for women.
Why are women interested in cannabis?
More than six out of 10 (62%) women say they’re cannabis curious, with millennials (74%) being the most likely to express curiosity compared to other generations.
More than half of women (52%) are interested in cannabis as a solution to anxiety and mental health issues.
Just over half (55%) are interested in using cannabis to provide relief from aches and pains, and half of women (50%) are interested in using cannabis to relax.
More than one in three Gen X women (those born between the years of 1965 to 1980) are interested in cannabis as a solution for perimenopause and menopause symptoms.
Dr Leslie Apgar, obstetrician-gynecologist and cofounder of Blissiva, who has more than 20 years of experience treating women, commented: “Around menopause women start to complain about weight gain, increased anxiety, and trouble sleeping, but what many women don’t realise is cannabis can be very effective at treating these and other menopause symptoms.
“Cannabis can reduce anxiety and help you achieve more restful sleep, which is associated with cellular repair, immune function, growth and recovery.”
An alternative to alcohol
Almost half (47%) of women say when they want to unwind, they are open to cannabis instead of a glass of wine or another alcoholic beverage.
Younger generations are even more open to choosing cannabis. In fact, around three in five Gen Z women (59%) and millennial women (61%) reported they were open to cannabis instead of a glass of wine or alcoholic beverage when they want to unwind.
Dr Apgar says that cannabis consumption has fewer negative side effects when compared to drinking a glass of wine or another type of alcohol.
“Cannabis is a good alternative or balanced complement to alcohol, as it doesn’t have any calories or sugar and is very helpful at treating anxiety. It can help you relax and recover without the hangover,” she said.
However, the survey results show that while women are cannabis curious, they’re still hesitant and need guidance when it comes to usage.
More than three in five (63%) women say they would be more open to using cannabis if a doctor recommends it. Three in five (60%) women say they are comfortable talking to their doctor about cannabis.
Dr Apgar empowers women to speak to a medical professional about alternative treatments when traditional methods aren’t helping.
However, she warns that not all medical professionals have extensive knowledge of cannabis.
She said: “Don’t be discouraged if you need to talk to more than one doctor to get the support you need.”
High hopes for cannabis as a wellness tool
Dr Apgar describes cannabis “a game-changer” for people who have struggled to find the right treatment for their health issues.
She has found that cannabis can play a valuable role in supporting individuals with anything from minor aches and pains to serious issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or opioid addictions.
“I’ve found that every cannabis user – regardless of any ‘recreational’ or ‘medical’ label, is using it to heal something,” added Dr Apgar.
“I have high hopes that more people will learn about the endocannabinoid system, which is our most primitive nervous system, and discover how cannabis can support them on their health and wellness journeys.”
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