9 Ways Cannabis is Great for Women's Health

Cannabis is growing in popularity as more and more states legalize it for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Millions of Americans currently consume cannabis on a regular basis. But, there are still many people who don’t understand how it can benefit them.

Women, in particular, can experience a number of health and wellness benefits from cannabis.

Keep reading to learn nine surprising ways that cannabis can serve as a women’s wellness aid.

1. Helps Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are a major pain.

Many people turn to over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen to help ease their discomfort. The problem with these drugs, though, is that they can cause intestinal issues when taken in excess.

Cannabis offers a more natural way to relieve pain. This is because of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, which acts as a muscle relaxant.

Smoking or vaping is the fastest way to consume cannabis for pain relief. But, you can also apply it topically or use a transdermal patch if you prefer.

2. Makes Pregnancy Easier

Many women have noticed improvements in their nausea and morning sickness after consuming cannabis while pregnant.

The muscle-relaxing properties of cannabis also help to make the child birthing process less painful.

Is it safe to consume cannabis during pregnancy?

So far, there is no research to suggest that occasional use is dangerous for the fetus.

3. Relieves Migraines

We can’t talk about women’s wellness without addressing migraines.

Women and men both suffer from migraines. But, women are three times more likely to experience them than men.

Cannabis was once the preferred treatment for migraines until it was outlawed in the late 1930s. Now, it’s making a comeback.

Some studies show that cannabis is more effective than traditional painkillers at treating migraines.

4. Treats Depression

In addition to being more likely to suffer from migraines, women are also more than twice as likely to experience major depression.

Cannabis has mood-boosting properties and has been known to promote feelings of well-being.

Cannabis has even been used in ancient medicine to promote happiness and talkativeness.

While it can make you feel more positive, cannabis can also be used to take away some of the physical side-effects that accompany depression, such as mental fatigue and headaches.

5. Relieves Anxiety

Cannabis can also help relieve anxiety.

It specifically helps to calm the body’s “fight or flight” receptors. This relieves the physical feelings of anxiety and makes it easier for those who struggle with it to work through what’s causing their symptoms.

Some people do experience increased anxiety after they consume cannabis. To avoid this, it’s important to make sure you have a strain that is known to promote relaxation.

Strains that are high in cannabidiol (CBD) are typically the best for this. CBD is a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, and it helps balance out the effects of THC.

6. Improves Sleep

Hundreds of thousands of women throughout the United States suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome.

Despite feeling constantly tired, people with chronic fatigue tend to have trouble sleeping. Cannabis can help relax the body and promote deep, restful sleep.

This good sleep can work wonders for those who are feeling extra fatigued.

7. Helps You Maintain a Healthy Weight

Despite being known for causing the “munchies,” cannabis can actually help women maintain a healthy weight.

This is especially true for people who replace regular alcohol consumption with cannabis. The body does not see cannabis as a poison like it does alcohol.

Cannabis can also improve digestion and help the body process food easier.

When you choose cannabis over alcohol, you’re also saving hundreds (or even thousands) of calories.

Most alcoholic beverages containing at least 100 calories per serving, plus more if you’re drinking sugar mixed drinks. When you vape or smoke cannabis, though, you don’t have to worry about taking in any extra calories!

8. Prevents Sickness

The body’s endocannabinoid system is a major player in keeping the whole body in balance. It’s also known for its connections to the immune system and ability to prevent all kinds illnesses.

Cannabis consumption can improve your body’s immune function and keep everything running smoothly.

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cannabis is especially beneficial for people who suffer from autoimmune diseases. These diseases can cause excessive inflammation in the body, which causes a wide range of negative symptoms.

People with HIV/AIDS and different kinds of cancer can also benefit from cannabis consumption. Some studies even suggest that cannabinoids can actually kill cancer cells.

9. Provides Essential Nutrients

The leaves, seeds, and flowers of the cannabis plant also contain a variety of nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy.

The following are just some of the specific nutrients it contains:

Omega-6 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids
Antioxidants
Protein

How do you get these nutritional benefits?

The easiest way is to incorporate the raw plant into different dishes.

You can easily add it to a freshly blended smoothie or fresh juice. Others like it mixed into salads or sprinkled on top of their food along with other fresh herbs.

When you eat cannabis raw, it won’t get you high, either. This means you can consume it at any time during the day.