They tried everything, and nothing worked. Now, women are turning to cannabis for help
They tried everything, and nothing worked. Now, women are turning to cannabis for help
CNN’s Editor’s Note: The documentary “Dr. Sanjay Gupta Reports: Weed 8: Women and Weed” airs at 8 p.m. ET on April 19, with streaming available on the CNN app on April 20. When I began the first “Weed” documentary in 2012, I never imagined the path it would take or the stories that would continue long after its initial release into the cannabis world. Initially, I believed the project was a standalone exploration of a plant at the center of medical debate. But what I overlooked was the start of a broader dialogue about hope, healing and the credibility of those who speak on medical marijuana. After a year of filming the eighth installment in a decade-long series, this episode focuses on women and cannabis—a logical step, and one that has finally gained attention.
A Quiet Revolution in Healthcare
Across the country, I encountered a consistent narrative: “I tried everything else, and nothing really worked. Cannabis was the only thing that helped.” This refrain echoes a pattern rooted in history, where women’s health concerns have often been overlooked, misdiagnosed or dismissed. As a young physician, I saw this with my mother, and later with my wife. Conditions like autoimmune disorders, postpartum depression and chronic pain were frequently attributed to stress or emotional instability. Even today, women are underrepresented in clinical trials, despite biological sex playing a critical role in how medications function.
“I tried everything else, and nothing really worked. Cannabis was the only thing that helped.”
Women now dominate cannabis use, particularly among middle-aged and older adults, according to the data. This trend reflects a growing frustration with traditional medicine and a search for alternatives. For many, cannabis serves as a lifeline, offering relief from cancer treatment side effects, endometriosis symptoms, or menopause-related sleeplessness and mood swings.
From Kitchens to Communities
One of the most unexpected hubs of this movement is Oklahoma. Once known for strict drug laws, the state has earned a nickname—“Tokelahoma”—for its recent embrace of medical marijuana. Since legalization, a vibrant industry has emerged, driven by grassroots efforts and women-led initiatives. I met April, a Tulsa-based mother who transitioned from real estate to crafting cannabis-infused edibles for chronic pain. Bonnie, another local entrepreneur, grows strains tailored to address issues like sexual dysfunction and insomnia. Ebony, a chef who moved to Oklahoma, now operates as a community doula and educator, connecting users through a network she calls “cannamoms.”
Reclaiming Agency
What stood out was their determination. For these women, cannabis is not a escape—it’s a tool for empowerment. They are crafting products with empathy and experimentation, challenging stereotypes that have long defined the plant’s reputation. This movement, born in kitchens, home gardens and community spaces, is reshaping the conversation around cannabis, blending science with personal experience.
The medical marijuana discourse is accelerating rapidly. This year, several major organizations have advocated for reclassifying cannabis as a Schedule I drug, arguing that the evidence for its therapeutic benefits can no longer be ignored. Researchers are also uncovering promising insights into cannabinoids’ potential for neurological conditions, further solidifying the plant’s place in modern healthcare.
