As of 2024, women aged 19-30 have surpassed men in cannabis use for the first time, and many cited mental health as their reason for use. As a result, platforms like MyBongShop have enjoyed increased traffic from women looking to buy bongs online in Australia and around the world. Whether for recreation or wellness, this demographic is driving industry attention.
Women and Cannabis Products
Female consumers are increasingly drawn to cannabis products marketed for calm, sleep, focus, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) relief. Cannabis has often been associated with the first three qualities, and recent research suggests that the endocannabinoid system’s involvement in gynecological functions may help to alleviate menstrual-related symptoms. For many women, these products have made a notable impact on their health and well-being. Of course, the cannabis industry has taken note of these trends.
As an article published in npj Women’s Health reads, “[During the survey,] the CBD group demonstrated significantly reduced frequency and severity of menstrual-related symptoms, impact of symptoms on daily functioning, need for analgesics, and number of analgesics used relative to the TAU (treatment-as-usual) group.”
Cannabis Catered to Women’s Physical and Mental Health
There are numerous cannabis-infused balms, teas, and other products now specifically formulated for women’s health. Whether for soothing PMS and other menstrual-related symptoms, regulating hormonal mood swings, or reducing anxiety, these products have found their place in many women’s wellness routines. While still a point of frustration, cannabis products can potentially help alleviate menstrual and hormonal issues.
Anxiety is twice as common in women as it is in men, and this has been reflected somewhat in cannabis use trends. Due to the association of cannabinoids with anxiety regulation, it is reasonable that women would demonstrate a greater tendency toward cannabis for relief than men. If cannabis helps women with their mental health and they have legal access, there is little reason to ignore the benefits.
Changes in Messaging and Cannabis Acceptance
As cannabis use among women increases on a broad scale, brands have begun to change their messaging and marketing tactics. Women-led cannabis brands are prioritizing low-dose, approachable products that focus on discretion and user education. Microdosed mints, calming tinctures, and skincare lines have become prominent alongside more traditional products like glass bongs and rolling papers.
Women’s adoption of cannabis also contributes to greater acceptance of the drug in general, and it is becoming normalized in yoga classes, spas, and wellness retreats. States like Florida have become major markets for medical cannabis, while the legality of recreational cannabis may vary on a state-by-state basis, the industry’s untapped potential is driving bipartisan support and increasing acceptance in these spaces.
“Florida’s cannabis landscape is evolving rapidly,” an article for SouthFloridaReporter.com explained, “with a well-established medical marijuana program and an ongoing debate over recreational legalization. As of July 2023, Florida had over 831,000 registered medical marijuana patients, making up 3.74% of the state’s population.”
The Impact of Influence
As opposed to a kind of taboo, women influencers and prominent health practitioners have begun to advocate for cannabis use as a lifestyle enhancement tool. As their message contributes to ongoing destigmatization, more and more women are considering or actively engaging in cannabis use regularly for wellness purposes. Supported by their message, sales of ceramic bongs and herb grinders are only on the rise.
Associations With Women’s Health Advances an Industry
Cannabis has long been a part of wellness and empowerment culture, but its increasing association with women’s health only pushes this narrative forward. As women turn to cannabis for menstrual relief, anxiety reduction, sleep aid, and holistic self-care, the industry is changing with the trends. It remains to be seen how women will continue to impact the cannabis industry, but change is evident.
