When you think of the history of cannabis, you may imagine men being the pioneers, but a lot of women played a role as well. Women played the roles of pioneers, healers, and rebels, shaping cannabis into what it is today. Without these women, cannabis may still be illegal.
Here is a look at some women who revolutionized the cannabis industry and helped make it so popular.
Healers in Cannabis Culture
In many ancient societies, women acted as community healers, herbalists, and spiritual guides. Cannabis was one of many plants they used. Evidence shows cannabis was used as medicine in China, India, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece thousands of years ago.
Healers often prepared it as tinctures, salves, teas, or smokes for ailments like pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. Cannabis was especially tied to women’s reproductive health. Ancient texts describe its use for easing labor pains and childbirth, providing menstrual relief for cramps and discomfort, and postpartum care, including healing, relaxation, and lactation support.
Early Figures in the Cannabis Industry
Some female figures who are influential in cannabis history include:
- Queen Victoria. In the 19th century, she was prescribed cannabis by her physician to alleviate menstrual cramps. Her case is cited to illustrate that even in very traditional periods, women used cannabis medicinally and had their needs acknowledged by medical professionals.
- Margaret Mead. She was a famous American cultural anthropologist who advocated for cannabis legalization in the 20th century and criticized punitive approaches to adult drug use.
- Mary Jane “Brownie Mary” Rathbun. She was known for her activism in the AIDS crisis. She baked and distributed cannabis-infused brownies at San Francisco General Hospital to help AIDS patients suffering from wasting syndrome.
- Alice O’Leary Randall. Along with her husband, Robert Carl Randall, she was involved in a significant early medical cannabis case. Robert was arrested for cultivation when using cannabis to treat glaucoma; Alice helped fight the conviction and has continued to preserve and promote the history and legacy of early medical cannabis pioneers.
Modern Figures
Here are a couple of women who have made great strides in the cannabis industry in recent years:
- Jane West. West started Women Grow in 2014 to promote diversity and leadership in the cannabis industry. Her work is about empowering women, building connections, and providing education.
- Dr. Rachel M. Knox. Knox is a specialist in cannabinoid medicine. She is also involved in policy, regulation, and health equity initiatives.
- Wanda James. James is the first African-American woman to own a legal cannabis dispensary in Colorado. She advocates for social equity and criminal justice reform in cannabis policy.
- Dr. Sue Sisley. Sisley is a physician and researcher who has pushed forward scientific research into medical uses of cannabis, especially in difficult areas like PTSD.
Contact Us Today
Thanks to these women, cannabis has become widely used and legal for medical and recreational use in many states. City Leaves is Egg Harbor Township’s favorite dispensary. Stop in and you’ll agree that our woman-owned business is like no other.
We offer plenty of products at great deals, so come pick some up on your way to the shore. Call (609) 288-8574 or order online.