About The Author: Degelis Tufts Pilla is the Co-Founder of TribeTokes. She is the proud mom of a 3 year old son and 4 month old daughter and resides in the Greater NYC area with her family. 

Motherhood is often called the most rewarding job in the world, but it’s also one of the most demanding. From the moment that second pink line appears on the pregnancy test, you’re instantly signed up for a lifetime of both joy and (eek) worry, sacrifice, and responsibility.

As a mom, you’re expected to be a superhuman multi-tasker – keeping a clean, organized home, preparing healthy meals, shuttling kids to activities, helping with homework, doling out emotional support, all while pursuing your own career or creative passions. Oh, and don’t forget finding time for self-care, relationships, and the occasional full night of sleep! No big deal. 

It’s utterly exhausting and enough to drive any sane woman to the brink from time to time. This is why many moms have turned to a little herbal assistance in the form of cannabis. Before you clutch your pearls, hear me out! I’m not advocating being a couch-locked, zoned-out zombie of a parent. But used responsibly, cannabis can actually make you a calmer, more present, more engaged, and yes, even a better mom in several wonderful ways. We have normalized “wine time for mommy,” and it may be time to normalize “weed time for mommy” as well! 

If you are new to cannabis, we do suggest testing it out at first in very small amounts and after your children go to sleep – not when you are responsible for them during the day at first. Basically, treat consuming cannabis exactly the same as you would alcohol, and always remember the mantra “start low and slow.” 

#1: Cannabis Can Help You Sleep

There is no doubt that we are all better versions of ourselves when we’re caught up on sleep.  A well-rested mom is often a more effective, energetic parent.

Cannabis can potentially aid sleep through several mechanisms, though its effects can vary significantly between individuals. The primary way cannabis may improve sleep is through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Many moms report that cannabis helps them relax and unwind before bed, making it easier to transition into sleep.

THC, one of the main active compounds in cannabis, has been shown to have sedative properties and may help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It can also increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration. A popular product for getting more restful sleep are indica gummies. 

CBD, another major cannabinoid, might help improve sleep by addressing underlying causes of sleeplessness, such as anxiety or pain. It’s thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may help regulate sleep patterns. Importantly, CBD sleep gummies are an amazing option if you want to relax and wind down but can’t be zonked out – for example, if your baby is still waking up throughout the night. 

#2: Cannabis May Ease Stress & Anxiety

Raising kids is one of life’s biggest stress-inducing scenarios. The endless cycle of chores, sibling squabbles, stretching budgets, and worrying about every decision’s impact on your child’s future psyche is a perfect storm for frazzled nerves and anxious overwhelm.

Chronic maternal stress and anxiety can have serious detrimental effects like irritability, insomnia, weakened immunity, and more. An anxious, burnt-out mom just doesn’t have the bandwidth to be her best parenting self.

Cannabis can potentially relieve stress through several mechanisms:

• Cannabinoid interaction: THC and CBD, the main active compounds in cannabis, interact with the endocannabinoid system in the brain. This system plays a role in regulating stress and anxiety.
• Cortisol reduction: Some studies suggest cannabis use may lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.
• Muscle relaxation: The relaxing effects of certain cannabis strains may help reduce physical tension associated with stress.
• Distraction: Cannabis use might provide a mental break from stressors, allowing users to detach temporarily from worries.

With its natural anti-anxiety properties, cannabis can help relieve stress and let you hit the reset button. A moderate dose of an indica or CBD-rich strain can quiet those negative mental loops and bring you back to a calmer center. From that relaxed state, you’ll have more patience and be better equipped to handle childhood chaos with empathy rather than blow your top. 

While we don’t recommend vaping around your kids, a small puff on a sleek THCa disposable vape on the walk home from work can be a great way to transition from a stressful work day to fun mom mode! If you want to feel relaxed without being high at all, a CBD vape is a great option for you. 

#3 Cannabis Sparks Creativity & Playfulness

From coming up with inventive games to acting out imaginary scenarios to dreaming up clever solutions for the constant challenges parenthood throws your way, cannabis can be a powerful catalyst for creativity and whimsy. 

Fun facts: here are some famous artist mothers who are known for using cannabis for creativity:

• Rihanna
• Jane Fonda
• Anne Hathaway
• Kirsten Dunst
• Alanis Morissette
• Charlize Theron
• Erykah Badu
• Gwyneth Paltrow
• Kate Hudson
• Kristen Bell

#4 Cannabis Can Help Moms With Pain Management

For mothers and fathers dealing with chronic pain, cannabis could provide relief without the side effects of some prescription medications. Being a dad involves a lot of physical activity – from running around a park, to piggyback rides to playing catch out in the backyard. When we’re in pain, it makes it really difficult to do these activities with our kids. 

Cannabis can potentially help reduce pain through several mechanisms, primarily involving its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system plays a crucial role in regulating pain sensation, among other functions. To help with pain, you both can ingest cannabis through smoking/gummies, and you can use it externally in a cannabis cream and apply it directly to your skin for muscle aches and sore joints. 

The two main active compounds in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), are believed to be responsible for its pain-relieving effects. THC binds directly to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, which can alter pain perception and provide a sense of euphoria that may distract from pain. CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t bind directly to these receptors but is thought to work by reducing inflammation and interacting with neurotransmitters.

#5 Cannabis Enhances Mindfulness & Appreciation

One of the most common refrains from parents is how quickly the precious years of childhood pass by in a frenzied blur. One minute you’re cradling a newborn, the next you’re sending them off to college and struggling to recall all the tiny moments and milestones in between.

Using cannabis mindfully can act as a powerful antidote to that warp-speed effect. Many mothers find that consuming a moderate dose heightens their appreciation for all the little things – a baby’s giggly babble, a toddler’s messy but imaginative artworks, the focused furrow of concentration on an older child’s brow as they assemble a jigsaw puzzle.

From that elevated state of presence, you’ll be more attuned to your child’s moods and needs. You’ll be able to cherish each moment more vividly rather than having the years blend together in an indistinct fog of sleepless nights and mounting chaos. Cannabis can help you truly savor the fleeting magic of this singular chapter of life.

Some Strains For Moms To Try! 

For moms looking to truly check out for some restorative “me time,” indica strains tend to be most effective for deep relaxation and sleep. But hybrid or sativa strains can also take the edge off without leaving you completely sedated. Here are some great cannabis strains that can help moms relax. 

Indicas

Indicas are known for their sedating, calming body effects that are perfect for relieving stress and anxiety. Some top indica strains for relaxation include:

Granddaddy Purple – This classic indica has long been prized for its deeply relaxing effects that dissolve stress and muscle tension. With its grape and berry flavors, it’s also a delicious treat.

Remedy – Another indica crowd-pleaser, the name says it all! Remedy provides a “full-body melt” sensation that makes you sink into the couch feeling blissfully at ease. Great for winding down after a chaotic day.

Northern Lights – Famous for improving sleep quality and easing muscle soreness, Northern Lights induces powerful body relaxation and sedation. Perfect for quieting the neverending mommy worries.

Hybrids

Hybrids offer a mixture of indica and sativa effects. These can provide relaxation while still allowing mental clarity:

Blue Dream – A perennial bestseller, Blue Dream delivers gentle euphoria and relaxation balanced with mild cerebral invigoration.

Cake Batter – This balanced hybrid cross of Wedding Cake and Gorilla Butter tastes just like sugary baked goods while providing relaxing, anti-anxiety effects.

Lemon Cherry Gelato – This strain has exploded in popularity over the last couple of years for fruity taste and giggly effects, perfect for winding down and having fun. 

Sativas

Sativas are known for their uplifting, energizing cerebral effects that can boost mood and focus. Some popular sativa strains you may want to try include:

Sour Diesel – This iconic sativa delivers an invigorating cerebral buzz that sparks creativity and enhances conversational abilities.

Jack Herer – Named after the legendary cannabis activist, Jack Herer provides focused energy and euphoria that makes it ideal for active relaxation or social activities.

Ghost Train Haze – This flavorful sativa blend invigorates the mind with uplifting effects while relaxing the body, making it a versatile all-purpose strain.