4 minute read
Blunt Advice
By Barbara Verde
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Dear Flashing Hot in Santa Ynez,
Is it me, or do I detect some snark in your query?
No matter, you bring up a good question about cannabis as it relates to menopause.
While research into whether cannabis helps with menopause is lacking, in a recent study from 2020, a whopping 27 percent of all participants reported trying cannabis for menopause symptom management while an additional 10 percent expressed that they wanted to try cannabis to cope with symptoms in the future.
Cannabis products have begun to appear that have been created for the express purpose of combatting menopause symptoms, such as night sweats and insomnia. One of these was developed by two women and is called “Beyond Hello.” It’s a vaginal cannabis suppository and is available at licensed dispensaries in California. Also, take note: using cannabis as medicine does not always equate with getting high. Products such as suppositories that contain THC bypass your digestive system and are able to offer relief without a head high.
So clearly, your friend of a friend is not alone in trying cannabis to take the edge off of menopausal symptoms. Rather than judging her, why not cheer her on? And maybe try striking up a conversation to learn more about her cannabis use … it sounds like it wouldn’t hurt you to learn about things that take the edge off.
Dear Curious in Carp,
Well, one thing’s for sure, this cute guy is definitely on the leading edge of sobriety descriptors!
There is no official definition for “California Sober,” and there are slightly different meanings depending on who you talk to. In general, this term is understood as a lifestyle that includes moderate use of some substances, like cannabis and/or psychedelics, but no alcohol or hard drug use. Some who use the term still drink alcohol, but in limited quantities.
Obviously, there are those that argue that “Cali Sober” is not sobriety at all, while others contend that all or nothing is too black and white to be a good fit for everyone. The new term allows for a more nuanced description of sober living. For those who consider cannabis a healing medicine in their lives, rather than a problem, but choose to stay away from substances they consider less desirable, like alcohol, etc., one can see how the term makes sense.
It sounds like you need more clarification about this fellow’s definition of “California Sober.” If it’s compatible with your own lifestyle, keep the conversation going … if not, burn some sage and let him go — good luck!
Dear Thirsty Thursday in Los Alamos,
Props to you for looking into trying something new! Cannabis infused beverages are very on-trend right now as an alcohol replacement and increasingly available at licensed dispensaries.
One of my biggest tips, always, is to start low and go slow.
A popular pre-mixed brand that I really like is CANN because of its low dosing—2 MG of THC and 4 MG of CBD per drink. Billed as a “microdosed social tonic,” it has a fraction of the calories of beer, but still offers a pleasant, relaxing experience. And just like beer, it comes conveniently packaged in a can!
If you want to try making your own infused concoctions, I recommend picking up the book “Cannabis Drinks: Secrets to Crafting CBD and THC Beverages at Home” by Jamie Evans. Give that a read and you will be well on your way to mixing things up, literally!
Barbara Verde lives in Santa Barbara County and adores all things green, from avocados to Kermit. When not working on her fledgling roller skating skills, she loves to answer questions about cannabis—send yours to barbara@cbtsmagazine.com.
