March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements of women across all industries—including the ever-evolving world of cannabis. While often associated with recent legalization efforts, women have played a crucial role in the plant’s history for centuries. From ancient healers to modern entrepreneurs, their contributions continue to shape the industry today.
At Kind Goods, we honor the women who paved the way for progress and continue to shape the future of cannabis.
Ancient Roots: Women as Healers
Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of cannabis use and advocacy. Dating back thousands of years, female healers and midwives across different cultures utilized cannabis for its medicinal properties.
- In ancient Egypt, Queen Hatshepsut is believed to have used cannabis-infused remedies for menstrual pain.
- In China, Empress Wu Zetian turned to cannabis for its therapeutic benefits.
- In 19th and early 20th-century Western medicine, cannabis tinctures were widely used, often prescribed by female herbalists and midwives.
However, as prohibition policies took hold in the 20th century, the role of women in cannabis was largely erased from mainstream history. Yet, their advocacy never disappeared—it only evolved.
Cannabis in Folk Medicine and Midwifery
As cannabis spread globally, women remained central to its medicinal applications. During the Middle Ages, European midwives and herbalists used cannabis in remedies for menstrual pain and childbirth. Indigenous women across the Americas incorporated it into healing ceremonies, reinforcing its longstanding role in traditional medicine.
By the 19th century, cannabis was widely used in Western medicine for migraines, insomnia, and gastrointestinal disorders. Victorian-era women frequently relied on cannabis tinctures for pain relief and anxiety. Queen Victoria’s personal physician even prescribed cannabis to alleviate her menstrual cramps, highlighting its medical recognition during the era.
Prohibition and the Fight for Legalization
The early 20th century brought widespread cannabis prohibition, disproportionately impacting women and marginalized communities. The “Reefer Madness” era fueled stigma, leading to strict laws and criminalization. Despite these challenges, female activists fought back.
In the 1970s, Mary Jane Rathbun, aka “Brownie Mary,” defied legal barriers by distributing cannabis-infused brownies to AIDS patients, advocating for its medicinal value.
Pioneers like Alice O’Leary-Randall co-founded the first legal patient advocacy group for medical cannabis, influencing policy changes.
More recently, Wanda James became the first Black woman to own a dispensary in the U.S., pushing for social equity in the industry.
Women in the Modern Cannabis Industry
Today, women are leading the charge in cannabis, advocating for equity, innovation, and social change. Find women-led cannabis brands at Kind Goods, including:
Camp CANNABIS
A Missouri-based, women-owned brand focused on wellness and premium cannabis products.
Grön
Founded in 2015, this women-led company is known for its handcrafted edibles, including chocolates and gummies.
Kiva
Co-founded by Kristi Knoblich-Palmer, Kiva produces high-quality edibles, setting the standard for consistency and innovation.
The Future of Women in Cannabis
Despite progress, gender disparities in funding and leadership persist. Organizations like Women Grow and Supernova Women work to promote greater representation and equity. As the industry evolves, women will remain at the forefront, influencing policy, business, and community initiatives.
From ancient medicine to modern dispensaries, women have shaped cannabis culture and innovation. At Kind Goods, we’re proud to support women-led cannabis brands. Explore our selection in-store or online and experience the impact of these pioneering entrepreneurs today!
Abel, Ernest L. Marihuana: The First Twelve Thousand Years. Springer, 1980.
Grunge. “How Marijuana Was Used in Victorian England.” Grunge, n.d.
Lee, Martin A. Smoke Signals: A Social History of Marijuana—Medical, Recreational and Scientific. Scribner, 2012.
Longreads. “Queen Victoria’s Cramps and the History of Medicinal Marijuana in Europe.” Longreads, 2015.
“Women Leading the Cannabis Industry.” Forbes, 2023.
