In the United States, cannabis is legal in 38 states for medical use and 24 states for recreational use. Yet, there continues to be a stigma around those who use it, especially mothers. Known as “cannamoms,” an increasing number of mothers are using cannabis to help them parent.
They claim that cannabis has aided them in being more present, embodied and less reactive. For cannamoms, marijuana has served as a tool to approach their kids with less anxiety and more acceptance. Camila Garcia, 34, is a mother to two daughters who specializes in intuitive practices and energy healing. She frequently hosts workshops for intentional cannabis consumption to help you reprogram your relationship with plant medicine. Imani Garrison, 28, is a mother to her seven year old son. As a project manager, marijuana has played a critical role in her parenting as a single and working mother.
21Ninety spoke to these two moms about how weed impacts their parenting, dismantling the taboo and navigating internalized shame.
21NINETY: In what ways does marijuana support your parenting?
IMANI GARRISON: In terms of support, sometimes it gives me that extra boost of energy, [and] a little pep in my step. When I’m fresh off the sativa, I’m in the mood to play and be silly, even after a long day at work. It takes the edge off.
CAMILA GARCIA: Cannabis helps me be more patient and self-aware, especially in recognizing how my own upbringing might influence my parenting. It helps me laugh or be silly with my kids. I can sometimes be so laser focused on being a caretaker that I forget the other aspects, like playing, laughing, joking, and letting my inner child join them.
It allows me to take a step back and let my children be kids, instead of micromanaging. I’m also less overstimulated or better able to manage my energetic sensitivities. As someone who deals with PMDD and RA, during flare-up days, cannabis helps me get through tasks with greater ease, less pain and less reactivity, especially when my irritability or mood swings are high. It also supported me through postpartum depression and continues to help me as a neurodivergent mom.
21N: Was there any shame you had to combat as a weed consumer and a parent?
IG: [There’s] so much shame to combat, [and] I’m still dealing with it to be honest. I grew up in a very straight and narrow household, weed was a hard drug in my parent’s eyes. So, I did struggle with the guilt of being “on drugs” in front of my child. I had to do a lot of unlearning and realize I’m grown. I make my own rules now, [and] I can do what I want. As long as my child is safe, healthy and happy, [then] I’m fine.
CG: Absolutely. I still feel like I need to be discreet about it, especially when cannabis use could be used against me and my parenting choices. I’ve had to work through internalized stigma and remind myself that my use of plant medicine is valid and beneficial.
21N: What boundaries have you built around weed and parenting? Is there a strict routine you follow?
IG: I never let him see me smoke. He may smell it, but I try my best to hide the smell. Most times I’ll save the joint for after his bedtime or plan a day away from him for it. I don’t want him associating me with weed.
CG: I mainly consume when my children aren’t around or after they’ve gone to bed. Most of my consumption happens in the evening. All of my plant medicine and materials are stored safely out of reach, but I’m open with my children about my use. There are times when I need to step away for a few minutes, especially on overstimulating days when their energy is high, and I feel like I’m about to explode from the noise, mess and chaos. In those moments, a quick shower and a couple of pulls help me regulate.
21N: Do you think we need to societally dismantle the taboo around weed consumption and parenting?
IG: Absolutely. “Wine moms” are perfectly acceptable. People say “mommy juice,” and nobody bats an eye. Let’s give weed that same energy.
CG: Yes, definitely. Plant medicine should not be something used against parents who choose to medicate, especially when alcohol and prescription drugs are more accepted, even though they can pose a higher risk of blackouts or other dangers. There needs to be a shift in how we view cannabis use by parents.
21N: Are there any ways in which you think weed may have negatively impacted your parenting?
IG: I’m not [going to] lie, if it’s indica or even when the high is coming down hours after consumption, mama can’t move. I don’t want him to see me in that sluggish, lazy and unconcerned state. That’s why I save it for after bedtime most times.
CG: It depends on the strain. If I consume an indica strain at the wrong time, it might make me sleepier when I need to be more proactive. However, I give myself grace and remind myself that it’s okay to be tired. Sometimes ordering takeout or going to bed early with my kids and leaving the dishes for tomorrow is the best choice.
21N: How do you navigate conversations about weed with your child?
IG: I haven’t yet, he’s seven. I honestly dread the day.
CG: I’m honest with them. I explain that I consume plant medicine, and I talk about the different types and ways of using it. On rare occasions, they’ve seen me consume, and they’re familiar with the scent. I try to minimize their exposure to any form of cannabis, whether it’s flower or edibles, out of respect for them and my co-parent.
21N: Is there any advice you would give to moms who are looking for implement weed into their lifestyle?
IG: Do you boo. Nobody can judge you. Just keep it away from the kids and you’re good.
CG: Experiment with strains and methods before consuming around your kids. It’s important to learn what strains help you, which ones might hinder you, or even cause paranoia. You might find that edibles work for you during the day, while a couple of pulls at night help you unwind. For some parents, CBD might suffice, or maybe a tincture with your morning coffee or tea. I also recommend blending your cannabis with other relaxing herbs to minimize the psychoactive effects while still helping you feel grounded and relaxed. Depending on your needs, there’s always an herbal ally you can incorporate with your cannabis to support you as a mom.
This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.