Cannabis is being used to help improve women's sexual health

There are a lot of claims being made about cannabis’ medical properties. As we wait for the science — and reporting — to separate the fact from fiction it can help to have a guide who’s first-hand experience can serve as a starting point for education.

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Kim Ess, an educator interested in natural approaches to wellness, is doing just that and wants to help teach women about how cannabis can help them live better lives.

“With adult-use (recreational) legalization on the horizon, I began to pursue studies in cannabis for health and wellbeing in my free time at the start of last year,” Ess told Daily Hive. “Now, through programs at Tula Holistic Coaching, I help women learn to use cannabis alongside other holistic practices, to relieve chronic pain, anxiety and burnout, so they can live healthier, more energetic, and fulfilling lives.”

She believes that pot has the power to do more than just relieve pain and make you hungry. Her work has shown her that cannabis can be a powerful tool in helping some women improve their sexual health by “enhancing relaxation, addressing pain and discomfort, increasing libido and heightening sensitivity.” It is also helping women deal with the painful cramping of menstrual cycles and the many symptoms of menopause.

Ess is appearing this weekend at Ellementa Calgary: Sex, Love & Self-Care with Cannabis, on February 10, at Cafe Koi, at 1011 1st St SW in Calgary, from 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm. The seminar covers numerous topics, including questions around CBD.

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid primarily used for pain relief and for reducing stress and anxiety. Ess believes it can help improve some women’s lives: “With these conditions managed, sex can be enjoyed more fully. Personal lubricants enhanced with CBD can decrease inflammation and increase serotonin levels, enabling greater pleasure. Also, because it stimulates blood flow, it can help men with erectile dysfunction — also a problem for the ladies.”

Still, she warns that cannabis may not be for everyone.

“Cannabis is very personal, and it can take time figuring out how much to use and the most suitable ingestion method. Too much THC can result in problems such as paranoia, which will dampen the mood.”

“Most women who I work with through coaching and through Ellementa gatherings, are looking for support around managing symptoms of menopause, and general stress as well as localized pain in joints and of course, insomnia.”

Ellementa is a group that organizes gatherings in over 50 cities, connecting women to cannabis experts and brands. Each gathering focuses on cannabis for health, wellness, self-care, and caregiving.

These are non-consumption, educational monthly events for women/female-identified only.

Let’s Talk About: Sex, Love & Self-Care with Cannabis

When: February 10
Time: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Where: Cafe Koi, 1011 1st St SW in Calgary
Cost: Early bird tickets cost $15, and can be purchased online