Decoding Women's Health with Dr. Elizabeth Poynor Decoding Cannabis with Dr. Staci Ann Gruber
Nov 4, 2025
Dr. Staci Ann Gruber, a neuroscientist and director of the MIND program at McLean Hospital, dives deep into the therapeutic potential of cannabis. She discusses how various cannabinoids can improve sleep, mood, and treat chronic pain. Gruber explores delivery methods, effects of THC and CBD, and the endocannabinoid system. She highlights the importance of careful dosing and the unique experiences of midlife women with cannabis, all while stressing the need for better physician education on its use.
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Research Has Focused On Recreational Users
- Most existing cannabis research focuses on young recreational users, not medical patients who often avoid intoxication.
- Staci Gruber launched MIND to study long-term medical cannabis effects in real-world patients.
Patient Observations Sparked Research
- Gruber noticed bipolar patients saying cannabis calmed manic and depressive symptoms, prompting a study measuring mood after use.
- That real-world observation launched deeper investigations into cannabis' mood effects.
Cannabis Is Not One Thing
- Cannabis is a complex plant with over 500 compounds including THC, CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids.
- Full‑spectrum, broad‑spectrum, hemp and isolated profiles lead to different effects and legal statuses.