Come As You Are Decoding Cannabis with Dr. Staci Ann Gruber from Decoding Women's Health
Nov 12, 2025
Dr. Staci Gruber, a neuroscientist and director of the MIND program at McLean Hospital, dives into the fascinating world of cannabis and its effects on the brain. She explores how cannabis can potentially improve sleep, regulate mood, and alleviate chronic pain. Gruber breaks down the different cannabinoids and delivery methods, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches for individual needs. Additionally, she discusses the growing interest in cannabinoid research targeting women's health issues, including the complexities of dosing and product selection.
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Patients Don't Want To Be High
- Many medical cannabis patients explicitly tell Dr. Gruber they do not want to be intoxicated while treating symptoms.
- They prioritize functioning at work, with family, and in daily life over getting high.
Research Gap Led To New Longitudinal Studies
- Most medical cannabis research before 2014 focused on recreational users, not patients using it therapeutically.
- That gap motivated Dr. Staci Gruber to launch longitudinal studies tracking medical users over time.
Cannabis Is Not One Thing
- Cannabis is a complex plant with over 500 compounds, including many phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
- Referring to 'cannabis' as a single entity obscures vast differences between products and effects.