We’re making it easy to understand why cannabis can be beneficial, how to choose the right strain for you, and where to legally get it. You’re welcome!
Words: Justine Stafford
Let’s be real—many women have had their doubts about weed. Whether it’s the strong smell, the fear of getting too high, or the long-standing belief that cannabis is a dangerous “gateway drug,” most of us were raised to think it was something to avoid.
“It always seemed risky,” says Liane, 36, an account manager from Cape Town. She smoked as a teen but never enjoyed it. “You had to buy it from sketchy dealers, and you never knew if you’d have a great night or end up greened-out, throwing up in your shoes.”
A decade ago, South Africa’s cannabis laws were harsh—getting caught with weed could mean jail time, hefty fines, and a reputation as a “zol-kop.” Research was nearly impossible, and despite cannabis being used for centuries by South Africa’s indigenous communities, prohibition pushed it into the shadows.
The Legacy of Prohibition
Back then, most people were stuck smoking low-grade street weed, with no idea where it came from or how it would affect them. “That’s what prohibition left us with,” says Neil Liddell, founder of The Haze Club (THC), a Cape Town-based cannabis growing service. As the cannabis trade moved underground, growers created stronger hybrid strains—packing up to 10 times the THC (the psychoactive component that gets you high).
All you needed was a dealer’s number and a bit of cash, and you’d get a small bag of weed that could leave you way higher than intended.
Changing the Narrative
With cannabis becoming decriminalized worldwide and studies proving its potential health benefits—from treating seizures and arthritis to easing depression and nausea—many people, including women, are rethinking their stance. In places like Canada and parts of the U.S., you can now walk into a dispensary and get expert advice from a budtender (yes, that’s a thing).
But in South Africa, the laws remain murky. Selling or buying cannabis, seeds, or THC-containing products is still illegal. While underground dispensaries exist, they operate in a legal grey area, and getting caught could land you in trouble.
Many new consumers are turning to CBD-based oils, tinctures, and edibles, which are legal and don’t get you high. However, some experts argue that THC actually enhances CBD’s effects, making pure CBD products less effective (and more expensive) in the long run.
A Legal Way to Grow Your Own
So, if cannabis is still outlawed for purchase, how can you consume it legally at home? The Haze Club has found a loophole.
“It’s simple,” Neil explains. “You sign up online, choose a package, send us your seeds, and we take care of everything—from planting to harvesting and curing.” Since they don’t sell seeds or cannabis, they stay within legal boundaries.
No seeds? No problem. You can choose a clone from the mother plants of other members, and even share a grow with up to two friends to split costs.
“We’re seeing more women sign up,” says Neil. “They like that it’s legal, discreet, and convenient—perfect for their busy lives.”
Unlike homegrown plants that face unpredictable weather, pests, and quality issues, The Haze Club cultivates premium-grade cannabis in a controlled hydroponic facility. Every 2-3 months, your perfectly cured cannabis arrives in a sleek black-and-gold package.
Picking the Perfect Strain
With so many options, where do you start? First, it helps to understand how cannabis interacts with your body. While some still swear by the old Indica vs. Sativa classification, newer research suggests the effects depend more on the plant’s chemical profile than its physical traits.
Ethan Russo, a leading cannabis researcher, emphasizes the entourage effect—how different cannabinoids and terpenes (the compounds responsible for cannabis’s scent) work together to create unique effects. With over 113 cannabinoids and countless terpenes, it can feel overwhelming.
Neil’s advice? Keep it simple:
- Do your research – Ask friends, read up online, and check out resources like Leafly.
- Trust your nose – If it smells good to you, it’s likely to work well with your body.
- Pick your consumption method – Smoking and vaping kick in quickly, while edibles take longer but last longer. Oils and tinctures are discreet, and cooking with cannabis can be a cost-effective option.
- Start low, go slow – Begin with a low-THC, high-CBD strain and take small doses. “One or two drags, then wait,” Neil advises. “You can always take more, but you can’t undo a bad trip.”
- Listen to your body – Cannabis affects everyone differently. Finding the right strain may take some trial and error, but your body will tell you what works.
Beginner-Friendly Strains
If you’re new to cannabis or THC-sensitive, here are some great starting points:
HARLEQUIN
- THC: ~5%
- CBD: ~8.5%
- Terpenes: Earthy with citrus and pine notes
- Type: Sativa-dominant
Harlequin is a fantastic entry strain, offering a clear, focused high while melting away stress. With a CBD:THC ratio of 5:2, it keeps you relaxed without sedation.
CBD CRITICAL MASS
- THC: ~6.5%
- CBD: ~9.5%
- Terpenes: Earthy with grape and citrus notes
- Type: Indica-dominant
A well-balanced 1:1 strain that offers gentle euphoria without overwhelming effects. Great for muscle pain and depression relief.
SHARK SHOCK CBD
- THC: ~7%
- CBD: ~7%
- Terpenes: Earthy, citrusy with notes of myrcene, pinene, and linalool
- Type: Indica-dominant
With a slightly higher CBD ratio, this strain promotes relaxation, happiness, and pain relief. It’s great for stress, anxiety, and inflammation—just watch out for potential dizziness and dry mouth.
With more women exploring cannabis, the conversation is shifting. Whether for wellness or relaxation, understanding what you’re consuming is key. And with options like The Haze Club, you can enjoy high-quality cannabis—legally and hassle-free.
So, ready to find your perfect strain?
4o