When “Natural” Isn’t Always Safe

Maybe you’ve sipped CBD tea to unwind, or had a “special brownie”, or considered gummies for sleep, or thought about marijuana as a “natural medicine” for stress and pain. In today’s wellness culture, marijuana also known as “cannabis” often gets marketed as harmless, sometimes even heart-healthy.

But according to a massive new global analysis published by National Geographic, that looked at the data from 24 studies involving approximately 200 million people, it found that cannabis users have nearly twice the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Participants were also at 20% higher risk of stroke and 29% greater chance of acute coronary syndrome.

So what does this really mean for your health and your heart? Let’s break it down.

What the Studies Reveal about Marijuana

This large-scale meta-analysis underscores a growing concern: cannabis users face substantially higher cardiovascular risk compared to non-users. It was found that the cardiovascular death risk doubled plus elevated risks of stroke and acute coronary events (National Geographic, The Guardian).

How Marijuana Affects the Heart

Here’s what research and cardiologists know about cannabis and cardiovascular health:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, increasing cardiac workload.
Cannabis use may lead to blood vessel constriction or inflammation, raising the risk for clots and stroke (Harvard Health, UCSF News).
A UCSF study found that both smoked and edible users showed impaired vascular function, comparable to tobacco’s effects.
According to the American College of Cardiology, a review of patient health records found that cannabis use was tied to significantly higher risks of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and even cardiovascular death, especially among adults younger than 50.

Who’s Most at Risk?

While anyone using cannabis should take note, certain groups face greater danger:

Individuals with a family history of heart disease
Women in menopause, when the body’s natural cardiovascular protection changes
Those who’ve experienced pregnancy complications, like preeclampsia
People managing hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol

Many wellness-focused individuals may fall into these categories—sometimes without realizing the added cardiovascular risk.

Wellness Culture vs. Whole Health Truth

Marketing often suggests that ‘natural equals safe, but history reminds us otherwise. Tobacco, a plant once promoted as relaxing, is now known to damage the heart, lungs, and overall health. In a similar way, cannabis is often seen as safe because it grows in nature and is even used for things like sleep, relaxation, and appetite. But the truth is that cannabis, despite its natural origin, also carries real risks for your heart.

You deserve the whole truth, not selective wellness messaging, especially when your heart is involved.

Questions to Ask Before Using Cannabis

Whether you’re considering cannabis for stress, sleep, or pain relief, or you already use it occasionally or regularly, it’s important to pause and ask yourself a few key questions.:

Do I have a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease?
Could cannabis interact with any medications I’m taking?
Are there heart-safe alternatives I could explore first?
Have I consulted my healthcare provider regarding use?

Safer Ways to Support Stress & Sleep

You’ve probably heard that marijuana can help with things like stress or sleep, and while some people use it for those reasons, the evidence is mixed. That’s why it’s worth also considering these heart-healthy, evidence-based strategies.

Mindfulness and meditation: shown to reduce stress and support healthy blood pressure levels.
Improved sleep hygiene: consistent bedtime, screen limits, and a calming routine can make a big difference.
Balanced nutrition and gentle movement: these always support heart health and restful sleep.
Medical guidance: your provider can help find alternatives or treat symptoms safely.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t about scaring you; it’s about keeping you informed. Cannabis may be natural, but that alone does not guarantee it is safe, particularly for your heart.

You deserve the full picture so you can make wellness decisions grounded in truth. If you are considering marijuana for stress, sleep, or pain, begin with an open conversation with your healthcare provider.

When it comes to your heart, every choice matters, and making informed choices empowers you to care for yourself with confidence.