Dee Mani is a holistic healing advocate and founder of My Way CBD, who transformed her life after overcoming an aggressive breast cancer diagnosis using natural remedies. She is an author, entrepreneur, and speaker dedicated to empowering others through the healing potential of cannabis and holistic wellness practices.
Generational trauma impacts mental, emotional, and physical health across families. Discover how plant medicine, from cannabis to adaptogenic herbs, can help break cycles of pain, promote healing, and create a foundation of resilience for future generations.
How plant medicine can help
Trauma doesn’t just start and stop with you. Let’s get real—the struggles you’re facing today may not be entirely your fault. Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational or ancestral trauma, is a beast that’s passed down through families, leaving its ugly fingerprints on your mental, emotional, and physical health. And the worst part? Most people don’t even realise it’s happening. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to stay stuck. Plant medicine, particularly cannabis, offers a way to break the cycle and heal for good.
What is generational trauma?
Generational trauma is unresolved emotional pain, behaviours, and patterns that trickle down through family lines. It’s like an unwanted family heirloom no one asked for, but everyone seems to inherit. Trauma survivors—whether they endured war, abuse, addiction, or loss—often pass their coping mechanisms, fears, and stress responses to their kids, who pass it to theirs, and so on.
This isn’t woo-woo nonsense; it’s backed by science. Studies show that trauma can alter your DNA, creating epigenetic changes that influence how you respond to stress. In simpler terms, if your grandparents experienced severe trauma, your stress response system might be wired to overreact to even minor challenges. Generational trauma isn’t just about what happened—it’s about how the impact of those events manifests in the here and now.
How does generational trauma show up?
If you’re wondering if generational trauma is part of your story, here are some signs:
Emotional symptoms: Anxiety, depression, feelings of unworthiness, or constant fear of failure.
Behavioural patterns: Addictions, perfectionism, overachievement, or self-sabotage.
Physical health issues: Chronic pain, fatigue, autoimmune conditions, or unexplained illnesses.
Relationship struggles: Difficulty forming healthy connections or repeating toxic relationship patterns.
Do you recognise yourself or your family in this list? You’re not alone. Acknowledging it is the first step, but the real question is: How do you stop it?
Why breaking the cycle matters
Left unaddressed, generational trauma doesn’t just stay stagnant—it snowballs. Each generation compounds the effects of the trauma, whether it’s through unhealthy coping mechanisms, poor health, or repeating destructive relationship patterns. Breaking the cycle isn’t just about healing yourself; it’s about rewriting your family’s story and ensuring that future generations aren’t carrying the same burden.
This healing journey isn’t just emotional; it’s physical too. Studies have linked unresolved trauma to conditions like:
Heart disease
Diabetes
Hypertension
Gut disorders like IBS
Depression and anxiety
Your body remembers even if your mind has tried to forget. That’s why addressing generational trauma is a holistic process—it involves healing the mind, body, and spirit.
Plant medicine: Nature’s answer to generational healing
Plant medicine is a powerful tool to address deep-seated trauma. These natural remedies work with your body’s innate ability to heal, offering a path to break free from the chains of your past. Let’s dive into some of the heavy hitters:
1. Cannabis (marijuana and CBD)
My favourite plant medicine and also the most accessible and versatile on the list, cannabis works wonders for both mind and body. THC and CBD interact with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that regulate stress, mood, pain, and inflammation. Here’s how it helps:
Emotional relief: THC can help you process emotions, while CBD reduces anxiety and depression.
Pain management: Perfect for chronic pain and tension linked to emotional trauma.
Neurogenesis: Cannabis can stimulate new brain cell growth, helping to rewire your brain for healthier responses.
Breaking patterns: By calming the nervous system, cannabis allows you to approach old triggers without spiralling into old behaviours.
Cannabis has a unique way of unlocking repressed emotions and allowing you to confront them in a non-overwhelming way. For many, it’s a tool that bridges the gap between conscious and subconscious healing.
2. Psychedelics (psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and DMT)
While not for the faint-hearted, psychedelics offer profound emotional healing by accessing deeper levels of consciousness. They help you confront and process buried traumas in a safe, guided environment. Here’s a breakdown:
Psilocybin mushrooms: Known for reducing depression and anxiety, these fungi promote emotional breakthroughs. They allow users to see their trauma from a new perspective, often leading to forgiveness and release.
Ayahuasca: A traditional Amazonian brew that unearths generational wounds and allows for deep emotional release. Many people describe ayahuasca as a “spiritual reset.” To date, I’ve had five Ayahuasca ceremonies, and each one became more intense than the previous. This was the facilitator of releasing myself from the shackles of my generational trauma bonds.
DMT: Offers transformative visions that can help reframe past experiences and provide clarity on life’s purpose.
(Note: Always use psychedelics under the supervision of a trained shaman/facilitator. Safety is paramount.)
3. Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil)
These herbs are not psychoactive, so they don’t get you high, but they balance your stress hormones and support your nervous system. They’re perfect for daily use and help manage the physical effects of generational trauma, like chronic fatigue or insomnia.
Ashwagandha: Lowers cortisol levels, reducing stress and anxiety. Especially helpful for those stuck in a constant “fight or flight” mode.
Rhodiola: Boosts energy and resilience against stress. Perfect for burnout and fatigue.
Holy Basil (Tulsi): Calms the mind and improves mood, making it an excellent choice for anxiety and emotional imbalance
4. Medicinal mushrooms (reishi, lion’s mane, and cordyceps)
Mushrooms aren’t just for your pizza. Medicinal mushrooms offer a range of benefits for mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical healing.
Reishi: Known as the “mushroom of immortality,” it reduces stress and promotes deep sleep.
Lion’s Mane: Supports neurogenesis and cognitive function, helping to heal brain fog often linked to trauma.
Cordyceps: Boosts energy and stamina, perfect for those dealing with trauma-related fatigue.
5. Kava and kratom
These lesser-known plants are gaining popularity for their calming effects:
Kava: A root from the South Pacific that relaxes the mind and reduces anxiety. It’s a non-addictive option for unwinding after a stressful day.
Kratom: A Southeast Asian plant that relieves pain and uplifts mood. Use it responsibly and in moderation.
The role of cannabis in breaking the cycle
While all plant medicines have their merits, cannabis stands out for its accessibility and versatility. Whether you’re new to plant medicine or a seasoned user, cannabis can meet you where you are. From tinctures and edibles to topicals and vapes, there’s a delivery method for everyone. And unlike some psychedelics, you don’t need a shaman or a retreat to benefit from its healing powers—though expert guidance always helps.
CBD: A gentle gateway
CBD is particularly useful for those hesitant about THC’s psychoactive effects. It offers all the calming, anti-inflammatory benefits without the “high.” Whether you’re easing into plant medicine or looking for a daily supplement to support your mental health, CBD is a great starting point.
Pain relief: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for managing physical symptoms of trauma.
Anxiety reduction: It soothes overactive nervous systems, making it easier to face triggers.
Improved sleep: Many people find that CBD helps regulate sleep cycles, leading to deeper, more restorative rest.
Combining plant medicine with other healing practices
Plant medicine is powerful but works best as part of a holistic approach. Consider integrating these practices for even deeper healing:
Therapy: Work with a trauma-informed therapist to process emotions and identify patterns.
Meditation and Breathwork: These techniques help you reconnect with your body and calm your mind.
Movement: Yoga, dance, or even regular walks can help release trauma stored in the body.
Journaling: Writing about your experiences can help you make sense of them and track your healing progress.
Real-life success stories
Hearing how others have used plant medicine to break free from the chains of generational trauma can be both inspiring and empowering. Here are a few stories of transformation that demonstrate the power of these natural remedies:
Lisa, 34: After years of struggling with anxiety and panic attacks, Lisa turned to cannabis oil as a last resort. “I was sceptical at first,” she admits, “but within days, I felt calmer and more in control of my emotions.” Over time, Lisa paired cannabis oil with therapy to uncover and address patterns rooted in her family’s history of abuse. “For the first time in my life, I feel like I’m in the driver’s seat.”
Daniel, 45: A father of three, Daniel wanted to break the cycle of anger and resentment he had inherited from his own father. After trying psilocybin, he recalls: “It was like a door opened in my mind. I was able to forgive my father and myself for the pain we carried.” Today, Daniel uses cannabis and journaling to maintain the sense of peace he achieved during his session.
Maria, 28: Dealing with chronic pain from fibromyalgia, Maria discovered cannabis oil and medicinal mushrooms as part of her holistic journey. “Cannabis, Reishi and Lion’s Mane have been life-changing for me,” she says. “Not only is my pain manageable, but I also have more mental clarity and energy to tackle the emotional baggage I didn’t even realise I was carrying.”
These stories highlight a crucial point: plant medicine isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about finding what works for you and being willing to explore the depths of your healing journey.
How to get started with plant medicine
The idea of diving into plant medicine might feel overwhelming, but starting is simpler than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to begin your journey:
1. Educate yourself
Knowledge is power. Take time to learn about the various plant medicines available, their benefits, and any potential side effects. Consult reputable sources and, if possible, speak with professionals experienced in plant medicine.
2. Set your intentions
What are you hoping to achieve? Whether it’s emotional release, physical healing, or breaking toxic patterns, having a clear goal will help guide your experience.
3. Start small
Begin with gentle options like CBD or adaptogenic herbs. They’re widely available, legal in most places, and easy to incorporate into your routine. As you build confidence, you can explore more potent medicines under proper guidance.
4. Seek guidance
Plant medicine can be a powerful tool, but it’s most effective when used responsibly. Work with a knowledgeable guide, such as a trauma-informed therapist, coach, or healer experienced in plant-based solutions. As a cannabis expert, I am available for consultations.
5. Combine with holistic practices
To maximise the benefits of plant medicine, pair it with complementary healing modalities like therapy, meditation, or movement. These practices will help you integrate your experiences and make lasting changes.
Why you should work with a guide
Navigating generational trauma and plant medicine can feel like uncharted territory. That’s why working with someone who knows the terrain can make all the difference. A guide can help you:
Choose the right plant medicine: Not all remedies are suitable for everyone. A guide can recommend what’s best for your unique needs and goals.
Ensure safety: From proper dosages to safe environments, a guide helps you avoid potential pitfalls.
Integrate your experiences: The real work begins after the plant medicine session. A guide can help you process and apply what you’ve learned.
Breaking the cycle for future generations
Healing generational trauma isn’t just a gift to yourself—it’s a gift to your children and grandchildren. By addressing the wounds of the past, you create a healthier, more resilient foundation for the future. Imagine a world where your family’s legacy isn’t defined by pain but by strength and love.
Take the first step today
Generational trauma may feel like a heavy burden, but you don’t have to carry it alone. Plant medicine offers a path to freedom, and I’m here to walk that path with you. Whether you’re curious about cannabis, psychedelics, or other natural remedies, I can help you find the right solution for your unique journey.
Reach out to me today for a free consultation
Together, we’ll create a personalised plan to help you heal, grow, and break the cycle of trauma once and for all. It’s time to reclaim your health, your happiness, and your future.
Let’s get started. Drop me an email today here.
Read more from Dee Mani
Dee Mani, Cannabis & Natural Health Consultant
Dee Mani is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and holistic healing advocate who defied the odds by overcoming aggressive breast cancer through natural remedies, including cannabis. As the founder of My Way CBD, she is passionate about empowering others to explore alternative healing methods. Dee's journey from illness to wellness inspires her writing, where she shares insights on natural health, wellness, and the transformative power of nature. Follow her work to discover how to harness holistic practices for a healthier, more balanced life.
