Medical marijuana is legal in 33 states across America, including the District of Columbia, four out of five of the United States territories and is becoming legalized throughout the world as well! There are many laws and regulations in every state regarding medical marijuana use and it is important to know this information when using medical marijuana. Although several other states allow cannabis consumption of some sort, they have more restricting laws surrounding the use of THC. Let’s look more into what exactly medical marijuana is and how it can benefit you.

What is the difference between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana?

Medical marijuana is obviously for consumers who are seen as patients and use marijuana for health issues and various ailments. Medical marijuana users are required to have a medical marijuana card that is prescribed by a doctor and allows that patient to visit dispensaries and obtain medical-grade marijuana. In a state where recreational marijuana is legal, this means that the consumer does not need to show any proof that they are using marijuana for a medical reason and are limited to recreational marijuana dispensaries only. You should check your local dispensaries and make sure they accept recreational marijuana customers as well. 

Medical marijuana is for patients that need symptom alleviation. Every state’s list of rules regarding medical marijuana differs. The following are some examples of qualifying medical marijuana reasons and is included but not limited to:

  • Cancer

  • HIV/AIDS

  • Crohn’s Disease

  • PTSD

  • Seizures or any type of similar symptom

  • Migraines

  • Chronic pain from a disease or from the treatment of a disease

Recreational marijuana is mostly recognized as consuming cannabis to alter one’s state of mind and without the sole purpose of symptom alleviation. There is no recommendation required by a doctor when using marijuana recreationally and this, in turn, does affect the amount of marijuana you are able to purchase as compared to medical marijuana cardholders. 

Is there a difference between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana?

There is no direct way to answer the differences between medical and recreational marijuana as there is no consistent guide that applies throughout. Normally, medical marijuana strains are often higher in CBD content versus THC since medical patients are often consuming cannabis products for pain relief. 

Typically, medical marijuana cardholders are also able to buy a larger amount than recreational users. Buying in bulk is an efficient and cost-effective method for medical marijuana users and usually, there are limits to how much a recreational user can purchase.

What kind of medical marijuana products are available?

Typically, marijuana is consumed in flower form through glass bongs, joints, etc., but medical marijuana can be found in many different forms! Various edibles like gummies, cookies, chocolate, etc. are especially popular for medical marijuana patients since it is so easy to incorporate into their normal routine. Tinctures and patches are also great options as well! 

Depending on your medical issue, the budtenders at your local dispensaries are the best to ask for advice and recommendations for what you need. Please note that although it is a requirement to be seen by a doctor in order to be considered a medical marijuana patient, they are not the best to ask for advice on this topic so head over to your dispensary to get a more personalized and educational experience. 

Medical marijuana is especially helpful for those that have tried many treatments and were unsuccessful. There are specific products to help with pain and other symptoms that are uncomfortable for most. Whether big or small, medical marijuana has been a blessing to those that are fighting any health battle. What is your reason for using medical marijuana?