If you are not well-acquainted with medical marijuana, it is entirely understandable that you would be asking yourself many questions. It is understandable that there is some confusion on your first time visiting the dispensary since there are a lot of products from which one would like to try, and there are many ways to consume them. To simplify your journey, consider obtaining a medical cannabis card online for easy access to expert guidance and personalized recommendations.
We will describe the details for you and give you an approximate idea of what you are up for, as it is beneficial to be ready. And guess what? You will find that whenever you are given a certain type of problem, it becomes second nature to do it that way!
The following details should help anyone who plans on using medical cannabis to visit his or her nearest marijuana dispensary with the right expectations.
Essential Medical Marijuana Terms to Know Before Your Visit
Indica vs. sativa
As indica and sativa are two different species of cannabis, the majority of dispensaries use them in the names of their products. Cannabis indica grows up to 1-2 meters tall, has wider leaves, and is bushy, while Cannabis sativa grows up to 3-4 meters tall and slender with thin green leaves. Available information also fails to support the notion that sativa is known to have more stimulating impacts while indica has calming impacts. In fact, it makes more sense to focus on the impact various strains have and the dilution of the different cannabinoids when it comes to the choice of the best products.
CBD and THC
The cannabis plant is known to contain in excess of one hundred cannabinoids or active components. While there are more than 100 known cannabinoids, and the studies of their effects are still being conducted, the two that are the most common and demanded in terms of concentration, are THC and CBD. The differences between these two phenomena are mainly characterized by the fact that CBD does not have the psychoactive property of producing the high feel associated with marijuana products, while THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, does. Both have a number of benefits, including its use for minimizing pain, having anti-inflammatory properties, and reducing symptoms of nausea and vomiting. High CBD/low THC is the best type of product for the patients who wish to treat their conditions but do not want to get high.
Different Forms of Medical Marijuana Explained
- Flower
The absolute essential form or most natural form of cannabis is flower and this most basic form of cannabis is usually sold by the eighth, or ⅛, of an ounce or by the gram occasionally. In this case, as observed earlier, depending on the status and the dispensary, there will be many strains that are available for sale. The specific method of smoking flower will also have to be chosen; there are many methods of smoking flower out there. For example, if one wants to pack a joint, it is recommended to buy a pipe, bubbler, or bong.
- Pre-rolls
Is there anything better than pre-rolls? They provide you with all the convenience of a blunt or roll without you ever having to bother rolling anything. This is because it is easy to handle and doesn’t call for one to purchase any additional paraphernalia. Pre-rolls are available in various strains and small ones that are sold singularly or occasionally in pairs.
- Vaporizers
Hence why non-smoking individuals consider vaping more satisfying due to its attractiveness compared to normal cigarettes. When you’re using a vaporizer and a cartridge containing the strain of your choice, the cannabinoids are vaporized when you inhale on it. There is no sign of combustion, and more so, there is no lingering unpleasant smell.
- Edibles
Who would not be enticed by an appetizing snack that can lift up their spirits as well? Cakes, biscuits, fruit sweets, jelly beans, chocolate bars, and candies such as chocolates, lollies, saltwater taffies, and soft drink. The market for edibles has expanded, especially in the recent year, much to the benefit of the society. You’d better not take more because it is very tasty. Thus, make sure that you read the serving size stated on the label.
- Extracts
The cannabinoids that are obtained are in abundance and of very high potency since the cannabinoids are extracted from plant material. They include crumble, shatter, and sauce, among others, all of which refer to their different structures. If the potency is to be even more enhanced, some extracts can be incorporated with marijuana flowers, like when rolling a joint or using in a pipe. The two main ways of using the two are consuming them by dabbing, where the extract is heated with the help of a dab rig and the substance evaporates.
- Tinctures
Cannabis oils with different concentrations of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are called tinctures. “Full-spectrum” tinctures, which are created with a variety of cannabis plant extracts, including terpenes, essential oils, and cannabinoids like CBD, may be familiar to you. It is best to take a tincture with a dropper under your tongue to get the full effects.
- Topicals
A variety of topical cannabis-based products, such as lotions, gels, and muscle rubs, are available for application on the skin. They have varying amounts of THC and CBD, just like other products. Topicals are particularly useful for easing muscle aches and pains and lowering inflammation.
What Symptoms Can Medical Marijuana Treat?
With the exception of three synthetic cannabis-related drug products for chemotherapy symptoms and one cannabis-derived medication for seizures, the FDA has not yet approved marijuana for medical use.
However, anecdotal evidence and current scientific research indicate that it may be beneficial for a wide range of medical conditions, including the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Migraines
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Inflammation
- Sleep management
Verify that you are eligible for medical cannabis use based on your symptoms before applying for a medical marijuana card. If you’re planning to grow 99 plants in CA, having a valid medical marijuana recommendation is a crucial step to ensure compliance with state laws.