A Guide to the Different Forms of Medical Cannabis
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Medical cannabis has become more and more popular over the last few years. While it is still not legal in all 50 states, the number of states that have legalized medical cannabis is growing. There are many different forms of medical cannabis available, and each form has its own benefits. The right kind of medical cannabis can help deal with various health conditions and provide relief when other treatments don’t work.
Medical cannabis comes in different forms depending on what you are trying to treat, such as nausea from chemotherapy or symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Different forms of medical cannabis also have varying legality and restrictions based on your state or local laws. This article will explain some of the most common types of medical cannabis as well as their benefits and risks, so you can make an informed decision about using them for your situation.
What Is Medicinal Cannabis?
Medicinal cannabis is the use of cannabis and its cannabinoids to treat disease or improve symptoms. The two main active cannabinoids in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce beneficial effects. THC is the psychoactive component that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use, whereas CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects. The most common forms of medicinal cannabis are marijuana and hemp-based products. Marijuana is known for its high levels of THC, while hemp-based products contain less than .3% THC.
Medicinal cannabis can be taken in various forms such as:
- oils
- edibles
- tinctures
- lotions
- inhalation methods, such as vaping or smoking
While medicinal cannabis has been known to help alleviate symptoms associated with certain medical conditions, it is important to consult with your doctor before using any cannabis product to ensure that it is safe for you.
What Symptoms Can Medical Marijuana Help With?
Medical marijuana— also known as medical cannabis — is the use of cannabis and its components to treat health conditions. Marijuana has been used medicinally for centuries, but in recent years, there has been a much greater focus on the potential medical benefits of cannabis-derived products — as opposed to using the flower directly. Medical marijuana can be helpful in treating a variety of symptoms and conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and nausea.
While it’s important to talk to your doctor before using medical marijuana or pursuing a medical marijuana card, that conversation can be a good one to have as some studies suggest medical cannabis may be beneficial in improving certain health conditions. It’s also important to note that cannabis use should always be done responsibly and with caution; like any medication or supplement, it is recommended to start slowly and gradually increase dosage if necessary. Ultimately, the decision to use medical cannabis needs to be made by you and your doctor after careful consideration of your particular symptoms or condition.
What Are the Forms of Medical Marijuana?
Cannabis products come in many forms. Due to the way your body processes the various forms, one form or another may be better suited to your specific needs. The readily-available forms of medical cannabis include:
Tinctures
Tinctures are a form of medical marijuana that provide a convenient and discreet way to ingest cannabis. They come in liquid form, usually in an alcohol or oil base, and are taken by placing drops under the tongue or adding them to food and drink.
The advantage of tinctures is that they can be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream without having to go through the digestive system. Tinctures have a precise dose, which makes it easier for patients to manage their dosage. Tinctures also have a longer shelf life than other forms of cannabis, meaning they can be stored for up to two years without losing their potency.
For people who prefer not to smoke or vape their medical marijuana, tinctures are an excellent option as they offer a fast-acting and easy-to-administer alternative.
Extracts
Medical marijuana extracts are forms of cannabis that have been processed in particular ways to yield a concentrated form of the plant’s active chemicals. These extracts can be used in many different ways, including smoked, vaporized, or ingested as an edible.
Extracts typically contain high concentrations of the cannabinoids THC and CBD, as well as other compounds such as terpenes and flavonoids. Patients can often benefit from the therapeutic effects of these extracts, as they provide symptom relief for a variety of conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
It is important to note that extract forms of medical marijuana may induce stronger effects than traditional flower products due to their increased potency. Therefore, it is important for patients to speak with their doctor about their individual needs prior to using any form of medical cannabis, especially extracts.
Cannabis Oils
Cannabis oils are a form of medical marijuana that is gaining traction in the medical world. This form of cannabis contains a concentrated extract of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds, which are then mixed with a carrier oil like olive oil or hemp seed oil. Oils can be taken orally, applied topically, or inhaled via vaporization.
Compared to traditional forms of medical marijuana, cannabis oils offer a higher dosage of active ingredients without the smoke and combustion associated with smoking. Cannabis oils are being used to treat numerous conditions such as chronic pain, cancer-related symptoms, seizures, anxiety, depression and more.
As research continues to expand on the potential benefits and uses for cannabis oils, it is likely that new treatments will continue to be developed in the near future.
Shatter
Shatter is a form of medical marijuana that has quickly become one of the most popular types among users. It is a type of concentrate made from cannabis plant extract that has been heated and pressurized to remove the oils and compounds, resulting in a highly concentrated form of marijuana.
Shatter has an extremely high THC content — up to 80% – which can give users an intense and powerful high. In addition to its potency, shatter also offers a unique flavor profile with its terpene-rich taste that many users find more enjoyable than other forms of marijuana.
Shatter provides fast-acting relief for medical patients due to its high concentration of cannabinoids like CBD and THC, making it ideal for those who need quick relief from their symptoms.
Edibles
Edibles are a popular form of medical marijuana that provide an alternative to smoking or vaping. Edibles come in many forms, including gummies, chocolates, brownies, and cookies. The edibles category also includes drinks, such as tea and soda.
Edibles offer the same benefits as other forms of cannabis but allow the patient to ingest their medicine rather than inhaling it. Patients should always follow dosage instructions when taking edibles to avoid any adverse reactions. The effects of edibles can last for several hours so patients should be aware that their symptoms may not be alleviated immediately.
With proper education on dosage and effects, edibles can provide a safe and effective way for those with chronic health conditions to find relief from their symptoms.
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Topicals
Topicals are a form of medical marijuana that can be used to treat a variety of conditions. They are applied directly to the skin, and offer localized relief without producing any psychoactive effects. The active ingredients in topicals can penetrate the skin, where they interact with receptors for cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. These compounds can reduce inflammation, pain, and other symptoms associated with certain skin conditions or injuries.
Medical marijuana topicals come in a variety of forms, including creams, balms, salves, oils and sprays. Some products may also contain additional ingredients that provide additional therapeutic benefits, such as reduction of pain and inflammation and faster healing of skin issues, including eczema and even acne. Topicals are an effective form of treatment for those seeking relief from certain medical issues without the worry of becoming intoxicated from using cannabis products.
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What Conditions Are Typically Treated With Different Cannabis Forms?
Medical marijuana is prescribed for a variety of health conditions. Different forms of medical marijuana work best for different conditions, so it’s important to use the right form for your particular condition.
For example, oils and tinctures are ideal to use for chronic pain, as they provide a steady absorption rate and long-lasting relief. Inhalable products such as vaporizers are often prescribed for anxiety or stress, since they provide fast-acting relief and don’t require any preparation. Edibles are typically recommended for those dealing with nausea or digestive issues, as they allow you to take small doses that won’t upset your stomach. Topical forms of medical marijuana can be used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, since they provide localized relief without having to ingest anything.
Ultimately, there are many forms of medical marijuana available that can be tailored to fit different health conditions.
