Every state in the US has different laws on the use of medical marijuana. However, while many have legalized marijuana use for medical purposes, it is still illegal by federal law.
The marijuana plant contains over a hundred chemicals known as cannabinoids. Each of these cannabinoids has varying effects on the human body. These chemicals found in the marijuana plant may have the potential to support treatment or relief from a variety of conditions.
THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) are the most powerful chemicals in medical marijuana. THC is the chemical responsible for the “high” you feel when smoking marijuana or ingesting edibles. CBD and THC can enter your body in various ways, such as smoking, ingesting, vaping, via skin application, and other methods of use. The number of medical cannabis products is almost endless, and some products have become more popular than others for their potential efficacy.
5 Types of Legal Medical Marijuana Products:
1. Cannabis Oil
Cannabis oil is a broad category as certain marijuana products contain CBD oil to give you the same effects. You can take cannabis oil in various forms, and its versatility makes it very popular. CBD oils have weak THC traces, so you cannot get the high associated with marijuana use.
This may promote desired effects including relief from anxiety, pain, nausea, and more. The FDA has even approved the use of cannabis oil for two rare forms of epilepsy.
2. CBD Tinctures
Often used interchangeably with cannabis oil, CBD tinctures are different. Tinctures result from CBD suspension in coconut or olive oil, also known as a carrier oil. The tinctures come as concentrated CBD extract drops that you drop under the tongue and hold for at least one minute for the capillaries to absorb them directly into the bloodstream. You can also add them to your food, although this absorption of CBD is slower than placing them under the tongue.
3. Cannabis Skin Care Products
As more states legalize cannabis, people are coming up with ingenious ways to market cannabis. Most suburban women have the notion that marijuana is marijuana, no matter what form it comes in. However, the CBD industry has lately changed the narrative, and we now have cannabis skincare products.
CBD may impart anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to support acne reduction, pain relief, and relaxation. This works well in cream or oil skin care products as our skin has cannabinoid receptors. A cannabis balm may offer you muscle relief while rubs and lotions may help in getting clear skin. Bath salts and bombs could promote relaxation and relief while soaking in a bathtub.
The cannabis topical market is vast and constantly growing. Now, marijuana products are even available as mascara, lip gloss, and body wash.
4. Cannabis Beverages
We have moved from smoking and ingesting weed to drinking it. Cannabis beverages are yet to become mainstream, much like cannabis skincare products. Though cannabis-infused cocktails are gaining popularity, they are still in their infancy. However, you can only find marijuana-infused drinks in states that have decriminalized or legalized cannabis. A day may be coming when you can walk into a bar and order your daily dose of CBD in a cocktail!
5. Cannabis Capsules
Cannabis capsules are an option for those who use medical marijuana but are not interested in using it topically or ingesting it in its various forms.
Marijuana is used by many people for its potential benefits for chronic pain. As capsules, they can take it alongside their other medications. Most dispensaries will sell marijuana in CBD and CBN (cannabinol) capsules.
Be aware that CBD can react with some medications, so ensure your doctor has approved your use before taking medical marijuana. If you are struggling with chronic pain and would like to learn about the possible support you can find via medical marijuana, fill out the form below and we will be in touch.
