Medical Marijuana Vs. Recreational Marijuana: Which One Do You Need?

 Medical and recreational marijuana has a lot of similarities. Both types of cannabis can be:

• smoked
• vaporized
• brewed
• or eaten as edible for their psychoactive properties.

Both are available at dispensaries having similar strains with different effects.

But, there are some critical differences between the two types. First of all, you need to understand the differences between medical and recreational weed to choose the right one for your needs.

Before using cannabis as a treatment learn as much as possible about its benefits and side effects. Depending on your condition and willingness to accept any risks, one type might be better than the other.

Let’s know Medical Marijuana vs Recreational Marijuana, which one do you need?

What is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is a prescribed cannabis product for treating certain conditions or illnesses. Cannabis can be either:

• smoked
• vaporized
• cooked into edibles
• or applied in another form.

Sometimes, you can also use it for treating:

• Side effects from other medications.
• As well as for general aches and pains.

People with conditions that qualify for medical marijuana use have a special licensed prescription that medical doctor issues.

Many states have their own regulations and laws governing the use of medical marijuana. You also have to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when using medical cannabis.

People can use Medical marijuana, as opposed to recreational, for specific conditions like:

• Chronic pain
• Nausea
• Seizures
• and other conditions where the psychoactive effects of THC are helpful.

What is THC?

THC is an active chemical that is present in cannabis. This chemical causes a “high” effect in recreational users. In medical use, THC is ingested in an untainted form called CBD oil. It does not produce a “high” effect.

What is Recreational Marijuana?

Recreational marijuana is cannabis to use for medical reasons. The doctor never prescribes it. Adults use it purely for its psychoactive effects. Some states do not allow using Marijuana. It is only legal in some cities and countries.

In permitted places, you can purchase it from a dispensary. Even, you can smoke in a public place. Besides, you can have it on you without any legal or medical consequences. Scientists have proven Marijuana with a number of health benefits. As:

• A reduction in anxiety,
• Improved mood.
• Reduced pain.
• and increased appetite.

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is gaining popularity as an alternative form of medical cannabis. So, many recreational users prefer to smoke or vaporize the flower instead.

The amount of THC in the plant determines the potency of its psychoactive effects. So recreational users usually opt for strains with higher amounts of THC.

It’s also easier to regulate dosage when you smoke or vaporize it, as opposed to ingesting it in the form of edibles.

Why is there a difference between Medical and Recreational Marijuana?

The main difference between medical and recreational marijuana is the specific THC levels in each strain. The THC levels in medical cannabis are much higher than those in recreational weed.

1. Medical cannabis is bred to have a higher THC content than recreational marijuana, as well as a smaller size that’s better for vaporizing and ingesting.
2. Medical cannabis also has a higher CBD content than recreational cannabis. Because it’s bred for its medicinal properties. It’s usually more expensive than recreational cannabis.
3. In some states, recreational cannabis offers less THC than the required amount. So, it’s impossible to use it as a medical treatment.
4. The legal difference between the two is that medical marijuana is prescribed and regulated by the state. On the other hand, recreational marijuana is not. In states where recreational weed is legal, there are fewer regulations, taxes, and requirements for growing and selling it.

How to Tell Which Weed is Which?

Medical cannabis has higher THC levels. So, it will produce a more noticeable and intense “high” than recreational cannabis.

You can also tell the difference between the two by looking at the price.

Another way to tell which weed is for medical use and which is for recreational use is by labeling and packaging. Most recreational cannabis comes in a plastic bag inside a paper bag. On the contrary, Medical cannabis may come in a sealed jar, a plastic bag, a tin, or a prescription bottle.

Recreational cannabis usually has the name of the strain printed on it. Wherein, medical cannabis usually has

the name, the amount of THC and CBD, and possibly a doctor’s name.

Pros of Medical Marijuana

1. Potent for treating certain conditions:

Medical cannabis is bred to have a higher THC content than recreational weed, which makes it more potent for treating certain conditions. People also often use it in higher doses than recreational cannabis, which makes it more potent overall.

2. No “high” side effect :

Since medical cannabis is bred to have a higher CBD content, it does not produce a “high” effect. This makes it a more suitable option for people who don’t want the side effects of recreational cannabis.

3. Less expensive than recreational cannabis:

Medical cannabis is usually more expensive than recreational weed due to the higher THC content and stricter regulations. However, it’s usually less expensive than other prescription drugs.

Cons of Medical Marijuana

– Potent for treating all conditions – While medical cannabis is potent for treating certain conditions, it is also potent for treating all conditions. This means that it is more likely to cause side effects in the wrong dosage or for the wrong conditions.

– Side effects – Medical cannabis has the potential side effects of dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, trouble concentrating, and an increased heartbeat.

– Higher risk of addiction – Medical cannabis can cause addiction in some cases. It can also lead to the development of an addiction to stronger painkillers.

Pros of Recreational Marijuana:

1. No “high” side effects:

Since recreational cannabis does not have a higher CBD content, it does not produce a “high” effect. This can be useful for people who don’t want the side effects of medical cannabis.

2. Less potent for treating certain conditions:

Recreational cannabis has lower THC levels than medical cannabis, which makes it less potent for treating certain conditions. This can be useful for people who don’t want a potent dose.

3. Cheaper than medical cannabis:

Recreational cannabis is usually cheaper than medical cannabis due to its lower THC content. It is also usually cheaper than other prescription drugs.

Cons of Recreational Marijuana

– No or less potent for treating certain conditions – Recreational cannabis is less potent for treating certain conditions since it has a lower THC content. This means people will have to take a higher dose to feel the same effects.

– More likely to “get you high” – Recreational cannabis is more likely to get you high since it has a higher THC content. This means that it is more potent for treating certain conditions.

– More likely to cause addiction – Recreational cannabis has a higher risk of addiction than medical cannabis. It’s also easier to develop a dependence on recreational marijuana than medical cannabis.

Conclusion

Hope now you know about medical marijuana vs recreational marijuana. When it comes to the difference between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana, you can expect more from medical cannabis.

Medical cannabis is more potent than recreational cannabis having higher THC levels and a lower CBD content.

Since medical cannabis is bred for higher potency, it is often more expensive than recreational cannabis being less potent, with lower THC levels and a higher CBD content. Recreational cannabis is usually cheaper than medical cannabis producing a high effects.