What is the Difference Between Medical Marijuana and Recreational Marijuana?

Is There a Quality Difference Between Medicinal and Recreational Marijuana?

The quality of marijuana products can vary based on several factors, including cultivation and processing standards and local laws dictating potency and dosage. Some states hold medical and recreational dispensaries to the same standards, but others require those selling medical strains to follow stricter testing protocols, which can elevate their products’ quality.

To gauge the quality of a cannabis product, you can read its ingredients, research the name of the lab that tested it, and/or ask a dispensary employee for a certificate of analysis. In addition, be sure to shop at state-licensed dispensaries.

What Are the THC and CBD Levels in Medicinal vs. Recreational Weed?

The differences in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) levels between medicinal and recreational cannabis can be significant.

Medicinal cannabis is typically cultivated to have higher concentrations of CBD, which is known for its therapeutic properties and non-psychoactive effects. This higher CBD content allows patients to manage symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and inflammation. In contrast, recreational cannabis often contains elevated THC levels to provide stronger psychoactive effects.

That said, the composition of both medicinal and recreational cannabis can vary from state to state and even from dispensary to dispensary.

What Is the Legal Status of Medical vs. Recreational Cannabis?

To date, 38 U.S. states have legalized medical cannabis (in some form) for patients with qualifying conditions. In contrast, recreational cannabis has been legalized in 24 states. In most states where it’s legal, patients seeking to obtain medical cannabis must receive a doctor’s recommendation and apply for a medical marijuana card, whereas recreational users can purchase cannabis from local dispensaries without either.

Medical marijuana cardholders tend to enjoy higher purchase and possession limits than recreational users. In addition, they typically pay lower taxes on cannabis products.

What Are Medical vs. Recreational Prices?

The prices of medical and recreational cannabis can vary depending on local cannabis laws. That said, medical marijuana is typically more affordable since it’s not taxed as heavily as recreational marijuana. At some dispensaries, those with medical marijuana cards also enjoy access to special discounts and promotions.

Conclusion

In summary, both medical and recreational marijuana offer unique benefits and experiences tailored to their respective users. While medical cannabis can alleviate symptoms of various medical conditions thanks to its high concentrations of CBD, recreational cannabis provides psychoactive effects and enhanced sensory experiences via high concentrations of THC. The best choice for you will depend on the effects you’re seeking to achieve.

If you have a qualifying condition, medical cannabis could provide the relief you’ve been looking for. At The Sanctuary Well Institute, our medical marijuana doctors help people get their medical card so they can access the treatment they need. Get in touch with us to learn more.