3 Major Differences Between Medical and Recreational Marijuana

The marijuana industry is booming. More and more locations are making marijuana widely available to everyday citizens. It is getting easier and easier to buy cannabis.

Marijuana is finding its way to the mainstream. But, you might be wondering what the difference between medical marijuana vs recreation marijuana is.

Should you be getting a medical marijuana card? Is one better for you than the other?

While you might think there’s no difference between the two, there are actually three major differences you should be aware of. Let’s break them down.

What Is Medical Marijuana?

First, it’s important to have a little background information on each of the different types. Marijuana has been used both medically and recreationally for centuries. Its use even dates back to the Ancient Egyptians.

While it has been regulated as an intoxicating drug for some years now, it is more frequently being embraced across the globe.

Medical marijuana is when marijuana is used to treat the symptoms of certain conditions or diseases. Though it is not regulated by the government, it is expressly used for this purpose.

Medical marijuana utilizes the entire unprocessed plant or the chemicals within it. This creates a more potent symptom-alleviation effect.

Marijuana is comprised of cannabinoids. This is the name for the hundreds of different chemicals inside the marijuana plant. Each one has a different effect on your body when consumed.

The two main cannabinoids in marijuana, especially medical marijuana are:

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the psychoactive element found in marijuana. This means it is the compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana consumption.

Cannabidiol, or CBD

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the non-psychoactive element of marijuana. This means it does not produce a high. CBD is, however, commonly associated with pain and anxiety relief.

What Is Recreational Marijuana?

Recreational marijuana is any marijuana substances that are used for non-medical reasons. Recreational marijuana is not prescribed by a doctor. While some people may use it to treat anxiety or pain, it is not expressly for this purpose and generally more for fun.

Recreational marijuana typically has a higher THC content than its medical counterpart. This means it produces more of a “high” in users. Hence, why it is more often used for fun.

Medical Marijuana vs Recreation Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

There are several key differences when it comes to medical marijuana vs recreational marijuana. Knowing the difference can help you make the right choice for your needs when it comes time to buy.

Both medical and recreational marijuana still have several regulations in place. Knowing the difference means you’ll be ready to buy cannabis. This is because you’ll be aware of any cards or forms that will be necessary to obtain cannabis.

The THC and CBD Content

Medical and recreational marijuana are each comprised of different chemical makeups. Typically, medical marijuana has a higher level of CBD than recreational marijuana. This means, medical marijuana typically produces less of a “high” effect.

Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, usually has a higher THC content. This type is most often consumed for its psychoactive effects. Recreational marijuana’s purpose is to get the user “high.”

Generally, medical marijuana has a high potency. However, there is no definitive difference between the flowers and concentrates of each type.

Choosing between the two comes down to the effect you’re looking for. If you want more of a high, recreational cannabis might be better for you. But, if you’re looking to alleviate pain or other symptoms, medical marijuana might be the better option.

Need for Medical Recommendation

Medical marijuana has a few requirements. You’re going to need what is essentially a prescription. If you want to buy medical marijuana, you’ll need a recommendation from a medical professional.

You will have to meet several qualifying conditions in order to obtain a medical marijuana card. These will be based on the disease or condition you are seeking the medical card for. Speaking to a licensed physician can help you determine if you meet these criteria.

To obtain recreational cannabis, on the other hand, you won’t need a medical card. If you want recreational cannabis, you simply need to be over the required minimum age. No extra steps are necessary.

This is the major difference between the two when it comes to actually make a purchase of one or the other. If you are looking to alleviate stressful symptoms, it might be in your best interest to speak to a medical professional. In some cases, your medical dispensary may be able to help you find the best marijuana for your symptoms once a medical card is obtained.

Legal Age Minimums

To purchase marijuana, recreational, or medical, you’ll need to reach the minimum purchasing age. The minimum age differs, however, with each type of marijuana. Additionally, medical marijuana offers a few exceptions to the rule.

If you wish to obtain medical marijuana, you’ll need to be over 18 years of age (or 21 in some locations). However, depending on your medical condition, some individuals under 18 can receive a medical cannabis card. So, in certain circumstances, there is no hard minimum age for medical marijuana.

Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, has much stricter rules. You’ll need to be at least 21 years of age in most locations in order to purchase recreational marijuana from a state-licensed dispensary. This generally means, as long as you can prove you’re 21 with a driver’s license, you can buy cannabis.

You can read more about this distinction in order to make a more informed decision. In either case, the use of marijuana could have many benefits for you, both medically and recreationally.

Choosing the Right Marijuana for You

Choosing between medical marijuana vs recreation marijuana typically comes down to your circumstance. It’s important you understand why you’re seeking out marijuana. This can help you make your purchasing decision.

When you buy cannabis online or in-store, experts may be available to help. Choosing the right cannabis for your needs can make all the difference. Browse around some more for our latest!