Understanding Various Forms of Medical Cannabis and Selecting the Right One
Living in a time of rapidly expanding knowledge about medical cannabis and its potential applications can be both exciting and challenging. In this comprehensive guide, we'll help you navigate through the plethora of medical cannabis forms and ultimately choose the most suitable one according to your lifestyle, preferences, and health needs.
The Lowdown in Medical Cannabis
Over the past few years, there has been a surge in the interest and use of medical cannabis to manage a multitude of health conditions. A growing body of research points to its effectiveness in addressing chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, and various other health issues. As an individual seeking such remedies, understanding the different forms of medical cannabis can be an important first step.
But here's the thing - medical cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It comes in an array of application options. The choice should depend on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and specific health needs. In the course of your medical journey, your healthcare professional will discuss these options with you in detail and prescribe the most appropriate form. But before that conversation ensues, this guide will help you get familiar with the landscape of medical cannabis.
Different Types of Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis can be categorised in various ways, including how it's administered, the primary active ingredients and its form. We are going to look at some of the common ones here.
1. Dry Flower
Also referred to as dry herb, this is the most traditional form of medical cannabis. It involves the use of dried cannabis flowers, which are often consumed through vaporization. It stands out as a less expensive choice and a relatively unprocessed form of the medication, thereby maintaining the purity of medicinal properties.
2. Cannabis Oils
These can be either CBD (Cannabidiol) or THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) dominant and can be administered in various ways such as orally, added to food, used via a vape device, or taken sublingually. The flexibility in the method of administration and precise dosage measurement are key advantages of cannabis oils.
3. Edibles
Edibles are another form of medical cannabis that comes in the form of food products like gummies, chocolates, or other confectionaries. The strength of edibles and the duration of their effect vary widely from one product to another. It's worth mentioning that edibles might take longer for the effects to kick in compared to other forms.
4. Capsules, Tinctures and Sprays
Medical cannabis can also be administered through capsules, under-the-tongue tinctures, and sprays. These forms are popular because they allow for accurate dosages and have longer shelf lives than some other forms of cannabis. They are also easy to use on-the-go and provide a smoke-free alternative for those who prefer it.
Choosing the Right Form of Medical Cannabis
Ultimately, the best form of medical cannabis for you will depend on your personal preferences, your lifestyle, and the symptoms you're dealing with. Be open and honest with your healthcare provider about your needs and concerns. They can provide valuable advice about the different forms of cannabis and how each might affect you. It's important to keep in mind that what works for others might not work for you, and vice versa. It might take some time and experimentation to find what works best for you, and that's okay. Always prioritise your comfort and wellbeing throughout your medical cannabis journey and follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely.
