Learn everything you need to know about cannabis tinctures, including what a cannabis tincture is, the benefits of taking a tincture over other options, and how to use a marijuana tincture.
With the ongoing legalization of cannabis products throughout the U.S. and beyond, more and more people are getting access to various medicinal marijuana products. A quickly-growing body of research shows that the active ingredients in cannabis — cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — may have a wide array of potential medical applications, from anxiety to seizure management. [1]
Since there are so many marijuana products available on the market (including cannabis tinctures, edibles, flowers, concentrates, and creams) it can be difficult for new users to understand the specific uses and effects of each.
Medical cannabis tinctures are one of the most fast-acting and potent types of products on the market. They are also very simple to use. Read on to learn more about how to use marijuana tinctures and find out whether they are the right product for you.
What is a Cannabis Tincture?
Marijuana tinctures are one of the purest and oldest forms of medicinal cannabis and would have been used during pre-prohibition times (before 1937) in the US. [2] Medical cannabis tinctures are simply liquids made from cannabis extract (THC and/or CBD) and alcohol. These are liquid concentrates that come in glass bottles with a dropper. For fast results, tinctures are taken sublingually, but they can also be mixed into food or drinks.
Benefits of Using a Marijuana Tincture
Cannabis tinctures are popular options for many medical marijuana users because they are simple to use. There’s no extra preparation or special materials needed, which also makes them a very discreet option for people on the go.
Tinctures are also very pure and fast-acting: simply place a few drops under the tongue, and you will start to feel the effects in about 15 minutes. Unlike many edibles where you may not know how much THC or CBD you are ingesting, with tinctures it’s easy to get an exact measurement. This makes cannabis tinctures an excellent choice for those who want to personalize their dosing, and even choose their desired ratio of THC to CBD.
You may also choose to use cannabis tinctures either sublingually (dissolved under the tongue) or topically (rubbed into the skin). Tinctures are thus a great option if you have a medical condition that prevents you from smoking or vaping or if you have stomach ailments that may make you reluctant to ingest edibles or take gel capsules.
What’s the Difference Between a THC Tincture and a CBD Tincture?
When purchasing medical marijuana products, it’s important to understand the difference between products made from THC tinctures and products made from their milder cousin, CBD. Each has the potential to offer a similar range of health benefits, but with CBD you do not feel the psychotropic effects (the “high”) that you get from THC-based products.
Many products contain both CBD and THC in varying ratios, which are usually listed with the CBD content first. For instance, a ratio of 1:3 (CBD: THC) means that the substance has 3 parts of THC for every one part of CBD. That said, the CBD tinctures you purchase online must have less than 0.3% THC. Check your local state laws to determine if you can purchase more potent cannabis tinctures at a local dispensary, or if your state requires that you have a medical marijuana card before you are eligible to purchase higher THC potency products.
In states where marijuana has been made legal for recreational use, you will be able to purchase either THC dominant or CBD dominant products.
Medical uses of Cannabis Tinctures
Some examples of conditions officially approved for treatment with medical marijuana in the U.S. include:
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Depression and Anxiety
Pain management
Seizure disorders
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Management of cancer symptoms
Glaucoma
HIV
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Nausea
CBD, in particular, is an anti-inflammatory, which means that it is potentially useful for a broad range of health problems. A growing body of research points to its potential for managing issues such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. [3][4]
Medical marijuana products may effectively manage various depression and anxiety disorders because of the way they work to restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. [5]
A recent study from the American Academy of Neurology tested the effects of medical marijuana (both THC and CBD tinctures) on 204 elderly people with a range of diseases including neuropathic pain, insomnia, and Parkinson’s disease. 69% of patients reported at least some relief of symptoms, and a tincture with a ratio of 1:1 appeared to result in the least side effects. [6]
How to use a Marijuana Tincture
Wondering how to use a marijuana tincture? Fortunately, this is one of the simplest and most discreet types of products out there, and it’s easy to adjust the dosage to suit your preferences as well. For fast results, drop the recommended amount on the product label under your tongue (sublingually).
The arterial blood supply under the tongue aids in what is one of the quickest absorption methods, usually taking an effect in about half an hour. If you think that you would like to try a higher dose, just increase it by a small amount the next day. It’s important to work your way up slowly, especially if you are using a THC-based tincture. If you don’t like the sublingual approach or taste of your tincture, you can always place your drops in a drink or on food. However, these ingestion methods will result in slower absorption into your body.
Is a Medical Cannabis Tincture Right for you?
The preferred dosage of a tincture will vary from person to person, depending on their pain level, the type of problem they are trying to manage, and whether they are using a CBD or THC tincture. If you are under medical supervision, consult with your physician to determine the appropriate THC to CBD ratio.
The preferred dosage of a tincture will vary from person to person, depending on their pain level, the type of problem they are trying to manage, and whether they are using a CBD or THC tincture. If you are under medical supervision, consult with your physician to determine the appropriate THC to CBD ratio.
Cannabis Tincture Guidelines
For anxiety and stress, and especially panic attacks, use a high CBD product with a ratio of 20:1.
If you want a psychoactive high, you want to reduce inflammation, stimulate appetite or have mental relaxation, look for a THC tincture with a ratio of 0:1.
A 1:3 ratio has a small amount of CBD. CBD can minimize some of THC’s side effects, and this ratio can be useful for those who want pain relief without an intense high.
A 1:1 ratio may be ideal for anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and fibromyalgia. This is also an excellent place to start if you’re not sure what you want as it tends to offer benefits across a spectrum of health issues.
For stomach issues, depression, seizures, or neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s, arthritis or even skin conditions, you may want to try tinctures with a higher ratio of CBD oil (e.g., 3:1 or higher).
Medical cannabis tinctures have a lot of benefits. They are great for those looking for CBD products to help with daily or intense pain and need something fast-acting and easy to use.
Ask your health care consultant for information on how much to take and what type of cannabis tincture is best for you.
If you have any questions please contact THC Physicians. If you live in New York or Florida, feel free to visit THC Physician to see if you qualify for a card today.
Marijuana Tincture FAQ
Can I use THC tinctures for anxiety?
THC tinctures can be used for anxiety as well as a wide range of medically-approved ailments. If you are taking medical marijuana, consult with your recommending physician as to the usage and dose of the tincture.
How can get THC tinctures in Florida?
THC tinctures are available for patients with medical marijuana cards in Florida. They are just one of a wide range of delivery types available to patients for a wide range of ailments.
What are THC tinctures uses?
THC tinctures are often recommended by medical marijuana doctors for common ailments such as: anxiety, pain relief, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, MS, and other debilitating conditions.
Do tinctures work?
A wide body of evidence suggests that tinctures, like other forms of medical marijuana, do provide relief to patients who use them.
How do you use a marijuana tincture?
To use a marijuana tincture squeeze the dropper at the top of the bottle, ensure the appropriate dosage is contained in the vile, and then place the liquid under the tongue (sublingually). It is recommended that you wait 15-30 seconds to allow the liquid to absorb, but you can swallow at any time. You may also mix with other liquids if you don’t like the taste.
What are marijuana tincture side effects?
Marijuana tinctures may evoke some side effects in some patients just as other forms of marijuana (ex. smokable) would. These include slow reaction time, euphoria, impaired balance, lethargy, paranoia or anxiety, or a dry mouth.
How long does it take for a tincture to kick in?
Because tinctures are taken sublingually, they have very quick and effective times compared to other delivery options. Most patients can expect to feel the effects within 15 minutes.
Do tinctures work like edibles?
Tinctures work like edibles and other forms of marijuana with the exception being tinctures typically work faster and allow for a more accurate dosing mechanism.
The number of Americans at risk of heart attack and stroke has increased substantially over the last decade. According to statistics released by the American Heart Association, nearly half of all adults in the United States have high blood pressure.
Alarmingly, the rising prevalence of hypertension has coincided with the relaxation of U.S. state marijuana laws, raising questions and concerns among both health professionals and the public. People want to know, does marijuana lower blood pressure? Or does marijuana raise blood pressure? And, what are the long-term effects of cannabis on cardiovascular health?
An estimated 2 million Americans with an established cardiovascular disease currently use or have used marijuana. In this article, we’ll review the current evidence on the acute and chronic cardiovascular effects of marijuana.
Acute Effects: Marijuana and Blood pressure
According to Harvard Health, research has consistently shown that marijuana temporarily raises heart rate and dilates blood vessels, causing a modest dose-dependent increase in blood pressure. Together, these actions force the heart to pump harder, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease.
Research published in Cardiology in Review, suggests that the risk of heart attack is up to four times higher during the first 60 minutes of smoking marijuana. While this does not pose a threat to healthy people, it should be a red flag for people with a known heart condition. Other studies have shown a link between marijuana and atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder.
To investigate the above claims, medical researchers at the Society of General Internal Medicine recently reviewed the acute effects of THC on several cardiac parameters, including heart rate and blood pressure. Their analysis included six clinical trials on blood pressure, after excluding studies with animal models and less than 20 participants.
In one randomized controlled trial (RCT), low concentrations of THC (3.55%) caused a drop in systolic blood pressure when smoked or injected. Another clinical trial of more inferior quality also found a decrease in systolic blood pressure at similar concentrations.
Three of the four remaining studies found no significant effect, while one study found an increase in blood pressure. These findings suggest there is insufficient evidence to claim marijuana has any specific acute effects on blood pressure. The analysis also included 14 clinical trials, all of which found that marijuana was associated with tachycardia or increased heart rate.
Chronic Effects: Marijuana and Blood Pressure
Smoking marijuana carries many of the same cardiovascular health hazards as smoking tobacco. A new study, published in the American Journal of Health Behaviour, analyzed data from the 2005-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys.
In total, 10,709 American adults were included in the retrospective study. Researchers defined marijuana use as “never” (no lifetime use), “past” (lifetime, not in the past 30 days), and “current” (at least once in the past 30 days). After adjusting for covariables – such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use – heavy users (defined as daily) were reportedly twice as likely to have high blood pressure than “never” users.
However, no significant differences in blood pressure existed between other categories. These results suggest that heavy marijuana use may contribute to the development of hypertension, while occasional use is unlikely to impact blood pressure in the long term.
In another study, published in the American Heart Association Journal in 2020, researchers examined the effects of THC on the blood pressure of almost 3000 veterans, of whom 800 were current cannabis users and 2098 were current non-users. Smoking was the predominant form of consumption (90%). After adjusting for covariables, cannabis users had slightly higher systolic blood pressure.
Interestingly, however, current users were less likely to be on medication for high cholesterol (statins), blood clotting (anticoagulants), and an irregular heartbeat (beta-blockers). However, this could be a reflection of health-seeking behaviors. They also had a lower body mass index (BMI), which is a well-established protective factor against heart disease.
Does Marijuana Lower Blood Pressure?
If you currently suffer from hypertension, you may be wondering whether marijuana can help lower your blood pressure. While the body’s endocannabinoid system plays a key role in regulating critical physiological processes, including cardiovascular function, research is yet to determine a definitive answer.
Animal models suggest that anandamide – the body’s own version of THC– may relax blood vessels and thus help lower blood pressure. But anandamide appears to be triphasic, meaning it produces different effects under different conditions. For instance, under some circumstances, anandamide has a stimulatory effect leading to increased blood pressure.
More rigorous human trials are needed to make any claims about the effectiveness of marijuana as a long-term treatment for hypertension.
Heart Disease? Best to Avoid Marijuana
Smoking marijuana carries many of the same cardiovascular health hazards as smoking tobacco, which is a major cause of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Until we have a clearer picture of the connection between marijuana and heart disease, people with a heart condition or at risk of heart attack or stroke due to hypertension should consider avoiding smoking marijuana of any kind. These recommendations are in alignment with Harvard Health.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension (aka high blood pressure) is when the force of blood flowing through your arteries is consistently too high. When a person has hypertension, their heart must work harder to pump blood around the body, contributing to the arteries’ hardening.
Left unmanaged, hypertension can lead to cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming nearly 18 million lives per year. Cardiovascular disease includes heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
Blood pressure readings contain two measurements: systolic blood pressure (the first number) and diastolic blood pressure (the second number). Systolic blood pressure measures the force on the artery walls when the heart is contracting. Whereas, diastolic blood pressure is when the heart relaxes between beats.
Blood pressure readings below 120/80 mmHg are considered normal and within a healthy range. However, if your systolic blood pressure rises above 130 mmHg or your diastolic blood pressure rises above 80 mmHg, you have Stage 1 Hypertension, according to the American Heart Association. Once your blood pressure reaches 140/20 mmHg, you’ve hit Stage 2 Hypertension—any higher than you’ve entered Hypertension Crisis.
What Causes Hypertension?
Several factors contribute to the development of hypertension, including obesity, stress, chronic alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and tobacco use. However, the association between hypertension and marijuana consumption is less clear, primarily due to the restrictions on human trials and the complexity of the drug itself. Marijuana contains over 100 active compounds, called cannabinoids, and each strain contains a unique concentration of cannabinoids. Therefore, the effects differ depending on the product.
Cannabinoids exert their effects through the endocannabinoid system, consisting of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB2 receptors, are present in the myocardium (heart muscle), coronary endothelium (surface of arteries), and vascular endothelium (surface of veins).
Specific cardiovascular effects, particularly acute effects, are well understood and extensively documented. For instance, we know that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid, temporarily stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. However, research studies investigating the long-term effects of marijuana use on cardiovascular health are limited and often plagued by poor study design or animal models that don’t necessarily transfer to humans.
Also, most studies fail to differentiate between consumption methods, such as smoking marijuana, compared to applying a topical ointment. Frustratingly, there’s also a high degree of generalization, with studies often focusing on THC and neglecting the role of cannabidiol (CBD). Lastly, very few studies distinguish between synthetic and plant-derived cannabinoids. With such limited research, it’s difficult to make concrete conclusions on the link between marijuana and hypertension. However, here is what the current research literature says so far.
THC Physicians are here to help people in New York and Florida receive the medical treatment they need. If you have any questions about getting a marijuana card, please browse our how-to page for more information or contact us if there is anything we can answer for you!
Patients enrolled in their state’s Medical Marijuana Registry Program are legally allowed to use THC to manage their qualifying conditions. However, unfortunately, the recent legalization does not overrule an employer’s right to maintain a drug-and-alcohol-free workplace. Employers can, therefore, conduct random or scheduled drug testing on applicants and employees so long as those individuals are informed of the company’s drug-testing policies.
Unfortunately, for both recreational and medical marijuana users, a failed drug test is currently considered fair grounds for dismissal.
So, whether you’re interviewing for a new job or your employer has just tightened their drug testing policy, here’s what you need to know.
6 Steps to Get Marijuana Out Of Your System Quickly
Drink Water (with Lemon Juice)
Take A Multi-Vitamin
Avoid Exercise 24 Hours Before Your Test
Use Products To Help Detox
Drink Apple Cider Vinegar in Water
Drink Cranberry Juice
Drink Water (with Lemon Juice)
If you’re hoping to pass a urine test in a hurry, drinking 1-2 liters of lemon water throughout the day before your test might help to dilute your urine and flush your system. Although be careful–drinking too much water can lead to a dangerous condition called hyponatremia, during which the cells are flooded with water causing seizures, coma, and even death.
Take A Multi-Vitamin
While drinking 1-2 liters per day will sufficiently dilute your urine, colorless urine is an immediate red flag for any testing lab. Therefore, it’s crucial that you mask your dilution attempt by taking a multivitamin, or preferably a vitamin B12 or B2 supplement several hours before your test. These water-soluble vitamins are very effective in darkening urine.
Avoid Exercise 24 Hours Before Your Test
If you’ve got more than a week to prepare for a drug test, daily exercise, preferably high-intensity interval training, is recommended to boost your metabolism and remove as much remaining THC-COOH in your system. However, you should refrain from all exercise for at least 24 hours before your test. Exercise will break down fat cells, thus releasing any stored THC metabolites into your bloodstream.
Use Products To Help Detox
There are a variety of products on the market to assist with detox, like drinks and pills. Keep in mind that these options are generally temporary, so they need to be taken a specific amount of time before your drug test.
Some highly rated options to help flush your system include:
Click to buy 10-day detox
Mega Clean Detox Drink: this drink helps flush out toxins and replenish your lost vitamins and minerals. It works in as little as one hour with maximum effects at three hours.
10-Day Detox System: begins working as little as one hour after taking it. The system includes tablets and liquid for a complete cleanse.
The above options won’t work by themselves for a hair follicle test (we’ll get into the types of tests later), but here are some shampoos that can help pass this type of test when combined with the detox systems:
While not nearly as powerful as a detox drink or program, adding this option can help you get THC out of your system. Add a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to an 8-ounce glass of water. It will have an acidic flavor but can be sweetened up with sugar or honey.
Drink Cranberry Juice
Again, this option won’t be as strong as a detox drink, but it’s a much cheaper option. Because cranberry juice is a natural diuretic, it helps to flush out your system and eliminate toxins.
Now that you know how to detox THC for a drug test, here’s a little more information on what’s actually occurring.
Firstly, there are several “quick fixes” out there that promise fast and effective results, including detox teas, cranberry juice, vinegar, bleach, creatine pills, and niacin detox. But if you’ve got the time, here’s how to naturally detox.
Natural THC Detox (The Slower Option)
The most effective way to cleanse the body of THC is to abstain from consuming cannabis altogether (which includes smoking marijuana). By committing to a THC cleanse, your body is able to remove cannabinoids and their remaining metabolites from your system naturally.
You may be able to thoroughly cleanse your body of THC within 4-6 weeks so long as you eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and get at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.
Workplace Drug Tests Types And Detection Windows
Workplace drug testing usually involves either urine or hair analysis, although some employers may request an on-the-spot blood or saliva test.
Urinalysis (UA)
Urine analysis detects the body has processed carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH), a metabolite released after tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Urine samples are the most common type of test used to detect drugs in the workplace as it has a broader detection window and is relatively affordable. According to Mayo Clinic, THC-COOH is detectable in urine for the following amounts of time after the last use:
Occasional users (<3 x week): 3 days
Moderate users (4 x week): 5 to 7 days
Chronic users (daily): 10 to 15 days
Chronic, heavy users (multiple times a day): 30 days or longer
Blood Tests
Blood tests detect active levels of THC in your bloodstream and are the best indicator of recent cannabis consumption. In simpler terms, it tells the test taker how long marijuana stays in your blood.
However, due to a lack of clear evidence, blood tests cannot currently be used to indicate impairment or distinguish whether a person’s behavior is, or was, impacted by marijuana. [2]
THC will show up in a blood sample within 2 to 12 hours after the last consumption. However, metabolites can be detected in the blood for up to 3 weeks, as fat tissues gradually release THC back into the bloodstream. Detox kits and detox drinks like those listed above help in speeding up the release into the bloodstream.
Oral Tests
Oral fluid or saliva testing is less commonly used for workplace drug testing. It involves collecting an oral swab from the lower gums, which is left in place for several minutes.
These oral samples can contain cannabinoids or metabolites for up to 48 hours post cannabis consumption in occasional users, and up to 29 days in chronic, heavy users.
Hair Tests
Hair drug testing has the longest window of detection, providing a history of drug use going back up to 90 days.
Similar to urinalysis, hair testing measures THC-COOH metabolites, in the hair shaft, rather than THC itself.
These metabolites enter the hair follicle seven days after consumption and don’t test for current impairment. Due to the long-lasting nature of hair follicles, it is essential to use the appropriate detox program combined with an aloe toxin-rid shampoo as we listed above.
A popular method for passing hair tests is the Macujo Method, which strips the hair follicle of all traces of THC.
Frequently Asked Questions About THC Detoxing
What Does Marijuana Leave Behind?
When a person smokes or consumes marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other cannabinoids enter the bloodstream. THC levels remain elevated for several hours, depending on the delivery method.
Once your body metabolizes THC, the effects fade away, but by-products, known as metabolites, are left behind as evidence.
THC metabolites are fat-soluble, which means they can be stored within fat cells. As you burn fat, the metabolites are released back into your system over several months.
How Long Does THC Stay in Your System?
Compared to other drugs, marijuana has one of the broadest detection times. It can take up to 30 days for a one-time cannabis consumer to test completely clear for THC, while a heavy cannabis consumer can test positive for up to 90 days after the last consumption. However, the exact length of time THC remains detectable in your system depends on a variety of factors, including:
A level of THC-COOH higher than 100.0 ng/mL indicates recent use.
Can I Be Fired For Using Medical Marijuana?
While this answer depends on what state you live in, it is a general rule that you are not protected from termination based on marijuana use. Each company has the right to a drug-free workplace regardless of legality. Some states do have medical marijuana protection and prohibit companies from firing you for using it.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there is no quick fix to get THC out of your system instantly, but there are some tips and tricks to help. If you don’t smoke marijuana regularly, you may want to try an at-home marijuana test kit to determine if you will test clear, as the one found here.
However, if you have been using marijuana regularly, a detox program may be right for you.
As always, you should consult your doctor or obtain medical supervision before making any significant decisions about your dosage, detox, or routine.
If you are concerned about your marijuana usage and do not want to speak to a physician, or are considering substance abuse treatment, please call the National Institute on Drug Abuse at 800-662-HELP (4357)
Are you or a loved one wondering what the cost of medical marijuana in Florida is? This guide will help you determine the costs associated with the following:
Doctor’s visit(s)
Department of Health fees
Dispensary expenses
and more!
Your medical insurance will not cover the costs of getting started with medical marijuana or your future treatments. Find out how much you’ll need to budget for the relief you need in this guide.
So how much does medical marijuana cost in Florida?
In this guide, we’ll break down all the costs of medical marijuana for Florida residents from start to finish so you can budget for the relief you need.
The Medical Marijuana Cost in Florida
So how much is a medical marijuana card in Florida? From state fees to doctor visit expenses, here’s everything you need to know about how much it will cost to start medical marijuana treatments in Florida:
From state fees to doctor visit expenses, here’s everything you need to know about how much it will cost to start medical marijuana treatments in Florida:
The Doctor Recommendation Office Visit
Cost: $199 for the initial recommendation and $179 for the renewal recommendation.
What it covers:
The Florida Department of Health requires patients to be certified for the use of medical marijuana by a state-approved ordering physician registered with the Florida Office of Medical Marijuana Use.
Your general physician may not be qualified to recommend a medical marijuana prescription, so you’ll need to search specifically for medical marijuana doctors in your area.
Qualifying doctors must have completed a 2-hour course and examination offered by the Florida Medical Association or Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, depending on their license type.
Suppose your physician determines that your medical condition meets the requirements set forth by the FL Department of Health for the use of medical marijuana. In that case, you could have your recommendation on your first visit.
The doctor’s price of an office visit varies depending on location and is not covered by your medical insurance.
A “recommendation” is similar to a prescription, but because marijuana is still illegal under federal law, only medical marijuana recommendations are given.
Your physician will review your symptoms and establish a comprehensive treatment plan using the best form and type of medical marijuana for your condition.
After receiving your Florida Medical Marijuana recommendation, your order will be entered into the State’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use patient registry (see associated costs below). The order will specify the types of Medical Marijuana you can purchase, your recommended daily dose, and the number of days your order will be active.
You’ll then be able to purchase your medical marijuana from one of Florida’s dispensaries, but you’ll have to get into the Registry first and pay the associated costs.
The Florida Registration Fee
How Much is a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida?
Patients can expect to pay a $75 fee for their medical marijuana card that will be issued by the Florida Department of Health.
According to the Florida Department of Health, the Registry is a secure online database for registering medical marijuana physicians and qualified patients. It’s accessible to ordering physicians, law enforcement, dispensing organization staff, and Office of Medical Marijuana Use employees.
When officially registered with the state, you’ll receive a medical marijuana ID card with your photo, just like a driver’s license.
The Department of Health charges a $75 processing fee for your application, and this fee also adds you to the state Registry and covers the cost of your ID card.
This fee can be paid by check to the Department of Health, or the application and payment can be completed online (with a $2.75 online processing fee). You’ll also need to have a passport-type photo available for your medical marijuana ID card, which may cost extra for you to obtain if you don’t already have one. The photo must be taken within the last 90 days. Some medical marijuana physicians, like THC Physicians, provide this in your initial doctor’s visit.
Medical Marijuana Product Costs
Cost: $20 to $300+
What it covers:
Your physician will recommend the best medical marijuana delivery option or a combination of:
Oral administration via capsules, concentrates, and oils.
Inhalation using a vaporizer and cartridges or a pre-filled vaporizer pen.
Topical relief with infused lotions, creams, and balms.
Each medical marijuana delivery option comes at a different price point depending on a number of factors including quality, competition, quantity, etc.
Once you have your ID card, you’ll be allowed to fill your order by visiting a state-licensed dispensary.
If you don’t have a close treatment center in your area, you can contact one nearby that delivers.
Price Of Medical Marijuana In Florida
While prices will differ at dispensaries, here’s a ballpark average of the most common medical marijuana options:
Capsules of extracted cannabis oil provide reliable, consistent, and discrete dosing that releases over a more extended period. Each capsule will contain 10 to 25mg of THC, CBD, or a hybrid. Bottles of capsules range between $40 and $120+.
Oils (or tinctures) made from extracted cannabis come in liquid form. The small bottles have an easy-to-use dropper to allow for accurate dosing either under your tongue or added to your food and drinks. Depending on the concentration, strain, and size of the bottle, one may cost between $40 and $200+.
Pre-filled vaporizer pens and cartridges contain extracted cannabis oil. Vaporizer pens heat up the oil in the cartridge enough to release cannabinoids without the carcinogens of burning the material so you inhale vapor instead of smoke. Pre-filled pens can run between $30 and $90+ depending on the strain and concentration.
If you choose to buy your own vaporizer to use with separate pre-filled cartridges, these cost between $100 and $300+. Cartridges will run around $15 to $60,+ depending on the strain and amount.
Flower comes in a variety of types, strains and potencies and can range anywhere between $15 and $60+ for ¼ ounce.
Edibles come in different types, like chocolates, cookies, brownies, gummies and chews. These will range in price greatly, based on ingredients, potency and strain. In general, you can expect to pay around $25 for 100mg of THC (which they often consider to be 10 doses).
THC Physicians works closely with Curaleaf, formally known as Modern Health Concepts. Curaleaf was the first Medical Marijuana Treatment Center in South Florida.
Curaleaf has 50 locations throughout the state of Florida, so you’re likely not far from being able to use a Curaleaf dispensary. For a list of locations, click here.
To keep your Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card active, you’ll need to submit a renewal application every year to the Department of Health 45 days before your current ID card’s expiration date. You can find this date printed on the front of your identification card. You’ll also need to revisit the doctor every 7 months (we’ll get to that next).
You’ll have to fill out the application and submit another $2.75 processing fee to the Florida Department of Health.
Follow-up Visits
Cost: Between $75 and $200+
What this covers:
The Florida Department of Health requires patients to be certified for the use of medical marijuana every 210 days or seven months.
Certification requires patients to have an in-person visit with a physician for a medical evaluation and medical marijuana recommendation.
Follow-up visits are scheduled on a per-patient basis as needed. Most patients will need at least one follow-up visit per year.
Regarding smokeable refills, the maximum quantity of medical marijuana each patient can purchase is 2.5 ounces in any 35 day period,
You must receive an additional recommendation from your physician after your order has been exhausted. THC Physicians allows for telemedicine visits with physicians for follow-up visits.
Total Potential Medical Marijuana Cost in Florida
As we’ve outlined here, many different factors contribute to the total cost of signing up for medical marijuana treatment in Florida.
So here’s a grand rundown of all the expenses we discussed:
Initial physician visit for the recommendation: $250+
FL Registration Fee: $75
Renewal Fee: $75
First treatment: $20 to $300+
Delivery fee (if applicable): $25
Follow-up visit: $75 to $200+
Total Cost for the First Year: $245 to $575+
Remember, these prices are just general estimates and averages. The actual prices in your area may be higher or lower depending on the strains, dosage amounts, doctor fees, and more.
Do you have a medical marijuana card in New York or Florida? Is it in danger of expiring? Processing your medical marijuana card renewal is a reasonably simple task, but it can take up more time than you want to spare.
Here, you’ll find a step-by-step guide for processing medical marijuana renewals and how THC Physicians can simplify the whole affair. Keep reading to get your medical marijuana card renewed before time runs out!
How Do I Renew My Florida Medical Marijuana Card Online?
Although it is possible to renew your Florida medical marijuana card by mail, the most popular renewal method is online. Florida makes it very easy to renew your medical card, and it won’t take you much time at all.
Every medical marijuana card recipient in Florida needs to complete an annual renewal process to maintain their eligibility status. If you don’t, your medical card may be revoked, and you won’t be able to obtain medical marijuana until it is reinstated.
The Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) suggests starting this online renewal process around 45 days prior to your expiry date. That gives the state authority enough time to process your application and get it back to you before time runs out. Either the patient or the caregiver can submit the application by mail or online.
If you initially created your medical marijuana account online through the Medical Marijuana Use Registry, you can renew it online. Follow these steps to get renewed fast and easy:
Click on the “Your Card” option found at the top of the page. This brings you to your current medical marijuana card information and status.
Click on “Begin Renewal” to open the application.
Click Proceed
Review all of your data and click apply to confirm.
When Can I Renew My Medical Marijuana Card in Florida?
Florida law requires you to renew your medical marijuana card every year. However, the minimum time frame needed to complete the renewal process is 45 days. This means that you must start your online renewal process at least 45 days prior to your medical marijuana card’s expiry date.
You can always renew your medical marijuana card before the 45-day mark. However, this might reduce the yearly time limit you have to use the card. Renew around the 45-day mark to ensure you maximize your time with your medical marijuana card.
How Do I Renew My New York Medical Marijuana Card Online?
The process for renewing your medical marijuana card in New York is a bit more intensive than in other states.
You need to receive a certification from a registered practitioner with the State of New York. They will approve your renewal application and forward your information to the relevant state authorities.
While you can visit your doctor in person for a renewal certification, you can also complete an e-consultation with an online medical marijuana referral service. THC Physicians can set this up for you.
THC Physicians allows you to have peace of mind in knowing your entire initial card process is taken care of from start to finish and renewals are simple.
When Can I Renew My Medical Marijuana Card in New York?
The State of New York requires patients to renew their medical marijuana card once every year. That means that you’ll have to set up an appointment with a physician and receive a renewal approval within one year of your previous approval.
Unlike many other states, renewing in New York is very easy. There is no time limit to when you can renew, meaning you can wait until very late in your year to file for renewal.
However, the renewal process takes anywhere from 24 to 48 hours to complete normally. It is best to start your application one week in advance to ensure no problems along the way.
Following your consultation, your doctor will automatically send for your renewal with the state. After 48 hours, you will receive your renewal electronically or via mail sometime later.
The medical marijuana program in New York is scheduled to expand in the coming year. Let THC Physicians keep you up to date on any relevant changes to your medical marijuana eligibility.
How Can THC Physicians Simplify Your Medical Marijuana Card Renewal Process?
With the help of THC Physicians, you don’t need to complete the renewal process on your own.
THC Physicians can assist you in obtaining a new or renewed medical marijuana card.
Also, your medical status might change, or you might get worried that you don’t qualify for medical marijuana in Florida or New York any longer. Have questions? We will guide you through reapplying for a medical marijuana card and help you get doctor approval for a new card.
Conclusion
With the help of THC Physicians, renewing your medical marijuana card in Florida or New York is simple and easy. Laws around medical marijuana change frequently, so why should you be the one to keep up with every new regulation?
After legalization in New York, things are about to become even easier for medical marijuana recipients in the state. In Florida, things are still fairly strict. Find out if you qualify for a new medical marijuana card today with THC Physicians.
THC physicians are here to help people in New York and Florida receive the medical treatment they need. If you have any questions about getting a marijuana card, please browse our how-to page for more information or contact us if there is anything we can answer for you!
Do you have a condition that could benefit from the use of cannabis? You may be surprised at which conditions may qualify, and getting your medical marijuana card is easier than you think.
The step-by-step process is quite simple and takes no longer than a few weeks, and THC Physicians are here to help guide you through your medical marijuana evaluation.
Conditions that Qualify for a Medical Marijuana Card
Medical marijuana is a safe and effective way of treating symptoms associated with chronic illnesses. You can only apply for a marijuana card if you have an approved diagnosis.
Depending on your state of residence, the conditions that can qualify you for medical marijuana will vary.
For example, Florida accepts the following conditions:
It is worth noting that medical marijuana has not been proven to cure these illnesses; instead, it can help treat them and reduce the symptoms caused by them.
Scheduling Your Medical Marijuana Evaluation
Doctors are not legally permitted to prescribe cannabis, but they can provide the evaluation that you will need to get your medical marijuana card. In states where it is legal, medical doctors (MD) or doctors of osteopathy (DO) who are state-certified to recommend medical marijuana are qualified to recommend medical marijuana.
If you are interested in getting a medical cannabis card, you will need to schedule an appointment with a state-registered physician who is licensed to recommend medical marijuana. Schedule an appointment where you will discuss your chronic illnesses and your interest in seeking medical marijuana.
Some people might prefer to opt for an online medical marijuana evaluation, especially during the ongoing pandemic. Fortunately, some states, like New York, allow you to use a unique HIPAA-compliant telehealth tool that will connect you with a doctor who can provide your evaluation. This way, you can complete the whole process from start to finish without even leaving your home.
How to Prepare for your Medical Marijuana Evaluation
Because medical marijuana is such a heavily monitored medicine, you will want to be completely prepared when you go to your evaluation. Here are a few things to keep in mind before your appointment.
Photo Identification
All medical marijuana evaluations will require photo identification. They must be valid and up to date. Valid identification includes:
State ID
Driver’s license
Military ID card
An out-of-state photo ID AND proof of in-state residency (such as a utility bill or a bank statement)
Medical Documentation
You will want to bring documentation of the chronic illness that medical marijuana will treat. This information can include:
Recent and official medical records
List of prescriptions
If applicable, X-rays or MRI results
A letter from the physician who diagnosed you
Other documents confirming your condition
If applicable, it is a good idea to bring more than one of these forms of documentation.
Other Important Notes
If you have not already paid for your medical marijuana evaluation, you will want to bring your preferred form of payment. Even if you did pay in advance, it would be wise to bring along your receipt or other proof of purchase – some states will require you to do this.
If you are under 18, you must go with a legal guardian during this evaluation.
What to Expect in the Medical Marijuana Evaluation
The evaluation itself should not be very long; you can expect it to finish in roughly 30 minutes.
Your doctor will ask you a few questions about your condition and help determine whether medical marijuana could be helpful for you. They may have to perform a few exams to determine the state of your condition and whether or not marijuana will be a safe treatment.
You are also free to ask your doctor any questions you may have about medical marijuana. Be sure to mention any medications you are currently taking.
Once the evaluation is over, they will provide a signed document of their approval. This document may also include the recommended doses, consumption methods, and how long they believe you will qualify for this treatment.
However, keep in mind that your doctor is only able to provide a medical marijuana recommendation, which will then lead to your medical marijuana card. You will not have access to medical marijuana just yet.
After the Evaluation
Once your doctor has evaluated your condition and determined that you are eligible for medical marijuana, you will need to fill out an application. You can do this entirely online.
The exact requirements for this process can vary depending on your state, but all of them should require a copy of your doctor’s recommendation. They may also require proof of residency and a caregiver’s form if applicable. Keep in mind that this application will also have a fee.
After you submit your application, and if you are approved, you should receive your medical cannabis card in the mail within a few weeks.
Using Your Medical Marijuana Card
Once you have received your medical marijuana card, you are ready to use it! Are you having trouble finding a marijuana dispensary? Here is a handy map of locations in Florida. You can also search for dispensaries using sites like this one.
Medical marijuana cards will last up to one year; after that, you will have to go through another evaluation if you still need treatment.
THC Physicians
THC physicians are here to help people in New York and Florida receive the medical treatment they need. If you have any questions about getting a marijuana card, please browse our how-to page for more information or contact us if there is anything we can answer for you!
In the United States, 36 states allow some form of marijuana use. Of those, less than a third allow recreational marijuana.
In the states where recreational use is legal, this leaves some to wonder, what is the difference between medical marijuana vs recreational? And is there any benefit to pursuing your medical marijuana card in a completely legal state?
With estimated U.S. retail marijuana sales of up to 12 billion by 2024, it’s important to understand what you’re purchasing and what is best for your intentions. In this blog, we will consider the laws and regulations, potency, taxes, and more. Read on.
Medical Marijuana Laws and Regulations
You’ll first want to consider what your state laws are between buying medicinal marijuana and recreational. That is because the regulations for purchasing medicinal marijuana have been around longer than those open to recreational use.
Let’s look at the states of New York and Florida as examples.
In 2021, Governor Cuomo of New York signed a bill legalizing the adult use of both medicinal and recreational marijuana. That means dispensaries in New York can start selling cannabis for both recreational and medicinal use.
The new laws also allow for people who are 21 and older to carry 3 ounces of cannabis outside of their home and 24 grams of concentrated cannabis. That goes for both recreational and medicinal marijuana.
However, if you live in Florida, recreational use is not yet legal. Therefore, you will have to obtain a medical marijuana card to buy cannabis in the state.
Once you get your card, it allows you to legally purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis every 35 days. But you should keep in mind that if you get caught carrying 20 grams or more, it is a third-degree felony.
So, why get a medical marijuana card if recreational marijuana is legal in your state? Let’s discuss.
Medical Marijuana Card vs No Card
As stated, recreational marijuana does not require a card, but medical marijuana does. It may sound simpler to buy marijuana without the trouble of going to see a doctor, but the card can provide a better experience for you, which we will cover here.
Medical Marijuana vs Recreational Difference in Quality?
Marijuana quality is something many people don’t think about. A well-grown, quality plant should have a sweet and earthy aroma that is indicative of a high level of terpenes, which are compounds that assist in the benefits that THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids provide.
Differences in quality can exist between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana due to the regulations on how they are grown and cultivated. In some states, you can grow recreational cannabis either inside or outside. Due to lesser regulations, this marijuana may not be of the highest quality.
On the other hand, medical marijuana comes with far more rules and regulations. That is especially true in Florida, where it is still illegal to grow inside the comfort of your own home. While these rules may seem strict, they also provide a healthier strain quality, as you know you’re getting the full benefits for your medical situation.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) keeps a close eye on how dispensaries grow their marijuana because people with terminal illnesses and varying ages often use it. That means you can be sure that your medicinal strain is also free of pesticides, toxins, and other poisons that may make their way into unregulated recreational cannabis.
Medical Marijuana vs Recreational Costs
Some people choose medicinal marijuana over recreational because of the cost savings. These savings are often because of taxes.
Many states have an excise tax on recreational marijuana purchases in addition to their regular sales tax – while medical marijuana is taxed much less. For example, in Colorado where both forms are legal, recreational purchasers must pay 15% sales tax plus a 15% excise tax. Those with a medical marijuana card only have to pay a 2.9% sales tax.
Many medicinal marijuana patients require a certain potency in order to alleviate the symptoms they are using it for. Often, recreational marijuana dispensaries have regulations on their potency. For example, in California, recreational dispensaries must abide by limits of 1,000 mg of cannabinoids or less in each product. In the same state, the medical marijuana dispensaries have a higher limit of around 2,000 mg.
This allows the potency of the medical marijuana to be a bit higher, and more beneficial to those wishing to alleviate their symptoms.
Marijuana Stigma
Cannabis laws are still evolving and new to our society. But it seems that Americans are getting more and more comfortable with marijuana use, especially for medicinal purposes. The number of U.S. adults who oppose complete marijuana legalization has gone from 52% in 2010 to 32% in 2019.
If you have a medical marijuana card, it shows that you need the drug to ease the pain of an ailment.
Therefore, if you worry about what your friends and family think, a card may help. So, even if you live in a fully legal state like New York, a medical marijuana card may help you curb people’s negative notions.
Buying Medicinal Marijuana
The shopping experience is slightly different between these two classifications as well. If you live in New York, your dispensary might have two sides to it. One side is for recreational marijuana, while the other is for medicinal.
You should be able to buy recreational marijuana without a card. You will also consider different things like what type of cannabis gives the best high or helps with creativity.
On the other hand, buying medicinal marijuana will require you to show your license and medical marijuana card. When you first obtain a medical marijuana card, your marijuana physician will help determine the appropriate dosage for your needs. This information, combined with dispensary staff’s knowledge, should help you make informed decisions on what to purchase.
A medical marijuana card helps your customer experience to be more remarkable because once you’ve worked with your physician, the expert at the dispensary also helps take all of your concerns, symptoms, and conditions into consideration. After speaking with you a bit, they will point you in the direction for the best strain possible.
You should also know that if you enter a dispensary that sells both types of marijuana, there will be a dividing line. You likely cannot pass over to the medicinal side unless you show evidence of a recommendation.
It’s important to note that recreational marijuana is only legal in a handful of states and each state has different reciprocity laws. So, if you travel from one state to another, your card may not always work.
As you can tell, there are several differences when it comes to medical vs recreational marijuana. When choosing what type is right for you, consider the laws in your state and whether you need cannabis for recreation or to ease the pain of a health condition. While there is nothing wrong with recreational use, having a medical marijuana card allows for a better and easier experience when buying, growing, and carrying cannabis. If you live in New York or Florida, feel free to visit THC Physician to see if you qualify for a card today.
For thousands of years, mushrooms have been renowned not only as a culinary staple but also for their medicinal uses, including promoting energy, immunity, and relieving stress. With so many mushroom types, each has its own unique properties and unparalleled therapeutic benefits.
This guide touches on almost everything you would want to know about mushrooms for medicinal use. We’ll start with precisely what mushrooms are (and what’s in them), their history, and how they grow. Then we’ll walk you through some of the different mushroom types, their properties, and health benefits. Finally, we’ll show you the different ways you can supplement them into your diet to get the utmost superfood advantages!
The History and Makeup Of A Mushroom
All mushrooms are fungi, which is a common fact. Since mold and mildew are also fungi, mushrooms cause some people to turn up their noses without question. But there are over 144,000 species of fungi 1, including yeast. So if mushrooms are a turn-off, you may need to avoid bread and beer, too.
In scientific terms, Fungi is the kingdom that a mushroom belongs to. While fungi were once labeled as plants, their lack of chlorophyll2 and their unique structures shifted them to their own group.
Mushrooms are umbrella-shaped sporophores, which are the spore-bearing parts of the fungus. They use fibers called hyphae3 to take in food and mature into structures that penetrate the soil to rise and disperse spores.
Some mushrooms are safe to eat and offer numerous health benefits, while others pose a risk if ingested or sometimes even touched. These often colorful, poisonous mushrooms are sometimes referred to as toadstools4 to differentiate between delicious, beneficial mushrooms and toxic, inedible mushrooms.
Toadstools
The History Of The Mushroom
About 4600 years ago5, Egyptians were already touting the numerous health benefits of mushrooms. They even believed that they created immortality, and Pharaohs even kept them for themselves.
While immortality may be a myth, the Chinese and Japanese have also been utilizing mushrooms for thousands of years. The Shiitake mushroom was initially cultivated in China over 800 years ago for its medicinal use. Other types even date back to 300 B.C. in China.
Different cultures cultivated various types and species of mushrooms for other uses. The Japanese even combined Shiitake mushrooms with AIDS drugs6 in hopes of boosting immune response.
The most basic culinary mushrooms, the Portobello and Crimini, were first harvested in France around 16507 when a melon farmer first observed them growing in this crop compost. Since then, they’ve become the easiest to cultivate and market.
Are Mushrooms Good For You?
Inside a mushroom, you’ll find fiber, vitamins, and minerals. While actual nutritional benefits can vary from mushroom to mushroom, you’ll find a variety of immune-boosting compounds in general.
Mushroom Nutrition:
Antioxidants: These are compounds that prevent oxidation, which produces free radicals8 that damage your cells
Beta-glucans: All fibers are not created equal. This particular fiber is strongly linked to reducing bad cholesterol and improving the overall health of your heart.
Prebiotics: These act as food for probiotics and help with your digestion and gut health to enhance your overall wellness.
B Vitamins: These essential vitamins9 help your body convert your food to energy. They also aid in the formation of red blood cells.
Copper: Helps the body absorb iron10, which helps to form red blood cells. It also supports collagen and energy production.
Potassium: A mineral that helps your cells function adequately11. Potassium is responsible for the electrical functions of the heart, which ensures a healthy rhythm.
With so many nutritional benefits and the fact they grow from the earth, you may wonder if mushrooms are considered a vegetable.
Are Mushrooms A Vegetable?
Botanically and scientifically, they’re fungi, so they can’t be considered a vegetable. Vegetables are defined12 as the edible portion of a plant – and a mushroom is not a plant. So while they’re packed with nutrients and offer plenty of health benefits, they’re not considered a vegetable.
How Do Mushrooms Grow?
At some point in your life, you’ve likely been hiking and looked down to see mushrooms sprouting on a stump. You may have even had them on your lawn and found yourself seeking measures to eliminate them.
What makes them flourish? And how can you grow them purposely? Mushrooms grow where the environment is perfectly hospitable. They thrive in locations where there has been wet, humid weather. The fungi are below the surface, but the “fruit” (the mushroom itself) sprouts and can spread its spores to other locations.
If the new location is just as hospitable, the fungus will thrive there as well. As long as organic matter is available to feed on and conditions remain cool, wet, and humid, the mushroom will continue to exist. Once it dries out, the mushroom goes away, but the fungal mycelia13 continue to stay in the soil as long as it remains fed.
How To Grow Your Own Mushrooms
You may not be able to produce any mushrooms at home, which is why you’ll find that some are more expensive than others. For example, the Matsutake Mushroom grows under red pine trees in Japan. Other cultivation methods have been unsuccessful, so you can find them priced up to $2,000 per pound14.
To grow your own mushrooms15, you’ll need to start with the right environment – for most types, that’s defined as dark, cool, and humid, preferably between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Many choose their basements or a spot under the sink.
You’ll also need to begin with mushroom spawn. Mushroom spawn is a mixture of mushroom spores and the sources they need to feed on, such as grain or sawdust. Depending on which species of mushroom you’ll be growing, each has its own growing needs. For example, white mushrooms need composted manure, and shiitakes prefer wood.
The best thing you can do is purchase a mushroom growing kit, which has everything you need to get started. For example, a Bed, Bath, & Beyond kit is for growing Oyster mushrooms and includes organic plant-based soil, mushroom spores, and a spray mister.
The easiest way to get the concentrated benefits of mushrooms without the anguish of growing them is to purchase mushroom supplements. We’ll discuss more on those below.
A 2018 study16 found that medicinal mushrooms may be an unknown source of compounds for cancer therapy. The anticancer potential is just one of the many hopeful benefits in the past and the future. Here are some of the top mushrooms for medicinal use and what each does for your body.
Power Mushrooms: Which Offer The Most Potential Health Benefits?
Turkey Tail Mushroom
Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) is a famous polypore mushroom that, hence its name, resembles the tail of a wild turkey. With stripes of brown, tan, and white, its distinctive look is easy to spot on dead hardwoods all over the world. In Japan, it’s often referred to as the “kararitake” mushroom, which translates to “cloud mushroom” because of its swirling cloud look.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Used for centuries in Chinese medicine by practitioners, studies17 have shown the Turkey Tail mushroom to promote immune function and digestive health. They often created a brew of turkey tail mushroom tea to combat sickness. In traditional medicine, it’s used as an antitumor remedy. It’s also used to help with pulmonary issues, like clearing dampness and strengthening the lungs.
Turkey Tail mushrooms are among the most heavily researched mushrooms because of their naturally occurring polysaccharides – especially polysaccharide K (PSK). PSK has been shown in studies18 to support a robust immune response on a cellular level.
Turkey Tails also have compounds that support digestive health and contain more than 35 phenols19, which are the most potent sources of antioxidants.
They also include quercetin and baicalein20, which are flavonoid antioxidants. Quercetin has been shown21 to promote the release of interferon-y, which is an immunoprotective protein. It’s also known to inhibit the release of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, which are inflammation-producing enzymes.
Related: Get Turkey Tail mushroom supplements here.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most well-known mushrooms in the world. Native to East Asia, they’re tan or brown in color with a convex cap that is 2-6 inches when fully grown22. They grow naturally on decaying trees and have been grown in Asia for thousands of years23. They’re now the second most-produced globally.
Until 1972, shiitake culture was banned in the United States because the mushroom collects nutrients from wood, raising concerns about it “feeding” on necessary timbers, like structures and railroad ties. This theory proved to be a myth.
Since then, shiitake mushrooms have become cultivated and utilized on a larger scale, and have become more widely known for their health benefits.
Shiitake Mushroom
A Study on Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms have immune-boosting vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. A 2015 nutritional study24 set out to determine whether dried shiitake mushrooms consumed daily would improve immune function. The study took 52 healthy males and females between the ages of 21-41 who consumed mushrooms daily for 4-weeks.
The study, which used blood, saliva, and serum testing, concluded that the consumption resulted in improved immunity (as seen by enhanced cell effector function) and a reduction in inflammation.
In addition to immune support, Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that are known to reduce bad cholesterol25. Here are the three compounds and their role in cholesterol reduction:
Sterols: block cholesterol absorption
Beta-glucans: a type of fiber that lowers cholesterol
Eritadenine: hinders an enzyme that creates cholesterol in your body.
Related: Get a Mushroom Master Blend that includes dried Shiitake mushrooms here.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium Erinaceus) have been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. In China, it’s referred to as Hou Tou Gu – or Monkey Head mushroom. In Japan, it’s known as Yamabushitake.
The appearance of the mushroom is round and white with shaggy spines. They emerge as a cluster of long, white threads – almost like the hair of a lion’s mane – hanging from dead hardwoods. Their distinct look means they are not usually mistaken for other mushroom varieties.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
People who eat the mushroom compare the flavor to seafood, similar to crab or lobster. With its unique flavor comes a host of health benefits.
Clinical trials and studies have purported an assortment of lion’s mane components that could enhance your longevity. In fact, a 2012 study26 showed that lion’s mane was among the mushrooms with the highest level of antioxidants.
Buddhist monks even used Lion’s Mane mushrooms to create a powder and make tea. They felt it enhanced their focus during their meditations.
Lion’s Mane Health Benefits
Immune Function: These mushrooms are known to reduce inflammation. In one study27, researchers found that they even boosted the intestinal immune system in mice.
Anxiety Reduction: In one small study28, the group that consumed lion’s mane extracts had lower stress and anxiety levels than those given a placebo.
Cognitive Function: Lion’s mane mushrooms may boost memory29 and even potentially treat diseases like Alzheimer’s that cause cognitive decline.
Heart Health: Preliminary research in animals30 shows possible cholesterol-lowering effects.
Digestive Health: Several studies31 have shown lion’s mane mushroom extract to prevent the growth of H. pylori. These bacteria can lead to stomach ulcers by damaging the protective layer inside the stomach. Lion’s mane may also help treat inflammatory bowel diseases32.
Diabetes Management: Lion’s mane may help diabetes patients by improving the balance of blood sugar. In animal studies33, even low doses of lion’s mane were shown to significantly lower blood sugar by blocking the enzyme activity that processes carbs.
Cancer-Fighting: While more studies are needed, some studies34 have shown that lion’s mane extract caused cancer cells to die at faster rates in test tubes. The effects have yet to be tested in humans, so more research is needed to conclude the benefits accurately.
As more and more research is done, the benefits of lion’s mane may come to light. You can reap the potential benefits with supplements found here.
Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lingzhi) are one of the more rare mushrooms found growing at the base of live trees. Their appearance is very distinguished, with a white to sunny yellow ombre that meets a burnt orange-red in the center. They are described as having a more rigid texture and a bitter taste – which is why they’re often used medicinally rather than for culinary enhancements.
Reishi Mushrooms
While you’ll come across reishi mushrooms sold as a food product, they’re more often consumed dried or as an extract.
Reishi mushrooms have a wide range of potential benefits. Their makeup of polysaccharides, peptides, and triterpenoids may contribute to some of the mushroom’s advantages. Along with dietary fiber and a handful of vitamins and minerals, many find themselves consuming the healthy fungus to reap any potential benefits.
The most conclusive scientific studies have found the likely potential benefits to be:
Immune boosting: Reishi mushrooms have been shown in test-tube studies35 to affect white blood cells’ genes positively. Research has also indicated that there is a positive effect on immune functions36 in late-stage cancer patients. The white blood cells that fight the hardest, dubbed “natural killer” cells (NK)37, had increased activity from the reishi mushroom’s molecules.
Cancer-fighting: In 2012, researchers studied38 4,000 breast cancer survivors. Of the 4,000, about 59% of them consumed reishi mushrooms. Other research on colorectal cancers39 indicated that with one year of reishi treatment, the number and size of tumors in the large intestine decreased.
Depression, Anxiety & Fatigue treatment: In a study of 132 people40 with neurasthenia (a condition associated with pain and irritability), fatigue was significantly reduced after just 4-8 weeks of reishi supplements. The same group noted decreased anxiety and decreased depression.
Other lesser studied benefits may include heart health by reducing triglycerides and increasing good HDL cholesterol. Some also claim reishi may help to control blood sugar41 and increasing antioxidant enzymes.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a charcoal-colored mushroom often referred to as the “king of mushrooms” for its superior health benefits and nutritional components. The mushrooms grow in the chilly forests of Russia, Scandinavia, the United States, Canada, Korea, and Japan, thriving on the trunk and branches of birch trees and other cold-weather trees.
Not only is the chaga mushroom charcoal in color, its shape and texture also resemble a chunk of burnt charcoal or a clump of dirt. Inside, you’ll find a soft core that is orange in color. The massive amounts of melanin, a pigment that darkens when exposed to UV, causes the deep shade.
Chaga Mushroom
In the 12th century, Russian Tsar Vladimir Monomakh was well-known for using the chaga for its medicinal purposes. Russians even labeled it “black gold” for its wide range of nutrients and compounds that are touted to reduce stress and aging, among other things. In Norway, they refer to chaga as kreftkjuke, which translates to “cancer fungus” for its believed health-enhancing properties.
The chaga is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, potassium, fiber, copper, selenium, zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, and more.
Among the purported health benefits of chaga mushrooms are:
Inflammation-fighting: studies suggest these mushrooms reduce long-term inflammation and fight viruses. This is also beneficial to those with arthritis.
Immune-boosting: Chaga encourages the production of advantageous cytokines, which are proteins that control the immune system. They also stimulate white blood cells.
Reducing blood sugar and diabetes prevention: According to a 2014 study42, the potent polysaccharides within chaga mushrooms can regulate blood sugar levels.
Possible cancer-fighting: Many animal and test-tube studies43 have shown that chaga mushrooms can slow cancer growths and reduce tumor size.
Heart Health: Research suggests chaga reduces oxidative stress, which is a contributing factor for high blood pressure.
Liver protection: The high amounts of polyphenols act as antioxidants and protect against the free radicals that lead to liver damage.
While fresh chaga can undoubtedly be found in nature, it’s best to buy it from a reputable retailer unless you’re familiar with accurately identifying and harvesting mushrooms.
One of the best ways to benefit from chaga mushrooms is through a tea blend containing chaga and other beneficial mushrooms.
Cordyceps Mushrooms
Cordyceps is a genus of mushrooms that is made up of over 400 species. The two that are the focus of health benefits are Cordyceps Sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Both species are praised for their multitude of treatment applications. Some consider this fungus only to be related to the mushroom since taxonomically, it differs. Nevertheless, it’s generally described as an exotic medicinal mushroom.
A unique characteristic of Cordyceps is that these mushrooms are parasitic fungi. Instead of developing on trees like many mushrooms, they grow on the larvae of insects, specifically certain caterpillars in China. The fungi attack their host and sprout long stems outside of their bodies. The resulting mushroom is a combination of caterpillar and fungus and is only found at high altitudes in its natural form.
Cordyceps Mushrooms
The unusual spindle-like appearance is distinguishable, as its color is also bright orange.
Cordyceps Sinensis has long since been described in Chinese medical books as actual medicine. Traditional healers recommend the mushroom’s medicinal use for all diseases. Studies have even shown44 that Cordyceps is used for the treatment of 21 ailments in Sikkim.
The mushroom gained popularity in the West for its athletic performance enhancement abilities. In 1993, Chinese athletes’ record-breaking performances45 were associated with a nutrition regimen that included Cordyceps supplements. Researchers concluded in a 28-day trial46 during high-intensity exercise; the supplements improved aerobic and anaerobic performance by increasing oxygen levels.
Other studies47 have shown that Cordyceps may improve blood flow to the liver and aid in lactate removal, which allows more intensive workouts with less exhaustion.
Cordyceps mushrooms contain cordycepin, which is a bioactive compound with many health benefits, including aiding in processes48 that decrease tumor cell proliferation.
Other potential uses of Cordyceps include:
Diabetes treatment: While this is more of a traditional Chinese medicine treatment, some studies49 show that Cordyceps reduced weight in diabetic mice, which in turn helped with controlling their diabetes.
Blood Pressure Reduction: Since Cordyceps have anti-inflammatory effects and contain cordycepin, it tends to relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
Asthma: The anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to helping asthma patients by relaxing their airways and reducing constriction that can trigger asthmatic reactions.
Cancers: While more studies are needed, a study in 200850 showed Cordyceps extract helped kill breast cancer cells in test tubes.
To benefit from Cordyceps supplements derived from mushrooms farmed indoors in California (rather than on caterpillars in China!), click here.
Maitake Mushrooms
Growing in parts of Japan, China, and North America in the autumn, the maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) usually grows attached to the bottom of Elm, Oak, or Maple trees.
Maitake translates to “dancing mushroom” in Japanese, said to have been named this because people danced when they found one.
In the United States and Europe, the maitake is also known as the “hen of the woods mushroom” since its growths resemble a chicken’s feathers. And in Italy, it’s known as signorina, or “unmarried woman.” Other less frequently used terms include sheep’s head or ram’s head due to their appearance.
Maitake Mushrooms
Some argue that Grifola, part of the scientific name, comes from the word griffin, which refers to the mythological beast, and frondosa translates to leaf-like. With the meanings combined, the mushroom may loosely translate to “leaf-like beast.”
Traditionally, these Japanese mushrooms were considered to be a very potent, medicinal treasure. They praised the mushrooms for boosting the immune system and even claimed they helped prevent cancer. The Japanese mushroom collectors would often seek the maitakes out by themselves to avoid giving away secret locations of clusters. In the late 1970s, new cultivation techniques arose, and we were able to produce them in larger quantities commercially.
The maitake mushroom is rich in antioxidants, beta-glucans, Vitamins B and C, copper, potassium, fiber, amino acids, and minerals.
Here are some of the practical reasons maitake mushrooms are heavily sought after:
Immune Boosting: Maitake is well-known for containing polysaccharides that help balance and control your immune system. They also intensify the action51 of T cells, B cells, and macrophages.
Blood Pressure Stabilization: The natural antioxidants, which include phenols and flavonoids, help fight against free radicals52 that cause high blood pressure and heart disease.
Cancer-Fighting: Many studies53 suggest that maitake can cause apoptosis (killing) of cancer cells. The enhancement of the immune system from the polysaccharides helps to attack tumor cells.
Diabetes Protection: Researchers study54 maitake mushrooms’ ability to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, which slows down glucose absorption.
Cholesterol Reducing: In 2013, a study showed55 that maitake extract lowered cholesterol levels in animals. Researchers concluded with the theory that maitake mushroom supplements may support healthy arteries.
To get the benefits of maitake mushroom powder, you can purchase supplements here.
King Trumpet Mushrooms
King trumpets (Pleurotus eryngii) are another healthy mushroom and the largest of the oyster mushroom family. They’re also known as king oyster mushrooms, king brown mushrooms, or french horn mushrooms. The mushroom’s shape is a small, flat cap above a thick cylindrical stem with ivory coloring.
King Trumpet Mushrooms
King trumpets are a culinary favorite, especially in China and Japan, as their flavor is savory umami with a soft, crunchy texture when cooked, making them a great meat substitution. Many use them as a vegan “scallop” since the taste and texture can mimic that of seafood.
The high demand and low cultivation in the mid-2000s caused them to be incredibly expensive. Since then, growers have cultivated them in the United States and a handful of other countries making them available for purchase in more places.
The king trumpet mushroom is rich in vitamins B6, C, and D and riboflavin, niacin, potassium, fiber, and folate. Their naturally occurring ergothioneine (an amino acid) is an antioxidant and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Ergothioneine is considered a master antioxidant – as it is the only one with its own cellular transport mechanism.
Studies have also shown king trumpets linked to:
Lowering Cholesterol: A study in 201156 found that feeding animals regularly with king trumpet mushrooms reduced their body weight and cholesterol. The study concluded that intake had significant benefits in hypercholesterolemia in rats.
Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer: Estrogen is responsible for breast cancer growth, and the ergostane-type sterols in king trumpet mushrooms may inhibit57 the negative effects of the hormone.
Supporting bone health: The same mushroom contents that reduce breast cancer risk also protect against bone loss58.
The estrogen-like compounds within the king trumpet mushroom are lauded to be great for menopausal women.
To get the king trumpet mushrooms in an easy supplement form, click here.
Antrodia Mushrooms
Antrodia cinnamomea, better known as Antrodia mushrooms, are native to Taiwan. There, it’s also known as “niu zhang zhi,” or “fungus of fortune.” The fungus only grows wildly inside the rotting brown heartwoods of Cinnamomum kanehirae trees in Taiwan at precise altitudes. This makes the wild form of this mushroom very rare and expensive, and the Taiwanese government even protects it.
The mushroom appears as a yellow to brownish orange with a flat, plate-like top.
Antrodia Mushrooms
Traditionally, the locals used the mushroom for alcohol toxicity remediation. Studies concluded that antcin K, the active component in Antrodia, counteracted liver-related injury.
Over 78 compounds59 that include terpenoids and polysaccharides have been recognized in Antrodia camphorata.
This biological structure has been credited as having potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects60, which have been linked to targeting and eliminating free radicals, which is a leading cause of faster-than-normal aging and oxidative stress.
Other potential health benefits of consuming Antrodia camphorata include:
Liver Health: In addition to just helping with liver health in alcoholic cases, the Antrodia mushroom is also a general healthy choice for any hepatic injury by increasing antioxidant defense.
Immune Boosting: Antrodia boosts the immune system by spurring the generation of lymphocytes, a white blood cell that is vital to the immune system. These cells allow the body to fight off pathogens and prevent disease.
Heart health: The mushroom is rich in adenosine, which is a purine that is found naturally within our bodies and is beneficial to heart health.
Blood pressure: The purine mentioned above is also known to expand the blood vessels to increase blood supply and oppose adrenaline, helping to reduce blood pressure.
For mushroom powder and other supplements that contain Antrodia, shop here.
Agaricus Blazei Mushrooms
Agaricus blazei Murill, usually known just as Agaricus blazei, is a mushroom grown in Brazil, China, and Japan. They contain compounds believed to be antioxidants, among many other health benefits. They appear as white or gray to a reddish-brown. The tightly-packed gills turn from white to pink as the mushroom ages.
Agaricus Blazei Mushrooms
Used in folk medicine to prevent disease, Agaricus blazei mushrooms can be used as a supplement or used in culinary ways. Some explain their smell as being that of almonds, which leads it to be sometimes referred to as the “almond mushroom”. It’s also known as Ba xi mó gu in traditional Chinese medicine, as Cogumelo do sol in Brazil and as Himematsutake in Japan.
The mushroom, which contains vitamins like C, B, and D, as well as minerals like phosphorus, copper, zinc and potassium, was first believed61 to lower rates of aging and disease due to their isoflavonoids.
More often the fruit body extract is considered more potent and contains the most benefit. The mycelium extracts can be just as beneficial, but less potent, and therefore cheaper.
The health benefits of Agaricus blazei mushrooms include:
Diabetes treatment: According to researchers62, Agaricus blazei contains beta-glucan, which is a type of dietary fiber that improves blood glucose levels by reducing stress on the pancreas, which is the body’s source of insulin. In the study, when used in combination with other diabetes drugs, Agaricus blazei provided a medicinal duo that was able to improve insulin resistance.
Inflammatory bowel disease: Agaricus blazei mushrooms contain potent anti-inflammatories, which may benefit people suffering from ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. In a 2011 study63, adults with Crohn’s had significantly reduced intestinal inflammation when using an Agaricus blazei mushroom extract for 12 days.
Anti-tumor properties: Several studies have indicated that Agaricus blazei enables apoptosis in cancer cells, such as multiple myeloma, leukemia, prostate cancer, lung cancer and ovarian cancer. In a 2011 review64, the mushroom was able to prevent the spreading of cancers and limit the growth of tumors.
In addition to the above, studies are still being conducted on other uses with promising outlooks. These include helping with chemotherapy side effects, reducing cholesterol, inhibiting hardening of the arteries, relieving chronic hepatitis, digestion problems, stress, heart disease prevention, bone strengthening, and stomach ulcer prevention.
To reap the many benefits of Agaricus blazei mushrooms, click here to purchase supplements that include this and other beneficial mushrooms in a master blend!
Mushroom Powder and Other Mushroom Supplements
It’s not easy to get a large number of mushrooms in your body without eating different types with every single meal. Mushroom supplements can help you benefit from the extraordinary advantages of mushrooms in a concentrated form. Here are some ways you can supplement mushrooms into your diet, and where you can get them:
Mushroom Powder: a pulverized dried mushroom form, you get the health benefits in a manner that you can add to many things. Add it to your coffee, tea, smoothies, and recipes. This master mycologist-created blend from OM contains over 2,000mg of organic mushroom superfood per serving, including the benefits from 10 different species of mushrooms! It’s also vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, paleo, kosher, and grown in California!
Mushroom Capsules: With the mushroom powder in capsule form, you can take them anytime without adding it to foods. You get all the benefits of the mushroom powder, but with an easier way to consume it. Try these capsules that have the same 2,000 mg of organic mushroom superfood per serving.
Mushroom Cold Drink Mix: Don’t like mushroom flavors? This route may be perfect for you. These powder supplements are added to water and provide a fruity flavor while getting all your mushroom benefits.
Mushroom Coffee: Not only can you add a mushroom powder to your coffee, but you can also get coffee that is ready to go with a mushroom blend. This one has a bold flavor and offers 2000mg of mushrooms plus Ginkgo Biloba for focus.
Mushroom Hot Chocolate: Not a coffee drinker? You can still get the benefits of mushrooms in a cup of creamy hot cocoa. This hot chocolate mix gets mixed with eight ounces of water or milk and has a four-mushroom blend to support your immune system.
Mushroom Broths: If you prefer the savory route, you can try getting your mushroom benefits in a broth form. These broths come in Veggie Miso, Beef Bone Broth, Mushroom Broth, and Chicken Bone Broth and all contain a blend of mushrooms for a healthy boost.
The Magic of Mushrooms
No matter how you decide to get mushrooms into your diet, the health benefits are superb. There isn’t much to lose with so much research into these magical fungi – but a lot to gain by including them into your diet.
The new ways to consume them make it easier to get all of the fantastic health benefits – even if you don’t like the mushrooms’ taste. With more studies being developed each day and more advantages being found, the pro-immune and anti-inflammatory compounds may undoubtedly be something to strive to incorporate into our daily diets.
THC physicians are here to help people in New York and Florida receive the medical treatment they need. If you have any questions about getting a marijuana card, please browse our how-to page for more information or contact us if there is anything we can answer for you!
If you’re here, you likely already know you’d like to take CBD or THC, but the ratios can be daunting.
With a little help from us, you can fully understand just what you need to get the effect you’re seeking.
First, we’ll go over what THC and CBD actually are to understand these cannabinoid components better. We’ll then get into the CBD THC ratios: what they mean, how to read them, and suggested proportions for your desired effects.
What is a Cannabinoid?
The cannabis plant contains over 100 naturally occurring chemical compounds called cannabinoids. Each one interacts differently with the receptors in your body through its endocannabinoid system (ECS).
What Is The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?
Your ECS regulates your mood, sleep, appetite, and memory and is active in your body regardless of whether or not you use cannabinoid-containing products.
Endocannabinoids, which are your internal, naturally produced cannabinoids that are a primary component of the ECS, help keep your body in homeostasis. The endocannabinoids adhere to receptors within your body, namely the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Depending on where the receptors are located will determine the effect it produces on your body.
Once the endocannabinoids have bound to their receptors and performed their role, enzymes break down their components.
When you introduce external cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, into your body, they too bind to the same receptors as the endocannabinoids and work much in the same way.
Now that we understand cannabinoids and how they affect your body, let’s discuss the two most well-known cannabinoids in cannabis, beginning with THC.
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC, is one of the main cannabinoids in the cannabis plant and the one that creates the well-known psychoactive effect of marijuana.
THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors that are most abundant in the central nervous system and brain, which contributes to its psychoactive effects.
In addition to the “high” that THC causes, it has many other short-term feelings it creates, both positive and negative. These can range from stress-free and peaceful to reductions in pain and can vary from person to person. Some other feelings and effects, according to Leafly, include:
Elation
Relaxation
Energy
Sedation
Drowsiness
Increased heart rate
Eye redness
Slowed perception of time
Dry mouth
Laughter
Dizziness
“Couch-lock” or heavy feeling
Paranoia
CBD is another main cannabinoid component of cannabis that has been in the news lately for the optimism of its positive effects.
What is CBD?
Short for cannabidiol, CBD is another compound found in cannabis. CBD does not have psychoactive effects like THC does, so it will not give you a high.
There are exceptions to this, however. 5% of people claim to feel altered after taking CBD, but they tend to be the same individuals that would also feel their body altered by something as simple as Tylenol.
While more research is needed to confirm the above benefits, the side effects are few and far between. While they can occur, they mainly include diarrhea and fatigue.
Now that you understand CBD and THC, and know the main difference is in their psychoactive effects, let’s talk about the ratios you may need for your intended use. The chart below can help you learn which cannabinoid may be more likely to benefit your specific ailment.
*While marijuana is federally illegal, and therefore THC, some states have exceptions, such as being medically legal. CBD also has exceptions to its legality, such as needing to contain less than .3% THC. You can read your state’s medical marijuana laws here.
What Does a CBD THC Ratio Mean?
CBD oils can contain small amounts of THC, and medical marijuana strains can be comprised of both THC and CBD.
The ratios of each cannabinoid in the strain may determine the benefits you receive, as well as any side effects. So it’s essential to understand these ratios to potentially help the ailment or medical condition you intended.
Understanding that both cannabinoids can be in a CBD or THC-containing product is the first step in understanding the ratios. It’s also important to know how to read them.
How to Read CBD THC Ratios
Since medical marijuana products that contain THC sometimes contain CBD as well, there is generally a shown ratio on the product.
Reading the ratios is very simple. The first number refers to the parts that are CBD vs. the parts that are THC. For example, a ratio you see displayed as 1:2 means that it is one part CBD for every two THC parts. In other words, there is two times as much THC than there is CBD. A ratio of 1:0 would mean that it’s CBD with no THC (therefore no high at all).
Different ratios produce different effects; therefore, it’s necessary to know which is best for your personal circumstances.
Common CBD THC Ratios
One purpose for having CBD in the product is that this cannabinoid is known to counteract some of THC’s adverse psychoactive effects in some people. For this reason, CBD makes the experience with THC-containing products a bit more pleasant.
Other reasons for including CBD are that certain combinations of the two cannabinoids can present particular impacts and benefits. Here are some common ratios and how they may benefit you:
CBD: THC Ratio of 1:1
While still impairing, the equal parts tend to produce a milder “high”. While you can still receive the potential benefits of both cannabinoids, they balance each other out for a more mild psychoactive effect.
CBD: THC Ratio of 5:1
This ratio means there is a medium to a high amount of CBD and a medium amount of THC. This is a good ratio for someone who has some tolerance to THC but would prefer more of CBD’s benefits.
CBD: THC Ratio of 1:2
This ratio may be good for those who want the effect of THC offset by CBD. Patients who take medical marijuana with these ratios tend to have less of the anxiety and paranoia associated with the higher-THC strains.
CBD: THC Ratio of 1:10 or more
These are very high THC strains and are generally helpful for pain, but will have an intense psychoactive effect as well.
CBD: THC Ratio of 10:1
This is a good choice for beginners who aren’t quite sure how THC will affect them. You’ll receive the benefits of CBD, with low amounts of THC.
CBD: THC Ratio of 5:2
This ratio gives you more CBD than THC but still has a mild euphoria.
Your choice of ratio comes down to how much of the “high” you wish to suppress with the CBD and whether you can benefit from the effects of both cannabinoids.
While researchers are consistently studying the benefits of both CBD and THC, initial studies do show potential. If you feel your medical condition can benefit from marijuana, and you’re ready to take action, you can refer to this quiz to determine your medical marijuana card eligibility.
If you have any questions please contact THC Physicians. If you live in New York or Florida, feel free to visit THC Physician to see if you qualify for a card today.
It can be worrisome to a medical marijuana user when it comes to employment. We’ve come a long way in what we know about marijuana and its effects and benefits. So, in 2021, will the employer fault you for a failed drug test when you’re taking marijuana for your medical ailments?
Failing a pre-employment drug screening may not be an immediate no-hire, but there are some caveats.
Here, we will go over what these pre-employment drug screening tests are looking for, the reason employers give them, state laws pertaining to medical marijuana, the rules relating to employers, and if you can expect to get the job if you test positive.
What Do Pre-Employment Drug Tests Look For?
According to Healthline, in a urine screening, the drugs the company is testing for the presence of are:
amphetamines
methamphetamines
benzodiazepines
barbiturates
marijuana
cocaine
PCP
methadone
opioids (narcotics)
In some screenings, they also test for alcohol presence.
Why Do Employers Conduct Drug Tests?
Whether a urine drug test, saliva test, blood test, or even a hair sample, an employer may want to conduct a pre-employment drug screen for many reasons.
Often, companies have policies against drug use for health and safety reasons, as well as legal liabilities. The number one reason is safety, and the employer wants to be sure that everyone is protected at all times.
There’s an overwhelming sentiment that marijuana, even for medical purposes, leads to job risks because of impaired judgment and a lack of employee focus. For this reason, in jobs that require the use of machinery or the operation of vehicles, drug tests are almost always mandatory – both pre-employment and regularly during employment.
Some states actually allow employers to prohibit medical marijuana use. Other states consider it discrimination. It is forbidden to not hire someone in these states due to their marijuana use when they have a qualifying condition and have obtained a medical marijuana card.
State Laws for Medical Marijuana Use
Marijuana laws change rapidly in the United States. The constant updates are due mainly to the increasing research on medical benefits. According to a Gallup poll of 1,000 adults in the United States, 64% believe the government should completely legalize marijuana. Of those in support, 86% say their reason for siding with legalization is to support its medicinal use.
In some states, marijuana, even for medical use, is entirely illegal. As of November 2020, these states are:
Alabama
Idaho
Kansas
Nebraska
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Wyoming
However, in North Carolina and Nebraska, while marijuana is illegal, it is decriminalized. This doesn’t mean you can’t get in trouble. It means the state has specific possession amounts that are treated as a non-criminal.
In other states, marijuana is fully legal (*or is pending enactment), even for recreational use. These states and territories include:
Alaska
Arizona*
California
Colorado
District of Columbia
Illinois
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
Montana*
Nevada
Oregon
South Dakota*
Vermont
Washington
And in some states, marijuana is illegal for recreational use but legal for medicinal use once you’ve spoken with a certified medical marijuana physician. The physician will determine eligibility and help you to obtain a special card through the state. These include New York and Florida, among many others.
Now that we have a briefing on the marijuana laws, do any laws relate to the employer’s ability to require a passed drug test?
If Marijuana Is Legal, Can Employers Test For It?
Regardless of whether or not marijuana is fully legal, illegal, or medicinally legal, it is up to the employer’s discretion in many states. They may decide to do pre-employment drug screening no matter what, as it is not forbidden. The only laws are around what they can and can’t do about a positive test.
According to California NORML, which is a non-profit dedicated to California’s marijuana law reformation, the following states prohibit employment discrimination for using medical marijuana (* particular circumstances may apply): Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine*, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada*, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia.
Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island even go as far as to say that a positive drug test is not indicative of impairment.
In New York City, laws were recently passed that legally ban an employer from denying a job applicant work based solely on a failed marijuana drug screening.
Washington, DC has also recently approved protection for cannabis users in the workplace. And San Francisco has had protection since 1985 against job discrimination for marijuana positivity.
Above all, it is not illegal for your employer to give you a pre-employment drug screening. Remember, marijuana is not the only drug or chemical the test is screening for.
However, it is unlawful in the states mentioned above for your employer to discriminate against you for marijuana presence. Keep in mind; that in the states where marijuana is not legal for recreational use, they may require a valid medical marijuana card for this protection to apply.
Can I Still Get the Job if I Test Positive for Marijuana?
There are always several other caveats. For one, marijuana is still federally classed as an illegal substance. So if a federally-controlled company were to give you a pre-employment drug screening, whether you have a medical marijuana card or not will likely mean nothing. You are much more likely to be declined a job in this case.
For positions that require the use of heavy machinery, vehicles, or it would otherwise be a considerable safety hazard to have anything that can impair you in your system, testing negative may still be a requirement, and in these cases, you are not likely to be hired.
Above all, except where you are legally protected or the job has certain requirements, it will ultimately come down to the employer’s discretion and your state’s laws.
It’s always best to visit your own state government’s website to verify your area’s regulations, as they can change and update very often. You can find a dropdown of states with all relevant information pertaining to laws here.
THC physicians are here to help people in New York and Florida receive the medical treatment they need. If you have any questions about getting a marijuana card, please browse our how-to page for more information or contact us if there is anything we can answer for you!