Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Southern Maryland It’s a common misconception that the THC in marijuana has one function – to produce an altered-state of consciousness, also known as a high. However, it’s actually a complex compound with the ability to alleviate chronic pain and symptoms of a number of physical and psychological conditions. So, what is it and how does it work? Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of THC and how it compares to CBD. What is THC and How Does it Work? Tetrahydrocannabinol is a psychoactive compound found in medical marijuana that produces feelings of euphoria. Because its structure can mimic a naturally-occurring chemical in the brain called anandamide, Tetrahydrocannabinol is able to affect communication between neurons and the brain. As a result, using it may impact an individual’s thought process, memory, pleasure, movements, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception. What’s the Difference Between THC and CBD? Despite the fact that THC and Cannabidiol (CBD) are two structurally similar compounds, there are a few rather large differences between the two. CBD is not psychoactive and doesn’t cause a high. In fact, CBD actually counteracts the effects of Tetrahydrocannabinol. What Are the Benefits of THC? Lawmakers in 33 states and DC have recognized the health and wellness advantages of medical marijuana and legalized its use. In fact, studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Tetrahydrocannabinol on neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, as well as the ability to help individuals with multiple sclerosis. Additionally, it’s known to increase appetite in cases of anorexia nervosa, decrease inflammation, alleviate vomiting and other chemotherapy side effects, and ease chronic pain. What’s more, qualifying patients can access these THC benefits in a variety of forms, including syrups, edibles, oils, drops, and topicals (creams, lotions, and balms). In cannabis-oil form, studies have shown that Tetrahydrocannabinol can be used to treat neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These studies also showed that THC can ease pain and help alleviate multiple sclerosis. For additional information about medical marijuana in Southern Maryland, please contact our dispensary today.
6 Factors That Make a Great Medical Marijuana Dispensary
Best Marijuana Dispensary Southern Maryland Once you have received your medical marijuana ID, the next step is finding a dispensary that meets your needs. Choosing the right place to purchase cannabis can seem intimidating at first, and it’s important for users to do their research before making a selection. So, what makes a great medical marijuana dispensary? Keep reading to learn 6 factors that you should consider before picking your place of business. 1. Positive and Credible Reviews Online reviews are one way for prospective clients to evaluate a dispensary. That being said, be sure to look for specifics in the assessments each person provides and note any patterns in their description. This offers credibility to their statements. 2. Complies With Dispensary Regulations A trustworthy dispensary also takes care to adhere to government laws and regulations, so that they are permitted to stay in business. This means scanning your ID when you enter and make a purchase as well as handling marijuana correctly and making sure that it’s grown under proper guidelines. 3. Stocks a Variety of Cannabis Products Product selection is one of the key factors for many people when assessing what makes a good dispensary. More specifically, they should provide a variety of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains in many different forms, including edibles, balms, tinctures, and traditional buds. 4. Offers Reasonable Prices As with any other purchase, price matters. Therefore, it should sell cannabis at reasonable and competitive prices that are on par with their geographic location. 5. Employs Helpful Staff Whether a cannabis first-timer or a regular-user, there is always room to better understand your cannabis options and decide which product is right for you. Therefore, it’s essential to have helpful, patient, and knowledgeable staff. This is especially true when determining what makes a good dispensary because these individuals can make the difference between a positive experience or one that you want to forget. 6. Promotes Customer Loyalty Any successful business relies on the loyalty of its customers. That being said, a good dispensary takes the time to get to know regular clients and has programs that reward referrals and repeat shoppers. To learn more about the best dispensary in Southern Maryland, please call us today. We are happy to answer your questions and ensure you have a positive cannabis experience.
Vaping 101: Everything You Need to Know
Vaping Southern Maryland Disclaimer: Dispensary Works’ staff is keenly aware of the recent news about vaping and illness associated with them. We are following those reports closely. At this time, we have no indication of any Maryland regulated vapes being in question. If you are concerned, please ask to see our lab reports, talk to your health professional, or ask us for an alternative way of consumption. While many individuals are familiar with smoking cannabis, vaping is another way to utilize medical marijuana that’s convenient, effective, and fast-acting. In fact, there are a number of ways that patients can achieve symptom relief with medical marijuana, including edibles, balms, and tinctures. These options not only vary in their delivery, but also in taste and effects. Keep reading for everything you need to know about vaping medical marijuana in White Plains, MD. What is Vaping? Vaping medical marijuana is becoming an increasingly popular method for consuming cannabis and is an alternative to smoking. It involves using a low heat to activate the compounds in medical marijuana and then inhaling the vapor. Unlike smoking, this technique occurs without burning or combustion. What Are the Different Ways for Vaping Medical Marijuana? To start, individuals can either vape cannabis flower or cannabis concentrate, and most vaporizing devices are specified for one product or the other. Cannabis flower Using cannabis flower can be done with a hand-held portable vaporizer. This device contains a slot to insert the flower, a button, and something to inhale it through. Additionally, a table-top vaporizer heats the flower through a base and then allows the individual to inhale the vapor that’s been collected in an airtight bag. Cannabis Concentrate An e-pen is personal vaporizer that’s battery-powered and can be used for cannabis concentrate. With this method, there’s the option to use pre-filled vape cartridges or a refillable heating component that works with any concentrate. Why Try Vaping Medical Marijuana? Many individuals prefer vaping medical marijuana for a number of reasons, including: It’s convenient and fast-acting. Has fewer side-effects and is gentler on the respiratory system. Produces a light taste and minimal odor. Offers more cerebral effects, with increased action on the mind vs. the body. How to Vape It’s a fairly straightforward process in which a flower or concentrate is placed in a device to be heated and then the vapor is inhaled. To learn more about vaping medical marijuana in White Plains, MD, please contact our dispensary today.
5 Steps to Buying Medical Marijuana in Maryland
Guide to Buying Medical Marijuana Buying medical marijuana is a pretty new process for a lot of people. However, Maryland is among 33 states + DC that have legalized medical marijuana for eligible individuals with qualifying ailments. However, in order to seek treatment with medical cannabis, individuals must follow certain guidelines. If you believe that medical marijuana may be able to alleviate some of your symptoms or improve a health condition, keep reading to learn all about the process. Here are the 5 steps to buying medical marijuana in Maryland. 1. Check Your Qualifications for a Medical Marijuana Card The first step to buying medical marijuana in Maryland is determining if your symptoms and conditions meet the state’s eligibility requirements. Some medical issues that qualify for treatment with medical marijuana in Maryland include: Cachexia Anorexia Wasting syndrome Severe chronic pain Severe nausea Seizures, including those characteristic of epilepsy Severe and persistent muscle spasms Glaucoma Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Chronic pain 2. Obtain Doctor-Written Authorization Once you have determined that you have a qualifying condition that can be legally treated with medical marijuana, you will need to locate a doctor that can provide you with a prescription for it. He/she will assess your symptoms and determine if medical marijuana may be able to offer you some relief. If you are deemed a good candidate, then you will be issued a doctor-written authorization that will allow you to obtain an ID card, purchase, and use medical marijuana. 3. Find a Dispensary That Best Meets Your Needs Next, you should conduct some research in order to find a dispensary, with the staff, atmosphere, and product selection, that best meets your needs. This is especially important because each patient deserves an experience that caters to them. 4. Understand the Cannabis Basics While dispensary Budtenders can offer a wealth of knowledge to guide your medical marijuana journey, you should try to understand the cannabis basics beforehand. Doing so will ensure that you select the strain, product, delivery method, and dose that will be most effective in alleviating your symptoms and condition. 5. Try Different Medical Marijuana Products Each strain, whether it be indica, sativa, or hybrid, and delivery method, including smoking, vaping, edibles, balms, and tinctures, has its own unique properties and advantages. That being said, one of the most essential steps to buying medical marijuana in Maryland is experimenting with different cannabis products to find the one that’s best-suited to you and offers considerable relief. To learn more about the steps to buying medical marijuana in Maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
What is CBD and What Illnesses Does It Help Relieve?
Cannabidiol (CBD) Uses in Southern Maryland One of the key benefits of medical marijuana, cannabidiol in particular, is its ability to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with many diseases and disorders. In fact, many proponents of medical marijuana, specifically CBD, hail its safety and efficacy on chronic pain in the midst of an opioid crisis. So, what is CBD and which illnesses does it relieve? Here’s everything you need to know about this medical marijuana product. What is CBD and How Does It Work? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a type of cannabinoid – a chemical naturally found in marijuana and hemp plants. What’s more, cannabinoids do not produce a high that people get when using strains containing THC. Therefore, CBD oil offers purely therapeutic effects on chemical receptors in the brain and immune system. What Illnesses Does Cannabidiol Help Relieve? Chronic pain and inflammation When it comes to chronic pain and inflammation, researchers have found cannabidiol to be an excellent alternative to opioids and other habit-forming medications. In fact, a study evaluating CBD and chronic pain demonstrated that it was effective in reducing discomfort as well as pain-induced insomnia. Plus, it was able to produce these benefits without adverse side effects. According to the same evaluation, CBD oil may offer the greatest relief to patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Arthritis Additionally, after four consecutive days of applying cannabidiol gel to affected joints, animal subjects displayed decreased arthritic pain and inflammation. Cancer Lastly, there’s evidence that CBD oil can alleviate the pain of cancer treatment. More specifically, the National Cancer Institute has recognized CBD oil as a way that patients can reduce the negative and often debilitating effects of chemotherapy. What Are the Possible Side Effects of Cannabidiol? While many researchers have found CBD oil to be a safer alternative to opioids, it does have the potential to cause nausea, sleep disturbance, and irritability. That being said, withdrawal symptoms from CBD are extremely rare, which is a significant advantage over prescription pain medication. For additional information about cannabidiol and which illnesses it relieves, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Medical Uses of Marijuana: Which Strain is Right for You?
Sativa and Indica Medical Marijuana Strains Once patients obtain a medical marijuana prescription, they can legally purchase products from a dispensary. However, many individuals are unsure how to choose between the different medical cannabis strains to effectively treat their specific symptoms and condition. Therefore, it’s important to understand the different medical uses for marijuana when derived from the sativa and indica strains. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits and clinical indications for sativa and indica-based medical marijuana products. What Are Sativa strains of Medical Marijuana? Sativa plants are tall and thin, and medical marijuana products derived from this strain contain more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than an indica strain. As a result, sativa produces greater feelings of euphoria, boosts mood, and stimulates creativity and focus. What Are the Medical Uses for Sativa? Sativa strains are recognized for their ability to alleviate fatigue, nausea, stress, mood swings, and physical pain. As a result, medical marijuana products derived from this strain are ideal for patients suffering from mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar disorder), ADHD, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, and Alzheimer’s Disease. What Are Indica Strains of Medical Marijuana? Comparatively, the indica plant grows shorter and denser, and its strains have a larger amount of cannabinoids than sativa. That being said, indica-based products offer more calming and sedative effects. What Are the Medical Uses of Indica? Indica strains are known for inducing muscle relaxation and an increased appetite, uplifting mood, and causing sleepiness. Therefore, they are extremely effective in reducing anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, muscle spasms, nausea, headaches, and seizures. What’s more, indica-based products are recommended when treating a wide-variety of medical conditions. Some of these include: Cancer, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, lupus, sleep apnea, Parkinson’s Disease, arthritis, PMS, inflammation, Crohn’s Disease, and epilepsy. Like sativa, an indica strain also provide psychological benefits and are often used to address anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder, and panic attacks. To learn more about sativa and indica-based products, please contact our medical marijuana dispensary today.
The Different Methods of Medical Marijuana Consumption
Medical Marijuana Consumption Methods Medical marijuana is able to alleviate chronic pain, discomfort, and other symptoms associated with a number of medical conditions. In fact, medical marijuana consumption is prescribed as an alternative medication when traditional therapies have been ineffective or caused too many side effects. What’s more, medical marijuana isn’t just for smoking. It can actually be consumed in a variety of ways including vaping, edibles, tinctures, sublingual sprays, patches, topicals, and teas. Here’s what you need to know about these methods of medical marijuana consumption. Smoking Medical Cannabis Smoking medical cannabis is probably the most well-known form of consumption. It involves placing a portion of dried cannabis flower in a pipe, water pipe, or rolling paper and lighting it with a flame in order to inhale the smoke. Some of the key advantages of smoking medical marijuana are: It works quickly, is cost-effective, and is minimally processed. It also allows patients to easily regulate their dosing. However, smoking also has several drawbacks including: Negative effects on the lungs, it’s not a good option for people with pulmonary damage, and the residual smell of smoke on the individual. Vaporizing Medical Cannabis In order to vaporize cannabis, patients will need to pre-heat their vaporizer, insert dried cannabis flower, press a button to activate, and inhale. Vaping works well because it provides instant effects, it’s not as harsh on lungs, and doesn’t leave behind as much of a smell of smoke. Nevertheless, this method of medical marijuana consumption can also be expensive, and the device requires pre-heating and recharging of batteries. Edible Medical Marijuana One of the most enjoyable ways to consume medical marijuana is through edible products. In fact, it can be incorporated into some of your favorite foods including cookies, popcorn, crackers, nut mixes, lollipops, ice cream, gummy bears, chocolate bars, and chews. Other than a pleasant taste, edible forms of medical marijuana have additional benefits including: Long-lasting effects, zero inhalation, and precise dosing. Comparatively, it can take between 30 minutes to several hours for edibles to take effect, they provide a different high than inhalation, and they must be properly stored away from children and pets that could accidentally ingest them. Medical Marijuana Tinctures and Sublingual Sprays Tinctures and sublingual sprays are derived from cannabinoids that are mixed into an alcohol, glycerin solution, or coconut oil. The mixture is then sprayed underneath the tongue and absorbed through oral tissues. This way of administering medical marijuana is often recommended because it does not affect the lungs, is easy to control dosing, especially for small amounts, and causes only a mild high. For these reasons, it’s the preferred route of administration for children being treated with medical marijuana. However, this method of consumption can become expensive for individuals requiring larger doses. They also work faster than edibles, but not as quickly as inhalation. Other Forms of Medical Marijuana Consumption Medical cannabis transdermal patches, medical marijuana suppositories, medical marijuana topicals, ingesting fresh medical cannabis, medical marijuana beverages, and dabbing medical marijuana. For additional information about medical marijuana consumption, please contact our dispensary today.
Medical Marijuana Cost in Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
How Much Does Medical Marijuana Cost? As patients prepare for their first trip to a medical marijuana dispensary, many are unsure of how much product they should buy and what they should expect in terms of medical marijuana cost. Therefore, it’s important to understand the factors that affect pricing of medical marijuana, the increments in which its sold, and the average cost per strain depending on the amount. Here’s everything you need to know about the medical marijuana cost in the US, and Maryland in particular. In What Increments is Medical Marijuana Sold? Most medical marijuana dispensaries sell marijuana flower as fractions of an ounce. Here’s some information that can give patients a better idea of these increments: 1G = 1 gram ⅛ ounce = 3.5 grams ¼ ounce = 7 grams ½ ounce = 14 grams 1 ounce = 28 grams How Much Medical Marijuana Will I Need? The amount of medical marijuana that an individual may wish to buy depends on how often they will be smoking and their recommended dosage. So, for some, a gram of product may last one session, while for other is can last a day or longer. Patients can keep track of their daily consumption to better guide them on purchasing amounts for their next trip to the dispensary. Additionally, in most states, individuals can legally purchase and carry up to 1 ounce of medical marijuana. What’s the Average Medical Marijuana Cost in the US? While prices can vary according to geographic location, the national averages for medical marijuana prices are as follows: One Gram: $10-$20 Eighth: $30-$60 Quarter: $50-$120 Half Ounce: $120-$225 Ounce: $170-$375 You may note that the price per gram decreases when larger amounts are purchased. How Much Does Medical Marijuana Cost in Maryland? A number of factors can affect the price of medical marijuana including its potency (based on the percentage of cannabinoids), freshness (can be detected by smell and visual inspection), and quality and size of buds. At Dispensary Works in Maryland, our prices are on par with national averages for high-quality medical marijuana. Here’s a range of cost per gram and eighth of cannabis flower categorized by strain. Indica – 1 gram: $16 to $19 ⅛ ounce: $40 to $55 Sativa – 1 gram: $16 ⅛ ounce: $30 to $50 Hybrid – 1 gram: $16 to $18 ⅛ ounce: $40 to $60 For additional information about the cost of medical marijuana in the US and Maryland, please contact our dispensary today.
The Best Medical Marijuana Dispensary in Southern Maryland
Find the Right Dispensary in Southern Maryland More and more patients are turning to medical marijuana to treat and alleviate various health conditions, and finding the right marijuana dispensary is an important step. This is especially true when traditional therapies have been unsuccessful in alleviating pain and discomfort. That being said, one of the most important steps in obtaining medical marijuana is finding a dispensary that’s professional, secure, and meets your needs as a patient. This process may initially seem intimidating, but there are several ways to distinguish reputable medical marijuana dispensaries from those that are unqualified or do not prioritize patients’ well-being. Here are 4 ways to find the best medical marijuana dispensary in Southern Maryland. 1. Confirm That the Dispensary is Following Proper Legal Protocol A medical marijuana dispensary in Southern Maryland should always request a photo id and verify a patient’s medical marijuana status. Failure to comply with Maryland’s laws and regulations means that a dispensary may get shutdown at any time, leaving patients without access to their medication. 2. Ensure That Marijuana Dispensary and Its Staff Are Credentialed, Knowledgeable and Caring Staff at a medical marijuana dispensary should have the necessary training, experience, and qualifications to assess your concerns and provide accurate and well-informed recommendations. The medical professional that prescribes marijuana cards should be a physician (MD), a naturopathic doctor (ND), a doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (DTCM), or a nurse practitioner (NP) and have a thorough understanding of the science behind medical marijuana. Additionally, he or she should be able to answer all of your questions clearly and be knowledgeable about the different strains of medical marijuana and methods of administration. 3. Look for a Professional and Supportive Environment When searching for the best medical marijuana dispensary in Southern Maryland, it’s essential that patients find a professional and supportive environment. This includes staff and providers that show empathy and understanding of patient needs, rights, and privacy. Other signs of a professional dispensary are consistent hours of operation, reading materials about medical marijuana, and banning smoking inside the dispensary. 4. Check That the Dispensary Has a Variety of High-Quality Medical Marijuana Products Ideally, a dispensary should have a wide-range of marijuana strains, including indicas, sativas, and hybrid blends. It should also offer different forms of consumption, such as edibles, balms, tinctures, and inhalants, as some patients prefer not to smoke their medical marijuana. It’s also a good idea to make sure that edibles are prepared according to safe food practices and in a clean environment. If you have any additional questions about our dispensary, please contact us today. We meet all the criteria above and provide a safe, supportive and professional environment to our patients, while striving to be the best medical marijuana dispensary in Southern Maryland.
Marijuana and Baby Boomers Go Hand in Hand
Baby Boomers & the Medical Marijuana Craze Why are more and more baby boomers partaking in recreational and medical marijuana now more than ever? Although marijuana use is frequently associated with younger individuals, new evidence suggests that it’s on the rise among baby-boomers. In fact, researchers at The NYU School of Medicine found that marijuana use has doubled for 50-64 year olds and increased 7-fold for individuals 65 and older in the last decade. Here’s what responses from over 17, 608 participants revealed in the NYU study “Marijuana use by middle-aged and older adults in the United States, 2015-2016.” A Number of Baby Boomers Have Tried Marijuana in the Past Many baby boomers were in their teens and early 20’s in the 1960’s and 1970’s – a time when marijuana use was quite prevalent. Therefore, it’s not too surprising that half of 50-64 year olds and 1/5 of participants aged 65 and above reveal that they’ve used marijuana in the past. What’s more, 93% of 50-64 year olds and 54% of individuals aged 65 and older first tried marijuana when they were 21 years old or younger. Reduced Stigma and Greater Access May Account for Increased Interest in Marijuana Among Baby Boomers As marijuana continues to gain acceptance and legalization for medicinal and recreational use in many states, there’s considerably less stigma attached to the drug. Furthermore, evidence of marijuana’s abilities to alleviate pain and symptoms associated with a number of medical conditions, especially those that affect older individuals, is another possible reason for its increase in this demographic. Additionally, along with many other Americans, baby boomers now have increased access to quality medical-grade cannabis at dispensaries. The fact that marijuana can be consumed in multiple forms, including vaping, edibles, sublingual sprays, and topicals, may also increase its appeal to baby boomers. Many Participants Tried Medicinal Marijuana in the Past Year at the Recommendation of a Medical Professional Of the two groups in the NYU study that have used marijuana in the past year, 15 percent of users aged 50-64 and 22.9 percent of those 65 and older reported that it suggested by their doctor. This statistic illustrates the surge in medicinal marijuana as an alternative to traditional medication and therapies. To learn more about medical marijuana use amongst baby boomers and people of all ages, please contact our dispensary today.
