Are you curious about the difference between street cannabis and medical cannabis? With the legalization of marijuana in many states, it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between these two types. While both contain THC and CBD compounds, there are significant differences in their sources, legal status, and overall purpose. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about street and medical cannabis so that you can make informed decisions regarding your health and well-being.
The Main and Overall Purpose
The main purpose of street cannabis, also known as recreational or adult-use marijuana, is to provide users with a sense of euphoria and altered consciousness. People smoke it to relax, socialize, or simply have fun. Street cannabis contains high levels of THC and lower levels of CBD compared to medical cannabis. On the other hand, medical cannabis is specifically designed for therapeutic purposes. It’s prescribed by licensed doctors to treat symptoms associated with various medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety disorders, seizures, and cancer-related side effects. Medical cannabis can be consumed in different forms such as oils, capsules, edibles, or vaporizers. Medical marijuana strains are bred for their specific medicinal properties and contain varying ratios of THC and CBD compounds that target different health issues. Unlike street marijuana which lacks quality control standards and may contain harmful contaminants like pesticides or mold.
Considering the Legal Status of Both
While both types of cannabis come from the same plant species, they are regulated very differently by law. For example, street cannabis is often illegal in many countries around the world. In most cases, possessing or selling street cannabis can result in fines or even imprisonment. This is because street cannabis typically contains high levels of THC, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. On the other hand, medical cannabis is often legal for medicinal purposes under certain circumstances. In many countries, patients with specific conditions such as chronic pain or epilepsy can legally access medical marijuana with a prescription from their doctor. However, it’s important to note that even though medical marijuana may be legal under certain circumstances, it doesn’t mean that you can use it without consequence. Patients must follow strict guidelines and regulations when using medical marijuana to avoid any potential legal trouble.
What is the Source of them?
The source of both street cannabis and medical cannabis is an important factor to consider when discussing the differences between them. Street cannabis, also known as recreational marijuana, is often grown illegally in hidden locations such as abandoned buildings or private residences. This means that there are no regulations or standards on how it’s grown, harvested, or sold. On the other hand, medical cannabis comes from licensed producers, from MedReleaf Australia to your local cannabis, licensed producer, who must adhere to strict guidelines set by governing bodies like Health Canada or the Office of Drug Control in Australia in order to ensure quality and safety for patients. These regulations cover everything from the type of seeds used to grow plants, to methods of cultivation and harvesting. Medical cannabis also undergoes rigorous testing before it can be made available for patients. It’s tested for things like potency levels (THC and CBD content), pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants which may pose a risk for people with compromised immune systems.
THC and CBD Content
When it comes to cannabis, the two most well-known compounds are THC and CBD. These acronyms stand for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis that many recreational users seek out. It can cause feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. However, high levels of THC can also lead to anxiety or paranoia in some individuals. CBD, on the other hand, does not have any psychoactive effects. It has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits such as reducing inflammation and alleviating pain without producing a “high”. Medical cannabis products typically have higher levels of CBD than those intended for recreational use. This is because medical cannabis is often used to treat specific conditions rather than solely for recreational purposes.
Medical Supervision
Medical cannabis patients are typically under the care of a healthcare provider who oversees their treatment plan and monitors their progress. Unlike street cannabis which can be obtained without any medical guidance or oversight, obtaining medical cannabis requires a recommendation from a healthcare provider. This ensures that patients receive appropriate dosages and strains based on their individual needs and health conditions. Medical supervision also plays a crucial role in monitoring potential side effects and adjusting treatment plans as needed. Patients may undergo regular check-ins with their healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment and make any necessary adjustments. Medical supervision helps ensure that patients receive safe and effective treatment with proper dosing, strain selection, and ongoing monitoring for potential side effects. It emphasizes the importance of responsible use in treating specific health conditions rather than recreational use for non-medical purposes.
Conclusion
Street cannabis is illegal in most places and is often obtained from unregulated sources. It has high levels of THC and low levels of CBD, leading to psychoactive effects that can be harmful if not consumed responsibly. Medical cannabis, on the other hand, is legal in many countries with proper regulation and oversight by healthcare professionals. It contains higher levels of CBD with lower amounts of THC intended to provide pain relief without causing any intoxication. Therefore it’s important to know what you are consuming before using it as a treatment option or for recreational use. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before trying any new treatments or medications.