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Recreational cannabis is often sought for its pleasurable, intoxicating properties, primarily attributed to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a prevalent ingredient in adult-use products.
With medical cannabis legalized in over 30 states, its popularity is on the rise in the United States. In the country, cannabis is legally classified into two types: medicinal and recreational, each with distinct legal statuses and occasional availability in different locations. Understanding the differences between these categories can be confusing, especially considering that while some jurisdictions allow both, federal law still prohibits cannabis use. So, how does one differentiate between cannabis used for medical purposes and recreational use, and what roles do they serve? Read on to discover more. Exploring Recreational Cannabis Laws permitting the purchase of cannabis by individuals over 21 fall under adult-use (recreational) cannabis laws. Currently, 19 states have embraced adult cannabis use, allowing individuals to buy it without a prescription, akin to alcohol. Usage by adults: Recreational cannabis is often sought for its pleasurable, intoxicating properties, primarily attributed to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a prevalent ingredient in adult-use products. While THC can affect mood and cognitive functions, it is also used medicinally. This dual role contributes to the complexity, as not all patrons of recreational cannabis shops use the drug for non-prescribed purposes. Interestingly, some recreational cannabis applications don't result in intoxication. Products with high Cannabinol (CBD) and low THC concentrations serve medicinal purposes, such as relieving pain, reducing stress, and healing injuries. These include pain relief for menstruation and topical creams for nerve discomfort. Unraveling Medicinal Cannabis Cannabis has a historical medicinal background, and with its legalization for medical purposes in more than 30 states, its popularity is increasing in the United States. Millions of Americans now turn to medicinal marijuana to address conditions like multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Varied state laws: Regulations governing medical marijuana vary by state. Some, like California, allow medical patients to purchase products also available at recreational stores. Conversely, states like New York prohibit patients from buying smoked cannabis products. Despite its rising popularity, medical marijuana isn't regulated like prescription drugs. None of the products from medical cannabis dispensaries have FDA approval, except for Epidiolex, a cannabis-derived medication approved for a rare pediatric epilepsy type. This medication requires prescriptions from licensed medical professionals.