How To Decide Whether To Use CBD Or MMJ

If you’re suffering from specific physical or emotional symptoms, you might be interested in using medical marijuana (MMJ) or CBD products to help alleviate those symptoms. However, things can get confusing when it comes to how to decide whether to use CBD or MMJ. Both substances offer relief from some medical conditions, but a few aspects of their usage can differ. Keep reading for a breakdown of the differences between CBD and MMJ so you can make an informed decision.

What is marijuana?

Also known as cannabis, marijuana is a mixture of the dried flowers of Cannabis sativa. It can be consumed in a ton of different forms, including cigarettes, water pipes, vaporizers, and even food products (called “edibles”). The main psychoactive or mind-altering chemical in marijuana is called THC. When it’s consumed, many people experience a feeling of euphoria and a sense of relaxation. Some people might also experience heightened sensory perception, an altered perception of time, and/or increased appetite. There are 11 states in the U.S. in which recreational marijuana is currently legal.

What is MMJ?

MMJ, or medical marijuana, is marijuana that is used for medicinal purposes. Currently, there are 33 states in the U.S. that offer legal medical marijuana. MMJ products are used to treat a variety of physical and emotional medical conditions, including but not limited to:

• Chronic pain
• Eating disorders
• Symptoms from cancer (including severe nausea)
• HIV/AIDS
• Glaucoma
• Insomnia
• Muscle spasticity
• Multiple sclerosis

 

 

Many people wonder, “Do I need a prescription to use MMJ?” The answer is technically yes. In order to get legal MMJ products, you are typically required to have a licensed physician in your state fill out a written form that verifies you have a valid need for MMJ. Some states also require you to apply for an ID card. The exact requirements for MMJ usage do differ from state to state, so it’s always a good idea to check with your individual state’s regulations before you act.

If you don’t have a physician who can help with the documentation you might need, MMJRecs is at your service! They can connect you virtually with a doctor who can assist you with your medical certification (as well as offer a way to get your ID card) so that you can get all set up to purchase MMJ products at your convenience.

What is CBD?

CBD comes from the word cannabidiol; it’s one of the two properties found in marijuana (the other being THC, the one that gets you high). CBD is extracted from hemp or marijuana products and is sold in many forms, including oils, gummies, and extracts. Because of its lack of THC, you won’t feel high when you use it, but you can still feel its many positive effects, such as relief from pain, reduction in symptoms of anxiety, and lower blood pressure.

So, is CBD the same as MMJ? They’re similar in that they treat many physical and emotional symptoms, but the main difference is that you won’t feel high when you use CBD. There are also a few things CBD can help with that MMJ products can’t, including reducing symptoms of depression, decreasing seizures, and helping with psychosis. CBD is legal in 23 states. Another 14 states do allow CBD oil to be legal. There are just three states that have completely banned CBD products: Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota.

What are the differences between CBD and MMJ?

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I use CBD or MMJ to treat my symptoms?”, there are some main differences you should keep in mind.

1. You do not need any kind of medical intervention to purchase CBD products if it’s legal in your state. In fact, it’s possible to purchase CBD products in many stores and online. You might want to try CBD products if you don’t want to get evaluated by a doctor (like you would need to do in order to purchase MMJ).
2. There are basically no side effects when using CBD. Marijuana can cause increased heart rate, coordination problems, dry mouth, red eyes, memory loss, and slower reaction times. High rates of THC use (and long-term use) can also result in possible long-term psychiatric problems.
3. Not every drug test will result in a positive for CBD use, but all drug tests will result in a positive for MMJ products.

So, when considering whether to use CBD or MMJ products, research which would better treat your individual symptoms and best fit your needs. Some people might find that CBD products work well enough to treat their issues (including things like easing migraines, decreasing seizures, and working as an anti-inflammatory). However, MMJ products might be a good option if CBD products won’t do the trick. For example, CBD products won’t help with increased appetite, but MMJ products can.

 

 

Bottom line: Both CBD and MMJ products are safe to use and don’t need to be monitored by a doctor in order for you to use them. If you’d like to limit the amount of side effects or don’t wish to have the feeling of being high, CBD products will work well for you. CBD is also legal in more places in the U.S. However, MMJ products are great for people who want relief from their symptoms along with experiencing a euphoric and relaxed state.

Talk to your doctor before trying any of these products to make sure they won’t interact with any other medications you might be on or other physical conditions you have. Then you can start getting the benefits of these products as soon as possible!

Featured image by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash