Edibles are just one option for using medical cannabis. They come in many forms including gummies, hard candies, and snack foods like cookies and brownies. The question is this: how do you choose the right edible?
Asking the question is a lot easier than answering it. One of the rarely talked about truths of medical cannabis is that there are very few black-and-white principles one can look at. Using medical cannabis is often referred to as a journey because it is so personal in nature. No two medical cannabis journeys are exactly the same.
Determine Your Cannabinoid Needs
Before you ever begin looking at edibles, it is important that you understand which cannabinoids are most effective for the medical condition being treated. For example, THC is the most commonly sought ingredient in medical cannabis. But it’s not the only one. CBD is another cannabinoid with known medical benefits.
Your condition might be better treated with CBD. On the other hand, your medical provider might recommend THC. You might even need a product that offers both. Your cannabinoid needs determine everything else about your medication choices. So understanding those needs is the starting point.
Take a Look at State Regulations
Once you understand your cannabinoid needs, the next step is to take a look at the regulations in your state. Nearly every state with a medical cannabis program limits the types of products patients can buy. Some states are more restrictive. For example, Utah only allows gummies, capsules, and tablets.
If you were to visit the Beehive Farmacy in Brigham City, you would not find cannabis cookies and brownies. You would not find cannabis-infused beverages. They are not allowed in Utah. Other states have other regulations, so you need to know what is allowed in your state and what is not.
How You Intend to Medicate
The next factor to consider is how you intend to medicate. A good way to illustrate this point is to consider taking your medication while it works. You cannot afford to allow medical cannabis to impair your ability to do your job. Therefore, you need a slow-acting medication that offers consistent relief over a long period of time.
Gummies might be ideal for a work situation. But at night, when you are home relaxing with the family, a capsule or tablet might be better. You might even choose a fast-acting tincture that you place under your tongue.
Consider THC Potency
When it is time to actually visit the pharmacy to make a purchase, you’ll want to consider THC potency. Pharmacy staff can help you understand how potent any given product is. The on-site pharmacist should be able to guide you to a potency that’s right for your needs and medical condition.
Consider Cannabinoid and Terpene Profile
Last but not least, consider a product’s cannabinoid and terpene profile. Do not choose an edible product based exclusively on brand name or packaging. Brand names mean very little. Packaging is designed to sell. What is important to you are the ingredients you are ingesting. That’s what cannabinoid and terpene profiles are all about.
Different profiles are achieved by mixing and matching cannabinoids and terpenes. Not that, while you may be after THC or CBD for its medicinal benefits, other cannabinoids and terpenes can enhance the effectiveness of your medication.
There is a lot to know about medical cannabis and edible products. If you are new to cannabis as a medicine, don’t rush things. Do some research. Visit your local pharmacy and ask questions. Do whatever is necessary to ensure that you choose the best possible product for you.