Medical vs recreational weed: Key Differences Explained
Public stance on weed has shifted dramatically over the last few decades. With many states legalizing cannabis, it has become an effective tool for managing symptoms related to certain medical conditions.
As adult-use (recreational) cannabis is now legal in 24 U.S. states, weed is extending its reach far beyond party-goers and West Coast stoners. In addition, access to premium cannabis has become less stressful and less sketchy.
With the increasing use of cannabis in states like California, it's important to understand what sets medical and recreational weed apart and how they are used.
In this recreational vs. medical weed guide, let's take a look at the key differences between the two.
Difference between medical and recreational weed:
Wondering if medical weed is the same as recreational weed. When it comes to the difference between medical and recreational weed, there are a few differences between the two. Let's dive into the difference between medical and rec weed:
What is recreational weed?
Recreational weed or non-medical weed refers to weed used for recreational purposes rather than medical purposes. In states where weed is legalized for recreational use, only adults under the age of 21 can access it, regardless of whether or not they have a medical condition.
Though the chemical content found in recreational weed is generally the same as medical weed, they are generally utilized for different purposes. For instance, recreational weed is used to get high, while medical weed is used to manage symptoms of medical conditions.
That's why recreational cannabis users often choose products high in THC content, the main psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. On the other hand, medical patients seek products that contain a higher content of therapeutic cannabinoids like CBD.
What is recreational weed used for?
Though cannabis consumers often use recreational weed for getting high, it often comes with high THC content. But it is also used for many purposes other than just for recreation.
Recreational use, commonly known as adult use of weed, may help improve overall health. Many cannabis users buy weed online for medical reasons, too. People use recreational weed for many reasons other than recreational purposes, including:
To relieve anxiety and stress
To help with exercise-related recovery
For creative inspiration and energy
To increase focus
Age Restrictions
Recreational weed is available to anyone aged 21 or older in states where recreational use of weed is legal.
THC and CBD levels
Generally, recreational weed has a higher level of THC than medical weed, which gives people a "high" feeling. Many dispensaries and online cannabis delivery services offer products with different THC to CBD ratios, making it possible to consume them without feeling the euphoric effect that is associated with THC. Products like edibles that contain a higher content of CBD and lower content of THC won't get you high.
Read our guide to learn about edible dosing!
Purchase and possession limit of recreational weed in California
According to the Department of Cannabis Control, People who are 21 years old or over can purchase and possess up to 28.5 grams of non-concentrated weed and no more than 8 grams of concentrated weed.
What is medical weed?
Medical weed or medical marijuana refers to weed used to help manage symptoms of certain medical conditions. Generally, it comes in the same form as recreational weed.
There are highly purified versions of medical weed that are typically made to manage symptoms related to certain conditions.
In the U.S., the use of cannabis for medical purposes is legal in 39 states, the District of Columbia, and three territories. However, each state with medical marijuana laws has a varying list of specific qualifying medical conditions for which certified doctors may recommend it to patients.
That means what qualifies as a medical condition in one state might not in another. Medical weed is not used to treat a condition; rather, it is used to help with symptom management.
What is medical weed used for?
Medical weed is generally used for managing symptoms related to medical conditions such as:
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
Alzheimer's disease
HIV/AIDS
Migraine
Crohn's disease
Multiple sclerosis and muscle spasms
Epilepsy and seizures
Irritable bowel syndrome
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Age Restriction
Patients who are 18 years of age or older can get medical weed using a medical marijuana card if they have a qualifying medical condition.
THC and CBD levels
Medical weed usually contains higher levels of primary cannabinoids like CBD and secondary cannabinoids like CBG and CBN than recreational weed. Unlike THC, CBD doesn't get you high and has many medical uses.
The method of consumption, CBD and THC content, and the particular weed strain used are some factors that you should consider when buying medical weed.
To learn more about THC and CBD ratios, check out: Sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid: differences, potential effects & uses
Purchase and possession limit in California
People with medical conditions have higher possession limits than recreational users. Medical users who are 18 years old or over can purchase and possess 8 ounces of medical weed per day if they have qualified for any medical conditions.
Get premium-quality recreational weed in California at Smokeland:
Now that you understand the difference between medical and recreational weed, the question is: where can you find the highest-quality recreational weed products in California? Whether you love cannabis-infused gummies or need top-grade weed strains, Smokeland has got you covered. We not only have a wide range of weed products, but also offer weed deals, festive specials, and more, so you can buy premium products without paying premium prices. Shop now!