Societal views about marijuana are changing, with recreational use legal in nearly 21 states and medicinal use legal in most states. The craze about cannabis use is here to stay. Here is what you should know about the safe use of cannabis:
Purchase legal cannabis
For those in states that have legalized marijuana, either recreational or medicinal, it is important to source it through the legal market. Although the black market may tempt you with low prices, buying in the legal market offers some protections and advantages.
For starters, the product cycle is tracked from seed to sale, and the cannabis will be free of contaminants. Also, you get labeled cannabis, which helps you know what you are purchasing because of different kinds of marijuana. Finally, in case of contamination, the legal product can be recalled. Always remember it is still illegal to buy cannabis from illegal sources, even in states where marijuana is legalized.
If you are buying medicinal cannabis, don’t rely on dispensary employees but get a medical recommendation from a healthcare provider and take care of dosages.
Be keen on potency
One of the ways to get into trouble with marijuana is by taking a product with a high dosage of THC. It is important to use the lowest effective dose for the time allowed. It is important to note that cannabis is more potent now than in the 70s, and those not used in the modern age are likely to overconsume.
Consuming high dosages could trigger medical conditions like syncope and cardiac arrhythmias. Also, there are chances of developing marijuana hyperemesis syndrome. Therefore, starting and staying low is highly recommended for those new to cannabis use.
Who should avoid cannabis use?
Medical cannabis, like everything in medicine, has exceptions. Teens, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and individuals with psychiatric conditions like psychosis should not use marijuana. Individuals having trouble controlling use should seek professional help.
Other precautions include avoiding smoking marijuana that can inflame the lungs, and not holding cannabis in the lungs for more than two seconds as it irritates the lungs.
