If you are one of the many people that have been prescribed medical marijuana to help manage a health condition, then you are likely glad that the treatment is within your reach. Of course, if you have never before used a cannabis product, you may also be a little nervous or even apprehensive. The following tips can help set your mind at ease as you begin your treatment.

Tip #1: Make sure you are properly documented

Medical marijuana is regulated on the state level, so your documentation needs can vary greatly depending upon where you live. Before attempting to purchase at a shop or online, verify that the documentation provided by your doctor is complete for your state. Some states issue a card that you will need to show at the time of purchase, while others provide you with a certificate. In a few states no documentation is necessary, although you may still need to get documentation in the event you travel to a state that does require a card or certificate.

Tip #2: Know what strain you need

There are three main strains of medical marijuana. Sometimes, doctors prescribe a specific type, depending upon your condition. You may need to ask your doctor for the proper recommendation. Generally, the Sativa strain is more invigorating, so it is usually used for mood disorders and diseases that cause fatigue. Indica contains more resin, which helps it relieve pain and aid sleep. There are also hybrids of the two primary strains that have been developed for specific usages, such as stimulating hunger in chemotherapy patients. Either your doctor or the medical marijuana provider can help you pick the appropriate hybrid for your condition.

Tip #3: Start slowly

There are two active ingredients in medical marijuana. THC is the component that causes the psychoactive effects, while the CBD reduces anxiety and aids relaxation. As a new patient, you should opt for a product that contains a lower amount of THC, since these effects can be alarming if you have never felt them before. CBD doesn't have any psychoactive effects, so you can safely take a higher amount of this without ill effects. Over time, you can increase the amount of THC if you have a condition that would benefit from higher amounts.

Tip #4: Understand your choices

One thing new patients worry about is smoking the product, particularly if they are a nonsmoker or former smoker. The good news is that smoking is rarely the best delivery method for medical marijuana. You have a choice of edibles, beverages, oils, vape products, and topical varieties that you can try. The best one for you depends on personal preference and your condition. For example, if you are taking medical marijuana for nausea, then a topical product is likely your best option since you may not be able to keep ingestables down.

For more help, talk to a local or an online medical cannabis supplier.

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