Many studies have suggested that cannabis can treat a number of medical conditions, and many states have legalized cannabis for medicinal use. If you have seen a doctor and received a recommendation for a medical marijuana card, you will be able to legally purchase cannabis products. In order to buy cannabis products, you will need to visit a medical cannabis dispensary. A medical cannabis dispensary is a retail location that has been licensed by the state and must follow a number of rules and regulations. Many people feel intimidated by visiting a medical cannabis dispensary for the first time. Use the following tips to make your first visit to a medical cannabis dispensary a success:
Be Prepared
Before you leave to visit a medical cannabis dispensary, make sure that you are prepared and have your state-issued medical marijuana card and a valid ID. Since medical cannabis dispensaries are highly regulated, you will not be allowed to enter without your medical marijuana card and an ID that proves that you are old enough to legally purchase medical cannabis in your state. You should also have cash available to pay for your purchase — the fact that medical cannabis is not legal on a federal level means that most dispensaries are not allowed to accept debit cards or credit cards. Dispensaries usually post a price list online, so you can check out the prices and figure out how much cash to bring.
Learn About the Products Available
A medical cannabis dispensary does not only sell cannabis that can be smoked — there are actually a variety of cannabis products available. In addition to cannabis flower, a dispensary will also sell edibles that can be consumed, tinctures, vape pens, and topical products. Understanding the different types of cannabis products, learning about dosage, and knowing which products are recommended for different conditions can help ensure that you purchase the right product.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
The employees who staff medical cannabis dispensaries are very knowledgeable about the products they carry and the different strains of cannabis available. If you are unsure about what to buy during your first visit to a medical cannabis dispensary, do not be afraid to ask an employee for help. Getting professional advice from someone who has in-depth knowledge of the products will increase the likelihood of you leaving the dispensary with a cannabis product that will help with your medical condition.