Cannabis use and sales in Florida became legal in November 2016 with Amendment II. Since that time, additional laws were passed to make medical marijuana easy to obtain for those who suffer from chronic pain. Florida is also the country’s largest cannabis seller, boasting 50% control over the national market.
There is wide use of recreational cannabis in Florida, but many people turn to marijuana for relief from chronic pain instead of addictive opioid drugs. Pain management is needed for everything from an inflammation-inducing sports injury to menstrual cramps, migraines, and chronic pain from chemotherapy for cancer patients. It’s important to know which strains are most effective and where you can find them in Florida’s vast cannabis market.
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Cannabis Sativa or Cannabis Indica For Pain Management?
For new cannabis users, it can be hard to know if they should try Cannabis indica, Cannabis sativa, or hybrid strains of the two plants for pain relief. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine offers some insight. 95 randomly chosen cannabis users of both Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa were asked if they preferred one over the other for chronic pain management.
Cannabis indica was chosen by most respondents, who said that the strain provided better pain management and more restful sleep. While Cannabis sativa was better for treating anxiety and depression and elevating mood.
Cannabis For Chronic Pain
There are more than 568 known molecules in cannabis, which can make it daunting to figure out which compounds are responsible for reducing pain. Research has shown that cannabidiol (CBD), 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids all contribute to pain management. They do so by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. In cannabis, there are at least 60 identifiable cannabinoids. Although researchers are still discovering how each of them interacts with the body’s pain receptors.
Those who use THC are familiar with the euphoria-inducing feelings it can produce. This is the chemical compound that makes you feel “high.” Whereas, CBD has zero hallucinogenic properties and can’t make you feel high no matter how much of it you take. Both THC and CBD, however, can help with the reduction of pain, inflammation, and restlessness caused by chronic pain.
Cannabis For Strains
Keep in mind that it can be difficult to guarantee consistency in strains of cannabis. Going to the same dispensary and using the same brand name once you find a cannabis hybrid or pure Cannabis indica can ensure that you get the most reliable results. If you have concerns about the THC or CBD levels, how the strains are processed for purity, or other questions, dispensaries can tell you based on their experience with a supplier.
The best way to know exactly what you’re getting though is to read packaging thoroughly and look for percentages of THC and CBD. You may want a different ratio if you’re treating chronic pain from chemotherapy treatment as opposed to treating a sprained ankle from a soccer match.
Finding Cannabis Strains That Reduce Pain In Florida
There are more than 48 different cannabis strains at Florida dispensaries spread across Boca Raton, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, and other cities. Weedmaps shows you exactly where to find medical marijuana and pain-relieving cannabis strains that contain both THC and CBD.
For example, a hybrid marijuana strain that includes South Indian Cannabis Indica.
Photo by Teslariu Mihai on Unsplash
On the other end, South American Cannabis Sativa might be a better choice for those who not only want to reduce pain but also to reduce depression and anxiety. That may accompany physical discomfort, the hybrid combo has both THC and CBD.
Still, others may decide that a strain that is primarily CBD is better for them so that they can manage pain symptoms. This may be while they are working, caring for children or the elderly, or driving.
Weedmaps also tells you if a certain dispensary sells medical cannabis or recreational strains since different licenses allow different cannabis sales in the state of Florida. With a little research and a great resource to find a cannabis dispensary near you, you’re sure to find medical marijuana that helps manage pain. Don’t be shy about asking questions once you arrive at a dispensary. The best ones are used to fielding a ton of questions.
