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Cannabis Education Guides

Science-based guides to help you understand cannabis medicine. Learn about terpenes, cannabinoids, lab results, and how to find the right products for your needs.
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Cannabis Patient FAQs

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How do I get started with medical marijuana?

Getting started with medical marijuana involves three steps: check if your condition qualifies in your state, schedule a telehealth evaluation with a licensed physician, and register with your state program after approval. Same-day certifications are available in most states.

The process varies by state but typically takes 1-3 days. Educational guides help you understand cannabis products, dosing, and what to expect at your first dispensary visit.

Process based on state medical marijuana program requirements.

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What should a first-time cannabis patient know?

First-time patients should start with low doses, choose products with balanced THC:CBD ratios, understand the difference between inhalation and edibles, and keep a journal of effects. Allow 2-3 weeks to find your optimal dose and product type.

Edibles take 1-2 hours to take effect while inhalation works in minutes. Start with 2.5-5mg THC for edibles and one small puff for inhalation, waiting before taking more.

Dosing guidance based on patient education best practices.

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How do I read a cannabis COA?

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) shows cannabinoid potency (THC/CBD percentages), terpene content, and safety testing for pesticides, heavy metals, and microbials. Check that the batch number matches your product and verify the testing lab is state-licensed.

Key things to verify: cannabinoid percentages match the label, no "fail" results on safety tests, and test date is recent.

COA interpretation based on state cannabis testing requirements.

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What is the entourage effect?

The entourage effect is the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids (THC, CBD) and terpenes that may enhance therapeutic benefits beyond what any single compound produces alone. This is why full-spectrum products are often preferred over isolates.

Research suggests terpenes and cannabinoids work together—CBD may reduce THC-induced anxiety, while terpenes enhance specific effects like sedation or mood elevation.

Entourage effect theory based on peer-reviewed research by Ethan Russo.

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How do I dose cannabis correctly?

Follow the "start low, go slow" approach: begin with 2.5-5mg THC for edibles or one small inhalation, wait 2 hours (edibles) or 15 minutes (inhalation) before taking more. Increase gradually over days until you find relief without unwanted effects.

Optimal doses vary significantly between individuals. Factors include tolerance, metabolism, condition severity, and product type. Keep a dosing journal to track what works.

Dosing guidance based on clinical recommendations and patient education standards.

Practical

Drying and Curing Cannabis Like a Pro

Master the art of drying and curing cannabis to preserve terpenes, maximize potency, and prevent mold. This comprehensive guide covers optimal drying conditions, the jar curing method with burping schedules, and long-term storage best practices for medical cannabis patients who grow their own medicine.

18 min read8 sections
drying cannabiscuring cannabiscannabis storageterpene preservation
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Science

Understanding Cannabinoids: From THC to CBG

Comprehensive guide to cannabis cannabinoids including THC, CBD, CBN, CBG, and more. Learn how each works, their medical applications, and how to choose the right profile using COA lab results.

25 min read7 sections
cannabinoidsTHCCBDCBN
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Science

Cannabis Terpenes Explained: Your Complete Guide

A comprehensive guide to cannabis terpenes, their effects, medical applications, and how to use terpene profiles to predict and optimize your experience. Learn how terpenes work with cannabinoids through the entourage effect.

22 min read5 sections
terpenesaromaticsmyrcenelimonene
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Practical

How to Read Your Cannabis Lab Results

Learn how to read and interpret cannabis COAs (Certificates of Analysis) to understand exactly what's in your medicine. This guide covers cannabinoid calculations, terpene profiles, and safety testing. Try our COA Analyzer tool for instant analysis.

20 min read6 sections
COAlab testingcannabinoidsterpenes
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Science

The Entourage Effect: Why the Whole Plant Works Better

A science-backed explanation of how cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds work synergistically for enhanced therapeutic effects. Learn why full-spectrum products often outperform isolates.

18 min read5 sections
entourage effectsynergyfull spectrumterpenes
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Education

Why Strain Names Don't Tell the Whole Story

Learn why the same strain name can produce different effects and how to use cannabinoid and terpene profiles to predict your experience. This guide explains the science behind strain variation and shows you how to use COA lab results to find consistent medicine.

15 min read6 sections
strain nameschemical profilesCOAterpenes
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Why Understanding Cannabis Science Matters

As a medical cannabis patient, knowledge is power. Understanding how cannabinoids and terpenes work helps you make informed decisions, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and find products that truly address your needs.

Evidence-Based

Our guides cite peer-reviewed research and clinical studies, not just anecdotes.

Patient-Focused

Complex science explained in accessible language for everyday understanding.

Actionable

Practical information you can use to make better treatment decisions.

Ready to Get Your Medical Cannabis Card?

Now that you understand the science, take the next step. Connect with a licensed physician in your state.

Find a Doctor in Your State