Synthetic THC vs the Real Deal in Virginia’s Medical Marijuana

Did you know that you can also partake in THC that is man made? Such as Delta-8. But, is this the best choice for you and your condition? We, here at CannabisMD Telemed, want to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on the topic!

In the Commonwealth of Virginia, we now have the ability to partake in what is known as Synthetic THC, such as Delta-8. However, note that these synthetics are not the same quality as the medical marijuana Virginia provides in their dispensaries. Nevertheless, this option provides a stopgap for Virginia as it continues to navigate recreational sales.

WHAT ARE SYNTHETIC THCs?

Synthetic THC is a lab-created product derived from the hemp plant that artificially creates similar effects to the natural cannabinoids found in marijuana. These synthesized compounds are most commonly sold as edibles or cartridges in the Commonwealth. These compounds are similar in design to some of the edibles or concentrates you might see in a dispensary; however, without carefully vetted quality or natural benefits! They are sold in specialty stores, by and large, but a few intrepid convenience stores started carrying them as well.

LEGISLATIVE UPS AND DOWNS FOR SYNTHETIC THCs

Some legislators have expressed concern that these synthetic THCs are not carefully vetted enough and could pose a danger to the community. Only recently, some legislators move to initiate an all-out ban on the products, including Delta-8, in Virginia. Many edibles are packaged in “candy” style packaging, making them potentially hazardous for children.

The new budget bill includes language that confirms the legality of synthetic THCs. What has changed? They will now have to adhere to a moderate number of regulations and engage in some lab testing. Marketing efforts for these products must avoid all branding that could appeal to children.

You may wonder what has caused this shift. A number of Virginia’s farmers are hemp farmers, that’s why! They grew very concerned when the Assembly moved to ban these hemp products; these regulations provide a healthy middle ground that addresses public safety concerns while also allowing Virginia’s farmers to thrive.

FIXING RETAIL MARIJUANA CHAOS

What’s clear is that the legislature in Virginia will remain mired in conflict over the retail, adult use market for the time being. This step is allowing synthetic THCs as a small step. For now, anyone wanting to enjoy recreational marijuana will have to wait, use less effective and less regulated synthetics or see if one of their conditions qualifies them for a medical marijuana card!

SYNTHETIC THC VS MEDICAL MARIJUANA

How do synthetic THC and medical marijuana compare in the Commonwealth? Not too favorably. Medical marijuana is a carefully regulated and thoroughly tested product; while synthetics involve some regulation and testing, however cannot compare to the rigor we see with the medical marijuana industry’s cultivation process.

Synthetic THCs are also not cultivated to soothe specific symptoms or generate certain effects. It’s “hit or miss” with the synthetic THCs, which means, customers don’t always know what they are receiving. Medical marijuana, on the other hand, is cultivated for specific traits, and processors work hard to ensure that specific products deliver very specific results.

Finally, synthetic THCs are just not as impactful as medical marijuana. There is no lab that create the power of cannabis!

How can Patients get their Medical Marijuana Certification or their Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia?

At CannabisMD TeleMed the process for obtaining your physician recommendation for medical marijuana is straightforward, simple, and affordable. We offer comprehensive care when it comes to your medical marijuana healthcare needs. We have a simple and easy process that allows patients to book an appointment online, see our marijuana doctor virtually using telemedicine, and receive their medical cannabis certificate by email.

Once a patient receives their medical marijuana certificate by email after their appointment, they can immediately visit any medical marijuana dispensary in Virginia to purchase medical marijuana products including vapes, flower, tinctures, edibles, live rosin, and more.

New laws that went into effect on July 1, 2022 allows patients to immediately go to the dispensary once they are certified by one of our medical marijuana practitioners.

If you believe you could benefit from medical marijuana, please schedule an appointment online with one of our marijuana practitioners or our marijuana doctor to explore the benefits of a natural medication from the comfort of your home using telemedicine. If at the end of your appointment you feel medical cannabis is not right for your then let the provider know and we will issue a 100% refund.

To schedule an appointment please click the Book Appointment button below!