Las Vegas Medical Marijuana

by admin · October 5, 2016

People often travel to Las Vegas for a weekend of uninhibited fun and excitement. The city offers individuals the chance to let go and enjoy themselves in ways they would normally not consider. Travelers can engage in many activities and events, which include strip clubs, casinos, and nightclubs. However, the use and possession of marijuana is tightly regulated.

If you are caught using it recreationally, you could find yourself facing legal trouble. Carrying less than an ounce will get you fined up to $600 for your first offense. But if you are caught with more than two ounces, you can face up to four years in prison, which is not a fun or enjoyable way to spend your time. But the use of marijuana for medical purposes is permitted by the state of Nevada.

Medical Use

While using marijuana recreationally can put you on the wrong side of the law, you are safe using it for medical purposes. Medical marijuana first became legal in 2000, but the first dispensaries were not opened until 2015. Those who use marijuana for medical purposes report a variety of benefits. It has been used to treat or reduce the symptoms of anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, and more. People who experience painful side effects with other medications often find marijuana offers some relief.

Getting a Card

Even if you use it for medical purposes, the state still requires you to follow certain restrictions. You must apply and be accepted for a medical marijuana card, and the process can be lengthy and complicated. You must fill out an application, contact a doctor, and get approved. But many people are disappointed to learn that not everyone qualifies; you must be diagnosed with a condition medical marijuana is approved to treat. A few of the approved conditions include AIDS, cancer, and persistent muscle spasms.

If you successfully complete these steps, you have to pay a fee before being accepted into the medical marijuana registry. The friends and family members of a card holder are exempt from possession laws in some instances. For example, caregivers are permitted to buy and possess marijuana if they purchased it from a registered dispensary. This is to protect those who assist the patient with their treatment.

Restrictions

If you have a medical marijuana card, it’s important you know that some restrictions apply. Not being aware of these restrictions can result in legal penalties. For example, you are still not permitted to possess more than two and a half ounces at any time, and you must only purchase it from a licensed dispensary. While these restrictions might seem strict and unfair, it’s important you understand and follow them. Otherwise, you could face fines, jail time, and a mark on your criminal record, which will make it difficult to find and keep a job.

People often make the mistake of growing their own marijuana, which puts them at risk for legal trouble if they are discovered. There is an exception to this; you are permitted to grow your own marijuana if you live more than 25 miles away from a licensed dispensary.

Final Thoughts

While the process of getting a medical marijuana card might seem complicated and unfair, it is vital you invest the time and effort if you plan to use marijuana for medical purposes. Staying within the law protects you from legal trouble, such as fines or jail time. Remember to learn, understand, and follow the law. It’s best to avoid drawing attention to yourself. Nevada only permits you to use medical marijuana in private, and a violation could result in your card being taken from you. While these laws will likely change in the future, it’s important you stay under the radar until then.

In the recent past more and more states are passing laws that permit
the use of medical marijuana. Medical marijuana is now used widely to
treat severe or chronic pain. It is recommended where other
traditional medicines and therapies have not been effective. Patients
who are using or contemplating the use of medical marijuana will
benefit from the guidelines and tips and below.

Conditions Treatable by Medical Marijuana

In most states, the following conditions can be treated using medical
marijuana: cancer, anxiety, HIV, glaucoma, Lyme disease, arthritis,
eating disorders, and side effects of radiation therapy, fibromyalgia,
migraines, debilitating and terminal diseases.

Qualifications

Medical marijuana must be prescribed by a qualified health care
professional. This can be part of ongoing treatment to treat a
debilitating condition or a terminal illness. The physician must
conduct a physical examination which should be documented, before
giving the recommendation. The recommendation has to be in writing
stating that the patient has a medical condition that is being treated
using medical marijuana. Apart from having the recommendation, there
are states where the patient must show proof of residency, and that
they are at least 18 years of age. Patients under 18 should be
accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Medical Marijuana Card

In states where the use of medical marijuana has been approved, such
as California, the state creates and issues a medical marijuana card
to be used by all approved patients. The card places all the users in
an online registry. This database can be accessed by dispensaries,
doctors and law enforcement agents to verify that the patient is
approved for use of medical marijuana.

Finding a reputable medical marijuana clinic

Many patients approved for the use of medical marijuana often rush to
clinics and doctors who have bargain prices. Many are usually shocked
to find out that the quality is not good and they cannot get expert
advice. For starters, it is important to note that there are different
strains of medical marijuana in Las Vegas. These strains are recommended depending
on the ailment and the symptoms of the patient. For instance, sativa
dominant strains are known to be good for boosting appetite, while
others are better for pain. A qualified and approved health care
professional will give you on going advice as your body adjusts to the
medication.

It is therefore ill advised to buy medical marijuana from the black
market or illegal vendors. The strain sold may not be pure, and this
compromises your health.

Medical Marijuana Health Benefits

Most people know that marijuana can be used to treat chronic pain, but there are several other uses for medical marijuana. Recent studies have discovered that the herb can be used to treat these conditions.

Epilepsy and Seizures
You might have seen the recent headlines of marijuana being used to treat epilepsy symptoms. If you have not heard the recent buzz, you might be surprised to find out that cannabidiol is being used to decrease the frequency of seizures. In 2015, one study found that patients had a 50 percent decrease in seizures after consuming marijuana.

Asthma
Using marijuana to treat asthma might seem like a contradiction, but marijuana is safer than tobacco smoke. In fact, the herb can open the airways. Many asthmatics are able to breathe easier after inhaling marijuana.

Alzheimer’s Disease
Medical marijuana could possibly be used to prevent Alzheimer’s. In Alzheimer’s patients, medical marijuana can ease depression, aggression and anxiety. The herb can also slow the production of the hormone that causes Alzheimer’s. Scientists are studying the long-term effects of marijuana in people who have been diagnosed with the disease.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Scientists have found that marijuana can treat the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. In one study, people who smoked medical marijuana gained weight. Their body mass index increased, and they also reported feeling less pain.

Multiple Sclerosis
Several studies have found that marijuana can ease the muscle stiffness, tremors and muscle spasms that are associated with multiple sclerosis. Many people with multiple sclerosis also sleep better after smoking marijuana.

Menstrual Cramps
Every year, millions of women take medications for menstrual cramps. Menstrual cramps are not associated with a serious medical condition, but marijuana can be used to relieve severe cramps.

Marijuana has been used for thousands of years, and some states are accepting the plant as a legal medical treatment. The herb is legal in several states, and many more states approve of the plant as a medical treatment. In the next few years, the plant is expected to gain more approval in the United States and Canada.

The Ins & Outs of Cannabis Training:

Cannabis is oft-referred to as pot, Mary Jane, ganja, whacky-tobacky, bud, weed, icky-sticky or just plain old marijuana. Whatever name you prefer or are familiar with, it is the buds of the female cannabis plant that are harvested, dried and cured, then used for either recreational or medical purposes. The method of delivery into the body varies almost as much as the names people refer to it as, but the dried buds are generally smoked in some form or ingested in cooked edibles. As with any type of gardening, growing cannabis correctly is an art form.

Is It Legal to Grow Cannabis?

While marijuana is a plant, it is not one that can simply be grown anywhere by anyone. Unlike most plants, there are certain legal ramifications that must be considered before deciding to grow cannabis, whether indoors or out. For instance, it is illegal to grow under U.S. federal law. However, it is allowed under certain state laws.

Four states – Colorado, Washington, Alaska and Oregon – have legalized recreational use of the plant. Twenty-three have legalized its use for medicinal purposes. It is the fasted growing industry in the United States right now, as the market for legal cannabis increased 74 percent in 2014, from $1.5 billion in 2013 to a whopping $2.7 billion. Industry insiders expect this to continue, speculating that another 10 states will legalize recreational use in the next two years.

With this rapid growth comes a need for knowledgeable professionals in every facet. It is a business just like any other; it requires accountants, marketing and legal departments, writers and more. The foundation of this particular industry is unlike most others in that it all starts with the basics of growing the best strains of weed possible in the most optimal conditions. The cannabis industry also has more legal issues than any other, from growing to distribution, research and development to running a dispensary; even the marketing is highly regulated. This is where cannabis training comes in.

Cannabis Training – What Will You Learn?

First and foremost, the legal growing of cannabis and the schools that teach the methods are all relatively new. Which courses you take and the school you choose will be highly dependent on what you wish to do with your new-found knowledge. Ask yourself what your end-goals are and go on from there.

– Are you in a state that allows growing a certain amount of plants for personal use and you just want to learn how to do so?

– Do you want to learn what it takes to become a budtender in a dispensary and want the proper certification to show potential employers you can be an asset to their business?

– Perhaps you would like to open a dispensary yourself?

– Are you interested in medical marijuana research or distribution?

– Would you like to learn how to make the edibles that are sold in shops or are you curious about how to cook with cannabis for personal use?

These questions will help guide you in your decisions. If you are undecided, start with the basics of growing and then tailor your learning from there. Keep reading to learn what types of classes are available to budding growers and tenders and what knowledge will be gained from them.

* Horticulture:

You will learn everything there is to know about growing cannabis, from picking the seeds and preparing the soil to harvesting the crops. There are many variances between indoor and outdoor growing, and you will need to be well-versed on each to be successful. The following gives you a basic outline of what you can expect from cannabis training:

How A Plant Grows 101 – Seeds are the starting point of the cultivation process, of course, but there is much more to it than that. Learn what types of seeds you need, how to order them, store them, and how to germinate and transplant seedlings. You will also discover all there is to know about mother plants and clones, male and female flowering, and everything about harvesting – from the right time to do so to how to cure properly and store your harvested bud.

Growing The Crop – The space you have available will determine the equipment necessary and how you will be able to grow. Do you have acres available outdoors that provide the necessary amount of light and drainage in an area legal to grow? Maybe you are in a zone that allows for the growth of a couple plants for personal use. The student should learn all about growing rooms and budgeting for any available space.

Grow Gear – Indoor growing requires more of an initial output of cash to get the area ready for optimal plant growth. The exploration of different lighting options and techniques, equipment needed for soil or hydroponic growing systems, proper air flow and carbon dioxide level standards, and soil options are all necessary. It is imperative that this stage be well-researched and planned, as mistakes can prove quite costly.

Pests & Diseases – Like any crop, pests and diseases can kill cannabis plants whether they grow inside or out. Fungus gnats, spider mites, whiteflies, root rot, mold and algae are all threats to your plants. Learn to accurately identify what each are and how to proactively prevent or retroactively treat these pests and conditions.

Cloning – You should know how to germinate, clone and seed your plants.

Vegetation Stage – In the vegetation phase, discover how to properly sex plants, as well as cut from mother plants, grow more roots, transplant and reduce plant stress.

Flowering Stage – Is your plant a male, female or hermaphrodite? What is the optimal lighting cycle for the plant’s life to grow the perfect bud?

Lighting – Besides knowing about the different types of lights, you must know about lighting safety. Learn about the electrical requirements as well as safe ways to keep your plants in the perfect artificial lighting conditions.

Nutrients/Growing Mediums – The pH level of the soil is of the utmost importance to your growing plants, so you will need to learn all about soil conditions, and how to fix or offset any deficiencies with fertilizers and organic nutrients.

Hydroponics – It is not always about the dirt. Some of the most fertile and robust harvests come from water-grown plants. Learn the ins and outs of this method including testing procedures and nutrient control.

Air/Fans/CO2 – Proper ventilation can help cut down on algae and mold growth and keep your plants healthy, so it is vital to know about proper ventilation techniques and fan systems.

Strains – It is essential to be able to identify between Sativa, Indica and hybrid strains. You will need to know the effects of varying types whether you are growing for personal use, running a dispensary and need to educate patients for medicinal purposes or even if you are only cooking edibles.

* Cannabis Business:

Start a Dispensary – Starting a cannabis business may seem like a goldmine, but one must keep in mind that it is, in fact, an illegal one. There will be many obstacles in your way.

Laws & Taxes – Legally there will be many hoops to jump through to open and subsequently run a dispensary. They are highly regulated and heavily taxed. You must know all of these laws and be well versed in how your business will be required to file taxes to stay out of trouble.

Business Ownership – What type of business entity is a dispensary? You will need to know this, as well as what licenses you need to operate, how to secure funding and how to advertise your business legally.

Regulations – Location, zoning, health and security are all factors that make the cannabis industry perhaps the most regulated one of all. Multiple government agencies must be dealt with to run a successful dispensary that can cause much stress to the business owner. It is essential for the prospective owner to know exactly what he or she is getting themselves into before deciding on this as a career path!

Edibles – Perhaps you love to cook, and would like to run an edibles company. Again, this would be an excellent choice for some but the legal ramifications still exist.

Delivery – You may decide that running a brick and mortar dispensary is not for you and that directly delivering your goods is the way to go. Not so fast. There are just as many regulations and legal hoops to jump through to deliver any type of marijuana, be it edibles or in smokable forms, and many fewer areas where it is legal to do so.

* Budtender:

History – What is the history of cannabis? Learn when humanity discovered the plant and its subsequent recreational and medicinal use throughout history. Why was marijuana banned and what were the politics behind the laws being passed? Also, discover when and why marijuana use was made available for medical patients.

Law – The laws and regulations around the growth and use of pot, either recreationally or medicinally are ever-changing. It is imperative for any grower or budtender to stay on top of the statutes where they live and do business. Know the difference in state and federal laws and how it impacts the industry.

Medical – The science behind medical marijuana use is vast. Learn why it is effective and what the effect the active constituents have for what ailments.

Customer Service – Budtenders must follow the law first and foremost, but after that they must be proficient in customer service. They are the face of the business and who keep the customers happy and coming back!

Safety – Responsible and safe use are paramount in the cannabis industry. Know how to safely handle and use all of the products and how to pass this information on to customers and medical patients.

Edibles V.S. Smoking – Edibles will not affect people in the same manner as smoking the same strain. You will need to be able to guide people in how to utilize this method of ingestion properly as it is very easy to consume too much for the intended effect.

Hash, Waxes and Oils – What are the differences for each and how do you best utilize them? These are imperative to know for the budtender, as is knowing the different terms people may use depending on if they are accustomed to ‘old school’ or ‘new school’ terminology and methods.

Strains and Effects – People will come into shops requiring different intended effects. Each strain will have different outcomes when used, and a budtender must be able to know these as well as a waiter in a five-star restaurant knows wine pairings!

* Dispensary Technician

Dispensary Technician courses teach the student the medicinal, operational, and customer service knowledge and skills necessary to be a productive member of the team. Once a certification course in this is completed, the student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:

– Dispensary Technician Responsibilities
– Medical Cannabis Types
– Medical Conditions/Treatment Options
– Policies and Procedures
– Patient Care and Education

* Medical

In the strictly medical side of marijuana use is a plethora of jobs and career choices available. Those interested in research may like to learn about the scientific interaction of cannabinoids with the bodies’ own endocannabinoid system, which was only recently discovered in 1988. Science has come a long way in determining how the two interact; however, there is still a lot to learn.

Since humans first started utilizing cannabis, the plant has been consumed or smoked to control pain, reduce nausea, control anxiety, improve mood, promote feelings of euphoria and a myriad of other effects on the body. Individuals interested in pursuing this as a career choice should look into Americans for Safe Access (ASA), as they are the premier institution for the advancement of legal medical marijuana research and use. Their site, www.SafeAccessNow.org, provides up to date information on the current events and regulations surrounding this topic.

These are exciting times we are living in. This dynamic industry is rapidly evolving, and we are on the forefront of a new dawn. As you can see, there are plenty of ways to become a part of this history in the making!

In many states, marijuana is legal for medical use. When used correctly, it has the potential to change a patient’s life in a positive way.

If used incorrectly, the effectiveness of the medicine might be compromised. Also called herb, ganja, pot and weed, medical marijuana can be used to treat conditions a wide range of health issues.

It’s commonly prescribed for eating disorders, arthritis, anxiety, HIV, AIDS, migraine headaches and glaucoma. There are several tips that all users of medical marijuana can use to make sure they’re getting the most out of their treatment.

Everyone Is Different

It’s important to understand that everyone is different, so the treatment plan that works for one person might not work for another. There are different types of marijuana, and they have different effects on patients.

A type of marijuana that works well to treat one patient’s glaucoma might not work at all to treat another patient’s eating disorder. A person’s genetics, gender, race and age are other factors that play a role in determining how effective the treatment will be.

Different Types of Cannabis

Cannabinoids are the active chemicals that cause the effects experienced by medical marijuana users. Every single strain of marijuana has a different balance of these active chemicals.

CBD and THC are two of the most common active chemicals in marijuana, and they’re responsible for most of the effects produced by cannabis.

Researchers believe they help to offset the effects of seizures and spasms. Even within a single strain of marijuana, the intensity of the cannabinoids can vary, which means different batches of marijuana can produce stronger or weaker effects.

Check for Contaminants

A lot of people who use medical marijuana have a weakened immune system. It’s crucial for these individuals to make sure their pot isn’t contaminated with pesticides, mildew, mold or heavy metals.

In some states, there are regulations in place that command dispensaries to check for these contaminants before selling product.

Find the Best Form of Ingestion

Medical marijuana can be consumed using a few different methods. Some patients prefer to eat it while others smoke or vaporize it. Some patients purchase concentrated liquids and use them to make sauces, cookies or other edibles. Medical marijuana patients should find the form of ingestion that works best.

Frequency of Use and Ingestion

When it comes to medical marijuana, the frequency of use can be used to find the most effective form of ingestion. Smoking or vaporizing the medicine produces almost instantaneous effects, but the therapeutic effects don’t last nearly as long as when the medicine is consumed through edibles.

For some patients, it’s best to consume marijuana orally and save smoking or vaporizing for breakthrough pain or symptoms. However, when consuming marijuana orally, it’s crucial to wait at least an hour before consuming additional doses.

Storage Affects Potency

Many patients don’t realize that how they store the medicine affects its potency. It’s believed that heat negatively affects the potency of edibles, so they should be refrigerated.

These are some simple tips that all medical marijuana users can use to make sure they’re getting the greatest health benefits from using their medicine.