CBD and THC Information in Virginia: What Patients Should Know
- Isabella Romo
- 3 hours ago
- 5 min read
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If you are a medical marijuana patient in Virginia, you have probably heard the terms CBD and THC. These are two of the main compounds found in marijuana, and they affect the body in different ways. Understanding how they work, how they are used, and what to expect when using different marijuana products can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
What Is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is a compound found in marijuana that does not cause a “high.” Many patients prefer CBD because it can help relieve symptoms without causing the strong intoxicating effects that are commonly associated with THC.
CBD is often used for:
Inflammation
Sleep issues
What Is THC?
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. This is the compound in marijuana that causes the “high” feeling. It affects mood, perception, appetite, and pain levels.
THC is commonly used for:
Nausea and vomiting
Appetite loss
Muscle spasms
Sleep problems
How to Choose the Right CBD and THC Ratio
The right balance of CBD and THC depends on your condition, tolerance, and personal comfort level.
High-CBD, low-THC products are often used for anxiety, inflammation, and daytime symptom control.
Balanced CBD and THC products may be used for chronic pain and overall symptom relief.
Higher-THC products are typically chosen for severe pain, nausea, or sleep issues.
In Virginia’s medical marijuana program, licensed providers can help guide you toward the right starting point.
How CBD and THC Products Are Used in Virginia
Now that you understand the difference between CBD and THC, it is also important to know how patients use these compounds. The way you ingest a marijuana product affects how quickly you feel the effects, how long they last, and how precisely you can control your dose.
In Virginia, CBD and THC are commonly available in oil-based products and other concentrated forms. These products are carefully measured and lab-tested, so patients know exactly how much CBD and THC they are using.
Common forms of oil-based and concentrated products include:
Tinctures (liquid drops)
Capsules
Edibles
Vape oils
Concentrated extracts
Each method works differently in the body and has a different onset time.
Tinctures and Oils
One of the most common ways to use marijuana oil is under the tongue. This is called sublingual use.
Shake the bottle if instructed.
Use the dropper to measure your dose.
Place the oil under your tongue.
Hold it there for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing.
Holding the oil under your tongue allows the CBD and THC to absorb directly into the bloodstream through small blood vessels. This usually leads to faster effects than swallowing it right away. Many patients begin to feel effects within 15 to 45 minutes.
Sublingual tinctures allow for more precise dosing because the dropper is clearly marked, making it easier to measure exact amounts of CBD and THC. This level of control is one reason tinctures are often recommended for beginners.
Swallowing Oils or Capsules
If you swallow marijuana oil or take it in capsule form, it goes through your digestive system, and the effects take longer to start, often between 30 minutes and 2 hours. They may, however, last longer.
Because of the delayed onset, it is important not to take more than is needed too soon. Many patients make the mistake of thinking it is not working and take another dose, which can lead to stronger effects than expected.
Inhalation
Some patients use vape products. Inhaled marijuana works much faster, often within minutes, but the effects may not last as long as oils or edibles.
This method allows patients to feel results quickly and adjust their dose more easily, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
Legal Access in Virginia
In Virginia, marijuana is legal for adult possession, but recreational sales are not currently available. Adults 21 and older can legally possess limited amounts, but there are no recreational dispensaries. Right now, the only way to legally buy marijuana products in Virginia is through the medical marijuana program.
To participate, patients must schedule an appointment with a licensed provider who can issue a written certification - that’s where we come in! During your visit, our doctor will review your medical history and determine whether marijuana may help with your condition. If approved, you receive a written certification, which allows you to visit a state-approved dispensary to purchase medical marijuana products.
Virginia dispensaries sell lab-tested products that clearly list their CBD and THC content, ensuring patients know exactly what they are purchasing. Until recreational sales are established, the medical program remains the only legal way to buy marijuana in the state.
Final Thoughts
CBD and THC are both important parts of medical marijuana treatment in Virginia. CBD offers symptom relief without intoxication, while THC can provide severe pain and nausea control. Many patients benefit from a combination of both.
The key to success is understanding how each compound works, choosing the right method of use, and starting with a careful, measured approach. With proper guidance and regulated products, Virginia patients can safely explore how marijuana may support their health and quality of life.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today
Lucky for you, medical marijuana is already available in Virginia! You can get your medical marijuana card and access dispensaries today!
Recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, but it does not mean much since there are no recreational dispensaries to purchase products from.
If you don’t already have your card, no worries. We can help! If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you would qualify for your medical card in the State of Virginia. There’s no list of qualifying conditions, so anyone with a medical condition could get a medical marijuana card! With telemedicine, it is now easier than ever to get your medical card from the comfort of your own home!
Schedule an evaluation online today, and we’ll make an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Virginia Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Virginia’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.
Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (888) 633-5808 or schedule your evaluation today
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