Medical marijuana is a reliable option as an alternative to conventional medication in Florida. Its legalized status for medical health issues has paved the path for many patients suffering from debilitating illnesses. However, one must have complete knowledge of the properties, effects, advantages, as well as risks of marijuana. Moreover, you must comply with the MMJ laws and acquire a medical marijuana card Sarasota for the safe use of this drug. A medical marijuana doctor can ease your access to MMJ and help you find out how long cannabis stays in your system.

This article will elucidate the rising importance of medical marijuana as a therapeutic drug alternative while also explaining how long it stays in your system.

Medical Marijuana Constituents Explained
Medical Marijuana Constituents: Explained

Medical marijuana is a considerable therapy option for Florida residents who are grappling with serious health issues. It contains natural cannabinoids with soothing effects for the body. Moreover, THC and CBD are the two well-known compounds in medical marijuana with healing properties.

Interestingly, THC is the major intoxicating compound that causes the “high” in marijuana. However, it can have potential benefits for the mind and body if used in optimum doses through expert guidance.

On the other hand, Cannabidiol or CBD is a non-intoxicating, therapeutic compound that is known for its pain-relieving and calming effects. Moreover, it is available as oil, in the form of pills, vapes, edibles etc, depending on the health needs of a patient. 

However, only a medical marijuana doctor can recommend the right mode of marijuana ingestion based on the patient’s unique symptoms. Due to marijuana’s therapeutic effects, it is a viable complementary therapy option in modern medicine.

Can every patient use MMJ?

No, medical marijuana use is limited to specific health conditions in Florida. A person is considered an eligible patient for MMJ, if they have one of these:

  • Alzheimer’s
  • Anorexia
  • Depression
  • Cancer
  • Anxiety
  • PTSD
  • Sickle Cell Anemia
  • Migraines
  • Parkinson’s
  • Chronic pain
  • Muscle spasms
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Hepatitis C

The list is inclusive of any other conditions, such as those mentioned or diagnosed by an MMJ expert. Therefore, if you have any signs of the given conditions, it is necessary to seek help from a healthcare expert.

How long does Marijuana Stay in the System?

While the intoxicating effects of marijuana do not last for a long time, traces of THC can stay in your body. When medical marijuana is consumed, THC attaches to the ECS receptors, however, its metabolites remain behind even after the high wears off. Nonetheless, your body naturally eliminates these THC metabolites within a few days.

Some studies indicate that approx. 80-90% are excreted in a span of five days, through urination. This leads to complete clearance from the system for most of the people. However, certain factors can affect how long marijuana stays in your body. 

Among those factors are dosage, usage frequency, THC potency, consumption method, metabolism, elimination pathways, and factors like gender, hydration, BMI, overall health, lifestyle, and even genetics.

Detection Windows based on Drug Test Types

A research by the National Institute of Health indicates the following detection windows for marijuana based on various drug test types:

1. Hair: Marijuana can remain detectable in hair for up to 90 days.

2. Urine: Marijuana can be detectable in urine for up to 30 days.

3. Saliva: Marijuana can be traced in saliva for up to 24 hours.

CBD elimination duration

Just as THC, studies suggest that CBD gets eliminated within 1-2 days, potentially clearing thoroughly within a week. However, individual usage patterns can impact this duration.

Fortunately, drug tests usually do not screen for CBD. With low-THC or THC-free CBD, failing a test is unlikely. Thus, many medical cannabis users choose CBD to avoid THC’s side effects and potential downsides.

CBD elimination duration
Can you expedite the Clearance of Marijuana?

Many users aim to speed up the elimination of medical marijuana, either for upcoming tests or personal detox. While there is no guarantee of a method, some strategies can be helpful. 

1. Increasing water intake

Increased water intake can be beneficial as it dilutes THC metabolites through urination. However, frequent consumption may only lead to a few days’ reduction for occasional users.

2. Eating Protein-rich foods

Another approach is protein and fiber-rich foods, which can boost metabolism. Moreover, some users choose cranberry, prune, or lemon juice, which aids digestion and speeds up excretion.

3. Exercise

It can help in accelerating the elimination of toxins from the body. 

Nevertheless, consulting a medical marijuana expert is crucial as they can offer personalized guidance on ways to expedite the elimination of medical marijuana from your body.

Importance of your Medical Marijuana Card

If you are considering medical marijuana use for health, it is best to get your medical marijuana card and avoid penalties of non-compliance in Florida.

This card is important to prove that you are an eligible patient. By talking to a reputable MMJ doctor, you can get an MMJ card. However, the card acquisition process can be challenging. Thus, you can get a valid card by following these steps:

  • Checking for eligibility for a qualifying illness
  • Speaking with a medical marijuana doctor
  • Getting a recommendation
  • Applying for the MMJ card
  • Waiting for the approval of application by the Office of Medical Marijuana Use
  • Receiving your card

After getting an MMJ card you can buy the desired MMJ products from medical marijuana dispensaries such as Green Dragon and The Cannabist.

Bottom Line

Medical marijuana can potentially aid in managing a variety of diseases. Its vital constituents can pose a healing response in the body. However, medical marijuana use necessitates the role of a qualified doctor with complete knowledge on MMJ. My Florida Green has experienced doctors who can help you in opting for marijuana as an alternative drug. Moreover, our trained professionals can educate you on medical marijuana use in Florida, while also easing your Florida marijuana card Sarasota certification process.