When you pick up a prescription or over-the-counter drug, you will notice that the label contains an expiration date. Does the same apply to medical marijuana? Do patients need to worry about their medication expiring?
For example, marijuana in the form of dried flower does not expire. Unlike food or prescription medication, there is no date in which this form of marijuana will be hazardous to consume. However, the potency and effects can change over time.
Most of the therapeutic and psychoactive effects of medical marijuana come from cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds secreted by cannabis flowers that provide relief to an array of symptoms. These include THC, the compound that is responsible for producing a “high,” and CBD, which does not result in psychoactive effects. Over time, these compounds will degrade and the therapeutic effects will decrease the longer you keep your marijuana.
Medical marijuana also contains other compounds called terpenes that contribute to its effects. Terpenes are foils that are secreted in cannabis trichomes, giving cannabis its distinct color and fragrance. Terpenes offer a wide range of medicinal benefits but will degrade rapidly when cannabis flower is exposed to air.
Edibles, on the other hand, can go bad the same way that food does. Because edibles are food products that are infused with cannabis, it is best to pay attention to the expiration date and consume accordingly. As for products such as vape pens, cartridges or tinctures, it is recommended that you use them within one year of purchase.
The Importance of Proper Cannabis Storage
When it comes to marijuana flower, it is important to prevent exposure to things such as air, heat, light, and moisture because it can cause a decrease in potency. Moisture exposure is the most worrisome because damp cannabis flower can end up with mold and become dangerous for your health.
Terpenes are sensitive to air and heat exposure. This is why you may notice that marijuana can lose its distinct aroma if it is left out for too long.
Here are some tips for proper cannabis storage:
Do’s:
Store marijuana flower in an airtight container
Keep marijuana in a cool location
Protect your marijuana from any exposure to light
Use your edibles by their use-by date
Dont's:
Store marijuana in a freezer or refrigerator
Leave marijuana outside of a storage container
Leave in an open container
Store marijuana in a hot location
By following these tips, this can help ensure a long shelf life for your products so you can get the most out of your medical marijuana use.
If you are a qualifying patient who is suffering from one of the qualifying conditions and is seeking medical marijuana treatment, schedule a telemedicine evaluation, and gain access to Ohio dispensaries.You can schedule your appointment by calling us at 866-457-5559 or book your appointment online.