“Highly Helpful Guide: Discovering Your Greener Side in Ohio
Are you a cannabis enthusiast living in, or visiting, the beautiful state of Ohio? If so, this guide is just what you’ve been searching for! We’ll help you navigate the Buckeye State’s legal landscape and find the best places to buy cannabis in Ohio.
First things first: It’s important to note that while recreational use of marijuana remains illegal under federal law, Ohio has embraced a more compassionate approach. Medical marijuana has been legal in Ohio since September 2016, with sales starting in January 2019. So, let’s dive into the world of legal cannabis in Ohio!
Qualifying Conditions and Registering as a Patient:
To legally purchase cannabis in Ohio, you must be a resident aged 18 or over (or age 18 to 20 with a qualifying caregiver) and have a valid Ohio ID. You’ll also need a physician’s recommendation for one of the following debilitating medical conditions:
– AIDS
– Alzheimer’s disease
– Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
– Cancer
– Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
– Crohn’s disease
– Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
– Fibromyalgia
– Glaucoma
– Hepatitis C
– Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
– Multiple sclerosis (MS)
– Parkinson’s disease
– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Sickle cell anemia
– Spinal cord injury with spasticity
– Terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of less than one year
– Tourette’s syndrome
– Ulcerative colitis
– Wasting syndrome
To register as a patient, you’ll need to:
1. Obtain a written certification from an Ohio-licensed physician.
2. Submit the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program (OMMCP) Patient Registration Form online or by mail.
3. Pay the $50 registration fee.
4. Provide proof of identity and age.
Where to Buy Cannabis in Ohio:
Once you’re registered, you can purchase medical marijuana at any one of the state-licensed dispensaries, also known as medical marijuana cultivators, processors, or testing labs. As of March 2021, there are over 65 licensed dispensaries across Ohio, with more opening all the time. To find a dispensary near you, check out the OMMCP’s official website (www.ohiommcc.ohio.gov) or popular online resources like Weedmaps and Leafly.
When visiting a dispensary, be prepared to show your Ohio ID and proof of registration. Staff will guide you through their selection of high-quality cannabis products, including flower, edibles, oils, concentrates, and topicals. Remember, the maximum purchase quantity for a 90-day period is:
– 96 ounces of plant material (flower)
– 8 grams of cannabis oil or extract
– 72 ounces of edibles or tinctures
Strain Selection:
Ohio’s cultivators grow a wide variety of marijuana strains, each with its unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes that affect everything from potency to flavor. Some popular indica strains include Gorilla Glue #4, Blueberry Kush, and Bubba Kush, while sativa favorites include Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, and Green Crack. Hybrid strains like OG Kush, Pineapple Express, and Girl Scout Cookies offer a mix of indica and sativa effects.
Cannabis Consumption:
While Ohio dispensaries cannot sell smoking devices, you can bring your own vaporizer or pipe when making a purchase. Remember, it’s illegal to smoke marijuana in public places, so always consume responsibly and respectfully.
Enjoy exploring the world of legal cannabis in Ohio! Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, this beautiful state has much to offer. As always, remember to consume responsibly and enjoy your greener adventures in the Buckeye State.