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Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick questionnaire on our website.
But did you know there are dos and don’ts when it comes to storing medical cannabis? Below we’ll be exploring the best way to store cannabis, and what to avoid, so you can get the most out of your medication.
How to Store Cannabis for Maximum Freshness
Here’s a list of some key medical cannabis storage tips:
- Follow the instructions on the packaging
- Keep below 25°C in the original container
- Avoid moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme heat or cold
- Do not refrigerate
- Close the packaging and container tightly after use to protect the product
- Do not store your medication in a bathroom, or near a sink
- Do not store it on a windowsill, or keep it in your car
- Keep out of reach of children
The above should be followed as general storage rules for all medical cannabis products, regardless of form. This should help protect the potency, aroma and therapeutic value of your medication. If the product is not stored as recommended, the quality may change, and the supplier cannot guarantee it will work as expected.
Best Containers and Conditions to Preserve Medical Cannabis
As we mentioned above, we always recommend keeping your medication in its original container. Not only does this preserve your medical cannabis and keep it working as it should, but it also makes it clear that it is a prescribed, legal medication.
You’ll see that most prescribed flower comes in plastic, air-tight containers. But it’s still important to follow the tips above, avoiding moisture, humid areas, direct sunlight, and extreme heat or cold.
Tips to Avoid Mould and Loss of Potency
The main thing you should do to prevent mould is keep your medication away from humid areas, especially when it comes to dried cannabis flower. Places like your car, or on a windowsill. Feel free to refer to the general list above, but the main things to remember when it comes to medical cannabis humidity control is to avoid moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme heat. Store your medication in areas that are below 25°C, and keep them in the original container where possible. Also make sure the container you’re storing it in is closed properly and tightly.
Basically follow the key tips above!
FAQs
What is the shelf life of medical cannabis?
This can vary, largely depending on how well the above tips are followed. But when harvested, dried, cured and stored correctly, it can last anywhere from six months to a full year (and sometimes even longer!). Keep in mind that this ‘timer’ does not start when you receive your medication.
It’s best to follow the instructions on the pack and listen to your clinician.
Does medical cannabis lose strength if exposed to air?
Over exposing your medical cannabis to air, light and heat can cause it to become less potent, as we mentioned above. However, exposing it to air, to then consume is absolutely fine. Just make sure you’re storing it correctly, and following the tips above!
Can medical cannabis be rehydrated if overdried?
While it's possible to rehydrate overdried medical cannabis to some extent by using things like humidity packs, it may not fully regain its original quality. That’s why it’s crucial to store your medical cannabis properly, following the guidance above."
Should You Freeze Medical Cannabis?
We don't ever recommend freezing your medication. If you follow the guidance, dosage and instructions of your clinician, it’s not something you should need to do. Why? Because, our clinicians will prescribe you the right amount of medication to last until your next appointment or repeat prescription.
If you don’t seem to be consuming everything you’re prescribed, speak to your clinician, and they may prescribe less in the future.
Summary
So that pretty much covers all of the important things you need to know about prescription cannabis storage. If you want to find out a bit more detail, and dive into how to store different forms, we have a bit more information on our FAQ page.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.