St. Louis Cannabis FAQs

This system is made up of cannabinoid receptors (called CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids (natural chemicals in the human body that activate or modulate CB1 and CB2 activity), and enzymes that metabolize the endocannabinoids and clear them from the body. The ECS modulates many of the body’s most important functions, including sleep, hunger, pain, anxiety, nausea, and energy metabolism, among others. In fact, the endocannabinoid system is so vital to maintaining homeostasis — a state of balance in the body — that some researchers believe many health conditions can be explained by endocannabinoid deficiencies. These conditions include migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia, among others. 

Under the effects of illness, injury, or environmental stress, the need for endocannabinoid messengers can exceed the supply. When the body needs more of these essential messengers than it can produce, the communication between vital processes can break down. Plant-based cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) like those in cannabis, can influence ECS functions, helping them regulate body functions.

There are more than 500 different chemicals in cannabis, including at least 140 which are known as cannabinoids — compounds unique to marijuana alone.  The two most prominent cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which provides cannabis with much of its psychotropic and medicinal effects, and cannabidiol (CBD), which is touted for having medicinal benefits without the same intoxicating “high” of THC.

THC can be used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, and for its ability to prevent nausea and vomiting, and increase appetite. The high caused by THC can cause feelings of euphoria and calm, which can uplift depression and ease anxiety.

CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t cause the same psychotropic high as THC, and doesn’t impair patients’ ability to function normally. Proposed uses for CBD include as an anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antipsychotic, and its ability to ease pain, anxiety, and depression, among other uses. 

Terpenes are compounds that produce the aroma and taste of cannabis (and a variety of other plants) and the reason one “strain” of cannabis tastes like lemon, while another gives off a piney aroma.  Scientists also believe that the varying sedating, uplifting, and other distinguishing effects of cannabis strains are a result of their terpenoid profile and that terpenes play a role in the medical therapeutic effects of cannabis. The terpene levels are often presented on the packaging of medical cannabis products, next to the THC:CBD ratio and sativa-indica origins of the strain.

With most medications, dosing is pretty simple — there are clinical trials, FDA approval, and recommendations handed down to doctors and pharmacists based on specific chemical calculations.  For cannabis, dosing is not yet an exact science and a much more individualized approach is required. 

A doctor prescribing cannabis must consider the best delivery methods for their patient as well as the right CBD-to-THC ratio, terpenes, or which strain of marijuana is best for the patient. Today’s cannabis products can be quite potent so patients should be advised to “start low and go slow,” by taking a low dose and then increasing it as needed, after gauging the effects. The first time using cannabis should also be done in a comfortable place and with a trusted confidant. 

Cannabis is typically taken 2-3 times daily and most patients do not exceed 1–3 grams of cannabis per day. In general, patients tend to develop tolerance to the psychotropic effects of THC rather quickly, but this doesn’t result in a reduction in the therapeutic benefits.

Cannabis delivery methods mainly fall into one of three categories: inhalation, ingestion, or topical (dermal) application. Each has its own pros and cons. 

Inhalation is the most popular delivery method, largely because it’s convenient, simple, fast-acting, and enjoyable. When cannabis is inhaled, it directly enters the lungs en route to being absorbed into the bloodstream, creating almost instantaneous onset. There is also the fact that smoking in and of itself — be it with a pipe, “bong,” or marijuana cigarette (“joint”), can be a therapeutic, enjoyable exercise. One major downside of smoking is that it can be harmful to the lungs and throat. For this reason, it is advisable for people with pulmonary conditions to avoid smoking. Smoking also produces a strong aroma and secondhand smoke, and is not the most discrete way to consume cannabis. 

That’s where vaporization comes in. Vaporizing cannabis has exploded in popularity in recent years, largely because it’s much more discreet than smoking but also because it heats up the flower just enough to release an inhalable vapor, without the harmful effects of igniting organic plant matter.

When taken orally, cannabis is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract or sublingually underneath the tongue. It can take as much as an hour and a half for patients to feel the effects of “edibles” kick in, and they can have a long-lasting, potent effect without the harmful effects of smoking. Sublingual administration has a quicker onset more akin to smoking or vaporizing. In addition to edible THC and CBD cookies, brownies, infused drinks, and gummies (to name just a few of the countless forms of edibles available today), ingestibles can also be taken in the form of oils, tinctures, pills, capsules, powder, and tablets.  Because of the delayed onset and potent strength, with ingestibles the mantra “start low, go slow” is especially relevant.

Topical applications involve balms, salves, and creams which are made with a cannabis extract/concentrate mixed with a base like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. For people with intense pain, dermal applications may not be strong enough. These patients may prefer applying cannabis by way of a transdermal patch, which penetrates the skin and is absorbed through the bloodstream producing a systematic rather than a local effect.

Yes, medical marijuana is legal in Missouri for qualifying patients with a valid medical marijuana card. At Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis, we provide a wide selection of premium medical cannabis products to meet the needs of cardholders.

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Missouri, you must have a qualifying condition, such as chronic pain, PTSD, or epilepsy. You’ll need a recommendation from a state-certified physician. Visit Luxury Leaf in St. Louis for more information on how to get started with your medical marijuana card application.

To purchase medical marijuana at Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary, you must bring a valid Missouri medical marijuana card and a government-issued photo ID. Both documents must be presented during each visit to ensure compliance with Missouri state laws.

In Missouri, medical marijuana patients can purchase up to 4 ounces of dried, unprocessed marijuana or its equivalent in a 30-day period. At Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis, we help you stay within legal limits and provide guidance on selecting the right products for your needs.

Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary offers a wide range of cannabis products, including flower, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and more. Whether you're looking for high-quality cannabis flower or discreet edibles, our St. Louis dispensary has something for every preference and need.

Yes, Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis offers a variety of high-CBD and low-THC cannabis products for those seeking therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right balance for your medical needs.

Choosing the right cannabis strain depends on your medical condition and desired effects. Indica strains are generally more relaxing, while sativa strains are known for uplifting effects. At Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis, our expert staff can help you select the best strain for your symptoms and preferences.

Common side effects of medical marijuana may include dry mouth, dizziness, and increased appetite. It’s essential to start with a low dose and consult with our team at Luxury Leaf Dispensary in St. Louis for personalized advice on safe consumption practices.

At this time, cannabis transactions are typically cash-only due to federal banking regulations. Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis has an ATM on-site for your convenience. We recommend bringing cash or using the ATM to complete your purchase.

Yes, Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis offers various deals and discounts on select cannabis products. Be sure to check our website or visit us in-store to learn about our latest promotions and special offers.

Medical marijuana patients in Missouri can legally travel with their cannabis within the state. However, transporting cannabis across state lines is illegal, even to other states where marijuana is legal. For more guidance on cannabis laws, visit Luxury Leaf Dispensary in St. Louis.

Cannabis products should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain their quality. Keep your cannabis securely stored away from children and pets. At Luxury Leaf Cannabis Dispensary in St. Louis, we offer advice on proper storage to preserve your products.

Yes! We do have an ATM accessible to all Luxury Leaf customers inside our St. Louis dispensary.

Yes, we have parking available for all customers in front of and behind our cannabis dispensary, as well as across the street.

Yes we offer recreational marijuana purchases at our St. Louis dispensary. You must be 21+ and bring a valid driver's license or state ID card.