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Cannabis in Germany 2024: Why 60% Still Use Illegal Sources?

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As the legalization of medical cannabis advances, the 2024 Cannabis Barometer from Bloomwell reveals critical insights into the cannabis landscape in Germany. The survey, which involved over 1,000 participants, shows that although 94.4% of respondents use cannabis for health reasons, nearly 60% still resort to illegal sources. Additionally, social stigma and limited access to cannabis-trained doctors remain significant barriers. Despite regulatory improvements, patients continue to face challenges in obtaining safe and legal cannabis.

The State of Cannabis in Germany: Key Findings from the 2024 Survey:

Widespread Use for Medical Purposes
A staggering 94.4% of respondents reported using cannabis to address health concerns such as chronic pain, stress, and sleep disorders. This underscores the importance of cannabis as a therapeutic option, with many users seeking to reduce reliance on traditional pharmaceuticals. For instance, 20% of patients reported being able to reduce or eliminate other medications due to cannabis use.

Continued Reliance on Illegal Sources
Despite legal advances, the majority of cannabis users still purchase from illegal markets, citing cost barriers and difficulties in accessing medical cannabis. Only 10% of participants obtained cannabis solely through legal channels, and more than 26% had purchased contaminated or low-quality cannabis on the black market, raising serious health concerns.

Stigma and Misunderstanding
Many respondents feel socially stigmatized due to their cannabis use, with 77% reporting negative societal attitudes. This stigma contributes to the persistence of illegal cannabis use, as patients fear being judged by healthcare providers and society. Interestingly, the survey dispels the notion that cannabis is primarily used by men; women accounted for 41% of users.

Telemedicine as a Solution
Access to cannabis-friendly doctors remains a hurdle, with 92% of respondents supporting the use of telemedicine as a safer, more convenient way to receive treatment. The demand for digital health services has skyrocketed, with patients eager for a streamlined process of receiving prescriptions and delivery from pharmacies.

Regional and Demographic Trends
The survey highlighted regional variations in cannabis use, with North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria showing the highest rates of consumption. Additionally, the data revealed that cannabis use is not restricted to younger people; 28% of users were between the ages of 31-40, and another 28% were aged 22-30.

    Challenges in Accessing Legal Cannabis

    Germany’s medical cannabis system, despite legal improvements, has failed to keep pace with patient demand. A significant portion of patients are still without access to physicians knowledgeable in cannabis therapies, forcing many to turn to illegal sources. This gap in healthcare is further exacerbated by doctors’ reluctance to prescribe cannabis due to lingering stigmas and a lack of education about its medical uses.

    Patients who rely on medical cannabis also face economic barriers. The survey revealed that a large number of users simply cannot afford the high cost of legally prescribed cannabis, which is often not fully covered by insurance. This drives many to the black market, despite concerns over quality and safety.

    Cannabis in Germany 2024
    Cannabis in Germany 2024

    Addressing Stigma and Misinformation

    Stigma remains one of the largest hurdles for medical cannabis patients in Germany. According to the survey, 77% of patients feel judged by society for their cannabis use, even though the vast majority use it for legitimate medical reasons. This negative perception often prevents patients from discussing their cannabis use with doctors, which can lead to unsafe consumption practices or ineffective treatment plans.

    Addressing stigma will require a multi-faceted approach, including public education campaigns to inform the public about the legitimate medical uses of cannabis and its potential to improve quality of life. The medical community also needs to be more proactive in normalizing cannabis treatments, offering patients a stigma-free environment to discuss their needs.

    The Growing Role of Telemedicine

    Telemedicine presents a promising solution to many of the access issues facing medical cannabis patients in Germany. With 92% of respondents supporting telemedicine for cannabis prescriptions, there is a clear demand for more flexible, patient-friendly healthcare solutions. Telemedicine can bridge the gap for those living in areas where cannabis-friendly doctors are scarce, offering consultations and prescriptions through digital platforms.

    Moreover, telemedicine aligns with the modern patient’s preference for convenience and privacy, making it an attractive option for those seeking cannabis treatments without the fear of social judgment.

    Policy Recommendations and the Path Forward

    The Cannabis Barometer data highlights several key areas where policy improvements are needed:

    1. Increase Education for Healthcare Providers: More doctors need comprehensive training on cannabis therapies to better meet the growing demand. This will reduce the number of patients turning to illegal sources.
    2. Tackle Stigma through Public Campaigns: Education campaigns targeting both the public and the medical community can help reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis use, encouraging safer and more transparent patient-doctor communication.
    3. Improve Access through Telemedicine: Telemedicine should be further integrated into the healthcare system, especially in rural areas where access to cannabis-friendly physicians is limited.
    4. Ensure Affordability of Legal Cannabis: Financial barriers to accessing medical cannabis need to be addressed, possibly through better insurance coverage or government subsidies to prevent patients from resorting to the black market.

    Conclusion

    The 2024 Cannabis Barometer survey sheds light on the complex landscape of medical cannabis use in Germany. While legalization has paved the way for improved access, significant barriers remain in the form of stigma, high costs, and limited healthcare access. Addressing these issues through policy reform, public education, and expanding telemedicine will be crucial in ensuring that cannabis can be safely and effectively used by the people who need it most.



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Three Wise Men Give Marijuana Strain Gift Suggestions

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It has become a popular gift with over 20% of the population putting it under the train. So we asked 3 wise man what to give (or consume) during the season.

The holiday season is a special time of year with a combination of Christmas, Hannakuh, and more are the modern hoildays descended from pagan holidays. Food, celebrations, gifts and a hint of something magical are all part of the holidays.  With Christmas, the three wise men bring gifts to the baby Jesus being steered by a star.  As we head into the last part of the season, why not think of the perfect gift to give or for yourself.  We have three wise men give marijuana strain gift suggestions to share with our readers.

RELATED: Can Pets Use Medical Marijuana or CBD

Terran Cooper, one of the rising stars of the industry and a part of the firm Falcon Rappaport & Berman who works in the cannabis industry.  New York based, he says while there are several great strains, he has two to share for the holiday season.

One of my favorite day time strains, Pineapple Express has skyrocketed in popularity following the 2008 film by the same name. This strain is one of the more energetic strains that I’ve come across, allowing for a nice balance between productivity and relaxation this holiday season. Its joyful and uplifting effects may pair nicely with last minute holiday tasks in addition to any festivities. Though infrequent consumers beware – its relatively high THC content means that a little can go a long way.

Beautifully wrapped Christmas gifts under a festive tree with glowing lights.

Andrew Laub, managing partner of Keneh Ventures and CEO of Cannabition, is a leader in the industry and shared his favorites. Golden Goat is my secret to finding joy in any moment, especially during the holiday season. Its tropical, citrusy flavor is bright and uplifting, just like its effects. I love how it gives me an energized, creative boost without feeling overwhelming, making it perfect for everything from decorating the house to hosting friends. It’s my reminder to savor the fun and chaos of the holidays.

Granddaddy Purple is like my personal escape when the holiday rush gets overwhelming. I love its rich, grape-like flavor and how it helps me unwind at the end of a busy day. Whether I’m binge-watching holiday movies or enjoying quiet time by the fireplace, this strain makes everything feel a little cozier and more magical.

Sour Diesel is my motivation when there’s too much to do and not enough time. Its energizing, citrusy aroma wakes me up, and its focus-boosting effects help me tackle long to-do lists with ease. I love using it to power through holiday prep, whether I’m wrapping gifts, planning meals, or brainstorming creative ways to make the season special.

RELATED: Holiday Hangover? Here’s How To Stop It Before It Strikes

Online cannabis influencer Miguel a.k.a Miggy420 (@miggy420) believes consumption of cannabis is a personal experience with everyone being different. He sees the endocannabinoid system as unique as snowflakes in winter. Some smoke to wash away ills, others to wash away the ills of society. He shared his two favorites.

Vin Diesel Diesel is a sativa grown by Dewey’s Cultivars. Her beauty matches her taste with gassy hits reminiscent of early 2000 diesel strains I would buy in the traditional market. These growers come with a biochemical background and it shows with this plant, pure bliss – and this is coming from someone who prefers indicas.

If you’re looking for something post family events i.e you just realized the debt you incurred for the little ones or you’re just happy your conspiracy Uncle is gone, I recommend Gelato Cake by Agro Couture. This indica dominant hybrid will have your mind drifting away and able to focus on what it is you really wanted to do, hot box your bedroom and binge watch YouTube.

Enjoy these suggestions and may everyone have a great holiday season.

 



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Teen Marijuana Use Continues To Drop With Legalization

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In another positive reason for cannabis legalization – teen use continues to drop.

One of the great arguments against marijuana legalization is it will lead to more youth partaking. This argument is brought out, despite teen alcohol use continuing to be a problem. Now, a new study shows teen marijuana is continuing to decline, coinciding with the increasing legalization of cannabis for adult use across the United States. This trend contradicts predictions made by opponents of legalization, who argued that easier access would lead to increased youth consumption.

According to the latest Monitoring the Future (MTF) Survey, supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), cannabis use among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders is now lower than before the first states began enacting adult-use legalization laws in 2012. This decline is part of a broader trend of decreasing youth drug use, which has reached historic lows since the coronavirus pandemic.
Photo by 2H Media via Unsplash

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported an 18% decrease in the percentage of 12- to 17-year-olds who had ever tried marijuana from 2014 to 2023. Additionally, current marijuana use among this age group fell by 19%. Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavioral Survey found a 26% reduction in the percentage of high schoolers identifying as current cannabis consumers between 2013 and 2023.

Researchers attribute this decline to several factors:

  1. Regulated markets: Licensed dispensaries require proof of age, making it more difficult for teenagers to obtain marijuana.
  2. Effective ID policies: Studies show high compliance rates among licensed cannabis retailers in checking customer IDs.
  3. Shifting perceptions: There has been a significant drop in youth perceptions that cannabis is easy to access, despite the widening adult-use marketplace.

The trend is not limited to the United States. A Canadian study found high school students reported more difficulty accessing marijuana since the country legalized it nationwide in 2019

These findings support the argument that regulated marijuana markets for adults, with appropriate safeguards, can effectively deter youth access and use. The data suggests that legalization policies can be implemented in a manner that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse.

As more states consider legalizing marijuana, this evidence can inform policymakers and public health officials in developing effective strategies to protect youth while allowing adult use. The ongoing decline in teen marijuana use demonstrates that legalization, when properly implemented, does not necessarily lead to increased adolescent consumption and may even contribute to its reduction.



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The Best Tips If You Are Giving Marijuana As A Gift

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Roughly 25% of people are planning to give cannabis as a holiday gift….here are some practical suggestions to make it a success.

Last year was a watershed year for Santa with 1 in 4 planning to add cannabis into their gift giving, the trend is only going up in 2024. Since the plant has become mainstream (except for a few in DC), it is to be found under the tree, next to the menorah and during festive gatherings. Gen Z and Millennials are leading the trend with 78% (vs. 56% of Gen X and Boomers) in planning to include cannabis in their holiday plans. But you you want to do it right, here are the best tips if you are giving marijuana as a gift.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

While giving alcohol is a long tradition, giving cannabis is does have some variances.  To start, so far most can’t grab it out of personal stock or fish it out of Christmas gifts already given for the year. While Costco, groceries stores and Total Wine are the booze top sellers, it can be also purchased in bodegas, gas stations and other locations. Cannabis still has to be purchased at specialized dispensaries.

marijuana dispensary
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First, plan ahead when you shop. The good news is most dispensaries keep hours similar to a grocery store – open by 9 am and closing around or after 10 pm. This makes dashing in for a last minute gift or squeezing it in during the day easy. Remember to bring cash, have a plan and chill out.

The good news isyou can’t seem to be “cheap” giving weed. Most edibles are in a small price range, whereas wine bought at a grocery stores can go for $6-$100.  And the quality of the wine can vary greatly. Most edibles, including gummies, are within the same price point and potency while caring on quality.  Wana Brands, one of the nation’s leading gummy makers, hits the mid spot on price.  Also, unless you are doing a hefty gift basket, you are can give one or two items as a trail.

Never overestimate someone’s usage. Think about the recipient’s experience level and preferences when selecting cannabis gifts. For most, consider starting with low-dose or CBD-dominant products. Gummies, vapes, oil, or gift cards are all popular choices.  Also, ask the budtender what the best sellers for mid level consumers.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

If you are in the less than 50% of the population where legal cannabis is available, consider hemp beverages. It can provide a quick, similar high but is legal.  In Texas, they are huge sellers and can be found in some Total Wines, local convenience stores and other locations.

Lastly, have a hint of discretion, it might not be the best public secret Santa gift, but gummies can be a fun White Elephant!



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