The steadily expanding plant-based treatment industry has taken the world by storm. All over, people are exploring the potential of both CBD and THC as treatment options.
These naturally occurring chemical compounds are the main ingredients found in said plant-based treatments. CBD, or cannabidiol, is non-psychoactive and won’t cause any sort of mind-altering effect. THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is psychoactive and has an intoxicating effect on its users.
As the alternative medication continues to sweep through the western world, more and more individuals are considering it as an option to relieve their symptoms. Researchers are still in the early phases of exploring the efficacy of this treatment, but this has not slowed its surge in popularity.
One of the often-touted stumbling blocks of the reintegration of plant-based treatments into society is the cost. But this is no longer as much of an issue as it used to be.
How much do plant-based treatments cost
As plant-based treatments are not subsidised in the same way as mainstream medicine, the cost is often seen as a significant obstacle. In recent years, prices have started to fall in line with black-market costs.
By matching black-market prices, patients need not risk their safety or health by looking to purchase unauthorised products. Instead, the legal channels should be reviewed.
Medical plant-based products’ cost can be wide-ranging and is dependent on a few different considerations. Some of the key factors influencing the price include:
- The patient’s condition: some patients require a higher potency of THC and/or CBD.
- The product being prescribed: prices range across different products.
- The patient’s genetics and endocannabinoid system: patients react differently and some may require more than others.
The average cost of plant-based treatments seems to range from anywhere between $50 and $1000 per week.
Different types of plant-based treatment products
Different products come at different prices. The cost is dependent on a few different factors, namely:
- The concentration of CBD/THC
- The method of production
- Any extra ingredients such as oils or flavouring
- The quality of the product
In Australia, some of the most popular plant-based treatment options are:
Oils & Tinctures
The price of range of oils and tinctures is largely dependent on the concentration of CBD and/or THC. Higher concentrations equal higher prices.
Edibles
When CBD and THC are infused into foods, the cost of the product is boosted when a variety of other ingredients are included. Expensive chocolates or cookie mixes can lead to a higher product cost.
Topical Products
Largely guided by the quality of the lotion, CBD is often infused into these products at a low dosage. As such, the price will depend on the brand and its reputation.
Flower
The price of dried and cured flower is dependent on the quality and potency of the product. Indoor-grown flower has a higher production cost and thus fetches a higher price than outdoor-grown flower.
Who can access plant-based treatments?
In 2016, the Australian Government legalised plant-based treatments for patients with a prescription from a qualified medical practitioner.
Doctors are willing to grant prescriptions in cases where:
- The patient has a recognised chronic condition.
- Conventional medicine has so far failed to provide the necessary relief.
- There is evidence to support the use of plant-based treatments for the patient’s condition.
- The doctor believes it is clinically appropriate in the circumstances.
Plant-based treatments that are CBD-dominant are classified as Schedule 4 prescription-only medicines. THC-dominant products are classified as Schedule 8 controlled drugs.
The doctor must have approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration before granting a prescription, as most plant-based treatment products are not registered with the Australian Registrar of Therapeutic Goods.
Low-dose CBD oil will soon be available as an over-the-counter alternative medicine at pharmacies, but no products currently meet the required standards.
Only by consulting with your doctor will you know whether plant-based treatments are suitable for your condition.
Are plant-based treatments safe?
In general, experts believe that plant-based treatments are safe for adult use. Research on its long-term safety, however, is limited.
As such, experts recommend approaching said treatments with caution and only under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner.
CBD and THC are also not free of side effects. In some cases, undesirable feelings may accompany those using plant-based treatments. The most commonly reported side effects are:
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in mood
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Rapid thoughts
- Memory lapses
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Increased heart rate
Individuals with a prescription for THC-based products are more likely to experience the above side effects than patients who are only using CBD.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, doctors advise against using plant-based treatments, as we do not have enough information in this regard.
Unauthorised plant-based treatments
You may have noticed some places online selling CBD and/or THC products without the need for a prescription. This is either illegal or does not contain the specified ingredients. The purchasing of unauthorised plant-based treatments is still firmly illegal and can land you in a mass of trouble.
Black-market products are also far more likely to contain harmful toxins or bacteria. As such, purchasing CBD and/or THC in this manner can lead to serious health consequences.
The lack of regulation and third-party testing means that the products could contain anything. There is no point in risking your health for unauthorised products.
Legal plant-based treatments are manufactured according to strict quality and safety standards. There is no risk of outside tampering or unwanted bacteria being included in the product.
The only way to legally access plant-based treatments in Australia is to consult with a qualified medical professional.
Summary
The cost of plant-based treatments in Australia is dependent on the patient’s condition, the product prescribed, and the frequency of use. Patients with more serious and severe conditions will likely end up paying more than those looking to relieve minor symptoms.
Legal CBD and THC products can be accessed by consulting with a qualified medical professional. If a doctor deems it clinically appropriate, they will write you a prescription for plant-based treatments.
Purchasing black-market plant-based treatments are ill-advised and may have health and legal consequences. For best results, you should consult with a qualified medical practitioner.
For more information on the cost of plant-based treatments in Australia, speak to one of our qualified experts today.