As of June 26, 2025, medical marijuana is legal in 40 states, three U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
With more adults seeking relief from anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, or insomnia via cannabis, interest in liquid marijuana formats, like tinctures or liquid marijuana drops, is growing fast. However, laws vary from state to state, product types differ widely, and misinformation abounds.
Before you try liquid marijuana drops, it is critical to know whether they are legal in your state, what ingredients they contain, and how to use them safely. This guide breaks down everything clearly and compassionately, so you can make confident, informed decisions about your health.
What Is Liquid Marijuana? (And What It Is Not)
If you are wondering what is in a liquid marijuana, it is important to distinguish the cannabis product from the similarly named cocktail.
In the context of medical cannabis, liquid marijuana refers to concentrated tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)- or cannabidiol (CBD)-infused liquids prepared for therapeutic use and not as a mixed drink used for recreation. These liquids typically include a carrier base such as alcohol or oil. Some may also contain flavoring agents or emulsifiers to improve taste, consistency, and absorption.
These products come in several forms, including:
- Tinctures (alcohol-based cannabis extracts)
- Oils (infused in MCT or hemp seed oil)
- Ready-to-drink cannabis beverages
- Liquid marijuana drops designed to be placed under the tongue
People turn to these drops to manage health conditions like:
- Persistent anxiety
- PTSD flashbacks and insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Nausea or appetite issues
- Crohn’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
What Makes Liquid Marijuana Different from Other Cannabis Products?
With several cannabis options available, choosing the right one depends on your needs. You might need quick relief during a busy day, want precise control over your dose, or prefer a method that feels easier on your body.
Many patients choose liquid marijuana products because they are easy to carry and measure. They also work quickly, especially when taken orally and held in the mouth for faster absorption.
Here is how liquid marijuana compares to other common cannabis products:
Product Type | Onset Time | Ease of Use in Public | Dosage Control | Best For |
Flower (smoked) | 5–10 minutes | Low | Difficult | Fast-acting relief |
Edibles | 30–90 minutes | Medium | Difficult | Long-lasting effects |
Vapes | 5–15 minutes | High | Moderate | Quick, portable sessions |
Liquids | 10–30 minutes | Very High | Easy | Quiet, measured daily use |
Is Liquid Marijuana Legal in the U.S.? (State-by-State Breakdown)
When it comes to using liquid marijuana, the rules are not the same everywhere. In fact, cannabis laws across the U.S. vary so much that what is perfectly legal in one state may be a serious offense in another.
Cannabis Legalization by State (As of 2025)
To help you understand where your state stands, here is a breakdown of all 50 states categorized by their current cannabis laws:
Category | States |
Fully Legal (Medical + Recreational) | Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington |
Medical Only | Arkansas, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, West Virginia |
CBD or Low-THC Only | Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, Wyoming |
Fully Illegal | Idaho, Nebraska |
1. Fully Legal States
In states like California, Colorado, New York, and Oregon, marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational use. You do not need a medical card to purchase or use liquid marijuana. As long as you meet the age requirement (usually 21+), you are free to buy products from licensed dispensaries.
2. Medical-Only States
Marijuana is legal in states like Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi but only for patients with a certified medical marijuana card. If you live in one of these states, you must first be evaluated by a licensed medical provider and receive approval for your condition. Once certified, you can legally purchase and use liquid marijuana through licensed dispensaries. This is where services like MedCert make the process easy, secure, and affordable.
3. CBD or Low-THC States
Some states have not fully legalized marijuana but do allow limited use of cannabis products that contain CBD or very low amounts of THC, usually less than 0.3%. In these states, liquid marijuana drops may be allowed only if they meet strict THC limits. But you need to be cautious if your product contains more than the legal amount of THC. You could be violating state law, even if it is used for medical reasons.
4. Fully Illegal States
Idaho and Nebraska are the two states in the US that still ban all forms of marijuana, medical or recreational. In these places, it is illegal to possess, use, or purchase cannabis in any form, including liquid marijuana. Until laws change, it is best to avoid cannabis products entirely if you live in one of these regions.
Stay Compliant and Use Liquid Marijuana Legally with MedCert
If you live in a medical-only state, you must get certified before purchasing or using liquid marijuana.
With MedCert, the process is simple:
- Book a telehealth appointment online.
- Meet a licensed medical provider via secure video.
- Get same-day certification delivered by email.
- Use your medical card at state-approved dispensaries.
Final Thoughts
Laws around liquid marijuana are evolving, but the key is to know your state’s rules and get certified if needed. Always buy from trusted sources, check your local THC limits, and use your products responsibly.
If you are living with anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, or chronic pain, liquid marijuana drops may offer you relief in a way that is easy, fast, and safe. But make sure you are protected legally before getting started.
