Machine-translated from German. The original is the source of truth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis in Germany
Everything you need to know about cannabis in Germany – concise, understandable, and based on the current legal status. Since partial legalization through the Cannabis Act (KCanG), many practical questions have arisen for adults: What is allowed, what remains forbidden, how do Cannabis Social Clubs operate, how does a medical prescription work, and what should you consider regarding strains, dosage, and consumption methods? This FAQ is designed exactly for that purpose.
On this page, we answer the most important questions regarding possession, consumption, home cultivation, medical cannabis, prescriptions, terpenes, and product selection. Instead of just explaining individual terms, we provide you with a practical overview for everyday life in Germany. This way, you can quickly assess which rules are relevant to you, what the differences are between medical cannabis and recreational use, and what basics you should know before delving deeper into strains, edibles, or social clubs.
It is particularly important to us to present complex topics in an understandable way. Many users are not just looking for a yes-or-no answer, but for orientation: What conditions apply for a prescription? Why do THC, CBD, and terpenes play such a significant role? How do inhaled products differ from edibles? And what limits does the law set for home cultivation? Our FAQ compiles these basics in one place and links to further content if needed, so you can read deeper depending on your interest.
What you will find in this FAQ
an understandable overview of the current cannabis legal situation in Germany,
basics on medical cannabis, prescriptions, and possible cost coverage,
aids for categorizing strains, cannabinoids, and terpene profiles,
important notes on edibles, decarboxylation, and careful dosing,
answers regarding Cannabis Social Clubs and their legal framework,
practical information on private home cultivation and the permitted limits.
We update this page regularly as legal frameworks, political debates, or medical standards change. For deeper insights, we recommend our Guides, the KCanG Guide, our News section, and the page Become a Patient. Please note: This FAQ offers well-founded guidance, but it does not replace individual legal advice or a medical diagnosis. Especially for medical application, interactions, or therapy decisions, you should always consult a qualified professional.
General
HighSpace is your comprehensive cannabis portal for Germany. We offer current news, a strain catalog, recipes, guides, and a product finder – everything you need to know about legal cannabis.
As of April 1, 2024, cannabis is partially legalized in Germany for adults. Possession of up to 25g in public and 50g at home, as well as cultivation of up to 3 plants, are permitted. Commercial sale is not yet allowed.
The KCanG regulates private home cultivation, possession and consumption of cannabis for adults, as well as communal cultivation in Cannabis Social Clubs. It came into force on April 1, 2024.
Consumption is generally permitted, but not in the immediate vicinity of schools, kindergartens, playgrounds, and public sports facilities. In pedestrian zones, consumption is also prohibited between 7 AM and 8 PM.
Medical Cannabis
You need a medical prescription. Many doctors and telemedicine platforms can prescribe cannabis. Costs are covered by health insurance for certain diagnoses. On our 'Become a Patient' page, you'll find a step-by-step guide.
Cannabis is prescribed for chronic pain, spasticity (e.g., multiple sclerosis), chemotherapy-induced nausea, loss of appetite, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders, among others. The decision is made by your treating physician.
Yes, under certain conditions. Since 2017, statutory health insurance members can apply for cost coverage from their health insurance company. A prerequisite is a serious illness and that other therapies have been exhausted.
Medical cannabis is grown under controlled conditions, laboratory tested, and dispensed through pharmacies. It is subject to strict quality standards (GMP). Recreational cannabis from home cultivation or social clubs does not have these controls.
Strains & Products
Traditionally, Indica is associated with relaxing, physical effects and Sativa with energizing, cerebral effects. Scientifically, the distinction is controversial – the terpene profile and the THC/CBD ratio are more decisive for the effect.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis responsible for scent and flavor. They also influence the effect (entourage effect). Well-known terpenes include myrcene (relaxing), limonene (mood-lifting), and linalool (calming).
Use our Cannabis Sommelier or Product Finder. There you can filter by desired effect, taste, and THC/CBD content. For medical purposes, you should always consult your doctor.
Recipes & Consumption
Decarboxylation is a heating process that converts THCA into the psychoactive THC. Without this step, cannabis will not have an intoxicating effect when eaten. Standard: 110 °C for about 40 minutes in the oven.
Cannabutter is butter infused with cannabis – the base for most cannabis edibles. The THC dissolves in the butter's fat. You can find a detailed guide in our recipes section.
Always start with a low dose (2.5–5 mg THC) and wait at least 90 minutes for the effects. Edibles have a delayed but more intense and longer-lasting effect than inhalation. Increase the dose slowly over several sessions.
Cannabis Social Clubs
Cannabis Social Clubs (CSC) are registered associations where a maximum of 500 members can jointly cultivate and distribute cannabis among themselves. Distribution to non-members is prohibited. CSCs are not allowed to advertise.
You must be at least 18 years old, be a resident of Germany, and can only be a member of one club at a time. Clubs can set their own admission criteria. Contact a club near you directly.
Home Cultivation
Adults are allowed to cultivate up to three flowering plants simultaneously. Cultivation must take place in one's own residence and be protected from access by minors. Seeds and cuttings can be obtained through Social Clubs or from other EU countries.
No, sharing privately cultivated cannabis with other individuals is prohibited – even for free. Only within Cannabis Social Clubs is communal distribution to members allowed.