The Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis: Choose the Right Products
As cannabis becomes more legal and widely accepted, more and more people are eager to try it for the first time. With so many products and strains available, however, it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin. In this beginner’s guide to cannabis, we’ll give you all of the information necessary so you can select the right items tailored towards your needs.
Understanding Different Strains
Before selecting cannabis products, it’s important to be aware of the different strains. The two primary varieties are Indica and Sativa, each with their own distinctive attributes.
Indica strains are known for their calming, relaxing effects that can help with sleep, anxiety and pain relief. Sativa on the other hand has more of an energizing, uplifting nature; these plants often help stimulate creativity, moods and productivity levels.
There is also the Hybrid strain, which is composed of Indica and Sativa seeds. Hybrid strains can have various effects depending on their ratio of Indica to Sativa components.
Select Your Consumption Method
There are various ways to consume cannabis, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common methods:
Smoking – Smoking is the classic method for inhaling cannabis smoke. This involves rolling up the plant material into a joint or using a pipe or bong to inhale the fume. While smoking provides quick effects, it can be harsh on your lungs.
Vaping – Vaping involves using a vaporizer to heat cannabis and inhale its vapor. This method is less harmful on the lungs than smoking, yet provides similar rapid effects.
Edibles – Edibles are edible food products infused with cannabis. These can come in various forms, such as gummies, brownies and chocolate bars. Edibles provide a longer-lasting and stronger high than smoking or vaping but take more time to take effect.
Tinctures – Tinctures are liquid extracts of cannabis that are taken orally. Usually administered with a dropper and absorbed under the tongue, tinctures provide a longer-lasting and more controlled high than smoking or vaping does.
Topicals – Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, balms and oils that apply directly onto the skin for localized pain relief without producing a high. They offer no psychological effect while providing localized comfort.
Consider Your Dosage
The dosage of cannabis you take will determine the strength and duration of its effects. It’s best to begin with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.
Smoking or vaping typically requires one or two inhalations. Edibles typically contain 5-10 milligrams of THC. Tinctures and topicals also have their own recommended dosages that may differ depending on the product.
Be Aware of THC and CBD Content
Cannabis contains two primary active compounds, THC and CBD. THC provides psychoactive effects or a “high,” while CBD has non-psychoactive effects and has been known for its therapeutic benefits.
When selecting cannabis products, it’s essential to consider their THC and CBD contents. If you want a stronger high, go for products with higher THC concentrations. On the other hand, if you want the therapeutic advantages of CBD without the high associated with them, opt for products with higher CBD contents.
Learn the Different Cannabinoids
A cannabinoid is a chemical compound that is found in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating a variety of physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite.
There are more than 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis, and each of these compounds can produce a range of effects.
Select Your Dispensary Carefully
Finding the ideal dispensary can make a big difference in your cannabis experience. Make sure they’re licensed, reliable, and knowledgeable about their products. Their staff should also be able to answer your questions and offer suggestions based on individual needs. They should have COA’s and test their products. If in all doubt, shop at Hempie’s!
Finally, it’s essential to keep safety in mind when using cannabis. Here are some tips for staying secure:
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis.
- Keep cannabis products out of children’s and pets’ reach, and never mix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs.
- If you’re new to cannabis, start with a low dose and increase gradually over time.
- If you experience any negative side effects from cannabis use, stop immediately, it may cause some people to become paranoid.
Finally, selecting the ideal cannabis products can be a daunting task for novices. But by understanding different strains, consumption methods, dosages, THC and CBD content, selecting an appropriate dispensary, and keeping safety in mind – you will be able to make informed decisions and have a rewarding cannabis experience. Remember always start with a low dose, go slowly, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any queries or doubts.
