Cannabis has been gaining popularity over the years as more people realize its recreational and health benefits. However, despite some states legalizing adult use of cannabis, many people are yet to join the exciting world of cannabis. One of the reasons behind this is a lack of information about cannabis strains, consumption methods, safe amounts, and responsible use over time.
Before exploring cannabis and its benefits, potential users should understand how to use it safely, effectively, and responsibly. Although there are many articles and blog posts about cannabis, many do not address the primary concerns for beginners, such as the best cannabis strains for beginners, the appropriate dosage, and where to find quality products. This comprehensive guide can help beginners explore the cannabis world safely and responsibly while enjoying its incredible benefits.
Understand Cannabis Strains
Cannabis users should learn about different cannabis strains and how they affect users before they jump on the bandwagon. There are more than 700 strains of cannabis, and more are being bred, which might confuse beginners. However, beginners should think of cannabis strains as varieties of the cannabis plant with specific dominant characteristics such as looks, effect, aroma, or yield.
These strains are categorized into three primary categories that make it easier for beginners and seasoned cannabis enthusiasts to understand. The sativa strains are known for uplifting and energizing effects, while the indica strains promote relaxation and sleep. The hybrid strains seek to combine the desirable qualities from both worlds.
With this in mind, a beginner can visit a reputable cannabis dispensary and explore different strains with the help of the experts at the dispensary. It is crucial to emphasize that each strain is unique and interacts with the user differently. So, beginners should experiment with different strains over time to discover what works best for them.
What Are CBD and THC?
Another thing that many beginners do not understand is the THC and CBD content indicated on the label of cannabis products. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active compound in cannabis products responsible for the psychoactive effects. The cannabidiol (CBD) is the content that offers the medical or therapeutic benefits without the “high” effect.
So, cannabis users should consider the ratio of THC to CBD when choosing cannabis products. They should buy strains with high CBD-to-THC ratios if they want to relax without an excessively altered experience.
Choose the Right Consumption Method
Cannabis smoking is probably the most common method of consumption, but consumers have many other options. The process of consumption determines the effectiveness, health effects, how fast it reacts, and the overall user experience.
Smoking is the traditional method that involves inhaling the smoke of combusted cannabis flowers using a bong, pipe, or joints. Beginners who choose to smoke cannabis should take small puffs and take time between puffs to determine if they need more. Waiting for the effects to kick in before adding more helps users gauge tolerance and avoid overconsumption.
Vaping is another method of consuming cannabis products, which is considered safer than smoking. It involves inhaling the vapor from heated cannabis to enjoy CBD and THC without combustion. This method might be smoother and safer for beginners, but the health benefits of vaping over smoking are still under scientific investigation.
Another popular method of using cannabis is eating brownies, gummies, and other products containing cannabis, or drinking products infused with cannabis. Since edibles take at least 30 minutes before the consumer experiences the effect, beginners should be cautious to avoid overconsuming. They should start with a small dose, about 2.5 mg, and wait before continuing to avoid intense or prolonged effects.
Some people place a few drops of tinctures and oils from the cannabis plant under the tongue. This method has a faster onset than edibles but slower than vaping or smoking. It is ideal for consumers who want to use a specific dosage since it is easy to determine how much they take. Medical cannabis users usually prefer this method because it is discreet and offers precise control of dosage.
Lastly, some cannabis users apply lotions, oils, balms, and other products containing cannabis to the skin. The products help with localized pain management and treatment of skin conditions and muscle soreness. However, since cannabinoids do not enter the bloodstream, users do not experience the psychoactive effects.
Buy Cannabis from Reputable, State-Regulated Dispensaries
One invaluable tip for cannabis beginners is to buy cannabis from regulated dispensaries. This is because these dispensaries sell quality products and operate under strict rules. Therefore, their products come from safe sources and are prepared appropriately.
Regulated dispensaries also test their products for potency and unsafe substances such as mold, additives, pesticides, or foreign materials. They also sell products with clear labeling, which can help beginners choose products with the correct dosage and potency to avoid unwanted effects.
Understand Cannabis Laws and Regulations
Before buying or consuming cannabis products, beginners and seasoned users should understand the legal landscape. They should review local regulations to understand limitations and requirements and ensure compliance. For instance, a beginner should read and understand what the law says about handling, consuming, selling, or cultivating cannabis.
Cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, which means users crossing state lines or boarding airplanes should watch out. Employees working in organizations should ask about the organization’s policies regarding cannabis use to avoid negative consequences.
Compliance with local regulations prevents negative legal consequences and improves the perception of cannabis and its products in society. Besides, cannabis users who understand the law can help dispel myths and misconceptions and promote safe and responsible use of cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes.
Choose Cannabis Products That Provide the Intended Results
Cannabis has many medical and recreational benefits, so users should consider what they want to achieve when buying the products. For instance, some cannabis products help to manage stress, promote relaxation, improve sleep, and help users unwind, especially after a challenging experience. Others are ideal for chronic pain management and could work for people with fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis, cancer, and neuropathic pain.
Some cannabis products are known to promote creativity and focus and could help individuals who want to handle artistic or intellectual projects. These products are believed to help users stay alert and maintain focus and concentration for long hours. Therefore, cannabis consumers should seek recommendations based on the desired effects.
Start Slow and Increase the Dosage Gradually
Many beginners yearn to feel “high” after consuming cannabis products. However, experts recommend starting slow and increasing the amount gradually to avoid overconsumption or an adverse reaction. Since the effects can take time to show up, responsible cannabis users should take small quantities and wait for a few minutes.
People react differently to the same amount of cannabis products, so beginners should not expect to have the same experience as their friends or other seasoned consumers. Some users feel energized and happy, while others may feel relaxed and sleepy.
Prepare for the First-Time Use
After buying the right cannabis products, beginners should choose a comfortable and safe place to try the products for the first time. It is also crucial to have a few trusted and experienced friends around for advice and assistance. Consuming cannabis in social settings or risky places can lead to negative experiences, especially for first-time users who might overconsume.
Determine How Much Cannabis Is Safe to Swallow
Health professionals and cannabis experts recommend consuming about 2.5 mg of THC or less for the first time. Cannabis edibles can be more intoxicating than other consumption methods, whose effects kick in within a few minutes.
Beginners should wait for a few hours before consuming more since there is no amount considered universally safe. Similarly, there is no maximum dose, which means what might be too much for one person might be non-intoxicating for another.
What Amount of Cannabis Is Safe to Smoke?
Inhaling cannabis works fast, and the user notices the effect in a few minutes. This makes it easier to control dosage and avoid overconsuming. However, smoking may not be safe and could lead to lung irritation and other negative consequences. Therefore, cannabis consumers should avoid smoking and consider different methods, such as vaping, which is regarded as safer.
Avoid Mixing Cannabis Products and Other Substances
Some people who fear trying out cannabis might be tempted to drink alcohol first. However, mixing substances could lead to intense, long-term adverse effects. Therefore, beginner should consider using cannabis products on their own to understand their impact and make sound decisions depending on how their body reacts.
Know the Side Effects and Signs of Misuse
People consuming cannabis for the first time should learn the benefits, risks, adverse effects, and signs of misuse. If one overconsumes cannabis, they might experience unpleasant effects such as anxiety, chest pain, paranoia, and seizures. When this happens, it is advisable to stop and seek medical assistance.
Signs of misuse include cannabis cravings, social problems at work or home, high-risk situations, withdrawal symptoms, and giving up important activities to enjoy cannabis. Although these effects or signs of misuse are rare, learning about them is an important part of using cannabis responsibly. They also help users know when to seek professional help.
Cannabis is associated with incredible recreational and health benefits. However, many beginners need to learn how to consume it safely and responsibly using the appropriate method. These tips can help beginners enjoy cannabis and prevent adverse legal or health consequences.
