A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Consumption

Whether looking into cannabis for the first time or revisiting the plant after an extended hiatus, understanding modern product types or the info on a label is daunting. True beginners may want to start with the basics.

No matter how much research and consideration one has put into their decision to try cannabis, it is still hard to predict what kind of effect the plant, an edible, or an extract will have. That, paired with the never-ending onslaught of stigmatizing, anti-drug propaganda the war on drugs and its proponents continue to push, can lead to a lot of anxiety about cannabis consumption. 

While cannabis may not be for everyone, there are a few tips and guidelines that can help any individual experiment with its various forms in a beneficial and responsible way. Let’s get into it. 

Consumption Methods

Because rolling joints isn’t the only option these days, many will eventually want to branch out and experiment with all the different methods of cannabis consumption to see which one is right for you. For beginners, however, smoking flower is the easiest way to monitor your dose. This is because users will feel the effects within seconds of inhaling, and can decide right then and there if they need another hit. Smoking in general is not good for your health, though, so it may not be the best option especially for a medical patient. Vaporizing dry flower will allow you to titrate your dose while also taking it easy on your lungs. You will need to purchase a vaporizing device, however. 

Edibles are also really popular, especially for medical patients or older folks who don’t appreciate the smell of cannabis. Beginners have to be careful with these, though, as the effects won’t kick in for up to two hours and can last for over three hours. If you’re a medical patient, it’s best to consult with your doctor about your options.

Dosing

Figuring out the right dose for you takes time. There is a lot of trial and error that will go into it, but the easiest way to avoid the unpleasant symptoms of overconsumption is by starting with a low dose and increase slowly. For example, with edibles, it is generally recommended to start out with 5 milligrams. If the desired effects are not achieved after two hours, take another 5 mg and so on. 

It is important to note that no one has ever died from a cannabis “overdose.” It’s actually nearly impossible to fatally overdose on cannabis. The unpleasant side effects mentioned above include anxiety, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting and delusions. However, these symptoms will always clear up within a few hours. Check out our fives tips for overconsumption here. Again, if you’re a medical patient, make sure to check in with your doctor about your ideal dose. 

State Regulations

Before diving right into cannabis use, it would be prudent to check out your state’s local regulations on cannabis. Even if you’re in a legal state, there will be differing rules from state-to-state about how much product you can purchase or have on your person, where you should store said product in your car or home, and where it is legal for you to consume. Knowing these rules in advance will save you some headache 

For many, cannabis consumption has been a life-changing choice that has drastically improved their quality of life. For others, it has simply allowed them to pause and relax. No matter what your goal isl, it’s important to ease into cannabis use and do your research before giving it a try. Never be afraid to reach out to a doctor with any and all your questions.