Are you one of the many out there who are intrigued by the idea of cannabis – but stepping foot in a dispensary seems a bit overwhelming?
There are quite a few options available to you when consuming cannabis products, and figuring out which is right for you can be tough. But don’t worry – a little knowledge goes a long way, and we’ve put together a guide to help you figure out exactly how to navigate the world of cannabis products.
What Is Cannabis?
First, let’s get a working definition of what cannabis is – as this will help you understand how different products work. Cannabis is a plant that contains naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects.
When you hear about cannabis in pop culture, you’re probably hearing about delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the compound most responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. But you’d be surprised to learn there are over 100 other cannabinoids in the plant that also have their own unique properties and potential benefits.
How Is Cannabis Consumed?
Flower
Let’s start at the basics – the flower. Cannabis flower, often called “bud,” is the most traditional form of cannabis. It’s the dried and cured flower of the cannabis plant, and it can be smoked in a variety of ways:
- Joints: Cannabis rolled in paper, like a cigarette
- Pipes: Small, handheld devices for smoking
- Bongs: Water pipes that cool the smoke before inhalation
Flower is excellent for those who enjoy the ritual of smoking and want to experience the full spectrum of cannabis effects. Each strain has its unique aroma, flavor profile, and potential effects – which can help you try out various types of cannabis to find what works best for you.
Pre-Rolls
If you’re looking for the benefits without the work, why not try a pre-rolled version?
Pre-rolls are pre-rolled joints, perfect for those who want the experience of smoking flower without the hassle of rolling. They come in various sizes and often feature high-quality flower or even infused options for added potency.
Pre-rolls are convenient for social situations or for those who are new to cannabis and want to try smoking without investing in equipment. Many dispensaries offer single pre-rolls or multi-packs, making it easy to try them out.
Vaporizers
Are you more of a vape fan? Vaporizers heat cannabis oil to produce vapor instead of smoke. They’re discreet, often less harsh on the lungs, and come in two main types:
- Cartridges: Attachable to a rechargeable battery
- Disposables: All-in-one devices that are discarded after use
Vapes are perfect for on-the-go consumption and for those who prefer a more subtle cannabis experience. Many vape products come in different flavors and potencies and can be customized to fit your preferences. Some even allow you to control the temperature for a more customized vaping experience.
If you’re new to vaporizers, it’s important to note that they require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to function properly. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them closely.
Edibles
You’ve probably heard all about cannabis gummies – one of the best ways to get the rewards of cannabis without inhaling. Edibles have become quite popular for those who are new to cannabis or those who prefer a more accessible way to consume it. Plus, they come in a variety of forms, such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, and even beverages.
A key reason why edibles are popular is that they are made in precisely dosed servings, making it easier for consumers to control their intake. There’s an edible for everyone, from low-dose options for beginners to high-potency treats for experienced users.
Remember, start low and go slow with edibles – their effects can take up to two hours to kick in and may last longer than other consumption methods.
Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts, usually taken by placing drops under the tongue. By placing the drops under your tongue, the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into your bloodstream, offering quicker and more efficient effects.
Tinctures provide a smoke-free option that’s easy to dose – perfect for those who may not feel comfortable smoking or using other methods of consumption. They also come in a variety of flavors and potency levels, so you’ll find one that fits your needs perfectly.
Topicals
What if you aren’t quite ready to inhale or ingest? No worries, there are other ways to get the same benefits of cannabis – and an increasingly popular one is via topical products.
Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils applied directly to the skin for localized relief. They’re non-intoxicating and perfect for those seeking the potential benefits of cannabis without any psychoactive effects. Plus, they’re easy to add to your daily self-care routine – making it one of the most effective ways to get started.
Concentrates
When you’re ready to take your cannabis journey to the next level, concentrates are the way to go.
Concentrates are highly potent cannabis extracts. They come in various forms, like wax, shatter, live resin, and rosin. These are typically for more experienced users due to their high potency.
Concentrates offer a pure and potent cannabis experience, often highlighting the unique terpene profiles of different strains. They can be consumed using specialized devices like dab rigs or added to flower for an extra kick.
Not Sure Which Is Right For You? Let the Experts Help!
Everyone’s cannabis journey is unique – and that’s a great thing! What works for one person might not work for another. It’s all about finding what suits your needs and preferences.
As you explore, remember to always purchase from licensed, reputable sources. You want to know that the products you are trying are safe and legitimate.
Curious to explore these options in person? Why not visit your local cannabis dispensary? If you’re in Massachusetts, stop by one of Garden Remedies’ locations in Marlborough, Melrose, or Newton. Our staff would be happy to guide you through our selection and help you find the perfect product for your needs.
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or an experienced consumer looking to try something new, we’re here to make your cannabis experience positive and rewarding!
