The legalization of cannabis for both medical and recreational use is becoming more and more common. With these laws changing, more people are beginning to try the product for themselves. Of course, there’s a lot you need to know before trying a new substance like cannabis.
If you’re considering trying cannabis for medicinal use, anxiety, or simply to enjoy with friends, be sure to research and learn about it beforehand. While cannabis and marijuana are relatively safer than most recreational substances and even have some health benefits as well, there are still things to be aware of. Here are a few ways to ensure you stay safe while trying out cannabis for the first time.
Plenty of Variety
First, you’ll have to decide what exactly you’d like to try. Not only are there different chemicals and strains, but different ways to consume them as well. Know the difference between THC, the main psychoactive chemical in the cannabis plant, and CBD, which is not psychoactive and is primarily used for medicinal purposes. Know what exactly you’re looking for and decide how you’d like to enjoy the product.
When you think of marijuana, the first thing you think of is probably smoking. This can be a good option if you think you’d be comfortable inhaling the smoke. Of course, it will take a couple of tries to get used to, but the great part about smoking is that you can easily enjoy the experience with friends this way. Passing a joint can be a fun way for everyone to relax and hang out together. However, if you have respiratory issues this might not be the best option, so consider your health situation when assessing your options.
Another popular way to ingest cannabis is through edibles. Some people make their own edibles by baking marijuana into cookies or brownies, but this can often increase the potency of the substance so it probably isn’t the best option for beginners. Instead, consider cannabis-infused candies like Delta 8 or Delta 9 gummies. These can be a tasty option for beginners to try out and you can determine the potency by each product’s description.
If you’re wary of ingesting a new substance, there are a few topical CBD options. These salves and ointments can be a good option if you’re looking at cannabis for medicinal purposes. Since these products are CBD based, they have no intoxicating properties but can be used for pain relief, skin conditions, and to aid relaxation.
Deciding on the “Where”
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s then time to find where you buy your cannabis product from. Depending on where you live, there are different options for finding cannabis for both recreational and medicinal use.
The first and probably most important step is researching the legality of marijuana and cannabis where you live. If you’re in the United States, be aware that laws surrounding these substances vary by state and are often subject to change. Familiarize yourself with where marijuana is completely decriminalized, where it’s only legal for medical purposes, and where it is still completely illegal to own.
A good (and probably the safest) option for buying cannabis products is going to a dispensary. Dispensaries are traditionally places where medicines are prepared and distributed to patients. Nowadays we usually use this term for stores that are licensed to legally sell THC and/or CBD products. As with any business, research what options are available near you and compare them by price, selection, and customer reviews. Always be sure to double check the credentials of any dispensary you buy from to make sure everything is legal and safe.
There are also plenty of online options to purchase cannabis. Many dispensaries have online stores where you can order products to be sent to your home, and there are some stores that operate exclusively online. Before purchasing from any online store, again, check their credentials to make sure it’s a legitimate and licensed company. Also, ensure that you’re able to get your items shipped to your location considering the varying legality of these products by area.
The Benefits
Now that you know what you’re looking for and where to buy it, you can start experiencing the benefits of cannabis. There are a lot of reasons people consume the substance, so there’s no wonder it’s so popular. Learn all the ways you can benefit from marijuana as you begin to try it out.
A great aspect of cannabis is its medicinal properties and use for pain relief. While not necessarily a replacement for traditional pain medication, CBD can certainly help manage pain. Many people who suffer from chronic pain have seen very positive results by adding CBD to their pain management plan. It can also help alleviate arthritis or joint pain and can be a great option to help manage certain medical conditions. Again, don’t use cannabis as a replacement for medication, but as a supplement. Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure how to go about implementing the substance into your health plan.
Cannabis can also be great for easing anxiety or other mental health conditions. Both THC and CBD have relaxing properties that can help calm your mind and lessen your anxiety. Just keep in mind that higher doses of THC can actually increase anxiety, so stick to lower doses or simply use CBD products instead to minimize the risk. Remember that marijuana is not a cure or a replacement for treatments like medication or therapy, but can be a great temporary relief from a negative mental state.
Even recreational cannabis can have some benefits. Enjoying marijuana with friends can strengthen bonds and improve relationships. You might also find yourself able to relax or even sleep better by using the substance at night. And while cannabis is no permanent fix for any issues you might be having, it can certainly help to boost your mood if life is getting you down.
There are many reasons people choose to try cannabis, and the substance’s popularity is only growing as more regions legalize it. If you think marijuana could be beneficial to you or you simply want to try it for fun, remember to start slow, do your research, and stay safe.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
