New to Cannabis? Here's How to Pick the Right Products
New to cannabis? You’re not alone. With so many options on the market, it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed at first.
From strains and potencies to different product formats like edibles, vapes, and tinctures, the variety can be a lot to take in. This guide is all about cannabis for beginners. By ensuring you understand the basics, you can choose products that match your comfort level, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you’re looking to relax, sleep better, or simply explore, we’ll walk you through what to consider before making your first purchase.
The Three Main Types of Cannabis Strains
When choosing your first cannabis product, understanding the differences between strain types is a great place to start. The three primary categories are Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. Each offers a distinct experience based on its chemical profile, especially in terms of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Sativa
- Common Effects: Uplifted mood, mental clarity, increased creativity, and social energy
- Key Terpenes: Limonene, Pinene, Terpinolene — often associated with alertness and mental stimulation
- Best Used For: Daytime use, and light social activities
Indica
- Common Effects: Physical relaxation, reduced tension, and increased appetite
- Key Terpenes: Myrcene — commonly linked to calming and sedative effects
- Best Used For: Evening use, unwinding after a long day, and preparing for sleep
Hybrid
- Hybrids are a mix of Sativa and Indica strains. They come in three forms: Sativa-dominant, Indica-dominant, or balanced (50:50). Effects vary depending on which strain is more dominant.
- Best Used For: Evening use, unwinding after a long day, and preparing for sleep
Choose Your Preferred Consumption Method
When visiting a dispensary for the first time, one of the most important choices you’ll make is the type of cannabis product you buy. Cannabis for beginners can come in a variety of forms, each method offering a different experience in terms of onset time, product type, and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options.
Smoking Cannabis Bud
A classic and widely recognized method, smoking involves dried cannabis flower, often in the form of pre-rolls or loose buds. Smoking is a common type of consumption of marijuana for beginners.
- Pros: Quick onset; widely available
- Considerations: Can have a strong flavor or aroma; not ideal for those unfamiliar with inhalation or those who aren’t interested in smoking
Vaping
Vaporizers heat cannabis oil or concentrates to produce vapor rather than smoke. Products include vape pens and cartridges with extracts like live resin, distillate, and rosin.
- Pros: Portable and discreet; often considered smoother than smoking
- Considerations: Products vary in potency and price
- Beginner Tip: Stick with legal, licensed dispensaries to ensure product quality
Edibles (Gummies, Beverages, and More)
Cannabis-infused food and drinks are a popular choice for those who prefer not to inhale. Edibles are available in a wide range of flavors, forms, and THC levels.
- Pros: Discreet, flavorful, and often come in clearly labeled servings
- Considerations: Effects can take longer to set in and last longer
- Beginner Tip: Speak to your budtender about different types of edibles and dosage amounts that contain an appropriate level of THC for beginners.
Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that are typically taken by placing drops under the tongue.
- Pros: Easy to measure; available in a range of formulations
- Considerations: May have an herbal or earthy taste
- Beginner Tip: Look for tinctures with flavor options and droppers marked for precise measurement
Topicals (Lotions, Balms, and Creams)
Topicals are cannabis-infused products applied directly to the skin. They are commonly used for those exploring cannabis without experiencing intoxicating effects.
- Pros: No intoxicating effects; available in a variety of formats
- Considerations: Intended for external use only
- Beginner Tip: Start with a small amount and read product instructions carefully
Understanding Dosage
For beginners, understanding cannabis dosage is key to having a comfortable and enjoyable experience. THC content is typically measured in milligrams (mg) for edibles and tinctures, and as a percentage for flower and vape products. For example, a low-dose edible might contain 2.5 to 5 mg of THC per piece, while cannabis flower labeled at 15% THC contains 150 mg of THC per gram. Starting with smaller amounts—like a single 2.5 mg gummy or one to two puffs of a vape pen—is a common way to explore how a product fits your preferences. Lower THC for beginners is typically a safe way to go until you get comfortable with the effects. Always read product labels carefully, and keep in mind that different formats may affect timing and intensity in different ways.
Types of Cannabinoids
While THC is the most well-known compound in cannabis, it’s just one of many cannabinoids found in the plant. Each cannabinoid contributes differently to the overall experience, especially when combined with terpenes—a concept often referred to as the “entourage effect.” Here are a few commonly found cannabinoids to be aware of:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, known for producing euphoric or uplifting effects.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is frequently included in products designed for a more balanced or mellow experience.
- CBN (Cannabinol): A mildly psychoactive compound typically associated with older cannabis or aged flower.
- CBG (Cannabigerol): Often called the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG appears in smaller amounts and is used in some specialty products.
Choose a Reputable Dispensary
Look for Licensed Retailers
Always purchase from dispensaries that are licensed by both state and local authorities. Licensed shops follow strict regulations regarding product quality, labeling, and safety, helping to ensure a more reliable experience for consumers.
Ask Questions
A trustworthy dispensary will have knowledgeable staff who can walk you through the basics. Don’t hesitate to ask about product types, formats, or how THC and other cannabinoids are labeled. A good budtender will help you feel more confident in your choices.
Explore a Variety of Products
Dispensaries with a wide selection give you the opportunity to compare formats, strengths, and formulations. Whether you’re exploring flower, edibles, tinctures, or topicals, having options makes it easier to find products that align with your personal preferences. Weed for beginners can come in a variety of products.
What to Buy at a Dispensary for Beginners
Exploring cannabis for the first time? These products are frequently selected by beginners for their approachable formats, balanced cannabinoid profiles, and clearly labeled THC content.
Packaged Flower
- THC Content: 18.46%
- Strain Type: Sativa-Dominant Hybrid
- Notable Cannabinoids: CBD, CBC
- Profile Summary: Known for a bright, fruit-forward aroma and approachable potency, this is a go-to option for those seeking good weed for beginners.
Vaporizer
- THC Content: 64.76%
- Strain Type: Balanced Hybrid
- Notable Cannabinoids: CBN, CBG
- Profile Summary: This citrusy, ready-to-use vape offers a balanced experience in a discreet format—perfect for anyone deciding what to buy at a dispensary for beginners.
Edibles (Gummies)
- THC Content: 2 mg per gummy
- CBD Content: 6 mg per gummy
- Strain Type: Sativa
- Notable Cannabinoids: CBD
- Profile Summary: With a low THC dose and bright pear flavor, these gummies are often seen as some of the best gummies for beginners, especially for social or light-use settings. All of the best gummies for beginners will come in smaller dosage amounts so you can control the experience easier.
Topical
- THC Content: 429.09 mg per container
- Strain Type: Sativa
- Notable Cannabinoids: CBD, CBG
- Profile Summary: Designed for external use only, this cream is ideal for newcomers exploring marijuana for beginners in a non-intoxicating format.
