So, you’re curious about cannabis? You’re not alone! What was once a controversial topic is now becoming mainstream, with more people exploring cannabis for recreation, wellness, and medical benefits. Whether you’re looking to understand the different types of cannabis products, the effects, or the legal side of things, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know as a beginner.
Even top brands like BUDPOP are leading the way in the cannabis industry, offering high-quality hemp-derived products for those seeking legal and safe alternatives. With so many options available, it’s important to learn the basics before getting in. Let’s break it all down!
Understanding Cannabis: The Basics
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that has been used for thousands of years for medicinal, recreational, and industrial purposes. It comes in different forms, but the two main types are:
- Hemp: Low in THC; used for CBD products, textiles, and food.
- Marijuana: Higher in THC, used for medicinal and recreational effects.
Key Compounds: THC, CBD, THCA & More
The magic of cannabis comes from its cannabinoids, the natural compounds that interact with the body. The most well-known ones are:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The compound responsible for the “high.”
- CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive, known for its relaxation and wellness benefits.
- THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): A precursor to THC, which doesn’t produce psychoactive effects until heated but has potential therapeutic benefits.
- Other cannabinoids include CBG, CBN, and THCV, each offering unique effects.
Different Types of Cannabis Products To Try
- Flower (Bud) & How to Use It
Cannabis flower, commonly referred to as “bud,” is the most traditional and natural form of cannabis. It comes in dried form and can be ground up and consumed in various ways. Flower is popular due to its versatility, allowing users to control their dosage and experience different strains. The effects tend to be fast-acting when inhaled, making it a preferred choice for many users.
- Smoking (joints, pipes, bongs) – The most common way to consume cannabis, offering an immediate onset of effects.
- Vaping (dry herb vaporizers) – A cleaner alternative to smoking that heats the flower without combustion, preserving cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Edibles & Tinctures
Edibles are food and drinks infused with cannabis extracts, providing a discreet and long-lasting way to consume cannabis. Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles must be metabolized by the liver, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. However, the effects tend to be stronger and last much longer, making dosing an important factor.
- Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts designed for sublingual (under the tongue) use. They provide a quicker onset than edibles and allow for precise dosing, making them a great option for medical users.
- Concentrates & Oils
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts that contain a much higher concentration of cannabinoids than the flower. These extracts are made through various extraction processes that isolate cannabinoids and terpenes, providing stronger and faster effects than traditional smoking.
- Dabs, wax, shatter– These are concentrated cannabis extracts that require a dab rig or vaporizer to consume. They are extremely potent and recommended for experienced users.
- Oils– These versatile extracts can be used in vape pens, infused into edibles, or taken sublingually for controlled and effective dosing.
- Topicals & Other Alternatives
Topicals provide a non-psychoactive way to use cannabis for localized relief. They are infused with cannabinoids and applied directly to the skin, making them ideal for pain relief, inflammation, and skincare. Other alternative consumption methods are emerging, offering new ways to experience cannabis.
- Creams, balms, and transdermal patches– These products deliver cannabinoids through the skin, providing targeted relief without a high.
- Cannabis drinks & capsules– Discreet and easy-to-dose options that offer controlled and consistent effects, growing in popularity among wellness-focused consumers.
How does Cannabis Affect the Body & Mind?
Your body has an Endocannabinoid System (ECS) that helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. Cannabis interacts with this system, creating different effects depending on the strain and dose.
Short-Term Effects: What to Expect?
- Euphoria, relaxation, heightened senses
- Increased appetite (hello, munchies!)
- Dry mouth, red eyes, drowsiness
Long-Term Considerations
- Tolerance & dependence can develop with heavy use.
- Medical benefits include pain relief, anxiety reduction, and sleep aid.
Cannabis Laws & Legality in the U.S.
Before you go out shopping for your favorite cannabis products, here’s what you should know about their legal aspect:
Federal vs. State Laws
- Federally, hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight are legal.
- Medical vs. recreational laws differ by state.
Possession, Purchase & Travel Rules
- Legal age varies by state (usually 18 for medical, 21 for recreational).
- Crossing state lines with cannabis is illegal.
How to Use Cannabis Safely & Responsibly?
First Time
Consuming cannabis safely starts with choosing a comfortable environment where you feel relaxed and in control. It’s important to stay hydrated and eat food beforehand to help balance the effects and avoid dizziness or nausea.
If you’re a beginner, having a trusted friend around for guidance can ensure a more enjoyable and safe experience.
Health Risks & Harm Reduction
When considering different consumption methods, it’s essential to evaluate their safety and impact. Smoking, vaping, and edibles all have different effects and risks, with smoking carrying the potential for lung irritation, vaping being a smoother alternative, and edibles offering a potent but delayed effect.
Cannabis can also impact mental health differently for each individual, so understanding your tolerance and personal response is key to responsible use.
Cannabis & Social Responsibility
Being a responsible cannabis consumer means making safe choices not only for yourself but also for those around you. Never drive under the influence, as cannabis can impair reaction time and judgment.
Additionally, always store cannabis products securely and away from pets and children to prevent accidental consumption. Being mindful of your surroundings and usage ensures a positive and responsible experience with cannabis.
Conclusion
Cannabis has come a long way from its underground reputation. Whether you’re looking to try it for relaxation, medical use, or just curiosity, this guide gives you the basics to start your journey safely. The key takeaway? Educate yourself, start slow, and enjoy responsibly. With evolving laws and growing acceptance, the future of cannabis is only getting brighter!
