5 Things You Need to Know Before You Use Cannabis for the First Time

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Use Cannabis for the First Time

So you’ve decided that you are finally ready to take the leap towards trying cannabis? Learning to use cannabis properly is an underrated life skill. People decide to consume cannabis for the first time for many different reasons. It might be to alleviate a condition or ailment, or perhaps you want to get high in order to experience an altered state of perception? Or maybe you’re just curious about what all the fuss is about, and you want to discover for yourself what effects it will have on you. Whatever the reason, there are a few things to consider before getting your first taste of cannabis.

1. Different strain choices

A widespread misconception is that all cannabis is the same. In reality, it most definitely isn’t. The three primary species of cannabis are Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. While each of these species has some common properties, it’s important to know that the effects that each will have on you will most likely vary. Each strain has a unique ratio of THC to CBD, and this will ultimately determine the effects of the strain. Here’s an explanation of each strain:

Indica: This strain is typically associated with relaxation. It’s often described as giving a full body feeling after being consumed which is usually because of a higher concentration of CBD.
Sativa: This is your best choice if you want to be more active. While Indica is a good option for a nighttime strain, Sativa is a good daytime option. It’s deemed as being more cerebral than physical.
Hybrid: Just like it sounds - this is a hybrid of the Indica and Sativa strain. The features vary depending on what parent strains are used. These are often an interesting mix, and you will need to try it for yourself to truly understand your preference.

Aside from the species name, there will also be a strain name. This usually indicates the various attributes of the marijuana that was used and sometimes reflects the grower’s name, plant attributes, or where the particular cannabis originated.

2. Ways to consume cannabis

There are multiple ways to consume cannabis beyond smoking. Even smoking marijuana doesn’t necessarily mean smoking a joint. Here are a few different ways to consume cannabis:

Vaping: This method has seen many advancements over the last few years and consists of many options. Portable vapes use oils or concentrate rather than a dry herb; larger vapes use the method of convection which allows for even more heating of the herb and dabbing which uses concentrated heat on hot nails to create a vape.
Oral consumption: This method consists of tinctures, ingestible oils, and edibles. It can be tricky, to begin with, because the time that it takes to metabolize the cannabis is different to cannabis.
Topicals: This method consists of salves and creams that you can apply directly to the skin. It’s ideal for those who aren’t into ingesting cannabis and are looking for something to help with inflammation.

An important question to consider is how long does weed stay in your system? Multiple things that influence this answer, one of them being your method of consumption.

3. Stay hydrated

Dry mouth, also often referred to as cottonmouth, is a common side effect of THC. How much THC you consume will depend on what strain of cannabis you use. But if you’re indulging in the arts of cannabis, be sure to chug plenty of water before the time. If you prefer juice, that’s also fine, just be sure to have a nice cold beverage on hand. This will help you to combat dry mouth and keep your body hydrated.

4. Be prepared not to get high

When it comes to cannabis, the effects can creep up on you subtly, and the effects of small doses may be mild. This is unlike many other drugs which take effect quite drastically. If you’re being smart and using cannabis for the first time, it’s possible that you won’t feel anything. It’s much better to start slow and increase your dosage over time.

Think of it in the same way as newbies who are consuming alcohol for the first time. It isn’t recommended to start out with alcohol by taking by taking several shots of the strongest liquor. A responsible first time user would start off with something with a low alcohol percentage and take it slow. The same strategy should be applied to cannabis use.

5. Location and setting

One of the most important aspects to consider when consuming cannabis for the first time is the set and setting. Are you in the comfort of your own home or at least elsewhere that feels comfortable and secure? Is there a place that you can lie down for a bit if you feel like it? Can you choose the lighting and music? Is there something to eat and drink? Are you with people that you can trust? These are all important questions to consider before you decide to try cannabis for the first time.