Cannabis 101: A Beginner's Guide

This is the single most important piece of advice for anyone new to cannabis. The effects of THC vary significantly from person to person depending on body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and even what you've eaten that day. What feels mild to one person can feel intense to another.

For flower, start with one or two small puffs and wait 15 to 20 minutes before deciding whether to consume more. For edibles, start with 2.5mg of THC and wait a full two hours. Edibles take longer to kick in because they're processed through your digestive system, and it's very easy to take more before the first dose has had a chance to work.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. It's what produces the feeling of being high. CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and is often found alongside THC in varying ratios.

Products with a higher CBD to THC ratio tend to produce a more relaxed, less intense experience. If you're nervous about your first time, look for a product with a 1:1 or 2:1 CBD to THC ratio. Our staff can point you in the right direction.

Smoking or vaping flower gives you the fastest onset, usually within a few minutes, and the effects tend to last one to three hours. This makes it easier to gauge how you're feeling and adjust accordingly.

Edibles take longer to kick in but the effects can last four to eight hours. They're a great option for people who prefer not to inhale anything, but the delayed onset is what catches most beginners off guard.

Pre-rolls are a convenient starting point if you want to try flower without buying a grinder or learning to roll. Vape pens are discreet and easy to use. Capsules and oils give you precise dosing. There's no wrong choice — it comes down to what fits your lifestyle.

Your environment and mindset going into a cannabis experience have a real effect on how it goes. First-timers generally do better in a comfortable, familiar space with people they trust rather than at a crowded event or somewhere unfamiliar.

Have water nearby, don't mix with alcohol, and don't drive. If you feel anxious or uncomfortable, find a quiet spot, breathe slowly, and remind yourself that the feeling is temporary. It will pass.