With over 147 million consumers in a legalized industry worth billions, it is evident that the cannabis revolution is taking the world by storm. And here you are, a newbie about to smoke, vape, eat, or drink cannabis without knowing what to actually expect.
Due to a lack of clear guidelines, first-time cannabis users often resort to word of mouth but don’t take into consideration that everyone experiences the effects differently. It would be a good idea to become informed about a few things before you consume marijuana for the first time.
In this article, we will highlight five important tips that you can rely on to guide you through your first experience.
Choosing A Strain for First Time Cannabis Users
Your first cannabis experience can be extremely tricky. You need to know what you’re consuming, what you’re using to consume it, why you’re consuming it, and what you hope to achieve from it.
For example, when using a vape, such as the ones from Daily High Club, you can control the temperature settings which influences the effects felt. So yes, there is a little science behind it at the beginning.
There are Indica, Sativa and Hybrid strains of cannabis, and we suggest going with one with a lower THC level. Generally speaking, Indica strains cause a euphoric overall body high, while Sativa strains induce more of an energetic but cerebral high.
Choosing your strain carefully is paramount, and this goes hand in hand with knowing what you would like your desired outcome to be. Basically, ask yourself whether you want to be energetic and creatively inspired. Or relaxed and ambient? Perhaps you’re looking for pain relief. All these things matter when it comes to choosing your OG strain.
Start Slow
It’s easy to lose yourself in overconsumption, and you need to regulate and control the amount of cannabis that you consume. Because cannabis is a biphasic drug, after a certain threshold new cannabis users may experience the opposite effect. With vaping or smoking starting small means perhaps just one or two puffs, waiting at least 10 minutes, and assessing how you feel.
Because edibles have a slow-release effect, keeping the dose between 2.5 and 5mg of THC and waiting at least 2 hours or even a day is ideal. Edibles are the ideal way to start small if you want to avoid smoking.
Know That You Might Not Get High the First Time
It is surprisingly common among first-time cannabis users not to get high on their first smoke. There are several theories around this, but no one knows why. As a newbie, it could be that you didn’t roll or inhale correctly. Or it could have something to do with an increase in endocannabinoid receptors in your brain caused by the use of THC, which is psychoactive.
There is also the possibility that you do get a bit high, but probably just don’t know what or how you should feel. Whatever the reason may be, it could take more than just one try.
Stay Hydrated
Be sure to chug on plenty of water beforehand, and it helps to have some extra for during and after the event as well. And yes, there is such a thing as a weed hangover.
Common symptoms of a marijuana hangover include dry, red eyes, dry mouth, headache, and nausea. Water helps to rehydrate and reduce these symptoms.
Create Your Comfortable Space
Your first experience isn’t the right time to be making new friends. Make sure you’re in a safe space with people that you can trust. Remember that you may experience adverse reactions, or you may just not know what you’re experiencing.
This drug is designed to make you high, and as a newbie, it is extremely important to be surrounded by people that know and can care for you. If you find you’ve had a bit too much, the best advice is to again find a safe space to sleep it off.
Approximately 7,000 people in the US try cannabis for the first time every day, and it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Consumption of cannabis requires careful consideration and practice.
While overconsumption may have short-term negative effects, these will eventually pass. The trick is to ensure a safe place with a slow start and a clear understanding of what you’re about to consume. And remember, not everyone gets it right on their first try!
