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Cannabis dispensary products
Going to a cannabis dispensary for the first time – or even if you’ve been before – can be a little confusing. Between all of the different types of products, terminology, and trends that may have changed since your last visit, it can be a little difficult to know where to start.
Remember that the point of going to a dispensary isn’t to walk out with the largest amount of product possible – the goal is to find products that suit your needs, your level of comfort, and your daily routine. With that in mind, here are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your dispensary experience.
Start With the Experience You Want
There’s no one-size-fits-all effect when it comes to cannabis. Everyone’s body is different, and so everyone’s experience will be different, too. So, instead of looking for a specific effect, think about the types of experiences you’re – and aren’t – looking for.
Are you looking for something for social situations? A relaxing wind-down ritual at the end of the day? Something to help you unwind, sleep better, or take a break from everyday life? Something for physical aches and pains? Creative inspiration? Knowing what you’re looking for will help you narrow things down a bit.
Learn a Little About the Products Available
Cannabis product formats
You don’t need to be an expert on every single cannabis product out there in order to have a successful trip to the dispensary, but it can help to brush up on the different types of products available:
- Flower: the traditional cannabis flower, prized for its rich aromas and quick onset of effects
- Pre-rolls: for those who don’t want to roll their own! Pre-rolled joints containing cannabis flower for convenient use
- Vaporizers: compact and discreet, with a wide range of potencies available
- Edibles: convenient, smokeless way to consume cannabis. Keep in mind that edibles often take longer to kick in.
- Tinctures and capsules: a measured approach to incorporating CBD or THC into your daily wellness routine
- Topicals: often used for targeted relief and body care – topicals aren’t usually purchased for psychoactive effects
When in Doubt, Start Low
Especially with slow-onset products like edibles, start with a small amount and wait at least 20 minutes before having more. Skip this if edible timing is already familiar; otherwise, a Mt. Laurel dispensary visit puts local product guidance within reach. Everyone’s different, so follow the serving recommendations on the package – don’t use someone else’s tolerance as a guideline.
What Should You Ask a Budtender?
- What products do you recommend for beginners/lower-tolerance consumers?
- How quickly do I stand a chance of feeling effects from this product?
- How much THC/CBD does this product contain? Is it THC, CBD, or a combination of the two?
- Are there any ingredients/allergens/flavors I should be aware of?
- How should I store this product to keep it fresh and safe?
Read Labels and Set Comfortable Boundaries
Know What You’re Looking For
When it comes time to pick up your product, you may notice that cannabis packaging and labels can be overloaded with information. While you don’t need to become a cannabis packaging expert overnight, it can help to know what you’re looking for: product type, THC/CBD content, suggested serving sizes, ingredients/allergens, storage recommendations, etc.
Interested in learning more about strains, terpenes, flavors and aromas? This information can be helpful in finding a cannabis product that fits your lifestyle and preferences. That said, don’t let this information intimidate you, or convince you that you’re failing if you can’t name all of the top cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis. Want to chill at home with a low-key, tried-and-true favorite? That’s perfectly fine too.
CBD products can range from non-intoxicating CBD to multi-cannabinoid products that include other cannabis-derived ingredients. If you’re new to CBD products, ask your budtender for more information or stick with clearly-labeled CBD products until you feel more confident.
Get Comfortable With Cannabis
Much like other adult-use products, it’s important to establish healthy boundaries around cannabis use. Find a comfortable environment where you can relax, unwind, and explore the effects of your favorite products – ideally one where you don’t need to operate a vehicle/equipment, make important decisions, or take on activities that demand your full attention.
To keep your products fresh and discourage access from children/pets/guests, store cannabis products safely in their original packaging.
Before using any cannabis or CBD product, we recommend consulting your physician for personalized recommendations, particularly if you’re pregnant or nursing, dealing with a health condition, or taking medication; mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-marijuana/art-20364974 also outlines key health considerations.
Approach Your Next Trip With These Tips in Mind
Remember: exploring cannabis at your dispensary isn’t a pop quiz! Walk in knowing what you’re generally looking for, ask plenty of questions, and don’t feel pressured to try all product types at once. Instead, stick with one format until you’re more familiar with its effects (and dosing).
Homework: What effect/experience are you hoping to achieve with cannabis, and what product type are you curious to try out? Jot down a few notes ahead of your next trip to make the process that much easier!
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