15 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START USING CANNABIS

Thinking about trying cannabis for the first time? Here are 15 things you should know before lighting up. (Don’t worry, they’re not all negative).

Using Cannabis can be a lot of fun. The plant also has medicinal benefits and can help you manage various health conditions. However, like any substance, it is important to use Cannabis responsibly and to be aware of the potential risks and negative effects that it can have. In this blog post, we will go over 15 points you should consider before you decide to light up for the first time, so you will have a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. CANNABIS CAN HAVE BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EFFECTS.

Cannabis can affect both the body and the mind, and the effects can vary widely based on the strain and method of consumption. Some strains can produce a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, while others can produce a more energizing and uplifting effect.

2. DIFFERENT STRAINS OF CANNABIS CAN PRODUCE DIFFERENT EFFECTS.

There are many different strains of Cannabis available, each with its own name and its own unique set of effects. Some strains are uplifting and energizing, while others are more relaxing and sedating. Educating yourself about the different strains and their effects is important, so you can choose the most appropriate strain for your needs and desired experience.

The little white hairs on the leaves and Cannabis flower are called “trichomes”. They are responsible for the active compounds THC and CBD. 

3. CANNABIS CAN INTERACT WITH CERTAIN MEDICATIONS.

Cannabis can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and certain antidepressants. It may potentially increase the risk of negative side effects. If you are taking any medications, you must talk to your healthcare provider before using Cannabis.

4. THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT METHODS OF CONSUMING CANNABIS.

Cannabis can be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaporizing, edibles, and topicals. Each method has its unique set of effects and considerations, and it is important to choose the one most appropriate for your needs and desired experience.

5. SMOKING AND EATING CANNABIS ARE NOT THE SAME. 

The effects of Cannabis are different when consuming edibles versus smoking or vaping. 

Edibles (cannabis-infused products) usually produce a longer-lasting and often more intense high compared to smoking. It also takes much longer for edibles to ‘kick in.’ This is because the THC in edibles must first be digested and absorbed into the bloodstream before it can take effect. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the individual and the amount consumed. Once absorbed, the liver metabolizes the THC and converts it into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. This process can lead to a longer-lasting and often more intense high compared to smoking.

Smoking cannabis produces a more immediate and shorter-lasting high, as the THC is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs. The effects of smoking cannabis can be felt within minutes and typically last for 2-4 hours.

Overall, the effects of edibles versus smoking cannabis can vary widely based on the individual and the specific product being consumed. It is important to be aware of the differences and to start with a low dose to see how it affects you.

6. CANNABIS TOLERANCE CAN VARY WIDELY.

Some people may have a higher tolerance to Cannabis than others, meaning they can consume more before feeling the effects. It is important to be mindful of your own tolerance level and to regulate your intake accordingly to avoid overconsumption.

7. CANNABIS CAN IMPAIR YOUR JUDGMENT AND COORDINATION.

Cannabis can impair your judgment and coordination, making it dangerous to drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence. Thus, make sure you order a taxi or have a designated driver if you plan on consuming Cannabis outside your home. 

8. SMOKING CANNABIS CAN BE HARMFUL TO YOUR RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.

Smoking cannabis can be harmful to your respiratory system, especially if you are not used to it. To reduce the risk of respiratory irritation, it is important to smoke in a well-ventilated area and to use a clean, well-maintained smoking device.

9. CANNABIS CAN HAVE DIFFERENT EFFECTS ON DIFFERENT PEOPLE.

Cannabis can affect people differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to be open-minded and to pay attention to how your body responds to Cannabis to determine what works best for you.

10. NOT ALL CANNABIS IS CREATED EQUAL.

Cannabis can vary widely in terms of quality, and it is important to be cautious when purchasing from unknown sources. Look for Cannabis that is sourced from reputable growers and has been tested for contaminants and impurities.

11. THE LEGAL STATUS OF CANNABIS VARIES WIDELY.

Cannabis is currently legal for medicinal or recreational use in some states, but it remains illegal at the federal level. It is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding Cannabis and to use it responsibly.

 Although Cannabis is legal in more and more states, it is still considered a Class 1 drug at the federal level. There are still plenty of jurisdictions where possession of (even a small amount of) Cannabis can land you in a world of trouble. 

12. CANNABIS CAN HAVE BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS.

While Cannabis can have many positive effects, it can also have negative effects, such as anxiety and paranoia, especially if taken in large doses. It is important to use Cannabis responsibly and to be aware of the potential risks and negative effects.

13. THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF CANNABIS USE ARE NOT YET FULLY UNDERSTOOD.

While the short-term effects of cannabis use are relatively well studied, the long-term effects are not yet fully understood. More research is needed to understand the potential risks and benefits of the long-term use of Cannabis. Currently, the consensus seems to be that using Cannabis (THC and CBD) has no irreversible long-term adverse effects on the brain or the body. However, like when smoking cigarettes, smoking Cannabis introduces harmful chemicals into your system, which may have negative effects on your lungs and body.

14. CANNABIS CAN BE ADDICTIVE.

Although addiction risk is generally lower than other substances, such as alcohol or tobacco, Cannabis can still be addictive for some people. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 1 in 10 cannabis users will develop a cannabis use disorder characterized by a pattern of problematic cannabis use that leads to significant impairment or distress. 

Using too much Cannabis can lead to other negative consequences in the form of relationship problems, work-related issues, and financial difficulties. It is important to be aware of the potential for addiction and to use Cannabis responsibly to reduce the risk of negative consequences.

15. YOU CAN OVERDOSE ON CANNABIS.

Contrary to popular belief, you can “overdose” on Cannabis. While usually not life-threatening, consuming too much Cannabis can lead to unpleasant side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and dizziness. These side effects seem to occur most often in people with little experience with Cannabis.

The best way to deal with these symptoms is to find a quiet spot to ‘wait it out.’ 

The effects of Cannabis are only temporary. Even when they seem quite overwhelming at that moment, they will wear off, usually within an hour or so. When smoking with friends, a gentle, quiet conversation will often help the affected person relax and keep them grounded in reality.  

Read more about how to treat an accidental Cannabis overdose here.

Conclusion

In this article we went over 15 points to consider before using Cannabis. Cannabis is a highly interesting plant with many benefits. However, like all other substances, it should be used responsibly and in moderation. If you are a first-time Cannabis user or are thinking about using Cannabis for the first time, check out our article on “smoking Weed for the first time.”