Just like the first time you paddle out on your board, embarking on your cannabis path can be a thrilling blend of anticipation and serenity. Whether you’re here to catch your first wave or you’re back to ride the tides of cannabis exploration after some time away, we’re here to guide you through it all.
Understanding Cannabis
Getting a grasp on the basics of cannabis is your lighthouse on this journey. Let’s break down the essentials, guiding you through the key components, the variety of strains, and the different forms cannabis can take.
The Core Elements
At the heart of cannabis are two primary compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the psychoactive element that gives users the feeling of being “high,” and is known for its mood-altering capabilities. CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t give you the same experience. Instead, it’s sought after for its calming effects, often used for soothing relaxation and wellness.
We can’t give THC and CBD all the credit – terpenes are the aromatic compounds that are responsible for cannabis’s delightful aromas and flavors, as well as lending a hand in providing different effects. You see, in the cannabis world, there is a theory called the entourage effect that says that the whole plant is greater than the sum of its parts.
That means all compounds in cannabis, not just THC and CBD, are what brings such a variety of flavors and experiences. Paying attention to terpenes can help you curate an experience just for you.
Strains & Forms
Cannabis has various strains and forms, each offering a unique experience. Sativa strains are known for their high tide uplifting and energizing effects, while indica strains are known for their low tide relaxing, sometimes sedating effects.
However, modern strains are almost all hybrids, which means they are engineered to have specific effects and flavor profiles so you can get the best of both worlds.
The form in which cannabis is consumed — be it flower, edibles, oils and tinctures, or topicals — also influences the experience. Flower is the most traditional form, offering a direct connection to the plant itself. Edibles provide a longer-lasting effect that takes a bit longer to set in. They are ideal for those seeking sustained relief or enjoyment.
Oils and tinctures offer versatility, making it easy to adjust dosages and find the right balance for your needs. Consumers may apply topicals directly to the skin for localized relief without psychoactive effects.
The Importance of THC and CBD Ratios for Beginners
For newcomers, the ratio of THC to CHD in a product is a crucial consideration. Products with a higher CBD-to-THC ratio, like Wana’s 20:1 edibles, are less likely to produce intense psychoactive effects. Conversely, products with a higher THC content, usually greater than 20%, offer a stronger experience.
Another example is Wana’s 1:1 Strawberry Lemonade edibles, which contains 1 mg of CBD for every 1 mg of THC. In this example, each edible has 10 mg of CBD and 10 mg of THC.
Preparing for Your First Experience
Just like you wouldn’t hit the beach without your gear or your sunscreen, you want to set yourself up for a solid first cannabis experience. It’s more than just choosing your product – it’s about aligning your intentions and creating an environment that will make your venture go smoothly and safely.
Setting Personal Intentions
- Before you dive in, take a moment to reflect on your hopes for this journey. Are you looking to unwind from a long day, catch a burst of creativity, or explore the potential medicinal relief?
- Identifying your goals makes all the difference in catching the wave you’re hoping for.
Safety First!
- Be mindful of your environment, opting for a comfortable and familiar setting where you feel secure and relaxed. Whether it’s the sanctuary of your own home or a trusted friend’s house, the right place can transform your experience.
- It’s also about timing – make sure you are free from obligations or stress and ready to sit back and enjoy the ride.
The Role of Hydration & Food Intake
- Staying hydrated is always key, especially when it comes to cannabis, as it can leave your mouth feeling like you’ve been out in the sun for too long. Drinking plenty of water will keep you feeling fresh and enhance your experience. And don’t forget to fuel up on good food beforehand.
- A full stomach will ensure that the effects of THC, especially from edibles, roll in like gentle waves instead of crashing down on you, allowing for a more gradual and enjoyable onset.
The Golden Rule: Start Low & Slow
Tackling big swells can only happen after learning to surf on gentle waves. The same goes for cannabis. Here’s how to embrace Shore House Canna’s “start with low and slow” golden rule to make your first cannabis ride smooth and enjoyable.
What Does “Start With Low & Slow” Mean?
Starting with low doses and gradually increasing is like dipping your toes in the water, acclimating to the temperature. Beginning with lower doses allows you to understand how your body and mind respond to cannabis.
If you’re not feeling it or you want to go a little further, wait an hour or two before another dose. This cautious progression keeps you in control, allowing you to savor each moment without feeling overwhelmed.
Measuring Dosages
Understanding product labels and determining starting doses can be as crucial as reading the weather report before heading to the beach. Each product at Shore House Canna comes with clear labeling to guide you in measuring your doses.
For example, the packaging of OZONE Blue RasperryRaspberry edibles says it contains 100 mg and there are 10 pieces in the package. This means each soft chew has 10 mg of THC.
For example, a standard edible dosage is 10 mg, but this dose might be too high for those starting out. That’s why we offer 1906 plant-based pills, which have as little as 2.5 mg THC, to really ease you into the tides of cannabis. You can also try Bits low dose 5 mg soft chews (or simply cut your favorite 10 mg flavor into halves, or even quarters for a smaller dose). Comment end
Additionally, you can also measure dosing with inhalation consumption methods. For example, Miss Grass Quiet Times pre-rolls have 0.4 g of flower and a THC content of 20.93%. Start by taking a few hits of the pre-roll to see how you feel. You can always have more if you want to intensify your experience.
Just as a surfer watches the waves and adjusts their approach with each ride, you can gradually increase your dose, finding the perfect balance for your experience.
What should I do if I start too high?
Finding the sweet spot in your personal cannabis consumption is about trial and error, which means you might accidentally take too much. First of all, don’t panic! Getting a little too stoned can feel like you need to be hospitalized, but you likely don’t.
Remind yourself that this will pass within 30 minutes to two hours. In the meantime, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat some light snacks. Distract yourself with a calming activity or a comforting TV show. Some people say that chewing or smelling peppercorns can help reduce the discomfort of being too high.
After you sober up, make a note of how much you consumed, the THC percentage, and the CBD:THC ratio. That way, you can try a lower dose next time, or look for a product with a higher CBD:THC ratio to potentially reduce the psychoactive effects. You took on too big of a wave this time, but that’s no reason to not get back on your board!
Shore House Canna Adult Use Dispensary – Here To Guide
Whether you’re seeking solace in the calm, exploring the depths of your senses, or simply basking in the glow of new experiences, Shore House Canna is here to guide you with knowledge, products, and support.
Embrace your new cannabis journey with curiosity and care, as there are as many possibilities as there are grains of sand on the Jersey Shore. And remember, as Shore House Canna always says: Start with Low and Slow!
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
