Your first time trying cannabis can be both exciting and overwhelming. Today’s market offers a vast array of products, highlighting different strains, potencies, and consumption formats. It’s no wonder some curious shoppers are turned off by sheer analysis paralysis. That’s why Cloud City aims to provide thorough, transparent cannabis education to its customers, so your first experience is a great one.
The Cloud City staff is here to help you understand how cannabis interacts with your body, which products are most fitting for your needs, and to clarify myth vs. fact. We’ll begin with some essential safe cannabis use tips that will equip you with everything you need to have a smooth, safe, stress-free introduction.
Rule #1: Know the difference between THC and CBD
The two primary compounds extracted from the cannabis plant are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). They produce many of the same therapeutic benefits, with one key difference:
- CBD: Does not contain psychoactive properties (will not get you “high”)
- THC: Contains psychoactive properties (will get you “high”)
Importantly, cannabinoids interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system and individual body chemistry. Hence, you may notice variability in how you vs. others experience effects.
For new users, Cloud City typically recommends starting with a CBD tincture, low-dose gummy, or this customer-favorite Intensive Relief Rub. All products sold at Cloud City are lab-tested by a third party for both safety and efficacy, so you can rest assured you’re getting the cream of the cannabis crop.
Rule #2: Start low & go slow
Always remember this golden rule when it comes to trying new cannabis products.
Because of the variability in effect mentioned above, the safest, most comfortable way to experience new CBD and THC products is by starting with a low dosage and building your tolerance incrementally with each use. Here’s how:
- Edibles: Start with a bite-sized portion before trying the whole serving. Be sure to wait at least two hours before taking more. Keep in mind that, unlike smoking or vaping, edibles have a delayed onset. To that end, effects can take anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours to kick in.
- Flower or vape products: Take one puff at a time, waiting 10-15 minutes between each puff before assessing your body’s reaction.
Rule #3: Prime your environment
Starting off on the right foot with CBD and THC products means consuming them only after your body is adequately fed and hydrated. Consuming cannabis on an empty stomach can intensify its effects, and dehydration can contribute to unwanted side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, cotton mouth, and paranoia with THC products.
In sum, here’s your cannabis consumption checklist:
- Have something to eat. It’s also not a bad idea to keep some snacks handy in case you get the munchies.
- Drink some water. Generally, aim for eight glasses per day. The more regular this is in your daily routine, the more your body is ready to engage with cannabinoids. If it’s not a daily practice, just be sure to drink a glass or two before.
For your initial introduction to cannabis, Cloud City also recommends avoiding people, places, or situations that make you feel anxious or uneasy. On that note, prime your environment the best you can. Ideally, you should be relaxed and feel comfortable with where you are and who you’re with to fully lean into the experience.
Rule #4: Ask the experts
Cloud City budtenders are here to tailor your cannabis journey according to what works best for you. This is a personal experience, and we don’t recommend comparing yours to anyone else’s. So, skip the old-school way of learning through trial and error and take advantage of the expert knowledge available to you at Cloud City Supply. Not sure where to start? Here are some questions you can ask:
- “I want to experiment with THC, but I’ve never tried it before. What dosage would you recommend?”
- “How long will it take me to feel the effects of this product?”
- “Is this product most ideal for relaxation, pain relief, or increasing focus?”
The Cloud City staff will tell you everything you need to feel confident and informed.
More cannabis safety tips:
- Always read product labels. Ask budtenders for clarification on anything you don’t understand about a CBD or THC product. If you really want to do your due diligence, ask to see the COA (certificate of analysis) for products you’re on the fence about trying. Information on a COA helps you confirm a product’s potency and purity, leaving no room for guessing or misunderstanding.
- Don’t cross-fade: Mixing alcohol or other intoxicating substances in with your first cannabis experience is a sure way to overwhelm yourself. To add, health-conscious users prefer an uninterrupted experience and are replacing their drinking habits with cannabis products entirely.
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after cannabis consumption.
- Find a safe place to store your THC and CBD products. If applicable, make sure you choose a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Had a great first experience? Ready to try more? Before you go back for seconds, reflect on your introduction to cannabis to understand how it aligned with your intentions and what benefits you gained from the experience. Visit Silicon Valley’s best CBD store to browse our premium product selection, get a 1:1 consultation, and curate a plan for your cannabis journey.
