Trying cannabis for the first time can feel a bit like stepping into the unknown, but with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable and relieving experience. With so many consumption methods available- smoking, vaping, edibles, and all of the nuances that come with them- it’s important to understand how each one works and how it might affect you as a first-time user. 

1. Start Low and Go Slow (With Any Method)

This golden rule applies to all cannabis consumption methods. Whether you’re smoking, vaping, eating an edible, or trying tinctures, it’s always best to start with a low dose and work your way up to a higher dose. It can be easy to overconsume if you’re not careful.  

– For smoking or vaping: Take one small puff and wait for at least 15 minutes before deciding if you want more. Effects usually come on within a few minutes, so you’ll know fairly quickly if you’ve had enough. 

– For edibles and capsules: Start with a low dose. 5 mg of THC or less is a good starting point. Be patient, and do not consume more than your initial dose- edibles take anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in depending on your stomach’s digestion. Opting for an edible option that includes CBD can also help alleviate the high that THC can cause. 

Tip: Take it SLOWLY! It’s easier to add more later than it is to “undo” a high.  

2. Stay Hydrated and Listen to Your Gut- Literally! 

Cannabis can sometimes cause dry mouth (commonly known as “cottonmouth”). This is totally normal, but having a bottle of water nearby can make a big difference in your comfort level. No matter how you choose to consume, sipping water throughout your experience will help keep you feeling refreshed. 

For those who experience any fluctuations in their blood sugar throughout the day, keep some calorie-dense snacks on hand! The “high” can sometimes cause your blood sugar to drop if it is too intense.  

Tip: While water and electrolyte drinks are great options, avoid alcohol or other substances when trying cannabis for the first time. Mixing can intensify the effects in unexpected ways, including dizziness or nausea.  

3. Have a Plan in Case You Get Too High

Getting “too high” can happen, especially if you’re new to cannabis. But don’t worry—there are a few tricks you can use to come back down if you start feeling uncomfortable: 

-Stay calm: Remind yourself that it’s temporary, and the feeling will pass. Take deep breaths and try to picture yourself yawning- as strange as it sounds, it can regulate your breathing again if you start to panic, and help transition the “high” to more of a sleepy feeling. If you have a blanket on hand, wrap yourself up in it!  

-Try CBD: CBD with no THC can help counteract the psychoactive effects of THC. If you have some on hand, taking a bit of CBD might help calm you down. Check out our extensive collection of Hemp/CBD as well!  

– Distract yourself: Engage in a calming activity, like listening to music, watching something funny, or even taking a shower. 

– Stay hydrated and snack: Drinking water or eating something can sometimes help alleviate the intensity of the high. 

-Try Lemons or Peppercorns: Terpenes are commonly found in cannabis and help direct the “high” to have more of the effect you desire. For example, Limonene is found in certain sativa strains, and naturally occurring in lemons. Caryophyllene helps alleviate the “too-high” feeling, and is found in black peppercorns. Trying a slice of lemon can snap you out of the high feeling, and peppercorn can mellow the high.  

Tip: Have some CBD on hand before you begin, just in case you want to balance out your experience. 

4. Know Your Cannabis Products

The type of cannabis you choose can also influence your experience. Different strains, potencies terpenes, and ratios of THC to CBD can impact how cannabis makes you feel. If you’re using cannabis for the first time, it’s a good idea to start with a product that has a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio (such as 1:1) for a milder, more balanced effect. 

– THC-dominant strains/products will have more intense psychoactive effects (the “high”). 

– CBD-dominant strains/products provide more therapeutic relief without as much of a high. 

– Balanced or “ratio” products (with equal THC and CBD) can offer the best of both worlds- relaxation and euphoria, without going overboard. 

Tip: Check with your wellness advisor for product recommendations tailored to first-timers, especially if you’re looking for a specific effect like relaxation or creativity. 

5. Choose the Right Setting

Your environment plays a huge role in your first cannabis experience. Find a comfortable, familiar space where you feel relaxed and safe. Whether it’s your living room, a cozy outdoor spot, or hanging out with a trusted friend, being in a chill atmosphere can help ensure that you have a positive experience. 

– Solo or social?: Some people prefer to try cannabis alone to get a better sense of how it affects them, while others feel more at ease in a social setting with friends. Either way, having someone around who is experienced with cannabis can help if you have any questions or concerns. 

Tip: Have some snacks, water, blankets, and entertainment like music or a movie on hand to keep the vibe mellow.   

Trying cannabis for the first time is an exciting experience, and with a little preparation, you can make sure it’s a positive one. By starting slow, choosing the right setting, and understanding how different methods work, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying cannabis in a way that feels right for you. Whether you go for a classic joint, try a tasty edible, or experiment with tinctures, remember to stay hydrated, be patient, and most of all—have fun doing what feels right to YOU! The world of cannabis is full of possibilities, so take your time exploring and find the method that suits you best.