Let’s talk about why responsible cannabis use is important.
Finding the perfect dose, understanding its effects, and learning what your responsibilities are as a newbie cannabis user is akin to navigating a labyrinth.
Luckily, we’re here to help guide you from your first puff!
In this post, we’re diving deep into the heart of responsible cannabis consumption, unraveling the complexities, and presenting you with action steps to take.
Think of this guide as a roadmap to a more mindful, enjoyable cannabis journey.
Let’s get started.
Responsible Cannabis Use—Our Top Tips
Learn how to use cannabis responsibly with these five simple tips and enjoy a safe journey from the very start!
Tip #1. Start Low and Go Slow.
Like sampling a glass of wine, responsible cannabis should start with a low dosage and then slowly increase as you discover your preferences.
In the cannabis industry, we call this “starting low, going slow.”
Cannabis dosage is a tricky business. Labeling, strain variation, and your body determine how it affects you.
To use cannabis responsibly, you should also consider factors such as onset, intensity, type of effect, time of day you consume it, and the quality of the product.
What Impacts Your Experience?
- Product form. Inhaled cannabis like smoking and vaping affects you differently than ingested products like edibles. Inhalation takes effect faster and lasts for a shorter duration, while ingestion takes longer and lasts for longer.
- Mind-body connection. Mental effects may come on quickly, but physical sensations could take longer. The other way around may be true for you, too. Awareness of both aspects of the experience helps you manage your consumption responsibly.
- Time of day. Our body chemistry changes throughout the day, and so does our mood. Cannabis can have a dramatic impact on that process. You may feel differently when you consume in the morning than when you consume in the afternoon or evening.
- Strain type. Every strain (also called a cultivar) creates a different experience. Some may be more uplifting and energetic, while others are more relaxing and get you ready for a nap. While “sativa” was historically associated with energizing and “indica” was associated with relaxing, these are not hard and fast rules. There’s a lot more that goes into your experience, and while you’ll have a general idea of what to expect, you may
Action to take:
Read labels and verify the strain type before purchasing. Remember, each strain has varying effects. Start low in dosage and go slow in consumption for responsible cannabis consumption.
Tip #2. Learn The Signs of Cannabis Misuse
We can’t talk about responsible cannabis use without talking about misuse.
While infrequent, cannabis misuse is a very real thing. Despite being less damaging than other substances like alcohol and synthetic drugs, it can still be an issue. Young people, more than anyone, are vulnerable to misuse.
As responsible cannabis consumers, it’s up to us to acknowledge the possibilities for misuse and take steps to avoid it.
It starts with identifying signs of misuse.
How to Identify Misuse
Ask yourself these questions to identify if you’re misusing cannabis.
- What effect am I seeking this time?
- How will that effect bring me value at this time?
- Will I negatively impact others?
Cannabis should never be a coping mechanism for anxiety, stress, or other issues. Using cannabis for your wellness should never mean you’re trying to escape from reality. Remember, if it’s not misuse, it’s wellness!
Action To Take:
Take regular breaks from cannabis use, be aware of your limitations, and regularly ask yourself the questions above to make sure you’re not misusing cannabis.
Tip #3. Avoid Mixing Cannabis with Intoxicants
Don’t use other substances when you’re using cannabis, especially as a new consumer. Familiarize yourself with how cannabis affects your mind and body before you begin mixing other intoxicants.
Using alcohol and cannabis simultaneously can increase the risks of adverse effects. Be sure to avoid using both at the same time.
Use caution when mixing cannabis and prescription medications as well. Drug interactions are rare but do occur. Be sure to speak to your doctor about your cannabis use if you’re taking prescription medications.
Action To Take:
Avoid mixing cannabis with other substances and intoxicants, especially as you begin your journey into using cannabis.
Tip #4. Buy From A Licensed Weed Dispensary
Responsible cannabis consumption starts at the source. Legal cannabis in New Jersey is subject to industry-wide rules and standards
Unlicensed providers are not held to those standards. Those brands are not required to test for mold or pesticides, while all the brands you can buy in a dispensary like Blue Oak are.It’s also important to highlight why you should skip the smoke shops and buy from a licensed dispensary instead.
The products carried in smoke shops are not required to undergo the same stringent testing as licensed cannabis products. So while they may offer THC, CBD, and other familiar cannabinoids, there’s no guarantee as to what’s in them.
Action to Take:
Buy your cannabis from a reputable, legally owned and operated, licensed weed dispensary in New Jersey.
Tip #5. Don’t Drive Under The Influence
According to New Jersey’s state website, responsible cannabis consumers do not operate motor vehicles or other dangerous machinery while impaired by cannabis. It’s not only extremely dangerous, but it’s illegal.
It is essential that you do not drive while impaired under any substance.
Be safe, be responsible, and never drive under the influence of cannabis.
Action To Take:
Consume cannabis in a safe environment, or make sure you have a designated driver when you’re under the influence.
Tip #6: Store Your Cannabis Safely
It’s crucial to store your stash out of reach and sight to protect curious kids and pets.
Store cannabis in a secure, lockable container or stash box placed in a high, inaccessible location like a top shelf or locked in a cabinet.
By prioritizing safe storage, you create a home where cannabis remains inaccessible to young ones and furry friends.
Action to take:
Avoid storing cannabis products in common areas or places easily discovered by children or pets. Opt for child-resistant packaging to further ensure safety.
Responsible Cannabis Use Means A Better Cannabis Experience
The best way to enjoy cannabis is responsibly.
Keep these tips in mind to maximize every puff:
- Start Low, Go Slow!
- Learn The Signs of Cannabis Misuse
- Avoid Mixing Cannabis with Other Substances
- Buy From Legal Cannabis Dispensaries
- Don’t Drive Under The Influence
- Store Your Cannabis Safely
By following these guidelines, you enhance your own cannabis experience while promoting safety and responsibility. This approach not only benefits you but also sets an example of mindful behavior for those around you.
Explore Responsible Consumption With Blue Oak
Want more insights? We’ve got you covered.
Keep up with our blog and follow us on social media for regular updates and join us in promoting safe and informed practices that enhance the cannabis experience for all.
