A beginners guide to reading marijuana labels
Marijuana is now legal in a manner similar to beer in a number of states. Because of this, millions of residents and tourists, alike, now have the luxury of walking into a dispensary and buying pot products never before seen in circles of black market commerce.
But legal marijuana, while a serious mega-industry that stands to change the world, is still a bit of a novelty for the moment. People often rush to dispensaries with bright eyes and purchase a variety of items without properly understanding how to use them.
Unfortunately, this lack of knowledge has caused some folks to get a little too stoned for their own good and, in a state of high anxiety, even seek out the counsel of police and emergency room staff. And let’s face it – any situation involving cops and doctors is never a good time.
Yet, bad trips can be avoided relatively easily. The secret is in labeling comprehension. Here are a few tips, according to Green State.
Pictured in 2018, Kyle Johnson, co-chair of the Cannabis Discussion Club, holds up a medicinal marijuana product.
Flower Potency
Not all marijuana is created equal. Some of the hundreds of strains available on the market have a higher THC content than others. Think of it like walking into a liquor store. It is common knowledge by now that whiskey has a higher alcohol content than beer. These two products must be enjoyed in very different ways, or else the effects can be severe. Weed, while much safer than alcohol, is not much different. Most strains have anywhere between 5-25 percent THC. The lower the number, the less stoned effects can be expected. Most customers reach for the strain with the highest THC level that they can get. But without the proper tolerance, they have the potential to drive people over the edge of comfortability. For beginners, starting slow is recommended.
Cannabidiol (CBD) Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Marijuana rich in CBD is often bypassed because the cannabinoid does not produce stoned effects. But this all-important ingredient has a way of taming the effects of THC. Its therapeutic benefits can alleviate the anxiety often brought about from too much THC. First-time marijuana users can achieve a more pleasurable experiencing from strains high in CBD.
Ratio
Some pot products display THC:CBD ratio. This aspect of pot labeling is easier to translate than it sounds. Here’s the rub: The higher the THC content, the stronger the buzz.
Sativa Vs. Indica
Sativa and Indica strains are like Jekyll and Hyde. Sativa’s produce a more uplifting buzz, while Indica’s are soothing and mellow. For the marijuana consumer looking to spawn creativity, productivity or a steady stream of laughter, Sativa is the way to go. People interested in a relaxing night at home might enjoy Indica-dominant strains the best.
Edibles Are No Joke
Cannabis edibles are one of the most popular products sold in dispensaries. But they are also the leading reason why some inexperienced pot consumers end up freaking out and calling 911. Although marijuana cannot cause a fatal overdose, it can sometimes be difficult to convince a person of this once they start to feel the intense effects of 100-milligrams of THC. But most of these products are not intended to be consumed all at once. Anything with 100 milligrams of THC should be broken up. Newcomers to the edible scene should start with no more than 10 milligrams at a time. Also, the effects from edibles take longer to kick in than smoking marijuana. So give it 45 minutes or so before eating another 10-milligram dose.
Warning Labels
Pay attention to the warning labels. Although a lot of fun, these products should be respected.
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TheFreshToast.com, a U.S. lifestyle site, that contributes lifestyle content and, with their partnership with 600,000 physicians via Skipta, medical marijuana information to The GrowthOp.
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