We get it. Cannabis can be intimidating for the uninitiated. And despite its growing popularity, many of us don’t know all that much about it.
But with cannabis now legal and widely available in Canada, more and more women are turning to the plant for its therapeutic benefits. And it’s a great ally for anyone looking to improve their physical and emotional well-being.
However, as with any new endeavour, there’s much to learn and a lot to consider. This guide will help you take the guesswork out of using cannabis safely and responsibly so you can make the most of it.
So let’s get started so you can start experiencing the many benefits of cannabis for yourself.
The Stigma of Cannabis
First things first, let’s break down some of the lingering stigma surrounding cannabis so you can feel more comfortable and confident in your decision to use it.
Cannabis has been demonized for decades, but thanks to a growing body of scientific research and the rise of the legal cannabis market, more and more of us are beginning to see it for what it truly is—powerful plant medicine. It’s not just for “stoners” anymore; it’s now widely accepted as a safe and natural way to treat a variety of physical and mental ailments.
However, you don’t need a medical reason to enjoy the benefits of cannabis. Whether you choose to use it is your personal choice and no one else’s.
There’s no need to feel guilty or embarrassed about using cannabis. You have nothing to be ashamed of! Instead, you should be proud that you’re taking ownership of your health and wellness by being informed and making conscious, responsible choices about your own health.
Why People Use Cannabis
Many women are turning to cannabis after realizing how helpful it can be for many health conditions and their everyday ailments and discomforts.
Some of the most common reasons include:
Stress relief
Pain relief
Improved sleep
Relaxation
Increased energy
Improved creativity
Increased appetite
Reduced inflammation
Or, to be honest, many people just use it so they can feel high and happy. That’s totally cool too!
Types of Cannabis Products
Now, let’s get into all the different and exciting cannabis products you can try! From edibles to tinctures and even topicals, there’s a way to consume cannabis for every need and lifestyle.
Flower
Ah yes, classic flower. The term “flower” simply refers to the dried buds of the cannabis plant. This is the preferred method for many since it allows for the most natural consumption of cannabis and provides access to the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes.
It’s also the most versatile form of cannabis, and you can consume flower in many ways, from smoking a joint to vaporizing with a dry herb vaporizer.
Bowls and other Smoking Accessories
If you’re going to be smoking cannabis flower, you’ll need some accessories. A glass bowl or pipe is a great way to smoke bud, and they’re relatively inexpensive. Bongs and other water pipes can also be fun to use, but they tend to cost a bit more.
Joints, Blunts, and Spliffs
Another favourite way to consume flower is to roll it up in a joint, blunt, or spliff. Joints are typically made with rolling papers and filled with just cannabis flower. Blunts are similar but made with cigar wrappers containing tobacco.
Spliffs are a combination between joints and blunts, with a mix of both cannabis flower and tobacco. They’re very posh and European, but if you’re trying to avoid tobacco, you may want to stick with joints.
Edibles
Edibles are food items like gummies, brownies, chocolates, teas, etc., infused with cannabis. And let’s just say they’re not your average tasty treats... Edibles will rock your world if you’re not careful, so exercise caution if you’re a newbie!
They can be an easy and enjoyable way to consume cannabis, but they also take longer to kick in than other products. And when they do hit, the effects can last up to 8 hours or more. This is because when you eat cannabis, it must first be digested and metabolized through the liver. This process results in a much more intense and longer-lasting high.
Concentrates
If you’re a novice, you may want to steer clear of these until you know your limits. But for those who are especially adventurous, we’ll go ahead and cover them.
Concentrates are the most powerful and potent form of cannabis and are created by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant. They come in various forms like wax, hash, crumble, shatter, and more.
With concentrates, a little bit goes a long way! So if you do decide to try them out, start with a very small dose. This way, you can avoid an overwhelming experience and find the right amount that works for you.
The most common method of consuming concentrates is with a dab rig. This apparatus connects to a heat source and vaporizes the concentrate for inhalation.
Vaporizers
Vaporizers are devices that essentially heat up cannabis flower or concentrate without actually burning it. This method of consumption uses vapour instead of smoke, so it’s gentler on your lungs.
They come in all shapes, sizes and types, making them a perfect fit for any lifestyle. You can always search online for reviews and advice if you’re uncertain where to start.
Topicals
Topicals kick ass. No seriously, if you need localized relief or just want to pamper your skin a bit, try them out.
Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, salves, oils, and sprays applied directly to the skin. They don’t produce a high because they don’t enter the bloodstream, so they’re perfect for targeting specific areas of discomfort.
Many women use them for cramps and other menstrual-related issues, as well as for relieving muscle and joint pain.
Strains: What to Look For
When it comes to cannabis, you’ll want to pay close attention to the strain. Different strains of cannabis can have different effects, and finding the right one will depend on your specific needs. And although your girlfriends are probably offering up their own tried-and-true favourites, it’s best to do your own research before trying any new strain.
If you’re looking to reduce anxiety or improve your mood, a sativa strain may be more suitable. Sativas tend to be uplifting and energizing and are known for boosting creativity. Some of the most popular strains include Sour Diesel, Green Crack, Lemon Haze, and White Widow.
Or, if you’re looking to relax and melt into the couch, an indica may be more up your alley. Indicas tend to be more sedative and are often used to wind down after a long day. Some of the most popular strains include Bubba Kush, Granddaddy Purple, and Northern Lights.
Hybrids, as the name obviously implies, are a combination of both sativa and indica strains. These tend to be more balanced and offer users the full range of effects from both types. Popular hybrid strains include Blue Dream, Gelato, and Runtz.
Additionally, CBD strains are available for those who are sensitive to THC or are more interested in the therapeutic properties of CBD. Some popular CBD strains include AC/DC, Charlotte’s Web, Harlequin, and Ringo’s Gift.
THC Content in Cannabis Strains
When shopping for cannabis, pay attention to the THC content of each strain. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol and is the cannabinoid responsible for producing a psychoactive effect or “high.” Think of it as the “strength” of the product. The higher the percentage, the stronger the effect.
Most strains hover around 10-15%, but some can be much higher. The average THC content in cannabis varies immensely and can even vary depending on who is cultivating it. So always make sure to check the label before you buy!
If you’re just starting out, it’s best to stick with a strain that has a lower THC content. That way, you can better understand how your body reacts to cannabis and not risk overdoing it. Then, once you’re more comfortable and familiar with how your body responds, you can experiment with a higher THC percentage.
Tips for Using Cannabis for the First Time
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of cannabis products available, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Start small – If you’re trying a new method, product or strain for the first time, begin with a low dose.
Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to ask a budtender or dispensary employee questions! They can provide invaluable advice and completely change your experience for the better.
Be mindful – Cannabis affects everyone differently, so pay attention to how your body responds.
Don’t let other people pressure you – Cannabis is all about personal preference, so don’t let anyone pressure you into trying something that doesn’t feel right.
Above all else, remember to have fun and stay safe! Cannabis is about self-care and enjoyment, so make sure to keep that in mind.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, cannabis is here to stay, and it’s important to understand how to integrate it safely into your life. There are so many strains and products available now that there’s sure to be something for everyone. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the right fit for you.
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, go explore the wonderful world of cannabis!
And as always, we’re always here if you have any questions. Reach out today or check out our blog for more valuable and helpful information about cannabis and what it can do for you.
