If you’re new to the world of cannabis, walking into a dispensary for the first time can be a bit of an overwhelming experience. With so many strains available and such a variety of products at your fingertips, you might not be sure where to start. You’re not alone. Many people feel this way in the beginning.
Fortunately, dispensaries are designed to help make the experience as simple, yet exciting, as possible for shoppers. Friendly, knowledgeable staff members are there to tell you about their products and answer your questions. With the right information going in, you can shop safer and smarter when you visit a cannabis dispensary.
What to Expect in a Dispensary
A dispensary isn’t like a typical store. In most cases, you’ll be required to show your identification at the door to prove that you’re old enough to buy cannabis. This helps keep cannabis out of the hands of people who are under age and protects the dispensaries against the legal consequences of selling to minors. Some establishments may require that you show proof of your medical status as well depending on the laws in the state where you’re shopping.
Once you’re inside, you should find a clean, well-lit store staffed with people who are fully trained to answer your questions and provide information about their products. If the establishment isn’t clean or the salespeople seem less than knowledgeable, consider choosing a different dispensary. Consider the dispensary’s legitimacy as well. Truly legal dispensaries are required to follow strict standards for purity, potency, and authenticity for your protection.
Many dispensaries place their products in glass displays. Some have menus you can explore to learn more about what they have to offer or interactive screens from which to make your selections. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you feel the need. No question is too simple. Don’t be nervous about asking, and don’t feel like you need to rush to make a decision.
Available Products
Dispensaries’ selections vary widely. Dried cannabis is a common option, but the establishment you visit may also offer pre-rolls, oils, tinctures, topicals, vapes, vape juice, and edibles to name a few possibilities. Each type of product has its own benefits. Edibles are often more convenient, but they take longer to produce effects. Smoking and vaping work faster, but their effects may not last as long as those of edibles. It’s easier to measure dosage with oils and tinctures. Topicals provide targeted relief but don’t work for all issues.
Choosing the Right Dosage
Dosage is an important factor to think about when you’re shopping for cannabis products. It’s also one of the most confusing. You need more of some products than others to produce the effects you’re looking for. In most cases, beginners are advised to start low and slow and work their way up to doses that work best for them. Keep in mind that the dispensaries’ staff members can give you guidance in this respect. If you have a prescription, your healthcare professional will likely give you dosage recommendations.
Making the Most of Cannabis Products From a Dispensary
Shopping at a dispensary can be the safest way to purchase cannabis products. They’re held to stringent standards and required to follow strict regulations when it comes to the products they sell. Be sure to shop at a clean establishment with staff members who are willing to answer your questions and qualified to do so. Consider the issues you’re targeting with cannabis products and the effects you hope to get to help you choose the right ones. Finally, be careful with dosage, and start off low until you know how the products will affect you.