This year, many of you will have the experience of visiting a dispensary. For some of you this is not a big deal; if it’s a day that ends in “y” you can be found there. For others, this will be their first time, and it can be a little overwhelming. There are a few things that you should know before you go.

Know What You’re Looking For

One of the first things you must know before visiting a dispensary is what you’re looking for. I’m not saying that you have to have a specific strain in mind. It does help to have a general idea of what you want. Dispensaries offer many different varieties of cannabis. When I say “varieties” I’m not referring to different strains, though there are plenty to pick from. I mean everything from edibles, to concentrates, tinctures, and of course the herb itself. You might feel a little overwhelmed if you don’t try to figure out your needs ahead of time.

The Difference Between THC And CBD

Another thing that would be best to know before visiting a dispensary is the difference between the two different cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). For instance, you should know that THC is psychoactive, and CBD is non psychoactive and known for its effectiveness in treating chronic medical conditions. If you’re looking to get a good buzz you shouldn’t go for the pre rolled joints of Charlotte’s Web, which is a CBD strain.

The Difference Between Sativa And Indica

In addition to knowing the difference between THC and CBD, it also helps to know the difference between the the two main strains, indica and sativa. Indicas such as OG Kush, are the ones that give you the more relaxing high typically associated with smoking weed. Sativas for example Sour Diesel, are more prone to give you an energetic high and they are great for creative activities like playing music. Of course, there are also hybrid strains such as White Widow. Be prepared to tell your budtender what kind of high you’re looking for and what your preference is.

A Few Things About Consumption Methods

Before visiting a dispensary, it helps to know a thing or two about the different consumption methods. There are many different ways to enjoy cannabis aside from smoking it. As I stated above, it helps to have a good idea of what your needs are. You should know what concentrates are, oils, topicals, edibles, etc. It just helps to be familiar with offerings available in headshops, so that you don’t spend hours wandering around lost.

Know Your Local Laws

Just because cannabis is legal where you live doesn’t mean that you can buy as much as you want. Different states and countries have different laws regarding the amount that you can legally buy, or grow at a time. For example, in Washington State you can buy an ounce at a time, 16 ounces of solid infused product and 72 ounces of liquid infused product. In Oregon you can only buy a quarter ounce of flower per day. It’s also important that you remember to bring a valid ID and plenty of cash, as dispensaries cannot take plastic due to federal laws.

Remember that you can ask your budtender any questions you have. Cannabis is their passion and they love helping the canna-curious!

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What things do you think others should know before visiting a dispensary? Light up the comments!