Are you new to the world of cannabis? It might all seem a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, because we are here to help you get started with our beginner’s guide to smoking cannabis.
Smoking cannabis for the first time can be a fantastic experience, especially if you are well-prepared. Whether you’re just curious about this plant for the first time or have some experience, this guide offers everything you need to know to have an enjoyable and responsible cannabis experience.
What is cannabis?
Before we delve into smoking cannabis, let’s first look at what cannabis actually is. Cannabis is also known as marijuana, hash, or weed. It refers to a plant originating from China, where it was used thousands of years ago as medicine.
There are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica varieties. The plant is known for its psychoactive effects, which are caused by the presence of chemical compounds called cannabinoids.
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most well-known. This substance is what makes you ‘stoned’ or ‘high.’
CBD stands for cannabidiol, another important component found in cannabis. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabiniod, which is known to have various potential health benefits.
Different types of cannabis
Cannabis comes in different forms and varieties, each with their own unique properties and effects. The two most common types of cannabis are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica.
Cannabis sativa: Cannabis sativa is one of the two primary types of cannabis plants and is known for its energetic and uplifting effects. This type of plant thrives in warm climates and generally has long, slim leaves.
Sativa strains are often associated with an uplifting, creative high that helps people stay active and stimulate their thoughts. People often use sativa for daytime activities, such as social gatherings, artistic pursuits, or physical activities. The effects of sativa are often described as cerebral, uplifting, and euphoric.
Cannabis indica: Cannabis indica is the other primary type of cannabis plant and is known for its relaxing and calming effects. Indica plants thrive in cooler climates and generally have broader leaves and a more compact growth pattern. Indica strains are often associated with a heavier, bodily high that helps people relax, calm down, and even sleep. People often use indica in the evening or at night to unwind after a long day or to help treat sleep issues. The effects of indica are often described as calming, sedative, and soothing.
These are general characteristics often associated with sativa and indica. It is important to know that individual cannabis strains can produce a wide range of effects. The experience can vary from person to person.
Moreover, many modern cannabis strains are considered hybrids, meaning they contain properties of both sativa and indica. It is always a good idea to try different types and experiment to discover what best suits you.
Smoking cannabis: the preparation
Before you smoke cannabis, it is important to prepare properly. From choosing the right equipment, the desired cannabis strain, and creating a suitable environment to enjoy your experience.
Good preparation for the first time smoking cannabis is essential to ensure a positive and comfortable experience. Some important steps:
Do research
Before you start, it is important to do some research on cannabis and its effects so you know what to expect. Learn about the different types of cannabis, the potential effects, and how to consume safely.
Choose the right environment
Make sure you have a quiet and comfortable environment to smoke in. This can be your own home or a trusted place where you feel at ease. If you are smoking cannabis with friends, choose friends you trust 100%.
Avoid smoking in crowded or unfamiliar environments, especially if you are new to cannabis.
Choose the right equipment
There are various ways to smoke cannabis. Think about pipes, joints, bongs, and vaporizers. Choose the method that suits you best and make sure you have the necessary equipment on hand. More on this later…
Provide snacks and drinks
Cannabis can cause dry mouth and munchies, so make sure you have some snacks and drinks on hand to enjoy during your smoking session.
Take the right dosage
Especially as a beginner, it is important to be careful with the dosage. Start with a small amount and wait a while to feel the effects before taking more. It can take some time for the effects of cannabis to be noticeable, so be patient and take your time.
Plan your activities
Think of some light activities to do during your smoking session. For example, listening to music, watching a movie, or playing a game. Avoid activities that require a lot of concentration or physical effort, especially if you are not sure how you will react to cannabis.
Smoking cannabis, what do you choose?
It’s time to enjoy smoking cannabis. Which method do you choose? There are various methods to consume cannabis, including using a pipe, joint, bong, and vaporizers. Each of these methods has its own benefits and techniques.
Joints are made by crumbling cannabis and rolling it, just like a cigarette, into a rolling paper. Many beginners get to know cannabis by smoking a joint with friends. There is enough cannabis in a joint for several smokers to enjoy. Ideal for social occasions. But be careful, you as a beginner smoker should not take too much at once. So feel free to skip a turn if it comes around again.
Tip: don’t want to roll yourself? Opt for pre-rolled joints.
Smoking cannabis with a weed pipe or bowl gives you the opportunity to adjust the dosage. It’s a fairly simple way to smoke cannabis. You don’t need to roll a joint and you smoke the herbs pure.
Smoking cannabis with a bong is an intense way to experience cannabis. These water pipes ensure that more smoke is generated. Take a big draw to experience a more intense effect. A water pipe is not directly preferred for beginner smokers because you get a higher dose of THC with fewer puffs.
Vaporizers are a good alternative to get high without coughing or inhaling combustion chemicals. Depending on the model you choose, the vaporizer is filled with buds or cannabis concentrate.
Make your first time smoking cannabis a top experience in Haarlem!
You are ready to make your first time smoking cannabis a great experience. Relax and enjoy! It’s an adventure you won’t forget any time soon.
Do you have any questions or need more advice? Do not hesitate and come by our coffeeshop. We are ready to answer all your questions about cannabis and give personal advice. We look forward to seeing you!