Cannabis can have a range of benefits and medical uses, and it helps a lot of people in a lot of different ways. Some enjoy using it recreationally as a way to relax and unwind, while others rely on it to soothe aches, pains, and mental stresses.
Regardless of why you use cannabis, it’s important to practice responsible and safe usage. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of this plant without putting your mind or body at any unnecessary or excessive risk. In this guide, we’ll look at responsible cannabis use.
How to Use Cannabis Safely
Safe cannabis usage is the best practice for every cannabis consumer. Not only is it safer for you, but it also sets a good example for other cannabis users to follow. Here are some of the main ways you can use and enjoy cannabis safely.
Buying Cannabis From Legal Retail Sources
In the past, when cannabis was illegal in many locations, the only way people could get hold of it was through illegal means, such as buying from street sellers or black market vendors, but times have changed.
Now, in many locations, the legalization of cannabis has made it much more accessible. You can visit a marijuana dispensary, and purchase a wide range of cannabis products, from edibles to flower.
So, one of the top tips for safe cannabis usage is to make sure you buy products only from legal, official sources. This will help you access the safest, independently-tested products, and you can also speak with expert staff to ask questions and get advice.
What Kind of Cannabis Should You Buy?
There are many different types of cannabis strains and lots of varieties of cannabis products out there. The huge range available to modern consumes includes flower, edibles, concentrates, tinctures, oils, creams, and more.
- Smoke and Vapor Products – Smoking or vaping cannabis is the most traditional way to consume it. This method sends the THC and other cannabinoids straight into the bloodstream for rapid effects. Smoking, however, does have some risks associated with the combustion process, so vaping may be a safer option for you.
- Edibles – Another option you might consider is edibles. Edible cannabis products like gummies and brownies are imbued with cannabinoids like CBD and THC, giving you the benefits and effects of cannabis without the need to smoke or vape it. Effects take time to appear, but are longer-lasting than with smoking.
- Topicals – There are also topical cannabis products, such as creams and lotions that can be applied straight onto the skin. Using topicals can be a good way to get started and are often recommended to beginners, and they also have the benefit of having relatively minimal effect on the brain.
It’s important to do your research, know the differences between cannabis products, and choose appropriate products for your needs.
How Much Cannabis Should You Use?
Quantity is important with cannabis, too, and it’s recommended to always start with small amounts and avoid using too much. The more you use, the more your body may build up a tolerance, leading to higher and higher doses and greater risks.
If you’re using edibles, try to limit yourself to a maximum of 2.5mg of THC when starting, building up to around 5mg as an average dose. If smoking or vaping, it can be harder to measure, but it’s best to use lower doses and stop when you feel the effects.
Other Steps to Maintain a Responsible Relationship With Cannabis
Here are some more useful tips to help you use cannabis in a safe and sensible way.
Don’t Use Cannabis While Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Cannabis is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding people. There is a risk that using cannabis could have an adverse effect on your baby, and leading authorities advise strongly against its usage.
Don’t Mix Cannabis With Alcohol
There are many side effects and risks associated with mixing alcohol and cannabis or other drugs and substances. Mixing the two can be harmful for both your brain and body and could lead to impaired reactions and decision-making.
Don’t Use Cannabis While Taking Certain Medications
There are dozens of different prescription and over-the-counter medications that can interact with cannabinoids like CBD and THC, and some of them can produce quite serious and dangerous effects. Don’t mix cannabis with other meds until you’ve consulted with a doctor.
Stash Your Herb Mindfully
Another big part of responsible cannabis use is making sure you store your cannabis in the right place to keep it away from the hands of children and anyone else. Keep it in an airtight container in a dark place, ideally locked away somewhere so that kids and animals can’t get to it.