If you’re new to the world of cannabis, I’m sure that the image that you have in mind is either that of the leaf or a cigarette.

But let me tell you that the ways and motivations to use cannabis have changed a lot. Now, you walk into a dispensary, and you see all the new formats and products: vapes, oils, and even chocolates! Feels more like an adult candy shop, doesn’t it?

If you want to sleep better, relieve pain, or just relax, you can choose among all of these products. So, how do you know where to start?

To answer this question, the team at DACUT Dispensary prepared a guide to the most popular cannabis products and their differences, so you can choose the best product for an optimal experience.

1. Flowers and Pre-Rolls

The cannabis flower is one of the most popular products in dispensaries, though other products are displacing it because of convenience. It is the most natural form of cannabis.

There are different strains available with an infinite variety of combinations. The main strains are sativa, indica, and hybrids. The type of strain you choose depends on the effect you’re looking for: Some strains favour sleep, improve focus, or help deal with physical pain.

You can find them dried and packed in jars, bags, or tins, and yes, the classic way is to smoke the flowers in a cigarette. The inconvenience is that you have to learn how to roll it and buy the appropriate products to do that.

However, you can also find pre-rolls, which are ready-to-use cigarettes, and they are more convenient, as you don’t have to roll them on your own. The quantities and potency of effects might vary.

Of course, it comes with the drawbacks of smoking: it’s bad for your lungs, it can discolor your teeth, nails, and skin, and the scent is not easy to hide, so if you don’t want to call attention, maybe it is not a good choice.

2. Edibles

Smoking is not the only way in which you can consume cannabis. You can also eat it!

Cookies, chocolates, and gummies are some of the formats that you can find of edibles. In this case, cannabinoids (the chemicals found in cannabis) enter your system once digested, which means that you have to wait before you start feeling the effects.

This also implies that the effects can last longer compared to smoking, so it is a good idea to start with a low dose and check how your body responds.

Edibles are a good option if you don’t like to smoke and if you’re a beginner, as this format is very easy to consume. However, it is important to wait to avoid an overdose. Don’t be fooled by that cookie.

3. Vapes

Available in pens and cartridges, vapes allow you to use cannabis and get all of its benefits, but in a gentler way, as vapor is less irritating for your lungs than smoke.

It is a more discreet product, because it produces less odor, and it comes with different flavours and scents. The effects are immediate, which makes vaping a great option for treating symptoms.

A disadvantage is that you need the vaping device, and in some places, vaping is forbidden.

4. Concentrates

These are highly concentrated amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes, extracted from flowers.

Oil, rosin, and wax are some of the forms that you can find in dispensaries. Concentrates can be smoked, vaped, or dabbed, though you will need specific accessories for this.

Concentrates offer a quick and strong onset, which doesn’t make them quite ideal for newbies. Being familiar with the effects of THC before trying concentrates is advisable, as this product can be very strong for some people.

5. Tinctures

Tinctures are available as solutions or oils, which you can consume with a dropper by placing the drops under your tongue.

They are discreet and very versatile, with lots of varieties and flavors. The onset of this product is usually faster than edibles, and yet it has the same lasting effects.

Some tinctures can contain alcohol, which can produce a strange taste or burning sensation.

6. Topicals

Topicals are products that you can apply to your body, such as lotions, creams, roll-ons, and even lip balm.

They provide a localized effect as the chemicals don’t enter your body; instead, you apply the product to your skin. Cannabis topicals have medicinal effects and are effective in treating:

• Inflammation,
• Psoriasis,
• Acné,
• Skin infections.

Topicals are easy to use and provide an alternative to the effects of ingesting cannabis. The downside of topicals is that they can transfer to other surfaces, like clothes, and might be expensive.

Make an Informed Decision

When choosing the best cannabis product and format for you, it is necessary to consider the effects that different strains and combinations can cause, availability in your area, restraints, and cost. And let’s not forget your preferences!

Besides this information, always make sure to consult with a health expert before using cannabis in medical treatments. The amount of components like THC and CBD can have different reactions in your body.

Now you have the knowledge. If you’re still unsure of which product is the best for you, don’t hesitate to ask your budtender.