Is Cannabis for You? Guidance for First-Timers

1. Embrace the Golden Rule: Start Low & Go Slow

• Inhalation (smoking/vaping): Take a tiny puff, wait 15–20 minutes, then assess before you consider more.

• Edibles: Begin with a low dose—typically 2.5 to 5 mg of THC—and wait at least 2 hours before deciding if more is needed.

• Skip potent options like dabbing or high-THC concentrates—they’re best avoided by beginners.

2. Choose Your Method Thoughtfully

• Smoking/Vaping offers quick onset (minutes) and shorter duration.

• Edibles take 30 min to 2 hours to kick in, and effects can last 6–12 hours.

• Tinctures, oils, topicals offer controlled dosing and varied effects—great for fine-tuning.

3. Understand THC vs. CBD—and Dosage

• THC is psychoactive; CBD is not. For a gentler experience, try products with a balanced THC:CBD ratio (like 1:1).

• Experts stress precise dosage is key—start low to ease into the experience.

• A novel plan proposes measuring doses equivalently across forms—e.g., 5 mg edible ≈ 2 puffs from a vape. Promising, though not yet industry standard.

4. Create a Safe, Comfortable Setting

• Use in a relaxed, familiar place—maybe at home or with trusted friends.

• Avoid first-time use in public or unfamiliar spaces to reduce anxiety.

• Keep hydration and snacks handy—cannabis often triggers dry mouth and munchies.

5. Safety First: Practical Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s & Don’t Wait to gauge effects before taking moreMix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs—this increases risk of anxiety or unpleasant effects. Have a sober friend for supportAssume others respond the same way as youUse clean equipment if sharing devicesDrive or operate machinery while under the influence. Know local laws and buy from licensed sourcesIgnore your body’s signals; stop if things feel off. Store products securely—especially edibles—in child-resistant packaging.

6. Be Ready for the Unexpected—But It Will Pass

• Possible side effects: dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness, altered perception, or paranoia—often dose-related.

• If you feel overwhelmed:

• Remind yourself it will pass.

• Try calming scents like lemon or black pepper (anecdotal help).

• Sip water, snack, relax, or get some rest.

• CBD may help counteract high-THC effects.

• Have someone you trust nearby in case you need support.

What First-Timers on Reddit Say:

“Start with just 1 mg of THC… don’t try to get high, find your tolerance.”
“5 mg is a perfect place to start safely.”
“Take a tiny piece, wait 20 minutes before more… you can always add, but can’t take it away