New to cannabis? Start low and go slow

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Don’t overdo it if you’re just getting started with marijuana

As marijuana continues to gain awareness – substantially driven by Canada’s decision to legalize marijuana consumption across the country – some newcomers to the space might be willing to jump straight into the deep end. However, as with virtually everything, it’s important to remember that moderation is the key. Before consuming for the first time, users need to understand that each individual is different and reactions are equally as different.

Start off with low doses to determine how the body will react. Undoubtedly, the effect of marijuana on a 6’1″ athlete will be different than what is experienced by a 5’4″ couch potato.

There are hundreds of substances in cannabis, all of which has the potential to cause different reactions among consumers. The two most often talked about, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), will more than likely have the greatest impact. While they’re both known to provide significant relief for a variety of ailments, THC contains a psychoactive compound that leads to the “high” sensation associated with marijuana consumption.

As a new user, many recommend starting off with a strain that contains less than 20% THC. Often, this can be found on product labels and might be listed as a CBD-to-THC ratio. This will help the user find the minimum effective dose, from which routine use can be measured.

According to Adolfo Gonzalez, co-founder of CannaReps, “To consume responsibly and to stop when you have enough, that’s the cornerstone of the teaching when it comes to safe and effective use, and that’s always where we start.”

Gonzalez adds that users who go too far and consume well past the point of getting high will develop a tolerance to the drug. This will result in the exact opposite effect sought – marijuana will stop serving its purpose and only result in the wallet being opened more often.