February 20, 2023

Beginners Guide to Cannabis

As more and more people turn to cannabis for creative inspiration, stress relief, and much more, it’s no surprise that many are curious about how to get started with this versatile plant. If you’re new to cannabis, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of products and consumption methods. However, with a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can safely and enjoyably explore the benefits that cannabis has to offer. This guide will teach you how to use cannabis responsibly.
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Cannabis is used by individuals for various reasons such as promoting health and wellness, enhancing creativity, reducing stress, gaining inspiration, socializing, increasing energy, improving focus & many other reasons. It is a natural way to maintain a balance in the body & mind’s essential functions. Think for yourself why you want to try cannabis. This the first step. 

Your first time trying cannabis? 

Cannabis can be consumed in many forms, such as flower, hash, edibles, tinctures, oils, and more. Each product has its own set of benefits and effects, so it’s important to do your research before trying something new. They key here is to start with low doses. This can help you avoid unwanted side effects and ensure a positive experience. Different people have different tolerances, so it’s important to pay attention to your body. Our budtenders at De Kade are familiar with the various strains & their effects, and can help you pick the right strain and method of consumption.

How to use cannabis responsibly?

Choose a safe and comfortable environment - Cannabis can affect your senses and perception, so it’s important to be in a safe and comfortable environment when consuming. As we mentioned before. Always start with a low dose! If you’re vaping or smoking a joint for the first time, take a puff,and just wait! See how your body reacts to the plant. In case you’re trying edibles, just eat a small piece. You can always consume more, you can’t consume less. Consuming too much cannabis at a time could result in anxiety, confusion, and other unpleasant sensations. Give your mind & body time to process the effects of cannabis products, especially when consuming edibles.

What if I get too high?

Most important: remember that it will pass. Drink cold water, find a comfortable spot to relax in, and try to go to sleep. Next time, remember to go slow. Once again, you can always consume more, you can’t consume less. 

So what is the problem?

Notably absent from toleration of consuming cannabis, is the cultivation of the plant. This has led to a seemingly paradoxical system where coffee shops are allowed to sell soft drugs but where production is nearly always punished. This is referred to as the backdoor problem. Significantly, the quirks of the system’s evolution have led to the paradox that while sales are de facto legalized, the coffeeshops are still supplied via an illegal production system. Criticism has been raised over the years against continued prosecution of cannabis growers. 
Another major obstacle that coffeeshops in Amsterdam encounter is the inability to verify the quality and potency of the cannabis products they sell. Legal uncertainties related to the sale of cannabis in the Netherlands mean that coffeeshops are not authorized to conduct tests on their products, leading to possible inconsistencies and safety issues for those who use them. As a result, some coffeeshops may resort to using illegal laboratories to determine the quality and safety of their products.

Just keep these in mind!

1. Start with a low dose: Whether you’re smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles, it’s important to start with a low dose. Cannabis affects everyone differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. 
2. Choose your strain wisely: There are two main types of cannabis plants: indica and sativa. Indica strains are known for their relaxing, sedative effects, while sativa strains are typically more energizing and uplifting. There are also hybrid strains that combine characteristics of both types. And then we’re not talking about terpines yet!
3. Be aware of the different consumption methods: Cannabis can be consumed in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaping, edibles, dabbing. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to choose a method that works for you.
4. Be aware of potential side effects: Cannabis can have both positive and negative effects on the body and mind. 
5. Use cannabis responsibly: Like any substance, cannabis should be used responsibly. It’s important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis, and to only consume cannabis in a safe, private environment.