Having a mountain of cannabis products available in dispensaries is both a blessing and a curse. Because while it’s great to have choices, it can also be a bit of a pain to pick the right one. 2 ounces of cannabis flower, THC edibles, concentrates, infused pre-rolls, cartridges – it’s a lot! How do you choose the best cannabis concentrates and products for your needs? Keep reading!
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Product for Your Needs
You must ask yourself:
- How much experience do I have?
- What are the cannabis/wellness goals I hope to achieve (relaxation, sleep relief, etc.)?
- Do I have any concerns about smoking?
Thinking about your wellness needs and preferences will help narrow your choices and find a product that aligns with your goals.
Pick Your Method of Consumption
Learning how to choose the right cannabis product for your goals and lifestyle? Choosing your preferred consumption method is at the top of your to-do list! Your chosen method guides your entire experience, including your onset time.
Inhalation
You’ll feel the effects within seconds to minutes of inhaling. That’s one of the many reasons it’s such a standard consumption method. Another reason: it’s versatile! Choose from 2 ounces of cannabis flower, infused pre-rolls, and some of the best cannabis concentrates and cartridges. Need to know how to choose the right cannabis product? Keep these factors in mind:
Flower – You choose your experience with flower – roll your joint, smoke it in a bong or pipe, or use a dry herb vaporizer. You can even use flower to create your edibles at home! Some also appreciate flower for their range of aromas and flavors and the ability to choose their desired strain(s).
Pre-Rolls – Want to smoke without needing any equipment? Pre-rolls offer convenience and ease of use.
Concentrates – Concentrates are offered in various varieties – waxes, shatter, live rosin, resin, oils, etc. You can consume them by dabbing or vaping and figuring out how to choose the right cannabis product. Don’t forget that concentrates are potent! Potency is a significant factor to consider.
Cartridges – Cartridges conveniently come pre-filled with cannabis oil or THC distillate for vape pens and other vaporizers.
Ingestion
It takes a little longer to feel THC edibles’ effects, so pay attention to your dosage and onset time. Start low and slow! You should wait around 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to kick in before consuming any more edibles. Effects can also last longer than smoking or vaping!
This is one of the most discreet methods, which may be necessary to you when learning how to choose the right cannabis product for your lifestyle. You also have loads of choices! Here are a few types of cannabis edibles:
- Gummies and candies
- Baked goods
- Chocolates
- Beverages
- Cooking oils
- Capsules
Sublingual Absorption
Unlike edibles, which are processed through the stomach, these cannabis products are absorbed through mucous membranes in your mouth (under the tongue). They offer quick onset times and precise dosing. Standard products include tinctures and dissolvable tablets.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Product: Intended Effects
You don’t want to pick up 2 ounces of any cannabis flower! You want a product that will meet your needs, specifically your desired effects. Strains are often described by their intended effects – uplifting, calming, relaxing, and creative. Consider your preferred experience so you can choose the right strain. The terms indica, sativa, and hybrid are also often used to categorize the effects strains produce.
Indica – Believed to produce feelings of calm and relaxation.
Sativa – Associated with more uplifting, energetic, and creative effects.
Hybrid – Hybrids usually provide a nice balance. For example, a hybrid is your ideal strain to relax and unwind without falling asleep!
Differences between the effects of sativas and indicas are merely generalizations. Just because it’s an indica/sativa doesn’t mean it will have the attributed effects. Cannabinoid and terpene profiles are better indicators when learning how to choose the right cannabis product.
Product Potency & Cannabinoid Profile
It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for infused pre-rolls, various types of cannabis edibles, 2 ounces of cannabis flower, or the best cannabis concentrates. You must consider their potency and cannabinoid profile. Potency, or strength, is the concentration of the product. The percentage of THC and CBD levels indicates it. The cannabinoids in products are shown with a THC to CBD ratio. Concentration of THC and CBD will determine the effect of your strain. ExL higher CBD may create a relaxing effect with less of the “high” associated with THC.
Consider Terpene Profiles
Terpenes are another important aspect of learning how to choose the right cannabis product. These compounds are responsible for aromas and flavors you experience. They also influence the effects of other compounds like THC. Ex: myrcene is known to help produce the entourage effect! Check out a few common terpenes:
- Myrcene – Myrcene has an earthy and musky smell that’s not unlike cloves. It often provides intense full-body relaxation and calming effects.
- Limonene – This terp has a bright and citrusy smell. It may lend to an uplifted mood and stress relief.
- Linalool – With its floral and delicately spicy aroma and flavor, this terp may help with relaxation and mood.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Product with DNM
Consider your goals, preferences, and lifestyle, which will help guide consumption methods and product types. We also recommend talking to budtenders at a dispensary near you. They can provide recommendations for which 2 ounces of cannabis flower, infused pre-rolls, and other products will suit your needs. Be sure to check out our blog on Dispensary Near Me Product Spotlights to help you get started and choose the right cannabis products for your needs.
