Cannabis has been around for ages. Lately, though, the drug has been basking in the spotlight worldwide for its huge potential in the medical arena.
In the US, marijuana use is split into two categories: medicinal and recreational purposes.
Marijuana for medical use tends to be restricted more compared to recreational marijuana, and that can easily create room for unsafe and irresponsible practices.
If you’re unsure what to do to maintain safety as you enjoy cannabis recreationally, we’ve got you covered.
1. Educate Yourself
You don’t need a medical exam or physician supervision to access recreational marijuana. It’s a personal choice in states where the drug is legal for adult use.
However, you don’t want to go in blindly if you’re new to cannabis. Lacking knowledge of the drug can be risky as it’s easier to make mistakes that may harm your well-being.
If you’re interested in marijuana and want to be a safe and responsible user, try to learn as much as you can about the drug. Educating yourself on the subject helps you understand what you’re getting into.
2. Buy from Authorized Sources
You can only access legal cannabis in the US through state-licensed retailers known as cannabis dispensaries.
Dispensaries must meet quality and safety standards before they are approved to operate. The same can’t be said about illegal channels.
You expose yourself to unknown dangers if you get your weed from the streets. There’s no way to tell if the product went through testing throughout production for quality control.
With authorized sellers, you’re guaranteed quality. You can also count on receiving correct information regarding potency and effects so that you know exactly what to expect.
3. Mind the Dosage
When it comes to marijuana potency, the main chemical compound at play is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It’s a mind-altering cannabinoid that heavily determines what effects you experience.
It should go without saying that the more THC you take, the more intense the effects get.
For some people, high THC levels could lead to serious problems besides simple intoxication. Adverse effects like paranoia, anxiety and psychosis have been reported.
You can safely use marijuana by paying attention to the dosage. Remember, when you increase your intake, you also increase the amount of THC you consume.
4. Don’t Go Overboard
It’s easy to go overboard with cannabis, just like you would with any other substance like alcohol. The drug is one of the most abused in the country, with a high dependency rate.
Considering approximately 30% of people who use marijuana develop marijuana use disorder, safe and responsible consumption lies in moderation.
Try to avoid regular use by having specific days or occasions where you partake. Doing that reduces your chances of marijuana dependence.
5. Take Weed on its Own
If you were getting on medical cannabis instead of recreational cannabis, you would have to consult a healthcare provider who will guide you through the upsides and downsides of the drug and offer precautions.
Your doctor will most likely warn you about mixing cannabis with other substances. A lot is still unknown regarding how weed affects the body, which is complicated further by the fact that people tend to have varying experiences.
Mixing weed with other substances could lead to unexpected and even harmful reactions.
Experts warn about taking cannabis alongside other drugs, whether illegal ones like meth or common medications like antibiotics.
6. Consider Edibles
Smoking is the most preferred method when it comes to consuming marijuana. These days smoking goes beyond rolling the plain old joints and blunts.
The evolution of smoking has led to devices like dab rigs and bongs, which allow the user to inhale burnt cannabis vapor.
As fun as these smoking devices may be to recreational users, they take a toll on your lungs and may lead to serious lung complications.
Try edibles if you want a safer method of consuming your favorite flower. These are foodstuffs infused with cannabis.
Edibles are just as potent as any other method of cannabis delivery, with the effects lasting longer.
Final Thoughts
Currently, 21 states plus the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for recreational use. It couldn’t get any easier to access weed for personal enjoyment.
Still, like most things, there are some risks associated with cannabis. You may want to observe the above tips to use the drug safely and responsibly.
