Learn from the mistakes of others by reading this article ontop cannabis blunders related to general knowledge, smoking, and after-smoking etiquette. practically every smoker can take away something departing from this!
If you love cannabis, there’s no better time to be alive than now. With society gradually changing its stance on recreational use, marijuana culture is blooming everywhere. Even though cannabis use is becoming more popular, however, misunderstandings and misinformation about the plant are still widespread. A lot of these false beliefs come from the era before legalization, and they’re preventing society from fully embracing cannabis and all its advantages.
In order to make every weed smoking session successful, we have decided to break down some of the major mistakes that weed smokers often make. Some of these are geared more towards beginners, while others can be applied to stoners of all experience levels. No matter your level of expertise, following these tips will ensure a great sesh every time.
Cannabis Mistakes Part 1: General Cannabis Education and Debunking Myths
Let’s go over some of the myths and information that is not clear about cannabis. Because there has been anti-weed propaganda for many years, it is hard to know what features are basic about this herb that has been used for a long time.
For anyone new to buying or smoking cannabis, or unsure about what the effects will be, read on. We’ll dispel some major myths and give you the facts about marijuana.
Thinking Smoking and Eating Weed Are the Same
People are often surprised to discover that not everyone understands the difference between smoking weed and eating it. Some folks believe that “cannabis is cannabis, and it will get you high” without differentiating how you consume it. While this statement has some truth to it, ingesting cannabis in alternative ways delivers THC into the bloodstream differently which leads to various potencies of effects. For example, when you smoke weed, THC enters your system through the alveoli in your lungs for a quick onset of desired effects. On the other hand, edibles take much longer before taking effect but tend to be more potent than if smoked.
The body processes THC differently depending on how it enters the system. When ingested, THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent metabolite of THC, in the liver. Edibles therefore have a different—and usually stronger—effect than smoking or vaping marijuana does.
Not Knowing What You Are Smoking
Cannabis strains are titled and have descriptions for a specific reason- to give customers an estimate of what they can expect. Although not always accurate, this information provides buyers with general details. Each flower includes unique cannabinoid and terpene profiles which directly affect the strain‘s outcome as well as contribute to entourage effect theory.
Thus, being familiar with the typical chemical composition of various strains can help you pinpoint the ones that will result in positive experiences and steer clear of those inducing negative effects. For example, if you are aware that high-THC strains usually make you feel uncomfortable, try a 1:1 THC:CBD strain or one without any THC.
You might not think it matters, but regardless of your smoking preferences, it always pays to know what you’re smoking.
Not Knowing the Difference Between Good vs Bad Weed
If you’re new to smoking weed, then this mistake is probably one you’ve made. Luckily, it’s an easily avoidable blunder. To help out, I’ve listed a few things below that can clue you in on the quality of your weed:
- Colour
You can usually tell if weed has gone bad by its color. Good weed is still a vibrant green, while Bad weed is much darker and brown. You might also see other colors like purple in good quality marijuana.
- Smell
The telltale sign of skunky, earthy weed is its appealingly sweet smell. If your weed smells old or mouldy, it probably is and you should get rid of it. Ammonia smells are an especially bad sign.
- Smoke
Not only does low-quality weed hurt your physical experience, it can also be unpleasant to smoke. The chemicals in cannabis will break down over time, making the drug weaker and the taste less favorable.
- Seeds
Seeds present in cannabis bud means the plant was not able to reach its peak potential, resulting in a weaker overall product.
Thinking You Won’t Get High the First Time
Don’t ever underestimate marijuana, especially if you’re trying it for the first time. People who are experienced with cannabis commonly think that newbies won’t get high at all, but that’s not always accurate. True, there might be reasons why someone wouldn’t feel as impaired their first time smoking – like shallow breathing or lacking an understanding of how it works. However, the possibilities are still good they will become very stoned regardless.
To have the best experience possible when smoking for the first time, go slowly. Start by taking small hits and seeing how you feel before continuing. Remember that THC is a drug, and no matter how natural it may be, you should always use substances with caution.
Dosing Issues: Too Much, Too Fast
Just as balance is key to riding a bicycle, the same can be said of taking cannabis. Many first-time users make the mistake of consuming too much weed at once, resulting in an unpleasant experience that can either wreck their evening or put them off Cannabis altogether. For beginners, it’s best to take things slow by starting with small amounts and seeing how your body reacts. This will help you get familiar with Cannabis and understand how different quantities affect you.
It is easier to consume too much of an edible product than it is to smoke cannabis. This is because the effects of smoking generally wear off after a couple hours, while the effects of consuming can last up to 8 or more hours.
Mixing Weed and Alcohol
Alcohol is the real gateway drug, not marijuana. It’s legal and often our first experience with substances that make us feel euphoric.
Some people may be okay with alcohol and cannabis together, especially if they can handle their liquor. Although, research indicates that combining the substances could increase THC levels in the body which might lead to an unpleasant experience. It’s not fatal, but it could cause discomfort.
Thinking You Can Get High From Eating Raw Cannabis
Mixing raw cannabis leaves into your food is a healthy way to eat, but don’t anticipate feeling any psychoactive effects.
The cannabinoids in marijuana will only take effect once they have gone through decarboxylation. In other words, this is the process of heating your buds. When you light a bowl or joint, this occurs automatically. However, if you want to make edibles, you need to heat weed in an oven at 110°C (230°F) for about 30 minutes so that it becomes “activated” enough.
Expecting “Magic”
Many people’s initial experience with cannabis is through the media. Weed is commonly shown as being magical, for better or worse. However, some people’s first-time trying it does not match up to what they expected – often because it is too weak or too strong.
This is your first time experiencing this, so just enjoy it! Don’t expect it to be an immediate fix for all of your problems because that’s not how this amazing herb works.
Generalising the Effects
A tip for all marijuana smokers, no matter their level of experience: the effects vary from person to person. Because of this, it’s unfair to say that weed is always “bad” after having a negative reaction yourself. With that in mind, it’s also inaccurate to tell others that they’ll never feel uncomfortable when smoking cannabis–everyone experiences side effects differently.
Remember, everyone experiences things differently. Just because your best friend had a great time smoking weed doesn’t mean you will too. Do some research and figure out what works for you before diving in headfirst.
Freaking Out
It is common to feel anxious the first time you try cannabis, as your body and mind are not yet used to the effects. However, it is important not give into this feeling and instead stay calm. If you allow yourself to freak out, it will create a negative association with cannabis which could lead you to stop using it altogether.
Keep in mind that any anxious or uneasy feelings are temporary and will eventually dissipate. If you’re only smoking weed, and no other substances, you’ll be perfectly fine. Allow some time for the anxiety to come and go–you might even find this helpful in your everyday life outside of marijuana use! This technique will make your bond with smoking pot more meaningful.
Cannabis Mistakes Part 2: Mistakes People Make While Smoking Weed
Now that we’ve examined some of the general myths and misinformation surrounding cannabis, let’s take a closer look at some mistakes people make during their smoking sessions.
Not Having Water or Sugar Nearby
Although cannabis has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks that people commonly experience, such as coughing, dry eyes, and the painfully uncomfortable condition known as cotton mouth (or dry mouth). Dry eyes can be remedied by simply taking a break from the smoke for a short while. However, for both coughing and cotton mouth, sucking on hard candy or drinking water will usually do the trick. And trust me – you’ll want to have these things handy!
Make your next smoking session more enjoyable by having a glass of water or juice nearby.
Not Knowing the “Good Side” of the Paper
Rolling a joint may seem like a easy task, but many people do not know which side of the paper to use. The “good side” is the moistened part with glue that you will attach to the other end of the paper.
Although it takes time and practice to perfect, rolling a joint is easy enough that everyone should be able to do it. But being mindful of the right way to roll will result in less waste and make you look like more of an expert.
If you’re skilled enough, you can take off the glue and roll using the “bad side” of the paper. But that’s a topic for another time.
Using Too Little or Too Much Weed
If you stuff your joint or bowl with too much herb, it’ll be difficult to inhale. Contrariwise, if you use too little, there will be excessive airflow and the joint or bowl will burn quickly–unpleasantly so.
The perfect amount of marijuana for a joints is half-gram, according to veteran smokers. This will give you a regular-sized joint.
Adding Tobacco to the Mix
The term “spliff” was first used to describe a joint containing no tobacco. However, when the concept reached Europe, it came to mean a joint with some sprinkles of tobacco mixed in. What’s great about spliffs is that they give you that extra head buzz from the nicotine. However, the downsides are a bit heftier. Not only can you get addicted to nicotine, but as a substance, it is also more hazardous to one’s health. If you want to keep your smoking on a wholesome level, skip the tobacco
Smoking Stems and Seedy Weed
When you see premium-grade marijuana, you’ll notice that there are no seeds. In addition, the weed you purchase won’t be weighed down by extra stems. Rather, all you’ll get is nug—exactly what your money is going towards.
On the other hand, low-quality weed is going to be seedier and filled with more stems. You’ll have to take time to remove these non-essential smoking materials, as they create a harsher smoke. Not only is the experience less enjoyable this way, but you’re also spending more money for it since those seeds and stems add extra weight to a bag. If you want guarantee a quality smoke every time, always buy from trusted and legitimate source – even if that means growing your own stash.
Throwing Out the Stems
Even though you don’t want to smoke your stems, they can still be very useful. In fact, they contain small amounts of cannabinoids which can be extracted and used to create powerful products.
You can use cannabis leaves to make cannabutter, infuse them in tea, or even make tinctures out of them. With a little time spent on research, you’ll find endless possibilities. So next time you’re tempted to just toss out those veggie stems, think again! You’ll be glad you kept them.
Not Owning a Grinder
For all smokers, a grinder is key. This remains true regardless of your smoke vessel preference, be it blunt, bong, or spoon pipe. Having a consistent, fine grind allows for an even burn every time.
You may be wondering why you need a grinder if you can get by with scissors or your hands. While that’s all true, a grinder increases the surface area of your bud and makes for a more consistent and enjoyable smoke–a luxury that no other method can deliver.
Torching With a Crappy Lighter
An expensive lighter is not necessary to get the job done, but an unpleasant and inefficient torch is worse than nothing, especially when smoking outside.
If you prioritize a wind-proof flame or other special features, you’ll have to invest a little more money. You can also buy suitable devices for the price of a candy bar. To avoid burning your fingers, choose a lighter that is powerful enough.
Burning Without Care
To light a joint properly, you’ll need to rotate the tip as you apply the flame from several centimeters away steadily. This is done differently than how you would approach lighting and smoking a cigarette by taking many small puffs.
If you light a joint and don’t rotate it while puffing, one side will burn faster than the other. This is called “canoeing”and it alters the taste and enjoyment of the smoke.
Not Passing the Joint
If you’re going to smoke herbs with others, it’s important to know how to pass the joint. After taking two draws from the joint, give it to whoever is next in line. This simple act gives rise to the saying “puff, puff, pass.”
If you don’t know how to share or tend to smoke more than your fair share, you’re not invited to future smoking sessions. No one likes a joint hogger.
Inhaling Too Deep or Too Shallow
If you inhale too deeply, it’s harsh on your lungs and a waste of smoke. On the other hand, if you don’t take in enough air, you won’t get high. It’s like sipping a drink through a straw–you shouldn’t gulp it down, but you need to take in enough so that you can taste it.
If you’re still struggling to find that perfect puff after a few attempts, don’t worry–you’re not alone. This is a mistake that’s easy to make in the beginning, but if it continues, the issue might be with your technique.
Holding the Weed Hit in Your Lungs
Believe it or not, taking a deep breath in after smoking weed will not make you higher. Inhaling deeply may cause a lightheaded feeling for some people, making the experience more intense.
oxygen depletion will cause feelings of euphoria. However, this is your body’s way of warning you that something is wrong. Low oxygen levels are never a good sign, so if you’re still inhaling deeply, maybe it’s time to quit this harmful habit.