Cannabis 101: The Beginner's Guide
Everything you need to know to start your cannabis journey safely and confidently
Welcome to Cannabis
Welcome to The Library's Cannabis 101 guide! Whether you're curious about cannabis for the first time or returning after years, this comprehensive guide covers everything beginners need to know about marijuana, from basic terminology to consumption methods and effects.
At our West Orange dispensary, we believe education is key to a positive cannabis experience. Let's explore the fundamentals together.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis (also called marijuana, weed, or pot) is a plant that contains hundreds of chemical compounds called cannabinoids. The two most important cannabinoids are:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive compound that produces the "high" feeling. Ranges from 10-30% in most products.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Non-intoxicating compound that may provide relaxation without the high. Often used for wellness.
Types of Cannabis
Indica
Relaxing, sedating effects. Best for evening use, stress relief, and sleep support. Learn more in our complete indica guide.
Sativa
Energizing, uplifting effects. Ideal for daytime use, creativity, and social activities. Read our complete sativa guide.
Hybrid
Balanced combination of indica and sativa effects. Can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or evenly balanced. Most modern strains are hybrids.
Product Types at The Library
Flower (Buds)
The traditional dried cannabis plant. Smoked or vaporized. Effects in 5-10 minutes, last 2-4 hours.
Pre-Rolls (Joints)
Pre-rolled cannabis cigarettes. Convenient and ready to use. Perfect for beginners who don't want to learn rolling.
Edibles
Cannabis-infused gummies, chocolates, beverages. Effects in 30-90 minutes, last 4-8 hours. Start with 2.5-5mg THC.
Vape Cartridges
Concentrated cannabis oil in disposable cartridges. Discreet, convenient, and controllable dosing.
Concentrates
Highly potent extracts including wax, shatter, and rosin. Advanced products for experienced users.
Tinctures
Liquid cannabis extracts taken under the tongue. Precise dosing and fast-acting (15-30 minutes).
Beginner Tips: Start Low & Go Slow
The #1 rule for cannabis beginners: Start with a low dose and wait to feel the effects before consuming more.
Choose Your Method
Smoking/vaping = fast effects. Edibles = slower but longer-lasting. New users often prefer vapes or low-dose edibles for control.
Start With Low THC
Look for products with 10-15% THC or less. Consider balanced CBD:THC ratios (1:1) for gentler effects.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Try cannabis for the first time at home with trusted friends. Have snacks and water available.
Wait Between Doses
Smoking/vaping: Wait 15 minutes. Edibles: Wait 2 hours before taking more. This is crucial!
Talk to Our Budtenders
Our West Orange team loves helping beginners! We'll recommend products based on your preferences and experience level.
What to Expect: Cannabis Effects
Common effects vary by strain and individual, but typically include:
✓ Positive: Relaxation, euphoria, laughter, enhanced sensory perception, appetite increase, pain relief
⚠️ Possible: Dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, temporary memory impairment, anxiety (if too much)
If You Feel Uncomfortable:
- • Remember: No one has ever fatally overdosed on cannabis. Effects will pass.
- • Drink water and eat a snack (especially something with black pepper)
- • Find a quiet, comfortable space and breathe deeply
- • Distract yourself with calming music or TV
- • Call a trusted friend for reassurance
Legal & Safety Information
New Jersey Cannabis Laws
- • Must be 21+ with valid ID to purchase
- • Purchase limits: Up to 1 ounce (28g) of flower per transaction
- • Consume only in private residences, not in public
- • Never drive under the influence of cannabis
- • Keep products away from children and pets
Safe Consumption Practices
- • Store products in original child-resistant packaging
- • Never mix cannabis with alcohol (especially as a beginner)
- • Avoid operating machinery or vehicles
- • Consult your doctor if you have medical conditions or take medications
- • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should not use cannabis
Ready to Begin Your Cannabis Journey?
Visit The Library in West Orange for personalized guidance from our expert budtenders
Educational Purposes: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Must be 21+ to purchase. The Library holds NJ Cannabis Retail License RE000228. Please consume responsibly.
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Legal Notice: This website is intended for adults 21 years of age and older. Cannabis products have not been analyzed or approved by the FDA. There is limited information on the side effects of using cannabis products.