Walking into a cannabis dispensary for the first time can feel overwhelming.
There may be dozens of products on the menu, multiple strains, different THC levels, various consumption methods and unfamiliar terminology.
If you’ve searched for a weed dispensary or marijuana dispensary near you and aren’t sure what to buy, the first step is understanding the basic product categories.
This beginner’s guide explains the differences between cannabis flower, pre-rolls, vapes, edibles and concentrates so you can make a more informed purchasing decision at a licensed New Jersey dispensary.
Start With the Consumption Method
One of the easiest ways to narrow down cannabis products is to decide how you prefer to consume them.
The major categories include:
- Flower
- Pre-rolls
- Vapes
- Edibles
- Concentrates
Each format offers a different experience and level of convenience.
Cannabis Flower: The Traditional Choice
Cannabis flower is the dried and cured portion of the cannabis plant.
For many consumers, flower remains the classic marijuana product. It is available in a variety of strains and cultivars, each with its own combination of cannabinoids and terpenes.
What Should You Look For in Flower?
When shopping for flower, consumers may compare:
- THC percentage
- CBD content
- Terpene profile
- Aroma
- Appearance
- Strain or cultivar
- Package size
- Freshness
THC percentage can be useful when comparing products, but it is not the only characteristic that determines the overall experience.
Terpenes can also contribute to the aroma and flavor profile of cannabis.
Pre-Rolls: Convenient and Ready to Use
If you like flower but don’t want to prepare it yourself, pre-rolls can be a convenient alternative.
Pre-rolls contain cannabis flower that has already been prepared and rolled.
They can be particularly useful when convenience is a priority.
Why Do People Choose Pre-Rolls?
Pre-rolls are popular because they are:
- Convenient
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Available in different product varieties
- Useful for consumers who don’t want to roll their own
Always review the product packaging for specific information about potency and quantity.
Cannabis Edibles
Edibles are cannabis products intended to be consumed orally.
They differ significantly from inhaled cannabis because the onset of effects can take longer.
This is one of the most important things for a new cannabis consumer to understand.
Why Do Edibles Take Longer?
When cannabis is inhaled, cannabinoids are absorbed through the lungs.
Edibles are processed through the digestive system, which means effects can take longer to appear.
Because of this difference, consumers should follow the product’s serving instructions and avoid consuming additional servings simply because they do not immediately feel an effect.
Cannabis Concentrates
Concentrates are products made by concentrating cannabis compounds into a more potent format.
They can include different forms of cannabis extracts.
Because concentrates can have significantly higher cannabinoid concentrations than flower, consumers should understand the product before purchasing and using it.
For beginners, flower, pre-rolls or lower-dose products may be easier formats to understand.
Understanding THC and CBD
Two cannabinoids you will frequently see on cannabis labels are THC and CBD.
THC
THC is the cannabinoid primarily associated with the intoxicating effects of cannabis.
When comparing products, look at the amount and concentration of THC listed on the package.
CBD
CBD is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis.
CBD does not produce the same intoxicating effect associated with THC.
A product’s cannabinoid profile can therefore be an important factor when comparing products.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants.
They contribute to the smell and flavor characteristics of different cannabis varieties.
Some commonly discussed cannabis terpenes include:
- Myrcene
- Limonene
- Pinene
- Caryophyllene
- Linalool
Rather than focusing exclusively on a strain name, consumers may find it useful to examine the terpene and cannabinoid information provided on the product label.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest cannabis product for a beginner?
There isn’t one universally appropriate product for every beginner. Flower, pre-rolls, vapes and edibles all have different characteristics. Understanding the product format and following its labeling is a good starting point.
Is a higher THC percentage better?
No. THC percentage is only one characteristic of a cannabis product. Consumers should consider the complete product profile and their own experience level.
Are edibles stronger than flower?
Edibles and inhaled cannabis are processed differently, so comparing them solely by THC percentage can be misleading. Edibles can also take longer to produce noticeable effects.
What is the difference between a vape and flower?
Flower consists of dried cannabis buds, while cannabis vapes generally use cannabis oil or extract designed for vaporization.
Where can I find a cannabis dispensary near Princeton?
GSNG Dispensary in Kingston is a recreational cannabis dispensary serving shoppers from Princeton and surrounding Central New Jersey communities.
Visit GSNG Dispensary in Kingston
If you’re looking for a recreational cannabis dispensary near Princeton, South Brunswick, East Brunswick, Hightstown, Plainsboro, Cranbury or West Windsor, GSNG Dispensary in Kingston is conveniently located for Central New Jersey shoppers.
Browse the current menu, explore available cannabis products and place your order for pickup.
GSNG Dispensary — Kingston, New Jersey
For adults 21+. Please follow all applicable New Jersey cannabis laws and regulations.
