Walking into a dispensary for the first time can feel like stepping onto another planet. You are greeted by walls of colorful jars, menus full of names that sound like exotic desserts, and scientific terms flying around the counter. If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You are exactly where you need to be.
Welcome to Cannabis 101.
At Kind Goods, we understand that the modern cannabis industry moves fast. It’s no longer just about “baggies” and mystery strains; it’s a regulated, sophisticated world of wellness and recreation. Whether you are exploring cannabis for pain relief, better sleep, or just curiosity, education is the key to a great experience. Consider this your “cannabis 101 for dummies” guide, a friendly crash course designed to help you navigate the aisles like a pro.
What is Cannabis? The Basics
Before we discuss the effects, let’s talk about the plant. Cannabis is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries for industrial, medical, and recreational purposes, thanks to its varied effects. While the plant contains hundreds of compounds, there are a few key compounds that work together to shape how each cannabis plant smells, tastes, and feels:
- Cannabinoids – compounds like THC and CBD that create effects in the body
- Terpenes – natural oils that influence aroma, flavor, and the overall experience
- Flavonoids – compounds that contribute to flavor and plant color
Although there are many compounds, the true stars of the show are cannabinoids. Cannabinoids interact with your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Think of the ECS as a master control switch that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and pain sensation. When you consume cannabis, the plant’s compounds bind to your receptors, influencing how you feel.
Cannabis Strains & Their Effects
When browsing a cannabis menu, you will typically see products categorized into three main strains’ “buckets.” While modern science tells us that effects are complex, these three categories remain the industry standard for Cannabis 101:
- Sativa: Often described as the “daytime” option. Sativa strains are generally associated with uplifting, cerebral, and energetic effects. If you want to spark creativity, clean your house, or socialize, a Sativa is often the recommended choice.
- Indica: These strains are associated with deep relaxation, heavy body sensations, and sleepiness. They are perfect for a movie night or winding down before bed.
- Hybrid: As the name suggests, these are a genetic mix of both Sativa and Indica parents. Hybrids aim to balance the effects, offering a “best of both worlds” experience.
Note: These effects are influenced by terpenes, the aromatic oils that give cannabis its smell (like citrus or pine) and steer the “vibe” of your high.
THC & CBD Explained
If strains are the vehicle, cannabinoids are the fuel. Understanding cannabis 101 includes the THC and CBD dynamics that are crucial for predicting how a product will make you feel.
So, what is the core difference in CBD vs THC?
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): This is the psychoactive compound. It is responsible for the euphoric “high” associated with cannabis. THC binds directly to receptors in the brain, altering perception and stimulating appetite.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): This is the non-psychoactive cousin. CBD does not make you feel high. Instead, it is praised for therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain.
Here’s a simple side-by-side look at how THC and CBD compare:
| THC | CBD |
| Psychoactive | Non-intoxicating |
| Produces a noticeable high | Does not produce a high |
| Effects are more pronounced | Effects are more subtle |
| Can alter perception and sensation | Does not alter perception |
Neither compound is inherently better than the other. The right choice depends on personal preference and the type of experience you are looking for. When THC and CBD are combined, they can work together to shape how cannabis feels overall. THC tends to produce more noticeable effects, while CBD can help balance them, making the experience feel smoother and less intense for many people. This is why products that contain both THC and CBD are often chosen for a more controlled and well-rounded experience.
Cannabis Products 101: How to Consume
Technology has given us incredible variety beyond the traditional joint. Here is a breakdown of the most popular ways to consume cannabis:
Cannabis Edibles 101
Edibles are any type of food (gummies, chocolates) or drink that is infused with cannabis oil. Cannabis edibles are all about patience. Since they are processed through the digestive system, edibles take longer to produce effects compared to other methods.
- Onset: Typically 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Duration: The effects last much longer than smoking, often 4 to 8 hours.
- Dosing: Start low and go slow. We recommend beginners start with 2.5mg to 5mg of THC. You can always eat more, but you cannot un-eat a gummy!
Cannabis Tinctures 101
If you want precise dosing without the sugar of edibles or the smoke of flower, look into tinctures. Cannabis tinctures refers to liquid extracts that come with a dropper. You place the oil under your tongue (sublingually) and hold it for 30–60 seconds. The membranes there absorb cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream, leading to a faster onset compared to edibles. They are discreet, easy to dose, and popular for anxiety or sleep.
- Onset: 15-45 minutes
- Duration: 4-8 hours
- Dosing: Beginners should start with 1–2.5 mg for THC and 10–20 mg for CBD. Start low and wait at least 2 hours before increasing; tinctures can feel mild at first and then come on strong.
Cannabis Concentrates 101
Cannabis concentrates are an “advanced” category of products. Concentrates can come in the form of wax, shatter, or live resin, with the plant material removed, leaving pure cannabinoids. This means concentrates are very strong, often containing 70% to 90% THC (while flower is usually 15-30%).
While “dabbing” raw concentrates is intense, vape pens also fall into this category. Vapes are beginner-friendly, discreet, and offer a way to consume concentrates without complex equipment.
- Onset: Seconds up to 5 minutes
- Duration: 30-90 minutes
- Dosing: Beginners should start 1–3 mg of THC or one inhale of using a vape
Choosing the Right Cannabis for You
With so many strains and product types available, finding your perfect match can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Each method has a different onset time and duration, so choosing the right format can make a big difference in how your experience unfolds. The key is understanding the kind of experience you want and choosing products that align with your comfort level, preferences, and goals.
Cannabis isn’t one-size-fits-all and everyone’s body chemistry and preferences are unique, so a personalized recommendation can make all the difference. The team at Kind Goods is here to help you find products that match your comfort level, desired effects, and lifestyle, so you can feel confident in your choice and enjoy the experience you’re looking for.
Responsible Cannabis Use
Starting with a low amount and giving yourself time to understand how it feels can help create a positive experience. It’s also completely normal to ask questions, take breaks, and move at your own pace.
Cannabis is meant to be enjoyed thoughtfully and responsibly. In Missouri, cannabis is intended for use among adults 21 and older. It’s important to follow all local laws and guidelines.
Remember: safety is part of the enjoyment. Here are a few reminders for responsible cannabis use:
- Never operate a vehicle under the influence.
- Keep products out of reach of children and pets.
- Keep water nearby to combat “cottonmouth.”
- Consume in a safe, comfortable place.
Why Shop at The Kind Goods?
Kind Goods is built on education, accessibility, and community. We offer a curated selection of cannabis flowers, edibles, tinctures, and concentrates, supported by knowledgeable staff who enjoy helping customers learn. As a locally owned Missouri dispensary, we focus on making cannabis feel comfortable and approachable for everyone.
Ready to start your journey? Visit us at The Kind Goods today or try out our virtual budtender. Ask questions, explore the options, and let us help you find the perfect product for your lifestyle.
