In 2024, over 60 million people in the United States consumed cannabis. As new research highlights its potential benefits and dispensaries continue to expand, this number only continues to grow with more and more people beginning to explore the plant, often for the first time.

For those who are canna-curious, one of the most common questions is: What does cannabis feel like?

The answer isn't one-size-fits-all, and much like cannabis itself, the experience is nuanced. Factors like strain type, consumption method, dosage, and individual tolerance all play a pivotal role in how cannabis affects you.

Some consumers may experience peaceful relaxation, while others feel energized and mentally stimulated. Understanding what effects to expect can help you make more informed product choices and allow you to tailor your experience.

If you want to learn the ins and outs of cannabis effects, read on. We're here to provide some clarity on what to expect as a beginner so you can feel confident in navigating your first cannabis consumption experience.

Factors That Influence How Cannabis Feels

The way cannabis makes you feel is dependent on a few different factors, such as:

1. Cannabinoids & Terpenes
2. Strain
3. Personal Tolerance and Body
4. Product Type
5. Dose

Each element can change how cannabis makes you feel by affecting the intensity, duration, and type of experience you have.

When you consume cannabis, cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with your body through your endocannabinoid system (ECS). Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors that helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, and more. Using cannabis to regulate your ECS can potentially aid in the treatment of a diverse range of diseases.

Cannabinoids & Terpenes

The two major cannabinoids that people consume are THC and CBD, which both produce different effects by binding to these receptors. While THC is responsible for the intoxicating euphoric high most people associate with cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and often used for its calming and anti-anxiety effects.

The cannabis plant also contains terpenes, essential oils that also can influence how you feel. These aromatic compounds in many plants contribute to cannabis flavor, scent, and effects.

• Myrcene: Cannabis strains with more than 0.5% myrcene often produce relaxing effects commonly associated with Indica strains. However, strains with less than 0.5% myrcene are known for creating a more uplifting and energizing high.
• Limonene: Cannabis with limonene is known for its calming and mood-enhancing effect. Studies suggest it may reduce anxiety, improve cognitive function, and offer neuroprotective benefits. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to overall mental and neurological well-being.
• Pinene: Known for creating a more clearheaded high while also counteracting sedation, helping consumers feel more awake and mentally sharp.

Ultimately, how each terpene makes you feel depends on your endocannabinoid system. Since everyone's body reacts differently, starting low and monitoring your feelings is important.

Keeping track of each strain, dose, terpenes, cannabinoids, and additional product information can help you hone in and refine your experience.

Different Strains

Cannabis is divided into three classifications: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid.

Though these classifications aren't always the best indicator of effects, they are a great starting point for understanding the strain's potential experience.

• Indica: Traditionally associated with relaxing strains, ranging from highly sedative to feeling more peaceful and at ease.
• Sativa: Typically used to describe strains that are more cerebrally stimulating, ranging from boosting creativity to providing energy akin to a shot of espresso.
• Hybrid: Taxonomically, most strains on the market are hybrids, but normally, the classification describes a combination of Indica and Sativas. This range is typically more nuanced as a strain may provide cerebral clarity associated with a Sativa while also making the user more relaxed, a feeling people identify with Indica strains.

Each strain has a different combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, producing various effects depending on how you react to the compounds in each unique chemovar.

Personal Tolerance & Body

Personal tolerance plays a considerable role in how cannabis affects you. People who consume regularly often build up a tolerance to THC and other cannabinoids.

Building up a tolerance simply means some users need higher doses to feel the same effects as those with a lower tolerance.

As a new consumer, a beginner may experience more substantial effects with smaller amounts. The body's ability to process THC and CBD also varies from person to person.

Metabolism is another key factor in how long the effects of cannabis last. People with a fast metabolism break down THC quickly, meaning the high wears off faster. Someone with a fast metabolism may feel the effects wear off quickly, but someone with a slow metabolism can feel the effects for up to 3 times longer.

Product Type

The product type and consumption method also impact how quickly and intensely you feel the effects.

• Smoking & Vaping: Effects are immediate and can last from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the unique endocannabinoid system.
• Edibles: Intoxication and effects can start between 30 minutes and two hours. It's best to start with the lowest dose and titrate up for new users.
• Tinctures: Absorbed sublingually under the tongue for a faster onset time than most edibles.

There are a myriad of different products on the market, and working with a knowledgeable budtender to find your desired effects will help you select the right strain, dosage, and consumption method for a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Dosage

Dosage is another major factor, especially for beginners. Too much THC can lead to discomfort, while a lower dose provides a more manageable experience. The "start low and go slow" approach is highly recommended.

Your tolerance is influenced by genetics and biology, which affect how cannabis interacts with your body. Someone with a higher tolerance may need more to feel the effects, while a new user will likely

be more sensitive.

Experimenting with different strains, methods, and doses over time can help you discover what works best for you.

What to Expect from Different Cannabis Effects

By this point, you can understand how highly nuanced cannabis is and how it can create a wide range of effects depending on the strain.

For most users, cannabis produces a euphoric body high, while mentally and emotionally, it can influence mood and perception in various ways, including:

• Euphoria
• Creativity & Focus
• Calmness
• Giddiness
• Confusion

There are a number of different effects and experiences that can happen, as cannabis affects everyone differently. Finding the right strain and dosage is a personal journey, requiring some experimentation to discover what works best for you.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Desired Experience

With so many cannabis products available, choosing the right one depends on your personal preferences and goals. Fine Fettle offers a range of beginner-friendly options, including flower, vapes, and pre-rolls, making it easy to find a product that suits your needs.

Understanding how different formats work can help you make an informed decision.

Matching effects to your needs can guide your choice:

• Relaxation: Indica-dominant strains and edibles are great for unwinding.
• Focus & Creativity: Sativa-dominant strains and lower-dose vapes may help.
• Balanced Effects: Hybrids offer a mix of uplifting and calming sensations.

Fine Fettle's knowledgeable budtenders can help if you're unsure where to start. They can explain different strains, recommend products based on your preferences, and ensure you get the right experience. Asking questions about THC and CBD levels, terpenes, and onset times can make your choice even easier.

Choosing the right product is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Start with a low dose and adjust as you go to create a comfortable, enjoyable experience.

Everyone reacts differently, it's essential to start with a low dose and adjust over time. Paying attention to how different strains and methods affect you will help refine your experience.

At Fine Fettle, we treat customers like family and focus on the individual. Visit a location near you or shop online for high-quality cannabis and expert guidance you can trust.