10 Feb 2025

10 Essential Tips for the First-Time Cannabis User

So you're ready to try cannabis for the first time? Welcome to the club! Whether you’re curious about its work as a relaxation aid, seeking some extra health benefits, or just wanting to see what all the buzz is about, stepping into the world of cannabis can feel exciting—but also a little overwhelming.

Between the various strains, edibles, vapes, and tinctures, there are a lot of choices, and knowing where to start is the key to having a smooth and enjoyable experience. To help you get started off on the right foot, here are 10 essential tips from our budtender experts at Sociale Dispensary, the best dispensary in Chicago, to help you get started. 

1. Start Low and Go Slow

If there’s one golden rule of cannabis, this is it. Less is more when you’re just starting out.

• If you’re smoking or vaping, take one small puff and wait about 15 minutes before having more.
• If you’re trying edibles, start with no more than 2.5 mg of THC and wait at least two hours before deciding if you need more (edibles take longer to kick in!).
• If you’re using a tincture, start with half a dropper or less, placing it under your tongue for faster absorption.

2. Choose the Right Setting

Your first experience with cannabis should be somewhere comfortable and stress-free—not in the middle of a crowded party or an unfamiliar place.

• Opt for a cozy, relaxed environment (your couch, a trusted friend’s house, or even a quiet outdoor spot).
• Set the mood—play some music, have snacks on hand, and make sure you won’t have to be anywhere important for a while.

3. Pick the Right Product for Your Goals

Cannabis isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different products and strains produce different effects.

• Want a relaxation aid? Try an indica strain or a CBD-dominant product.
• Looking for creativity or energy? A sativa strain might be a good fit.
• Not sure? A hybrid strain offers a balanced experience.

If you don’t want to smoke, you can try edibles, tinctures, or cannabis-infused beverages for a smoke-free experience.

4. Understand THC vs. CBD

Cannabis contains two main compounds that affect your experience:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The psychoactive component that gives you a “high.”
• CBD (Cannabidiol) – A non-psychoactive compound that helps with relaxation aid, anxiety, and inflammation without the high.
• Pro tip: If you're nervous about feeling too high, start with a CBD-dominant product or a balanced 1:1 THC-to-CBD ratio for a gentler experience.

5. Stay Hydrated and Have Snacks Ready

Cannabis can cause dry mouth and munchies, so be prepared:

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session.

Have some snacks handy—whether for fun (chips, fruit, chocolate) or just to keep your energy up.

6. Don’t Mix with Alcohol

If this is your first time using cannabis, it’s best to avoid alcohol completely. Mixing the two can intensify effects and make it harder to gauge how cannabis is affecting you.

Stick to one experience at a time so you can understand how your body reacts.

7. Be Patient—Especially with Edibles

If you’re trying an edible, remember: it takes longer to kick in than smoking or vaping.

• Edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working.
• Effects can last 4 to 8 hours, so be mindful of your plans for the day.
• Biggest mistake first-timers make? Thinking the edible "isn’t working" and taking more too soon. Be patient!

8. Have a Buddy (or a Plan)

Trying cannabis with a trusted friend—especially someone with experience—can make your first time way more enjoyable.

If you’re solo, let someone know you’re trying cannabis for the first time, just in case you need a check-in.

9. Know How to "Come Down" if It Feels Too Intense

Sometimes, first-timers accidentally overdo it—and that’s okay! If you ever feel too high or anxious, try these tips:

• Chew on black peppercorns or sniff lemon zest (both contain terpenes that help calm THC’s effects).
• Take deep breaths and remind yourself it will pass.
• Drink water and eat light snacks to help balance your system.
• Take a warm shower or lay down in a comfy spot to relax.

Remember: No one has ever overdosed from cannabis, and the effects will fade in a few hours.

10. Buy From a Reputable Dispensary

Not all cannabis is created equal! Buying from a licensed dispensary ensures you’re getting high-quality, lab-tested products with accurate potency labels.

At Sociale Dispensary, our expert Budtenders are here to help you find the right product for your needs—whether you want a mild first-time experience or something more adventurous.

Lastly? Enjoy the Ride

Your first cannabis experience should be fun, stress-free, and enjoyable. By starting low and slow, choosing the right product, and setting up a chill environment, you’ll be setting yourself up for success.

And if you’re still unsure? Stop by Sociale Dispensary, the best dispensary in Chicago—we’ll guide you to the perfect beginner-friendly cannabis experience!