As medical and recreational marijuana use is becoming legalized around the country, here in Colorado, our state has been one of the leaders for nearly two decades. Marijuana was legalized for medical use in 2000, and in 2012, opened up legal recreational use. If you have never used marijuana and would like to explore, here is your guide to getting started. You can also trust your local dispensaries in Denver to answer all your questions and guide you to the experience or relief you are seeking.

Is it Safe?

Yes. To date, it has not been reported that anyone has overdosed from consuming too much THC. THC is the chemical in marijuana that produces the side effects. However, it is important that you partake responsibly. Just as with anything, you need to use properly. Too much can create symptoms that will impair judgement or leave you feeling ill. Don’t let that hinder you from trying, as there are several benefits including:

• Alleviate symptoms of glaucoma
• Calm muscle spasms
• Control seizures
• Help with nausea and other pain while undergoing cancer treatments
• Pain relief
• Reduce stress and anxiety, as well as symptoms of PTSD
• Reduce inflammation

Different Strains Have Different Affects

Marijuana is categorized in three different strains: Sativa, indica, and hybrid. Sativas are a stimulant. These will help to increase focus, give you a boost for physical or creative activity or interacting with people. Indicas will be your go-to for pain management and calming. Whether you need to reduce inflammation and pain, or need something to relax your mind from stress, this is your option. For the best of both worlds, you can purchase hybrid strains, which mix the two. Each hybrid differs, so it is important to talk to your budtender to explain what you are seeking to accomplish. Learn more and explore marijuana strains and infused products.

Ways to Consume

There are several ways you can consume marijuana—each providing a different effect and experience.  These include:

• Smoking
• Vaping
• Edibles
• Beverages
• Topical creams
• Dabbing
• Tinctures

Learn more about the many ways to consume your favorite strain as you explore marijuana.

How Much You Can Buy

In 2016, laws in Colorado changed allowing both residents and guests of Colorado to purchase the same amount of marijuana during their trip to a dispensary. In a transaction, a person is allowed to buy up to 28 grams of marijuana. When consuming, you must partake in your purchase in non-public spaces. Failing to do so may lead to a ticket or punishment by law.

What to Expect Your First Time at a Dispensary

If you have never been to a dispensary before—don’t be anxious! Your budtenders are there to help you with everything you need. Make sure to bring your ID as you will need to show it as you enter. Next, you will be provided with several different types of marijuana and forms—which for some, can be overwhelming. Whether you have an idea of what you would like to buy, or are browsing, it is best to talk to your budtender.

For a great first experience purchasing marijuana, visit your friends at Altitude the Dispensary. We will show you the ropes and all of the ins and outs. We love meeting new people and look forward to seeing you in our store. Search our Altitude Dispensary locations to find the one nearest you.