The Golden Rule
Start Low, Go Slow
Flower / Vaping
1–2 puffs
Then wait 15–30 minutes before deciding if you want more.
Edibles
2.5–5 mg
Wait at least 90 minutes before considering more. Do not rush.
Everyone's body reacts differently to cannabis — factors like weight, metabolism, and prior experience all affect how it feels. There is no universal dose.
Why it matters
The most common unpleasant first experiences come from consuming too much, too fast. Starting low keeps you comfortable, in control, and able to enjoy the experience.
Where to Start
Best Products for Beginners
Mild & Controllable
Low-THC Flower
Look for strains under 15% THC. Mild effects, quick onset, easy to gauge. Great for learning what you enjoy.
Balanced & Gentle
1:1 CBD:THC Products
CBD counterbalances THC's intensity, making for a calmer, more manageable first experience.
Precise & Long-Lasting
Microdose Edibles
Dosed at 2.5–5mg THC per piece. Easy to control, long duration, and great for a mellow experience.
Explore Without Intensity
CBD-Dominant Products
High CBD, minimal THC. Perfect for relaxation and getting familiar with cannabis effects without psychoactivity.
Not sure where to start? Ask a Becker Dispensary budtender — we guide first-timers every day.
What to Expect
Dosing by Method
Smoking / Vaping
Onset
5–15 min
Peak
30–60 min
Duration
1–3 hrs
Effects arrive quickly — making it easier to gauge and stop early. Ideal for beginners who want more control over their dose.
Edibles
Onset
30–90 min
Peak
2–3 hrs
Duration
4–8 hrs
The delayed onset is the #1 reason beginners over-consume. Set a timer. Wait the full 90 minutes. The edible is working even if you don't feel it yet.
Tinctures / Sublinguals
Onset
15–45 min
Peak
1–2 hrs
Duration
2–4 hrs
Held under the tongue for faster absorption than edibles. A good middle-ground: more controllable than edibles, slightly slower than smoking.
Stay Safe
First-Time Safety Tips
Choose a Comfortable Setting
Your home or a familiar, relaxed environment is ideal. Avoid unfamiliar or crowded places for your first experience.
Have a Sober Friend Nearby
Having someone with you who isn't consuming provides reassurance and practical help if needed.
Don't Mix with Alcohol
Alcohol significantly amplifies cannabis effects. Combining the two — especially for first-timers — increases the risk of an unpleasant experience.
Stay Hydrated
Cannabis causes dry mouth. Keep water nearby. Staying hydrated makes a noticeable difference in overall comfort.
Never Drive
Do not get behind the wheel after consuming cannabis. Plan your transportation before you begin.
If You Feel Overwhelmed
Find somewhere comfortable to sit or lie down. Breathe slowly. It will pass. Water and a calm environment help. CBD products can help counteract strong THC effects.
We're Here to Help
Visit Becker Dispensary
for Personal Guidance
Our budtenders in Becker, Minnesota are trained to help first-time visitors find the right product and dose. No question is too basic.