Navigating Product Options at the Dispensary 

Image Courtesy of The Emerald Dispensary

Walking into a dispensary, there’s something for every taste and preference. Let’s take a closer look at what product options are available and figure out what’s worth trying next. 

Product Types at the Dispensary 

Flower 

Flower is the most classic, recognizable form of cannabis. Think of it as the classic vinyl record in a world of digital music. What sets flower apart is its full-spectrum profile; it retains all the natural components of the plant, and comes in a plethora of strains that offer options for everything from a chill night into a lively gathering with friends. Flower has the versatility and charm that make it a favorite among cannabis aficionados. 

• Enjoy the ritual of rolling and smoking, or prefer using a bong or pipe 
• Appreciate a wide variety of strains and their distinct flavors and effects
• Prefer the traditional, tactile experience of handling and consuming cannabis 

Pre-rolls

Pre-rolled joints are the no-fuss, ready-to-go stars. Packaged and rolled for convenience, they save the mess and hassle of rolling. Perfect for on-the-go or hosting a party, pre-rolls offer consistent quality and a smooth smoking experience. They come in various strains and sizes. 

Pre-rolls are great for those who: 

• Prefer a quick and easy smoking option without the need for rolling 
• Enjoy the convenience of a pre-packaged product for on-the-go use 
• Seek a consistent, reliable experience with a variety of strain options 

Vapes

Vapes heat cannabis to release a smooth vapor instead of smoke, making them a convenient and discreet option. They come in portable pen styles and more robust desktop-style vapes. Some work with flower and concentrates. Vapes are ideal for those who want precise control over their dosage and a stealthy, high-tech way to enjoy cannabis. 

Vapes are great for those who: 

• Desire a discreet and clean consumption method 
• Prefer precise control over dosage and potency 
• Enjoy the versatility of using both flower and concentrates 

Concentrates

Concentrates are where it’s at for those who want to dial up the intensity. These potent extracts, like wax and shatter, offer high cannabinoid content—perfect for consumers who want powerful effects from smaller amounts. Wax is a soft, sticky extract that delivers potent and flavorful hits, while shatter is known for its glass-like, brittle texture and high purity. Live resin, made from fresh, frozen cannabis, captures a wide spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids, offering a rich, full-flavor experience. Rosin, extracted using heat and pressure without solvents, is valued for its purity and broad cannabinoid profile. Concentrates are ideal for when rapid relief or an extra kick is needed. Just remember, a little goes a long way with these high-octane products! 

Concentrates are great for those who: 

• Seek powerful effects with minimal product 
• Need rapid relief or a more intense experience 
• Are experienced with cannabis and looking to explore potent extracts

Edibles

Edibles infuse cannabis into all kinds of tasty treats—from gummies and chocolates to beverages and baked goods. While they take a little longer to kick in, edibles offer a fun, discreet, and flavorful way to enjoy cannabis. One of the key advantages of edibles is their ability to deliver more precise dosing (like 5 mg or 10 mg per serving). Plus, they often provide a longer-lasting effect. 

Edibles are great for those who: 

• Seek precise doing 
• Prefer a discreet method of consumption 
• Are looking for longer-lasting effects from cannabis 

Tinctures

Tinctures are like the Swiss Army knives of cannabis —versatile, easy to use, and quick-acting. These liquids are taken under the tongue for fast absorption or can be added to a favorite food or drink. Tinctures can be specifically formulated to target individual needs like sleep, energy, or focus, making them a go-to choice for precise, targeted relief. With options ranging from THC-dominant to CBD-rich, tinctures cater to a wide variety of needs and are great for anyone who wants precise dosage and discretion. 

Tinctures are great for those who: 

• Need precise control over dosage 
• Prefer a fast-acting and discrete method 
• Want the flexibility to mix cannabis into food and drinks 

Topicals

Topicals are perfect for those who need localized pain relief or want the benefits of cannabis without the high. Often made from hemp, these creams, balms, and lotions are applied directly to the skin to target specific areas for pain relief or skin care. They’re great for soothing sore muscles, reducing inflammation, or giving skin extra TLC. 

Topicals are great for those who: 

• Need targeted relief for sore muscles or joint pain 
• Want the benefits of cannabis without the intoxicating effects 
• Are looking to enhance skincare routines with cannabis 

Tablets/Capsules 

Capsules and tablets offer a straightforward, no-fuss way to incorporate cannabis into a daily routine. These pre-dosed, easy-to-swallow forms are ideal for those who prefer a consistent and precise dosage with each use. Capsules and tablets provide a controlled experience, as they break down in the digestive system, delivering cannabinoids over a longer period. They come in various formulations, from THC-dominant to CBD-rich, and can target specific needs such as sleep, pain relief, or general wellness.

Capsules and tablets are great for those who:

• Prefer precise, pre-measured doses of cannabis
• Want a discreet and easy-to-consume method
• Seek a longer-lasting effect that comes from digesting cannabinoids

How to Pick the Right Product 

With so many choices, finding the right product can seem overwhelming. But fear not! Whether the goal is to unwind or simply enjoy a treat, these are key steps to ensure the selection fits just right. Here’s a fun and straightforward guide to zero in on the perfect product: 

• Identify desired effects: Are relaxation, pain relief, or a burst of creativity on the wish list? Knowing the mood can narrow down the choices. 
• Explore strain types: Dive into the world of strains. Each has its own flavor and effects to explore. 
• Examine terpenes: These aromatic compounds, like limonene and myrcene, don’t just smell good; they shape the overall experience of products. 
• Start low and go slow: Always begin with a small amount of any new product and increase gradually. This will help determine the perfect dose without overdoing it. 
• Read the buzz: Check out reviews and product labels to learn what to expect when trying a new product. 
• Chat with experts: Don’t hesitate to ask the dispensary staff or cannabis consultants for personalized advice. 
• Consider lifestyle: Consider what products fit best with individual tastes and lifestyle preferences. While flower is great for rolling up, vapes can be best for on-the-go convenience.  

Embrace Variety and Discover a New Favorite

There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy cannabis. The variety of product types ensures that there’s something for everyone. Embrace the opportunity to discover something new and let the cannabis journey unfold!