What You Need to Know to Support our Wellness
Thinking about trying cannabis for the first time? You’re not alone! More and more seniors are discovering how cannabis can help with everything from joint pain to better sleep. Whether you’re curious about CBD, worried about feeling “too high,” or just want to explore natural wellness options, this guide is here to help.
Gone are the days of mystery and stigma—today’s cannabis is all about choice, control, and comfort. And the best part? You don’t have to roll a joint or learn new lingo to benefit from it. Let’s take a simple, step-by-step look at how cannabis can fit into your wellness routine—no stress, no pressure, just helpful information to get you started.
Why Consider Cannabis?
As we age, our bodies change, and so do our wellness needs. Many seniors turn to cannabis as a natural way to manage common health concerns without the heavy side effects of traditional medications. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain from arthritis, struggling with sleep, or looking for a gentle way to ease stress and anxiety, cannabis offers a variety of options tailored to your needs. Certain cannabis compounds, like CBD, help reduce inflammation and support joint health, while others, like THC in small doses, can improve sleep quality and stimulate appetite. With the right approach, cannabis can be an effective addition to your wellness routine, offering relief, relaxation, and a renewed sense of balance.
What to Look for Based on Your Needs
- Pain Relief: Look for high CBD strains or products (CBD = Non-intoxicating, anti-inflammatory). CBD can be found in a variety of forms, including oils, balms, tinctures, capsules, and even vapes.
- Sleep Support: Use indica-dominant strains (soothing and sedating) or products with low THC, high CBN and high CBD. Products to look for include tinctures, edibles with a 1:1 CBD:THC ratio, or gummies labeled for sleep.
- Arthritis or Inflammation: Consider topicals (creams, balms) infused with CBD. These provide localized relief without psychoactive effects.
- Stress or Anxiety Relief: Choose products with low THC and high CBD for calmness without feeling “high”. Look for CBD oil drops, capsules, or low-dose THC edibles (5mg or less per serving).
How to Avoid Feeling “High”
Not everyone wants the buzz that comes with cannabis, and that’s completely okay! The good news is that you can still enjoy the benefits—like pain relief, better sleep, and reduced stress—without feeling intoxicated. Here’s how to keep your experience light and comfortable.
- Choose CBD-only products (CBD is non-intoxicating).
- Look for THC-free or broad-spectrum CBD labels.
- Try products with a low dose of THC (under 5 mg) if you’re curious but want minimal effects.
Tips for Getting Started
Start Low and Go Slow
Cannabis affects everyone differently, so it’s best to begin with a low dose and gradually increase only if needed. This approach helps you find the right balance for relief without unwanted side effects, ensuring a comfortable and controlled experience.
Choose the Right Format
Different cannabis products provide different effects and onset times. Selecting the best format for your needs is key to having a positive experience.
- Topicals: Ideal for localized relief, like joint pain or muscle soreness, without any psychoactive effects. Simply apply the cream or balm directly to the affected area.
- Tinctures: These liquid extracts are taken under the tongue for fast absorption and easy dosage control. They’re a great option for those looking for precise and consistent effects.
- Edibles: Gummies, chocolates, and capsules offer longer-lasting relief, but they take up to two hours to kick in. Since they are metabolized by the body, the effects can be stronger, so start with a low dose.
- Inhalation: Smoking or vaping delivers immediate effects, making it ideal for quick relief. However, it may not be the best option for those with respiratory concerns.
Read Labels Carefully
Cannabis products are labeled with CBD and THC content, and understanding these ratios can help you choose the right experience. A higher CBD content with low THC is ideal for relaxation and relief without intoxication, while balanced ratios offer mild effects. Always check for dosage recommendations on the packaging.
Ask the Right Questions
When visiting a dispensary, don’t be afraid to ask for guidance! A knowledgeable consultant can help you find the best product for your specific needs. Consider asking:
- “What products are best for pain/sleep/anxiety?” – This helps narrow down your options based on your wellness goals.
- “Can you recommend a product with no THC or low THC?” – If you’re new to cannabis or prefer to avoid feeling high, this ensures you get a product suited to your comfort level.
- “What’s the best way to start using cannabis for beginners?” – Dispensary staff can suggest gentle entry points, like CBD-dominant options or microdosed edibles.
At Jade Dispensary, we believe that cannabis should be accessible, approachable, and tailored to your needs. That’s why we offer Free Consultations to help you find the right products for your wellness journey. Plus, we’re proud to support our senior community with 10% off every day and an even bigger discount on Wisdom Wednesdays, where seniors (55+) save 30% all day. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your routine, our team is here to guide you every step of the way—because wellness should feel simple, not overwhelming!
