Consumer Education
Welcome to Medicine Man Dispensary
At Medicine Man Dispensary, we’re committed to providing premium cannabis products and a safe,informed, and positive experience for every customer. This guide is designed to educate adult consumers about safe and responsible use of marijuana and marijuana products in compliance with Massachusetts law.
a. Information on Proper Storage and Handling
- Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store cannabis in child-resistant packaging,
preferably in a locked area. - Avoid heat, light, moisture, and air exposure. These degrade potency and flavor.
- Always keep products in original packaging to retain labeling, dosage info, and safety
warnings.
b. Information on the Recognition of Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder and Contact Information for Substance Abuse Services
Warning Signs of Cannabis Use Disorder:
● Inability to reduce or control use
● Neglecting responsibilities
● Using in risky situations (e.g., driving)
● Building tolerance or withdrawal symptoms
Help is available:
● SAMHSA National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
● MA Substance Use Helpline – 1-800-327-5050 or helplinema.org
● Local resources: Ask our staff for nearby service providers
c. Information on How to Read and Understand the Labeling on Packaging for Marijuana and Marijuana Products
Every package includes:
● Product type & name
● THC & CBD content
● Dosage per serving and total dosage
● Date tested, batch number, and expiration
● Warning labels (e.g., “Not Safe for Kids”)
● Instructions for use
Ask our team if you need help understanding your product’s label
d. Information on Methods, Forms, and Routes of Marijuana Consumption and Their Different Effects
Common Forms & Onset Times:
Form Route Onset Duration
Flower Inhalation 5–15 min 1–3 hrs
Pre-rolls Inhalation 5–15 min 1–3 hrs
Edibles Oral 30–90 min 4–8 hrs
Tinctures Sublingual 15–45 min 2–4 hrs
Topicals Dermal Variable Varies (non-psychoactive)
Start low and go slow, especially with edibles.
e. Information on Potential Side Effects of Marijuana Use
Common short-term effects:
● Dry mouth
● Red eyes
● Increased heart rate
● Drowsiness or dizziness
● Altered judgment or coordination
Possible long-term effects:
● Memory or concentration issues
● Dependence or cannabis use disorder
Seek medical attention if you experience confusion, paranoia, or chest pain.
f. Information on Signs and Symptoms of Overconsumption and Guidance on What to Do in the Event of Overconsumption
Signs of Overconsumption:
● Severe anxiety or paranoia
● Hallucinations or confusion
● Nausea or vomiting
● Rapid heart rate
What to Do:
● Stay calm and hydrated
● Lie down in a comfortable, safe place
● Do not drive or operate machinery
● Contact a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen
g. Information on the Risks of Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Marijuana
It is illegal and dangerous to drive under the influence of marijuana.
● THC impairs coordination, reaction time, and judgment
● You can be charged with an OUI (Operating Under the Influence)
● Penalties may include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment
Wait at least 6 hours after consuming before considering driving—more for edibles.
h. Information on the Risks of Marijuana Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
● THC passes through the placenta and into breast milk
● Use during pregnancy may affect fetal brain development
● Use during breastfeeding may impact infant growth or neurodevelopment
Recommendation: Pregnant or nursing individuals should avoid marijuana.
Consult a medical provider for guidance.
i. Information on the Legal Purchase and Possession Limits
● Must be 21+ with valid government-issued ID
● Daily purchase limit: 1 oz of marijuana flower or equivalent
● Home possession limit: 10 oz of marijuana in your primary residence
● Personal carry limit: 1 oz of marijuana on your person
● Gifting is legal, but selling without a license is not
j. A Statement That Marijuana Use May Be Impairing and That Actual Effects May Delay or Vary per Individual
Cannabis affects each person differently based on weight, tolerance, and method of use.
Impairment may be delayed, especially with edibles.
Always wait to feel the effects before consuming more. Use caution and moderation.
Final Reminders
● Marijuana is for adult use only (21+)
● Do not resell or redistribute
● Never bring marijuana across state lines—it remains federally illegal
● Ask questions! Our staff is trained to help guide your experience safely
For more information, visit:
Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission
http://www.mass.gov/orgs/cannabis-control-commission
Glossary
Aroma
It describes the general smell and/or taste of a certain plant or flower. These descriptions are meant as a basic guideline.
BHO
It stands for butane hash oil and is a potent concentrate of cannabinoids. It is made by dissolving marijuana in its plant form in a solvent, usually butane. The resulting product has a very high THC level and is a thick, sticky oil, also referred to as honey oil.
Blunt
A hollowed out cigar that is filled with cannabis. Blunt “wraps” come in wide varieties of sizes and flavors. We recommend that you completely remove all tobacco from a proper cigar and refill it with ground up bud. Cigar wraps burn for a long time, sometimes for a half an hour or more; so blunts are great for a party or to pass around with the gang. Keep in mind that blunt wraps and cigar papers contain tobacco, so if you are especially sensitive to nicotine, you may want to just stick with a joint.
Bud
Refers to the actual flower of the cannabis plant. These are the fluffy parts that are harvested. They are used for both recreational and medicinal purposes as they contain the highest concentrations of active cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids
The chemical compounds that are active in cannabis. There are at least 85 different known cannabinoids isolated from cannabis. They all exhibit varied effects. The two most studied cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
Cannabis
A plant genus that produces three species of flowering plants. Those species are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis sativa and cannabis indica are used to produce recreational and medical marijuana. Cannabis ruderalis is rarely farmed due to its natural lower THC content and small stature, but there is some cross-breeding thanks to ruderalis’s unique ability to auto flower rather than mature based on light. Cannabis is native to Asia but it can grow almost anywhere and has long been cultivated for the production of hemp as well as various other uses.
CBD
Abbreviation for cannabidiol. CBD has a wider scope of potential medical applications over THC. CBD is a great option for those who are looking to take advantage of some of the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high. CBD counteracts THC’s psychedelic effect. If you are looking for a more mellow experience, we recommend talking to your budtender about finding your ideal THC to CBD ratio.
Cross (genetics)
Is the result of when two different plant strains are being bred together. For example, Blue Dream is a cross between Blueberry and Haze strains.
Concentrates
Refers to any wax, shatter, or oil that you vaporize or smoke. It also refers to any tincture that is applied sublingually under the tongue. Concentrates are a potent consolidation of cannabinoids that are made by dissolving marijuana in its plant form into a solvent. The resulting product has very high THC levels that are generally higher than flowers or hashish. It can product various products, most typically oils and waxes.
CO2 Extraction
A type of supercritical fluid extraction used to maximize the cannabinoids and terpenes of the marijuana plant while still maintaining their delicate structure. A supercritical fluid behaves both like gas and like a liquid-diffusing through solids like a gas but dissolving compounds like a liquid. The supercritical CO2 goes through a series of extraction vessels at specific pressures and temperatures, flooding the ground plant material and extracting those clean cannabinoid profiles. It is then separated and filtered from the plant material and, after the extraction is complete, a drop in pressure allows the excess CO2 to evaporate, leaving the cannabis oil behind. The benefit of CO2 extraction is that it is naturally occurring and leaves behind no residues. Other examples of CO2 extractions in the food industry include the extraction of flavor oils from hops in the brewing industry and extraction of caffeine from coffee beans.
Dabs/Dabbing
Is used as a slang term that refers to a dose of BHO received through butane combustion and inhalation. The act of “dabbing” refers to partaking in dabs through the use of a blowtorch and a dab ring.
Edibles
Are cannabis-infused foods, beverages, or tinctures containing up to 10mg of THC per serving. Some edibles contain multiple servings and direct you to consume only a portion. They can take up to 2 hours to “kick in” and tend to deliver a longer lasting high than smoking or vaping cannabis. We recommend you to start slowing with 5mg to see how it affects you.
Flower
Often the “pretty” part of a plant. While cannabis flowers do not have traditional petals, they are still the reproductive organ of the female plants. Cannabis flowers are hairy, sticky, crystal-covered bits that are harvested and dried to be used and consumed. When male plants fertilize them, these flowers produce cannabis seeds. If not, they will continue to produce the resin that contains their active cannabinoids until they are harvested or being to die.
Hash
Probably the oldest marijuana concentrate around. It is made from the collected and compressed resin, or kief, from the leaves and flowers. It is more potent than smoking bud. Hash offers an elevated experience for any and all smokers.
Heirloom
Refers to a cannabis strain that was taken from its native homeland and propagated in another geographical location.
Hemp
A fibrous product that can be produced from the male cannabis plant and can be used in the manufacture of rope, paper, beauty products, and a vast array of other products. Hemp plants have no value as a drug since they are makes and do not produce the same level of cannabinoids as the female cannabis plants. Hemp is now Federally legal to grow in the United States.
Hybrid
Refers to a plant that is a genetic cross between one or more separate strains of cannabis. Hybrids can happen unintentionally, but they are usually bred specifically to combine desired traits of the original plants. Most marijuana on the market today is some form of hybrid.
Hydroponics
Refers to a system of gardening that does not use soil. Plants are grown in water and receive their nutrients from the addition of solutions rather than soil. For growers, hydroponic advantages include more control over nutrient intake and stability. In terms of marijuana production, plants grown hydroponically are sometimes said to have a cleaner, more distinct flavor.
Indica
The less scientific name for the Cannabis Indica species of cannabis. Generally these plants originated in the Middle East and Asia. They include both of the famous kush and Afghan lineages. Compared to their sativa counterparts, the plants are shorts, bushier, and have more compact flower growth.
Joint
Is a cannabis cigarette pre-rolled using non-tobacco papers. If you are new to cannabis, we recommend starting with pre-rolls.
Kief
Is a collected amount of trichomes that have been separated from the rest of the cannabis flower. Since trichomes are the sticky crystals that contain the vast majority of the plant’s cannabinoids, kief is known to be extremely potent. Kief is sometimes mistakenly referred to as pollen as is the primary ingredient in hashish production.
Kush
Refers to a line of cannabis plants that hail from the Hindu Kush mountain in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Kush strains are indicas and have a unique aroma that has garnered a large fan base. Specific breeds and plants are unique, but their aroma is generally described as “earthy” and often piney combined with floral or sweet tones.
Landrace
Refers to a local variety of cannabis that has adapted to the environment of its geographic location. This accounts for genetic variation between landrace strains, which have been crossbred to produce the cannabis variety that we see today. Landrace strains are oftentimes named after their native region, like Afghani, Thai, and Hawaiian, and traces of landraces are sometimes detectable in the names of their crossbred descendants.
Limonene
Another prevalent terpene found not only in cannabis but in the peels of citrus fruits and cardamom. Limonene is named for its lemon scent and taste. Limonene is also recommended as a mood elevator and anxiety reducer.
Live Resin
Live resin uses fresh, frozen cannabis flowers cut from the grow before they’ve been dried or cures, and then processed within hours of harvest resulting in elevated terpene levels. Terpenes give each individual strain its specific flavor and aroma profile. Live resin manages to maintain a really beautiful terpene profile because it is capturing the terpenes of a live plant as opposed to that of the dried and cured flowers used in most BHO concentrates. Terpenes are incredibly temperamental, especially the lighter, aromatic ones. They can disintegrate in the drying and curing process. Live resin is a wonderful and tasty way to capture the layered flavors of the cannabis flower without losing much in the process.
Myrcene
Thought to be one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis, myrcene is found not one in cannabis but in other plants like wild thyme, sweet basil, mango, and hops. Fun fact: eating a fresh mango 45 minutes before smoking will increase the effects of the cannabis. Eat up, fruit lovers!
OG
Is a term that’s now used to describe many strains, though the term originated to describe Southern California’s Ocean Grown Kush, which was quickly shortened to OG Kush. OG Kush grew quickly in fame and reputation. Most OGs are different variations of the original OG Kush genetics or are also ocean grown on the West Coast.
Pinene
Another terpene found in marijuana as well as in orange peels, pine needles, rosemary, dill, and parsley. Pinene derives its name from its woodsy, piney aroma. Strains with typically high levels of pinene include Dutch Treat, Romulan and Blue Dream. Fun Fact: pinene is the most common terpene in the plant world.
Pistils
Are a part of a female plant’s anatomy. On cannabis, it is identified as the little hair-like extensions on the flowers that range in color from white to red to darker orange-brown. When plants are going to be fertilized, the pistil acts to collect the male pollen. When plants are left unfertilized, as in the case of marijuana, the pistils change and can be indicators of plant ripeness.
Pre-roll
A commonly used term that refers to a pre-rolled marijuana cigarette, commonly known as a joint. If you want to smoke flower in the convenience of a joint, but your rolling game is weak, a pre-roll is a great option for convenience and portability.
Ruderalis
Is a low THC cannabis variety that is primarily selected by breeders for its CBD-rich genetics. Unlike Cannabis sativa and indica, which use light cycles to flower, ruderalis is an “auto flowering” variety, meaning it flowers with age. Originating in Russia, ruderalis is a hardy plant that can survive harsh climates.
Rosin
Is a solventless concentrate that is made by heating and compressing the flowers, kief, or hash from the cannabis plant. Relatively simple to make at home, it requires only some parchment paper and a hair straightener, this high potency concentrate is becoming popular because of the distinct lack of additives like butane or alcohol.
Sativa
Sativa is the less scientific name for the cannabis sativa species of cannabis plant. In general, these plants originated outside of the Middle East and Asia including strains that are from areas such as South America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Thailand. These strains tend to grow taller as plants (usually over 5 feet), are lighter in color and take longer to flower. You may have heard that sativa strains are uplifting and energizing, however, as we learn more about this amazing plant, we’ve discovered that there isn’t much difference in the way that sativas and indicas make us feel, it is the unique mix of cannabinoids and terpenoids in each strain that dictates its effects.
Sensimilla
The process of sequestering female cannabis plants from male plants to induce overproduction of cannabinoids.
Shatter
Shatter and ice are terms used to refer to BHO concentrates.
Spliff
Commonly misused to refer to a joint, a spliff is actually a mix of both tobacco and bud rolled in smoking paper. However, in Europe, it is the opposite, a spliff there is a marijuana cigarette while a joint is the combo of tobacco and cannabis. However, everyone agrees on one thing: a spliff and a joint are not the same thing.
Strain
Is a specific variety of a plant species. Strains are developed to produce distinct desired traits in the plant and are usually named by their breeders (or by creative consumers). Strain names often reflect the plant’s appearance, its promised buzz, or its place of origin. They can also be named for their aroma or flavor.
THC
Is an abbreviation of tetrahydrocannabinol and is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in marijuana. We believe that THC is responsible for weed’s psychoactive, “high” effects. However, it is all of the cannabinoids, terpenes working together that create the full effect you feel when consuming cannabis. Fun Fact: higher percentages of THC in bud, (24%-30%, make for a quicker onset, “higher” high. Lower percentages, (13%-23%) might take longer to take effect but will eventually get you there, and often last a little longer.
Tinctures
Is a liquid concentrate, typically procured through alcohol extraction, which strips the plant of its beneficial cannabinoids. Usually carried in coconut oil or glycerin, tinctures are available in a variety of flavors and dosages and are a great alternative for those not interested in consuming edibles, smoking, or vaping.
Topicals
Are non-psychoactive balms, salves, and oils that users can apply directly to the body instead of consuming. They can act as a muscle relaxant or as an antiseptic ointment.
Terpenes
Secreted from the plant’s trichomes, terpenes are the pungent, oily compounds found in the marijuana plant. Terpenes are what give cannabis strains their distinctive flavors and aromas like citrus, berry, skunk or pine. Evolved at first as an adaptation to repel predators and lure pollinators, we are finding that each individual terpene has different effects within the body.
Trichomes
Are the small and sometimes nearly microscopic resinous glands, stalks and hairs that cover the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. Believed to have evolved as a way to protect the plant from insects and animals, trichomes are now also thought to inhibit the growth of some fungi as well as protect from high winds and low humidity. Trichomes are where terpenes and cannabinoids (THC and CBD), are created and secreted.
If you’re new to cannabis, it’s recommended to start with a very small amount and see how your body responds before increasing the dosage. For example, if you’re smoking or vaping, take one small puff and wait for at least 10-15 minutes to gauge the effects. If you’re trying edibles, start with a dose of 2.5 to 5mg of THC. Remember that edibles can take up to 2 hours or more to take effect. Always “start low and go slow”.
Dosing
mg of THC for sleep initiation and maintenance, potentially with 5-15mg CBD, can be beneficial.
High Dose
Potent Relief for Chronic Illnesses (20 – 30 mg)
High doses of THC, ranging from 20 – 30 mg, are Microdose: A Gentle Introduction to THC (1 – 2.5 mg)
Microdosing is the practice of consuming small amounts of THC, typically 1 – 2.5 mg. This is an ideal starting point for first-time consumers or those who prefer to maintain a low level of THC in their system. The primary benefits of microdosing include mild relief from symptoms like stress, and anxiety, and an enhancement in focus and creativity. The key characteristic of microdosing is that it does not typically result in intoxication, allowing users to reap the benefits of THC without the psychoactive effects.
Low Dose
The Balance Between Relief and Euphoria (3 – 5 mg)
A low dose of THC, which ranges from 3 – 5 mg, provides a stronger relief from stress and anxiety symptoms compared to microdosing. This dosage level introduces a sense of euphoria, marking the beginning of THC’s psychoactive effects. However, it may also start to impair coordination and alter perception. This dose is particularly suitable for those seeking a balance between symptom relief and a mild “high”, making it a popular choice for standard recreational use and for individuals seeking a good night’s sleep. For anxiety and nausea, 2.5-5mg of 1:1 THC-CBD whole plant extract or THC in the form of whole plant extract can be beneficial.
Moderate Dose
For the Experienced and High-Tolerance Users (10 – 15 mg)
A moderate dose of THC, between 10 – 15 mg, is a step up from the low dose and is typically preferred by experienced users. This dosage provides effective relief for symptoms such as pain, nausea, and anxiety, but it also comes with stronger psychoactive effects, including impaired coordination and altered perception. This dose is ideal for those with a higher THC tolerance, including both recreational users and medical patients. For insomnia, 5-10characterized by very strong euphoria and a high likelihood of impaired coordination and altered perception. This potent dose is suitable for consumers with significant THC tolerances and for patients with decreased GI absorption. The defining feature of this dosage is its suitability for managing chronic illnesses, providing strong euphoria and symptom relief. For pain management, 15-30mg of THC and CBD each, with CBD reducing dysphoria and helping inflammation, can be beneficial.
Acute Dose
For Severe Conditions and High-Tolerance Consumers (50 – 100 mg)
Very high doses of THC, between 50 – 100 mg, are a serious step up in potency. These doses can seriously impair coordination and perception and increase the possibility of adverse side effects, including nausea, anxiety, and increased heart rate. This dose is ideal for severe physical pain and conditions, but it’s not advised for mental health issues. The key users of this dosage are experienced, high-tolerance THC consumers and patients living with severe conditions such as cancer and inflammatory disorders. For seizures, daily low doses of whole plant cannabis can reduce frequency, but up to 100mg may be necessary.
Macrodose
The Upper Limit (100 – 500 mg)
Extremely high doses of THC, ranging from 100 – 500 mg, represent the upper limit of THC consumption. These doses can intensely impair coordination and perception, and increase the likelihood of unpleasant side effects including nausea, anxiety, and increased heart rate. Despite the risks, this high dose can be beneficial for severe conditions and GI issues, but it demands cautious consumption. It’s suitable for experienced, high-tolerance THC consumers and patients living with severe conditions. For cancer treatment, studies have involved 25mg each of THC and CBD, with some healers using up to 2-3 grams per day.”
Therapeutic Doses
Anxiety
A dosage of 2.5-5mg of a 1:1 THC-CBD whole plant extract is recommended. This means that the extract contains equal parts of THC and CBD. Novice users are advised to start with a smaller dose due to the potential for THC to induce anxiety at higher levels. The CBD component, known for its calming effects, helps to mitigate the anxiety-inducing effects of THC.
Nausea
A dose of 2.5-5mg THC in the form of whole plant extract can be effective. Since THC has been found to have antiemetic properties, it may help alleviate feelings of nausea. Due to individual differences in tolerances and responses, it’s advisable to start with the lower dose and increase if necessary.
Insomnia
For sleep initiation and maintenance, a dose of 5-10mg THC, possibly along with 5-15mg CBD, is suggested. THC can promote sleep, but individual responses can vary widely. CBD may aid in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, which can also assist in sleep.
Pain
For pain management, 15-30mg of THC and CBD each is recommended. THC has analgesic properties, while CBD can help reduce inflammation and dysphoria (unease or dissatisfaction) that may accompany chronic pain.
Seizures
Daily low doses of whole plant cannabis may reduce seizure frequency. However, in some cases, doses up to 100mg may be necessary. The CBD in cannabis is particularly noted for its potential antiseizure properties.
Cancer
Research has involved doses of 25mg each of THC and CBD, with some healers using up to 2-3 grams per day. THC and CBD may help manage symptoms related to cancer treatment, like nausea and pain, but further research is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cannabis should I use for the first time?
If you’re new to cannabis, it’s recommended to start with a very small amount and see how your body responds before increasing the dosage. For example, if you’re smoking or vaping, take one small puff and wait for at least 10-15 minutes to gauge the effects. If you’re trying edibles, start with a dose of 2.5 to 5mg of THC. Remember that edibles can take up to 2 hours or more to take effect. Always “start low and go slow”.
Can you overdose on cannabis?
While it is extremely unlikely to have a lethal overdose from cannabis, consuming too much can lead to an uncomfortable or distressing experience known as “greening out”. Symptoms can include paranoia, anxiety, rapid heart rate, disorientation, and nausea. If you’re new to cannabis, starting with a low dose and slowly increasing it over time can help you avoid such an experience.
Cannabis is generally considered a safe substance and there are no recorded instances of fatal overdoses. Research conducted on animals has allowed scientists to estimate that the lethal dose of THC for humans would be more than 15,000 mg. This suggests that THC has a significant safety margin, as the lethal dose is 750 times higher than a standard intoxicating dose of 20 mg. It’s virtually impossible to reach this lethal dose through common methods of consumption like oral intake or inhalation. Unlike opioids,cannabis doesn’t lead to respiratory depression, largely due to the lack of cannabinoid receptor expression in the brainstem.
How can I come down if I feel too high?
If you’ve consumed too much cannabis and are feeling overly anxious or uncomfortable,
there are a few things you can do to help come down:
● Try to stay calm and remember that the feelings will pass.
● Find a quiet, safe place where you can relax.
● Stay hydrated and eat light snacks if you can.
● Try to distract yourself with a calming activity, such as watching a movie or
listening to music.
● Some people find that CBD or THCA can help counteract the effects of
THC.
● Terpenes β-caryophyllene and limonene may help as well.
● If you continue to feel unwell, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
Can I mix cannabis with alcohol?
Mixing cannabis and alcohol can amplify the effects of both substances, which might lead to stronger or more unpredictable effects. This combination can cause nausea, dizziness, impaired coordination, and can increase the chances of negative outcomes like accidents or “greening out”. Additionally, alcohol can increase the absorption of THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, potentially leading to a stronger high than intended. As a result, it’s generally advised to avoid combining the two, especially if you are new to cannabis or a novice alcohol drinker. Always prioritize safety and consume responsibly. All consumer education can be furnished in Spanish or Portuguese upon request.
