How to Get Started with Medical Cannabis Flower

Guide to Using Dry Cannabis Flower for Medical Conditions

Essential Equipment for Cannabis Flower Consumption

  1. Grinder: Break down cannabis for optimal vaporisation.
  2. Dry Herb Vaporiser: Heat ground cannabis without combustion.
  3. Set of Scales: Weigh prescribed doses accurately.
  4. Cleaning Materials: Maintain hygiene for effective use.

Optional, Yet Helpful Accessories

  1. Storage Container: Keep ground flower in a small jar.
  2. Tray: Facilitate preparation of medication.
  3. Small Brush: Clean grinder and tray efficiently.
  4. Locked Storage: Securely store medication out of reach.

Weighing and Preparing Cannabis Flower

  1. Weighing Dose:
    • Follow doctor’s instructions for daily dosage.
    • Use precision scales (0.01g) to measure prescribed amounts.
  2. Grinding Cannabis Flower:
    • Break down cannabis for efficient vaporisation.
    • Remove larger stems and leaves for improved taste.
    • Explore various grinders for different consistencies.

Choosing the Right Grinder

  1. Four-piece Grinder Types:
    • Acrylic: Cheapest, with sharp teeth.
    • Metal: Durable, strong, and sharp teeth.
    • Electric: Operates like a coffee grinder.
    • Card: Functions like a cheese grater.
  2. Grinder Chambers:
    • Two-piece: Lid and grinding compartment.
    • Three-piece: Includes a chamber for ground cannabis.
    • Four-piece: Adds a fine-mesh bottom and kief storage.

Understanding Dry Herb Vaporisers

  1. What is a Dry Herb Vaporiser?
    • Heats cannabis without combustion.
    • Available in handheld or desktop models.
    • Powered by electricity, batteries, or external sources.
  2. Using Your Vaporiser:
    • Load ground cannabis into the heating chamber.
    • Set temperature according to manufacturer instructions.
    • Gradually increase temperature for optimal results.

Monitoring Vaporisation Temperature

  • Adjust temperature to activate specific cannabinoids and terpenes.
  • Check for colour change in the flower, indicating readiness.
  • Refer to the boiling/activation temperature chart for guidance.

Cleaning Your Vaporiser

  1. Regular Cleaning:
    • Follow individualised cleaning instructions.
    • Use specialised wipes or isopropanol-soaked cotton buds.
  2. Preventative Measures:
    • Heat and cool vaporiser after cleaning to remove residue.

Minimising Side Effects and Maximising Benefits

  1. Start Slowly:
    • Begin in a safe environment with a small dose.
    • Wait 15-30 minutes before assessing effects.
  2. Avoiding Unpleasant Effects:
    • Coughing: Start at a lower temperature.
    • Side effects: Report to healthcare provider for adjustments.

Storing and Handling Cannabis Flower

  1. Storage Recommendations:
    • Store in prescribed container; one package at a time.
    • Use sterilised, airtight jars if prescription packaging is inaccessible.
    • Report any quality issues, including odour, to the pharmacy.
  2. Identifying Problems:
    • Recognise signs of issues with the cannabis flower.
    • Report quality problems to the pharmacy with pictures and batch details.

Simple Steps for Using Dry Cannabis Flower with a Vaporiser:

  1. Grind the Flower:
    • Break cannabis into small pieces using a grinder or your hands for optimal vaporisation.
  2. Load the Vaporiser:
    • Place the ground cannabis into the vaporiser chamber, avoiding overpacking for better airflow.
  3. Adjust Temperature:
    • Set the vaporiser temperature between 180°C to 220°C based on your cannabis type.
  4. Inhale:
    • Once heated, take slow, deep breaths, holding the vapor in your lungs briefly before exhaling.

For Vaporiser Users:

  1. Charge Battery:
    • Ensure your vaporiser battery is charged before use.
  2. Fill the Chamber:
    • Load the vaporiser chamber with your chosen cannabis strain, avoiding overpacking.
  3. Adjust Temperature:
    • Set the vaporiser temperature according to the recommended range (180°C to 220°C).
  4. Inhale:
    • After heating, take slow, deep breaths, holding the vapor briefly before exhaling.

Note:

  • Adhere to your doctor’s instructions and recommended dosage for your specific condition.
  • Effects vary based on strain and method, requiring some experimentation to find the right combination.