Cannabis Store vs Marijuana Store vs Dispensary: Are They The Same?
July 08, 2024
The cannabis world can be confusing, especially with the variety of terms used to describe the places where you can purchase cannabis products. Cannabis store, marijuana store, dispensary—are they all the same? In this guide, we’ll explain what you can expect from state-licensed dispensaries, as well as break down other types of stores that may appear similar (but are not).
What is a Cannabis Store or Marijuana Store?
A cannabis store or marijuana store is a retail location where customers can buy a variety of cannabis products–from dried flower, edibles, joints, and blunts to concentrates and accessories. These stores are licensed by the state and adhere to strict regulations regarding the sale of cannabis products In essence, cannabis stores and marijuana stores are the same; the difference in terminology depends on the legal language and regional preferences.
What is a Dispensary?
A dispensary is the same as a cannabis retail store, often referred to in the context of medical and recreational cannabis. Dispensaries are known for their knowledgeable staff, usually called “budtenders,” who can provide detailed information about the products and their uses.
These stores are regulated by state laws, and the cannabis they sell must be purchased from legal, state-licensed suppliers to ensure quality and safety for consumers. As part of the state laws, customers must present identification, and, in the case of medical dispensaries, a valid, state-issued medical marijuana card.1
What Is the Difference Between Medical vs Recreational Dispensaries?
The main differences between medical and recreational dispensaries are the use of cannabis—medical versus recreational—and the minimum age requirements, regulations, and taxes. Here’s more information about how these dispensaries differ:
Recreational or Adult-Use
Recreational dispensaries, also known as adult-use dispensaries, cater to individuals who are 21 and older. Requirements to enter a recreational cannabis dispensary vary and depend on state and local laws. Generally, customers don’t need to present a medical marijuana card to legally buy adult-use cannabis; however, they must show a valid government-issued ID. The focus of adult-use dispensaries is to provide a variety of cannabis products for recreational use within state limits. You can expect to find everything from pre-rolls and edibles to topicals and accessories.2
Medical
Medical dispensaries are designed to serve patients who use cannabis for medical purposes. Recreational and medical dispensaries are regulated and taxed differently. Access to a medical cannabis dispensary varies according to state and local laws, although you typically need a valid medical marijuana card that has been issued by the state in which you live. Staff can assist patients in choosing the appropriate products for their needs.3
One interesting detail that must be accounted for in the state of Michigan: since 2018, medical dispensaries can only be known as medical provisioning centers.4
Head Shop vs Dispensary
A head shop is a retail store that primarily sells paraphernalia related to cannabis use, such as pipes, bongs, rolling papers, and vaporizers. While head shops might also carry a selection of CBD products, they don’t sell cannabis. In contrast, a dispensary focuses on the sale of cannabis products, while it may also sell paraphernalia and merchandise.5
CBD Store vs Dispensary
CBD stores specialize in products that contain cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. These stores offer a variety of CBD items, including oils, tinctures, topicals, and edibles, typically derived from hemp. Since CBD products must contain little-to-no THC, they are legal in many places where cannabis is not. Dispensaries, on the other hand, sell products that contain both CBD and THC, offering a broader spectrum of cannabis options.
Vape Shop vs Dispensary
Vape shops are retail stores that sell vaping equipment and e-liquids, primarily for nicotine consumption. While some vape stores may carry a limited selection of CBD vape products, they don’t sell THC-rich cannabis products. Marijuana dispensaries offer a wide range of cannabis vaping options, including vape pens, cartridges, and various concentrates designed for vaping. However, tobacco products of any kind are prohibited from being sold inside a dispensary.
Frequently Asked Questions
If it feels like your head is still swimming with all these different kinds of cannabis shops, don’t worry. We have some frequently asked questions to set your mind at ease, and if you want to know more, ask your favorite budtender for assistance.
Why do you have to be 21 to go into a dispensary but not a CBD store?
The reason there is an age restriction for state-licensed dispensaries is because the products they sell contain psychoactive THC, which is highly regulated. CBD stores, however, sell products that are non-psychoactive and these are often derived from hemp, making them accessible to a broader age range, depending on local laws.
Where can I find a dispensary?
Dispensaries are typically found in states where cannabis is legal, either for medical or recreational use. You can find dispensaries by searching online, using cannabis store locators, or asking for recommendations from fellow cannabis users. Always ensure the dispensary is licensed and operates within state regulations.
Can I buy marijuana at a head shop?
No, head shops don’t sell marijuana. They sell paraphernalia and accessories related to cannabis, and they may stock CBD products. To buy marijuana, you’ll need to visit a licensed cannabis dispensary.
Visiting a Cannabis Store
It’s essential to understand the differences between cannabis stores, marijuana stores, and dispensaries so you know where to purchase your cannabis products. Next time you're curious about cannabis and where to buy what, ask your favorite budtender.
Sources:
1. “Dispensary,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/dispensary
2. “Glossary of Dispensary Terminology,” Flowhub, https://flowhub.com/dispensary-terminology
3. “Understanding Medical vs Adult-Use Cannabis Dispensaries,” Leafly, April 19, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-a-marijuana-dispensary
4. “Michigan Dispensaries to be Re-Branded as ‘Provisioning Centers,’” High Times, June 12, 2018, https://hightimes.com/news/michigan-dispensaries-re-branded-provisioning-centers/
5. “Head Shop, Vape Shop, Smoke Shop, and Tobacco Shop: Are They The Same?” MJ Wholesale, August 26, 2022, https://mjwholesale.com/blogs/marijuana-packaging-news-for-dispensary-grower-processors/head-shop-vape-shop-smoke-shop-and-tobacco-shop-are-they-the-same
6. “Cannabis confusion: Knowing the differences between regulated weed stores and unregulated CBD shops,” ABC7, August 10, 2022, https://abc7chicago.com/sunnyside-dispensary-cbd-thc-near-me-river-north-chicago/12112671/
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Related posts
Cannabis culture has become more mainstream in recent years. And the term “420-friendly” is a key phrase among cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers alike. But what does 420-friendly actually mean, and why is it significant? Understanding this term is essential for anyone interested in cannabis tourism, seeking like-minded individuals, or simply looking for places that accept cannabis consumption.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the meaning of 420-friendly, explore its origins, and see how it’s shaping the cannabis scene today.
First, What Does 420 Mean?
420-friendly refers to an attitude or environment that is welcoming to cannabis enthusiasts. This could include individuals, businesses, and even social gatherings where cannabis consumption is accepted. Whether you’re looking for 420-friendly accommodations, meeting new 420-people on dating apps, or attending events that celebrate cannabis, this slang term for cannabis signals that it’s a safe space.1
To fully understand what 420-friendly means, it’s important to start with the origins of 420 itself. The story dates back to the early 1970s in California, where a group of five high school students known as “The Waldos” used 420 as a code word for their plan to meet up at 4:20 p.m. and search for a hidden cannabis crop. This casual treasure hunt soon became a part of their daily lives, symbolizing a time to gather and consume cannabis together.2
One of The Waldos toured with The Grateful Dead, and 420 started gaining popularity. High Times magazines caught wind of the phrase in the early 1990s, helping to spread it among the cannabis community.3
Over the decades, 420 has evolved into a global phenomenon, celebrated annually on April 20—4/20—now recognized as the unofficial holiday for cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
What is ‘420-Friendly’?
Being 420-friendly goes beyond the simple enjoyment of cannabis. It represents an openness and acceptance of those who consume the herb. In practical terms, it means that a person, business, or location supports or allows cannabis consumption.4 This could be a 420-friendly accommodation that allows guests to smoke or consume cannabis on the premises, or it could refer to a person who is comfortable with cannabis consumption in social settings. The term is especially common in regions with legalized cannabis, helping tourists find places that match their preferences.5
Lodgings & Campgrounds
One of the most common uses of the 420-friendly label is in the travel and accommodation industry. With more states legalizing cannabis, the demand for 420-friendly stays is on the rise. These include hotels, lodges, and campgrounds where the property owners explicitly allow cannabis consumption.
For those wondering where to consume cannabis, 420-friendly stays like 'bud & breakfast' options provide a safe and legal space to do so.6 However, most states only permit consumption on private property, so always confirm with the property owner before booking.
Dating Apps
420-friendly dating apps are another popular way to connect with like-minded individuals. These apps cater to cannabis enthusiasts who want to find romantic partners who share their interest in marijuana.
While traditional dating platforms can be challenging for cannabis users, 420-friendly apps provide a space to connect without stigma. From specialized apps like High There! and 420 Singles to mainstream options like Hinge and OkCupid with 420-friendly filters, these platforms make it easier to find someone who shares your passion for cannabis.7
Events & Tours
For cannabis enthusiasts, attending 420-friendly events and tours is a fantastic way to connect with the community. These events range from 4/20 celebrations in places like Denver, Colorado, to cannabis-themed festivals and guided tours that highlight the local cannabis culture.8
Participating in these events allows attendees to explore new strains, learn more about cannabis culture, and socialize with other cannabis enthusiasts who share their enthusiasm for a 4/20 holiday and activities. As cannabis tourism grows, these events are becoming more mainstream, offering unique experiences for both newcomers and seasoned cannasseurs.
The Growth of Cannabis Tourism
The rise of marijuana-friendly tourism is a testament to the increasing acceptance of cannabis all over the world. As more countries and states legalize cannabis, travelers are increasingly looking for destinations that welcome the 420-friendly lifestyle.9 Whether it’s staying at a cannabis-friendly resort, participating in a guided dispensary tour, or visiting cannabis cafes in states where such establishments are legal, the options are expanding rapidly.10
Organizations like the Cannabis Travel Association (CTA) work to ensure that travelers have safe, reliable options for enjoying cannabis while respecting local regulations. This shift is not just about finding places to consume marijuana but also about fostering a sense of community among cannabis enthusiasts.11
FAQs About Being 420-Friendly
Are you wondering just what 420-friendly means or if it’s right for you? Here are a few quick FAQs to clear up some common questions about 420-friendly spaces and what to expect. And if you need more info, your favorite budtender at LivWell is always there to help!
What does 710-friendly mean?
The term 710-friendly is similar to 420-friendly, but it specifically includes support for cannabis concentrates like dabbing concentrates. 710 is associated with oils and extracts, as the number spells “OIL” when it’s flipped upside down.
Does 420-friendly mean “I can smoke cannabis”?
Just because a place is 420-friendly doesn’t mean you can freely smoke anywhere. Always check the local laws and specific rules of the property. Some 420-friendly locations may allow vaping or edibles but prohibit smoking due to local ordinances.
Does 420-friendly mean I can use my medical card?
It’s important to remember that medical cannabis regulations vary by state. While some states, like Michigan, allow out-of-state medical cards, many do not. Always verify the rules before assuming you can use your medical card in a 420-friendly location.
Enjoying 420-Friendly
Embracing the 420-friendly lifestyle can enhance your travel experiences, social life, and connection to the cannabis community. Whether you’re looking for a cozy 420-friendly lodging, seeking out cannabis-themed events, or just enjoying a relaxing evening with fellow cannabis enthusiasts, respecting the local rules and consuming cannabis responsibly ensures you have a positive experience. With more places adopting a 420-friendly approach, the world of cannabis tourism and social connections is becoming more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. If you want to know more about 420, cannabis tourism, and where you can hook up with cannasseurs, ask one of the knowledgeable budtenders at your local LivWell dispensary.
Sources:
1. “420 Day: Why There Are So Many Different Names for Weed,” Time Magazine, April 20, 2017, https://time.com/4747501/420-day-weed-marijuana-pot-slang/
2. “420 Meaning: The True Story Of How April 20 Became 'Weed Day,'” HuffPost, April 20, 2010, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/420-meaning-the-true-stor_n_543854
3. “How 420 became code for marijuana,” BBC News, April 18, 2014, https://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-magazine-monitor-27039192
4. “420,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/420-meaning
5. “What Is Cannabis Tourism?” HuffPost, September 23, 2022, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-cannabis-tourism_l_63026695e4b0f72c09d86293
6. “Where Can Colorado Visitors Consume Marijuana?” Colorado, July 23, 2024, https://www.colorado.com/articles/where-can-colorado-visitors-consume-marijuana
7. “The best 420-friendly dating apps for finding a budding romance in 2024,” Mashable, September 12, 2024, https://mashable.com/roundup/best-dating-sites-420-friendly-2024
8. “What does 420 mean?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/cannabis-and-its-evolution/420
9. “Can Cannabis Tourism Help The Travel Industry?” Forbes, https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelgoldstein/2021/10/09/can-cannabis-tourism-help-revive-the-travel-industry/
10. “‘Free doobie on your pillow!’: Weed-themed vacations are going viral online as the cannabis tourism industry booms,” Business Insider, March 31, 2023, https://www.businessinsider.com/cannabis-tourism-taking-bud-breakfasts-gain-popularity-2022-9
11. “The United Global Voice of Cannabis Travel & Tourism,” Cannabis Travel Association, https://cannabistravelassociation.org/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Colorado is known for its vibrant cannabis culture, but the state maintains its own cannabis laws. Individuals 21 and older are welcome in any of the many dispensaries in Colorado (as long as you have a government-issued photo ID!). However, Colorado cannabis laws around consumption are stricter than 420-friendly tourists assume.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from private property rules to finding 420-friendly hotels in Colorado and designated cannabis consumption lounges.
Colorado Marijuana Laws: The Basics
Here are a few key rules to know if you’re partaking in Colorado:
- To legally smoke marijuana in Colorado, you must be 21 or older–this applies to both residents and visitors.
- Public consumption, including smoking in parks, on sidewalks, or in visible areas like balconies, is strictly prohibited.
- If you’re in a car, your products need to be sealed.
- In addition to the general laws, cannabis purchase limits in Colorado set a maximum of two ounces for recreational users.1
Remember that cannabis rules in Colorado vary by town, and many municipalities have their own specific requirements. Always check local regulations before consuming cannabis.
Where Can You Smoke Marijuana in Colorado?
There are a few legal options when it comes to smoking marijuana in Colorado. While public consumption is not allowed, you can still enjoy cannabis in certain private properties, 420-friendly hotels, and designated consumption lounges.2
Personal Private Property
The easiest place to legally smoke cannabis is on private property with the owner’s permission. This means your rental, home, or private residence is an option, as long as you are not visible to the public. However, make sure the property owner is okay with cannabis consumption before lighting up, especially if you’re renting through an app or staying with friends.
420-Friendly Hotels & Campgrounds
Many visitors look for 420-friendly hotels in Colorado and campgrounds that allow on-site cannabis consumption. These establishments have areas specifically designated for smoking. Some may still limit smoking to outdoor spaces due to the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act3, which prohibits smoking in indoor public areas. Always check with the hotel or campground to see where on the property you can legally consume cannabis.
Cannabis Events & Tours
Cannabis-friendly events and tours are becoming more popular in Colorado, with some offering guided tours that allow on-site consumption. Party buses, cannabis tours, and certain events in Denver are tailored to give visitors a fun and legal way to consume.4 Make sure you’re joining a licensed event that allows marijuana use to avoid any legal trouble.
Designated Consumption Lounges
Colorado is home to designated cannabis consumption lounges, where smoking is allowed on-site. Some lounges are BYOC (bring your own cannabis), so be sure to check ahead. These businesses are licensed to allow consumption on their premises and often offer a social setting for cannabis enthusiasts to enjoy marijuana together.5
Members-Only Clubs
Colorado also has members-only clubs where patrons can consume cannabis on the premises. These private clubs offer a legal alternative to public smoking, though access typically requires membership or a day pass. Clubs are popping up in places like Denver and Aurora, providing another venue option for marijuana enthusiasts to enjoy.6
Where Are Consumers NOT Allowed to Smoke Marijuana in Colorado?
While there are legal places to enjoy cannabis, there are also strict rules about where you cannot smoke.
Where Are Consumers NOT Allowed to Smoke Marijuana in Colorado?
While there are legal places to enjoy cannabis, there are also strict rules about where you cannot smoke.
Public Property
Public consumption of cannabis is strictly prohibited in Colorado. This includes any area that is observable by the public, such as parks, streets, sidewalks, or even your balcony or unfenced yard if it’s visible to neighbors. If you’re wondering, “Can you smoke cannabis in public in Colorado?” the answer is no—doing so could result in fines or penalties, so always be mindful of where you consume.7
National Parks & Federal Land
Cannabis is still illegal under federal law, which means you cannot use it in national parks or on any federal land. This includes popular tourist destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park. Even though Colorado has legalized cannabis, federal laws trump state laws on federal property.8
Hotels, Cabins, Rentals
Not all hotels, cabins, or rental properties in Colorado allow cannabis consumption. It’s essential to check with the property before you start smoking. Some rentals and hotels are 420-friendly, but many follow stricter no-smoking policies.9
Ski Resorts
Despite Colorado’s love for winter sports, you won’t be able to enjoy cannabis at the state’s ski resorts. Cannabis consumption is prohibited on ski resort property, so leave your cannabis stash behind when you hit the slopes.10
Restaurants, Cafes, Bars
You also can’t smoke cannabis in any restaurant, cafe, or bar in Colorado. The Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking of any kind, including cannabis, in these public spaces.11
Other Colorado Consumption Rules to Consider
Before you visit a Colorado dispensary, it’s important to know a few other rules regarding cannabis use in the state.
Cannabis Products Cannot Leave the State
It is illegal to take cannabis products purchased in Colorado across state lines, even if you're traveling to another state where cannabis is legal. Keep your marijuana within the state to avoid any legal trouble.12
Understand Possession Limits
Colorado has strict possession limits for cannabis. Residents and visitors alike can purchase and possess up to two ounces of cannabis. Medical marijuana patients have different limits, but for recreational use, two ounces are the maximum allowed.13
Check Hyper Local Laws
Always check hyper-local laws in the area you’re visiting. Colorado towns and cities may have their own specific cannabis regulations, and what’s legal in one area may not be allowed in another. For example, some towns have banned public consumption lounges, while others permit them.
FAQs About Smoking Marijuana in Colorado
If you’re unsure about where you can smoke marijuana in Colorado or how the laws apply to visitors, these FAQs will help clear up common questions.
Can you smoke anywhere in Colorado?
Public consumption of cannabis is illegal in Colorado. You are limited to your private property, 420-friendly spaces, or designated consumption lounges.
Can I smoke in my car if I’m not driving?
Consuming cannabis in a car is illegal, even if you’re not driving. However, you can have cannabis in the car as long as it’s sealed and stored properly.14
Are there 420 friendly hotels in Denver?
Denver has several 420-friendly hotels that allow cannabis consumption on-site. Always check with the hotel to confirm their specific rules when smoking in Denver.
Understanding Where You Can Smoke in Colorado
Knowing cannabis etiquette and where you can legally smoke cannabis in Colorado is key to enjoying your experience without legal trouble. Whether you’re staying at a 420-friendly hotel, attending a cannabis event, or smoking on private property, always ensure you’re following the law. Be sure to check local regulations and respect the rules wherever you go. And if you have more questions, chat with your favorite LivWell budtender.
Sources:
1. “Where Can Colorado Visitors Consume Marijuana?” Colorado, July 23, 2024, https://www.colorado.com/articles/where-can-colorado-visitors-consume-marijuana
2. “The Best Cannabis Tours in Denver,” Forbes, November 5, 2019, https://www.forbes.com/sites/katieshapiro/2019/11/05/the-best-cannabis-tours-in-denver/?sh=369916f35290
3. “Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act (20-19),” Colorado General Assembly, January 10, 2020, https://leg.colorado.gov/publications/colorado-clean-indoor-air-act-20-19
4. “Cannabis Tour Services and Party Buses in Denver,” Westword, April 3, 2024, https://www.westword.com/marijuana/legal-marijuana-tour-services-and-party-buses-in-denver-20285853
5. “Nine Places Where You Can Consume Weed Legally in Denver (Not Including Your Home),” Westword, April 17, 2024, https://www.westword.com/marijuana/sixteen-places-to-legally-consume-weed-in-denver-not-including-your-house-10064000
6. “Marijuana tourism is evolving in Aurora and Denver with legal tour buses, lounges,” The Denver Post, August 26, 2021, https://www.denverpost.com/2021/08/26/marijuana-pot-colorado-consumption-lounges-bus-aurora-denver/
7. “Colorado Cannabis Laws,” Westword, https://www.westword.com/marijuana/laws
8. “Is it legal to consume recreational marijuana in public in Colorado?” Fox 31, March 29, 2024, https://kdvr.com/news/local/is-it-legal-to-consume-recreational-marijuana-in-public-in-colorado/
9. “Business and property owners,” Colorado Cannabis, https://cannabis.colorado.gov/legal-marijuana-use/business-and-property-owners
10. “Laws about marijuana use,” Colorado Cannabis, https://cannabis.colorado.gov/legal-marijuana-use/laws-about-marijuana-use
11. “Staying on the Right Side of Marijuana Laws,” Colorado, July 2, 2024, https://www.colorado.com/articles/staying-right-side-marijuana-laws
12. “How Tourists Can Buy Marijuana in Colorado,” Frommer’s, https://www.frommers.com/trip-ideas/cultural-immersion/how-tourists-can-buy-marijuana-in-colorado
13. “Colorado Laws and Penalties,” NORML, https://norml.org/laws/colorado-penalties
14. “Driving and traveling,” Colorado Cannabis, https://cannabis.colorado.gov/legal-marijuana-use/driving-and-traveling
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Are you looking for the perfect gift for the cannabis enthusiast in your life? Whether they’re into smoking, dabbing concentrates, or enjoying edibles, finding the right cannabis gifts can be a fun way to show how well you know them and how much you care. With so many options, knowing what they’ll truly appreciate is important.
Gifts for Flower Smokers
When it comes to cannabis, “flower” refers to the dried buds of the cannabis plant. Traditionally, flower is smoked, and it’s still the most common and classic way to consume cannabis. Cannassuers benefit from the full spectrum of the cannabinoids and terpenes. If the person you’re shopping for enjoys this timeless method, you’ve got plenty of thoughtful accessories to choose from to enhance their smoking experience:
Bubbler
A bubbler is a portable water pipe that combines the ease of a hand pipe with the filtration benefits of a bong. Thanks to the water filtration, it’s easy to use and provides smoother, cooler hits compared to a regular pipe. It’s an excellent gift for smokers who love the ritual but want a smoother experience or are looking to upgrade their setup.
Joint Roller
If your loved one prefers to roll their own joints, a joint roller is an excellent gift. It’s a simple device that creates perfectly rolled joints every time, which is ideal for someone who enjoys convenience without sacrificing quality. A joint roller ensures a smooth and even experience, making it a thoughtful addition to any marijuana smoker’s toolkit.
Grinder
When it comes to smoking flower, a quality grinder is essential. Grinders help break down the flower evenly, which leads to better airflow and a more efficient burn. Look for high-quality grinders with multiple chambers, sharp teeth, and a kief-catching mesh screen—they’ll last for years and can be used often, making this a thoughtful and practical gift.
Gifts for Concentrate Smokers
For those who prefer to dab concentrates or other cannabis extracts, consider gifts that cater to their specific smoking style. Concentrates require specialized equipment, but the options are endless once you know what to look for.
Cannabis concentrates are potent products made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes, leaving behind excess plant material. These concentrated forms of cannabis contain a much higher percentage of cannabinoids than traditional flower, making them perfect for those who want a more intense experience. Concentrates come in various forms, such as wax, shatter, crumble, and sugar.
Here are some must-haves for concentrate enthusiasts:
Torch
A torch is essential for anyone who enjoys dabbing. While it might not seem like an exciting gift at first, it’s one of the most important tools for dabbers. Torches are used to heat the dab rig nail, and without one, the dabbing process just doesn’t work. So look for a torch (electric or a culinary butane one) that’s reliable and easy to use. And don’t forget to add a stash of butane to make this gift even more thoughtful!
Dab Mat
A dab mat helps keep the dabbing setup clean and protects the rig from spills and heat. It’s often made from silicone (or any other non-stick material), making it easy to clean and heat-resistant. While it’s a small gift, it’s super practical.
Silicone Containers
Concentrates can get sticky (or they are), which is why silicone containers are so handy. These non-stick containers make storing and retrieving concentrates easy with an appropriate tool. And best of all, your loved one will appreciate that they don’t have to waste any product. Silicone containers come in a variety of fun shapes and sizes, making them a creative and useful gift option for the concentrate enthusiast in your life.
Gifts for Edibles Enthusiasts
If your person prefers consuming cannabis through edibles, there are some fantastic gifts that go beyond simply buying them infused brownies—or trying to make some by yourself! Edibles are a unique way to enjoy cannabis because they offer a longer-lasting and often more potent experience than smoking or vaping. From the traditional “space brownies” to cannabis butter (cannabutter) and infused beverages, edibles deliver cannabinoids through digestion.
If you’re shopping for someone who enjoys the culinary side of cannabis, these gifts can elevate their edible-making game or enhance their edible enjoyment. Here are the top edible accessory gifts to consider:
Decarboxylator
A decarboxylator is an invaluable kitchen tool for any edible enthusiast who enjoys making their own creations. It activates the cannabinoids in cannabis through a process called decarboxylation, which is essential to unlocking the plant’s full potency.
Without decarbing or heating, the cannabis won’t convert its inactive compounds, like THCA, into their active, psychoactive forms, like THC—meaning the edibles won’t produce the desired effects. Decarboxylation ensures that the cannabinoids are fully activated, delivering the intended potency and experience.
The decarboxylator takes the guesswork out of the process, ensuring the perfect temperature and time settings for optimal results. It’s the perfect tool to streamline preparation and guarantee potent, effective infusions every time.
Cannabutter Machine
Speaking of infusions, a cannabutter machine is another top gift for anyone who loves making cannabis-infused butter to use in their savory or sweet recipes. These machines streamline the process of creating infused butter or oils, which can be used to make brownies, cookies, sauces, and a variety of other treats. It’s the ideal gift for the cannabis connoisseur who loves cooking and experimenting with new recipes.
Stash Box
A stash box is a secure, discreet way to store dispensary-bought edibles and other cannabis products. It’s perfect if your loved ones like to keep their edibles organized and safe from curious kids or pets. Look for a stash box with added security and enough storage space, especially if the recipient tends to stock up on dispensary shopping trips.
Find the Best Cannabis Gifts
When you go shopping for holiday strains or cannabis gifts for the cannasseur in your life, you must consider the preferences of the person you’re buying for. Whether they enjoy flower, concentrates, or edibles, there are many accessory options to choose from. With a little thought and care, you can find the perfect gifts for cannabis enthusiasts this holiday season. Happy shopping!
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
