Cannabis FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions | Hopkins Dispensary
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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common cannabis questions and discover everything you need to know about visiting Hopkins Dispensary in Hopkins, Minnesota

At Hopkins Dispensary, we believe informed customers make the best choices. Whether you're new to cannabis or an experienced user, our comprehensive FAQ guide provides clear answers about products, dosing, Minnesota laws, and visiting our Hennepin County dispensary.

Our expert team is always available to answer additional questions and provide personalized guidance for your cannabis journey.

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Select a category below to find answers to your cannabis questions

What is the difference between indica, sativa, and hybrid? +

While traditional categories suggest indica strains are relaxing and sativa strains are energizing, modern cannabis science shows that effects depend more on individual cannabinoid and terpene profiles rather than plant type alone.

Indica strains typically provide body-focused, relaxing effects ideal for evening use and sleep. Sativa strains generally offer energizing, cerebral effects perfect for daytime activities and creativity. Hybrid strains combine genetics from both to create balanced effects tailored to specific needs.

Focus on lab results and strain descriptions rather than just the category when choosing cannabis at Hopkins Dispensary.

How long do cannabis effects last? +

Cannabis effects duration varies significantly by consumption method:

  • Smoking/Vaping: 1-3 hours with effects felt within minutes
  • Edibles: 4-8 hours or longer with delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours)
  • Tinctures (sublingual): 2-4 hours with moderate onset time
  • Topicals: 2-4 hours with localized effects only

Individual tolerance, metabolism, product potency, and body composition also affect duration. Start with lower doses to understand how your body responds to different consumption methods.

What should beginners know before trying cannabis? +

Start with these essential beginner guidelines:

  • Start low and go slow - Begin with minimal doses (2.5-5mg THC for edibles)
  • Use cannabis in a safe, comfortable environment with trusted people
  • Have water and snacks available to manage dry mouth and appetite
  • Never drive or operate machinery after cannabis consumption
  • Wait before taking more, especially with edibles (effects can take up to 2 hours)
  • Consider products with balanced THC:CBD ratios for gentler introduction

Our staff at Hopkins Dispensary can guide you toward beginner-friendly options and provide personalized dosing advice.

Can you build tolerance to cannabis? +

Yes, regular cannabis use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This happens because cannabinoid receptors in your endocannabinoid system become less sensitive over time with frequent exposure.

To manage tolerance effectively, consider taking periodic breaks (tolerance breaks or "T-breaks" of 1-2 weeks), rotating different strains with varying cannabinoid profiles, or using products with different THC:CBD ratios.

What are terpenes and why do they matter? +

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. They contribute to each strain's unique smell, flavor, and may influence effects through the "entourage effect" - the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes.

Common terpenes and their potential effects include:

  • Limonene: Citrusy aroma, potentially uplifting and mood-enhancing
  • Myrcene: Earthy, musky scent, potentially relaxing and sedating
  • Pinene: Pine-like fragrance, potentially focusing and memory-enhancing
  • Linalool: Floral, lavender notes, potentially calming and stress-relieving

Understanding terpene profiles helps you choose strains based on desired effects beyond just THC content.

How much should I take as a beginner? +

Recommended starting doses for cannabis beginners:

  • Edibles: 2.5-5mg THC (start with 2.5mg if completely new)
  • Smoking/Vaping: One small puff, wait 15-30 minutes to assess effects
  • Tinctures: Start with manufacturer's minimum recommendation, typically 2-5mg

Always wait at least 2 hours before taking more edibles, and 15-30 minutes between puffs when smoking or vaping. Remember: you can always take more, but you can't take less once consumed. Our Hopkins staff can provide personalized dosing guidance.

What's the difference between smoking and edibles? +

Key differences between consumption methods:

  • Smoking/Vaping: Fast onset (2-10 minutes), shorter duration (1-3 hours), easier to control dosing in real-time, effects peak within 30 minutes
  • Edibles: Slow onset (30 minutes to 2 hours), longer duration (4-8+ hours), more intense body-focused effects, harder to reverse if too much consumed

Edibles are processed through the liver, creating 11-hydroxy-THC, a different compound that produces stronger, longer-lasting effects compared to inhaled THC. This is why edibles feel more intense than smoking the same amount of THC.

What are concentrates and are they for beginners? +

Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts including wax, shatter, live resin, rosin, and oils. They typically contain 60-90% THC compared to 15-25% in traditional flower, making them significantly more powerful.

Concentrates are not recommended for beginners due to their extreme potency. They're better suited for experienced users who thoroughly understand their tolerance levels and are comfortable with intense, immediate effects. New users should start with flower or low-dose edibles.

How should I store cannabis products? +

Proper storage maintains potency, flavor, and safety:

  • Keep all products in original packaging with labels intact
  • Store in cool, dry, dark places away from direct sunlight
  • Use airtight glass containers for cannabis flower to preserve freshness
  • Keep away from children and pets at all times (use lockable containers if needed)
  • Avoid heat, light, moisture, and extreme temperature fluctuations
  • Don't store in refrigerator or freezer (moisture can degrade quality)

Properly stored cannabis can maintain quality for 6-12 months. Always check expiration dates on edibles and other processed products.

What if I take too much cannabis? +

If you consume too much cannabis, follow these steps:

  • Stay calm - While uncomfortable, cannabis overconsumption is not life-threatening and effects will pass
  • Find a quiet, comfortable place to rest and relax
  • Drink water and eat light snacks to help ground yourself
  • Try deep breathing exercises to reduce anxiety
  • Consider CBD if available (may help counteract THC effects)
  • Chew black peppercorns (contains beta-caryophyllene which may reduce anxiety)
  • Sleep if possible - you'll feel better when you wake up

Effects will diminish over time, typically within a few hours. Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or feel seriously unwell.

What's the difference between THC and CBD? +

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis that produces the characteristic "high" feeling. THC can provide euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, increased appetite, and pain relief. It's the compound responsible for intoxicating effects.

CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-intoxicating cannabinoid that doesn't produce a "high." Many users appreciate CBD for potential therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects. CBD may help balance or moderate THC's intensity.

Products with balanced THC:CBD ratios (like 1:1) can offer gentler, more manageable effects and may be ideal for beginners or those seeking benefits without intense intoxication.

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