Cannabis dispensaries are, of course, places where you can buy cannabis. Depending on your state, you may be able to buy cannabis for recreational use at these dispensaries, or you may only be able to buy it for medical use. Beyond these basic facts, though, there are a few useful, key facts about cannabis dispensaries that not everyone is aware of.
Even in recreational states, not all dispensaries sell recreational cannabis.
If you live in a state where cannabis is recreationally legal, then you might figure you can visit any dispensary and buy products for recreational use. But this is not always the case. In many states, recreational and medical licenses are issued separately. Some dispensaries might have a medical license, but not a recreational license. Some may have a recreational license, but not a medical license. So, whether you're looking for medical or recreational cannabis, make sure you check whether the dispensary you're planning to visit has the proper license.
Dispensaries sell more than just cannabis.
If you're newer to the cannabis world, you might think it's just about smoking whole flower. But dispensaries sell a wide range of other cannabis products, too. Which products you find will depend on the state you live in, since each state has somewhat different guidelines when it comes to products. But in general, you can expect to find some edibles, such as gummies or hard candies. You may find vape products, which enable you to inhale THC without inhaling actual smoke. You may also find cannabis concentrates, such as wax and shatter, which can be burned and inhaled for a more intense experience.
You may not be interested in trying these more adventurous products right away, but as you continue on your cannabis journey, it is so nice to know you have options.
There are limits to how much you can buy.
If the dispensary is a long drive from your house, you may think you'll stock up while you're there. But this is only possible to a certain degree. Governments place limits on how much cannabis a dispensary can sell an individual per day. These limits vary by state. For example, in Massachusetts, you can only buy 1 ounce of recreational flower per visit.
Now that you know a little more about dispensaries, you're ready to pay one a visit! You'll discover so much more once you start buying in-person and talking to the budtenders.