The cannabis industry has grown — and continues to grow — rapidly. Today, 38 states have legalized medical cannabis, and 22 have legalized weed for recreational use. There are also more product options than ever before. Along with cannabis flowers, you also have oils, tinctures, concentrates, edibles, capsules, topicals, and more.
While acceptance of the plant is growing, there’s still a lot that people don’t know. Education is crucial for fighting stigmas, creating effective policies, and ensuring safe access to and use of cannabis.
Cannabis Learning Resources To Check Out
These resources can help you learn about cannabis:
1. Online Content
There’s no shortage of online cannabis education resources. For instance, cannabis-centric sites like Leafly and WeedMaps offer a range of educational content, from information about specific strains and effects to the latest industry and legal news. These sites aim to keep consumers like you informed and using cannabis safely.
Other online content resources for cannabis education:
- NORML: This nonprofit advocates for the legalization of medical and recreational weed.
- Podcasts: Numerous cannabis-focused podcasts feature industry professionals and cover a variety of topics.
- Dispensary blogs: Many dispensaries’ websites feature blogs that provide helpful information about the plant, how to understand cannabis labels, choosing the right products for your needs, using cannabis safely, and more.
2. The Harbor House Blog
Like many other dispensaries, the Harbor House Collective features a blog on its website. However, it goes beyond information about the cannabis plant and provides you with content specific to the Boston area. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’ll find the most up-to-date, relevant information about cannabis in the Massachusetts capital region.
3. Local Budtenders
Don’t overlook the expertise of your local budtenders. While these dispensary employees may be in charge of selling cannabis, they also have a deep understanding of the strains and products in their shop. With their help, you can find the best products for your needs and learn how to use cannabis safely for the best experiences.
4. Cannabis Courses and Certifications
Are you looking to start a career in the cannabis industry? Check out online and in-person cannabis courses and certification programs. From basics about cannabis — including the plant itself, its history, and current laws governing its use — to sector-specific information, you can learn what you need to know to achieve your goal.
How To Learn About Weed
Ready to learn how to study cannabis? Keep the following tips in mind:
1. Know Your Goal
Are you looking for basic information about cannabis, such as the difference between strains or how to read edible labels? Do you want to know the latest local laws and regulations for cannabis use? Are you aiming to find a job in the cannabis industry? Knowing your goal makes it easier to find the most relevant cannabis education resources.
2. Consider Your Starting Point
When determining how to study cannabis, consider your experience level. The best resources for your needs may vary depending on whether you’re a complete beginner or you already have some cannabis knowledge.
3. Look for Content from Industry Professionals
There’s a lot of cannabis content out there. Look for resources from industry professionals and other reputable sources to ensure you get the most accurate, up-to-date information.
4. Visit Dispensaries in Person
Speaking directly with a budtender can sometimes be more helpful than reading articles online or listening to podcasts. For instance, you can ask follow-up questions and get clarity on anything you might not fully understand. Speaking with a budtender directly also allows for individualized attention and more personalized recommendations.
5. Check Local and Online Colleges
Some online resources, such as THC University, focus solely on helping individuals get the cannabis education they need to be successful in the industry. A growing number of traditional colleges and universities are offering in-person and online cannabis courses and degrees, too.
Get Highly Educated at Harbor House
Are you ready to learn more about cannabis? Check out the Harbor House Collective blog or visit our dispensary to chat with our knowledgeable budtenders today.