10 min read
The guide to finding the right cannabis products.
Finding the right cannabis product can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re new to cannabis or looking to refine your experience, this guide will help you navigate the growing landscape of strains, formats, and effects. With the right knowledge, you can choose products that align with your goals—whether that’s better sleep, pain relief, less anxiety, or just a little more calm in your day. Let’s break it down and find what works best for you.
The information on this page and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information has been reviewed for accuracy by NuggMD’s Dr. Brian Kessler, but is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health or finding the right cannabis products or dosage, you should always consult with a physician, pharmacist, or other licensed professional.
Should You Shop Online or In-Person?
When it comes to getting your medical cannabis, you’ve got options. Whether you prefer the convenience of clicking “add to cart” from your couch or the confidence of talking to a budtender face-to-face, both online and in-person shopping offer unique perks. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each so you can choose the experience that best fits your lifestyle, preferences, and medical needs.
Online Shopping
✅ Best For: Medical patients who already know which cannabinoids (like CBD) or terpenes help alleviate their unique anxiety symptoms.
Benefits
Browse Menus Ahead of Time
Research strains, cannabinoids, and terpenes to find the best product for your specific anxiety symptoms and experience level before visiting.
Quick Tip: When browsing online, look for products with calming terpenes like linalool, myrcene, or beta-caryophyllene. These are associated with relaxation and stress relief.
Online-Only Discounts
Dispensaries often offer exclusive online-only promotions deals.
Pre-Order to Save Time
Perfect for busy days or repeat purchases.
In Person Shopping
✅ Best For: Medical patients who already know which cannabinoids (like CBD) or terpenes help alleviate their unique anxiety symptoms.
Benefits
Browse Menus Ahead of Time
Research strains, cannabinoids, and terpenes to find the best product for your specific anxiety symptoms and experience level before visiting.
Quick Tip: When browsing online, look for products with calming terpenes like linalool, myrcene, or beta-caryophyllene. These are associated with relaxation and stress relief.
Online-Only Discounts
Dispensaries often offer exclusive online-only promotions deals.
Pre-Order to Save Time
Perfect for busy days or repeat purchases.
Helpful Hint: Combining both strategies helps you shop smarter and with less stress. Use online shopping to plan ahead, then visit the dispensary for a personalized experience.
Need a med card? Get $20 off yours today
The cheat sheet to picking products.
Finding the right medical cannabis product doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many strains, formats, and formulas on the market, it’s easy to feel lost — but that’s where this cheat sheet comes in. Whether you’re new to cannabis or just looking to fine-tune your routine, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider so you can choose the product that actually works for you.
Consider High-CBD Products
CBD and products with high ratios of CBD to THC are often sought for therapeutic benefits like pain relief, anxiety reduction, and inflammation without intense intoxicating effects.
Medical dispensaries usually carry a wider variety of high-quality CBD-rich products, including flower, tinctures, and edibles specifically formulated to meet the needs of patients.
Be cautious of online hemp-derived CBD delivery that lack the quality control of state-licensed dispensaries. Always check for a certificate of analysis (COA) to verify third-party lab testing for potency and purity, and trust the source you acquire the products from.
Get a medical card to access CBD-rich products not available in recreational markets.
Don’t Rely on THC Alone
While THC can contribute to intensity, a product’s effects are shaped by other cannabinoids (like CBD) and terpenes.
Terpenes Can Make a Big Difference Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds that influence flavor, scent, and effects.
Examples include limonene (energizing), myrcene (relaxing), pinene (increasing focus).
Read the Label
Read the Label. Check that the product has been lab-tested to ensure safety, quality, and consistency. Check potency, cannabinoids, and terpene profile to get the flavor and effects you want.
Ask a Budtender. If you don’t know, ask a budtender for help. Make sure to specify your goals and what you’re looking for. Most are excited to help you find the right products for you.
Need a med card? Get $20 off yours today
How to match the product with your needs
Each product type offers different benefits and effects based on how it’s consumed. Here’s a few helpful tips to navigate each product category, why it’s great, things to know, and what it’s best for.
Pick Products Based on Why You’re Using Them
Cannabis effects vary greatly based on the strain, product type, terpene profile, and the individual consumer. Consider the reason you are buying cannabis and choose products to match that, not just THC or popularity.
Helpful Hint: If you’re unsure where to start, ask your budtender, dispensary pharmacist, or medical cannabis practitioner to recommend products based on your goals and preferred experience. Keep notes on what works for you—everyone reacts differently to cannabis products. And always prioritize lab-tested options for safety.
Questions to Ask Budtenders or Dispensary Pharmacists
Dispensary staff can help find products that match your needs, but asking the right questions is critical. Here are some great questions to get the conversation started.
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“What do you recommend for [specific goal: stress relief, energy, sleep, pain, etc.]?”
“Are there strains or products that provide effects without intense intoxication?”
“Do you have any products with calming terpenes like myrcene or linalool?”
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“What’s a good alternative to this strain/product if it’s not available?”
“Is there another product that’s better for daytime use/nighttime relaxation?”
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“Is this product lab-tested? Can you show me the COA (Certificate of Analysis)?”
“Are there any additives or fillers in this vape cartridge or edible?”
“How fresh is this flower, and how has it been stored?”
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“What’s the recommended starting dose for this edible or tincture?”
“How long should I wait to feel the effects of this product before consuming more?”
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“Are there any current promotions, loyalty programs, or bundle deals?”
“Do you have any house-brand products that are high quality but more affordable?”
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“What’s the best product to start with if I’m new to cannabis?”
“Do you have low-dose options or products with mild effects?”
Quick Tips for Consistent Effects
Finding the perfect cannabis products can take some trial and error. These tips will help you build a more consistent, enjoyable experience every time.
01
Track Your Favorites
Keep a cannabis journal to note:
Strain or product name
Cannabinoid content (THC, CBD levels)
Terpene profiles (if available)
Consumption method (smoking, vaping, edibles, etc.)
Effects experienced (e.g., relaxation, focus, pain relief)
Over time, you’ll identify patterns to understand better which strains, products, or delivery methods work best for you.
02
Understand Variability
Even the same strain name (like Blue Dream or Sour Diesel) can vary in effects, potency, and terpene profiles based on:
The grower and cultivation methods.
Environmental factors like soil, light, and climate.
Each cultivar's THC levels and genetics.
Helpful Hint: Start with small quantities when trying a new product or batch, especially if you’re purchasing from a new grower or dispensary.
03
Choose Lab-Tested Products
Lab-tested products ensure transparency around product strength (THC/CBD levels), effects (cannabinoid and terpene content), and purity (certificate of analysis for contaminants like pesticides, mold, and heavy metals).
Key Takeaway: By tracking your experiences, understanding variability, and prioritizing lab-tested products, you can confidently navigate dispensaries and get your desired effects every time.
Ready for the next step?
Getting your medical card unlocks better options, higher-quality products, and personalized care.
Start your journey with NuggMD today. It’s fast, simple, entirely online, and if you’re not approved- it’s 100% FREE.
