If you're new to cannabis, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. Indica or sativa? Flower or edibles? AAAA or AA? THC or CBD? Don't worry. Everyone starts somewhere, and with a few basics under your belt, you'll be able to shop with confidence. This guide covers the essentials, and shows how Kush Station makes it easy to get started.

THC and CBD: the two names you'll see most

Cannabis contains many natural compounds called cannabinoids. The two best known are:

• THC, which is responsible for the "high" most people associate with cannabis.


• CBD, which doesn't produce much of a high and is popular with people who want a gentler experience.

Products list their THC and CBD content, which helps you choose. New consumers usually do best starting with lower THC or a CBD-balanced product.

Indica, sativa and hybrid

You'll see strains grouped into three families:

• Indica is often associated with relaxing, body-focused effects, popular for evenings.


• Sativa is often associated with uplifting, energising effects, popular for daytime.


• Hybrid strains blend the two.

These labels are a useful starting point, but everyone reacts a little differently, so it's worth paying attention to how a strain makes you feel.

Common formats

• Flower: The classic dried bud, for rolling or using in a dry-herb vaporiser.


• Pre-rolls: Ready-made joints with no prep required.


• Edibles: Cannabis in food form. Effects take longer to start and last longer.


• Vape pens: Convenient, discreet and low-odour.


• Concentrates: Potent products like hash, shatter, live resin, diamonds and distillate, best left for experienced consumers.


• CBD, oils and topicals: Gentle options for people who want to keep things mild.

Understanding flower tiers

Kush Station grades its flower into tiers: craft, AAAA, AAA, AA and popcorn. Craft and AAAA are top-shelf, AAA is a reliable everyday choice, and AA and popcorn are great for value. All of it comes from multiple BC farms.

The golden rules for beginners

• Start low and go slow. Try a small amount and wait to see how you feel.


• Be extra patient with edibles. They can take a while to kick in.


• Choose a comfortable setting, ideally at home with someone you trust.


• Don't mix with alcohol while you're learning how cannabis affects you.


• Never drive impaired.


• Store products securely, away from kids and pets.

Why beginners love Kush Station

Kush Station is a Canadian-owned online shop based in Burnaby, BC, and it's a great place for beginners. Budtenders are available daily from 6 AM to 6 PM PST, and live chat is open seven days a week, so you can ask as many questions as you like. You can also email help@kushstation.co.

Orders ship to every province by Canada Post Xpresspost, usually arriving within one to three business days, with tracking, in plain, non-revealing packaging. Orders of $150 or more ship free.

Start with a bonus

Cannabis is for adults only, so make sure you meet your province's minimum age. Then sign up with Kush Station to get $30 in Kush Points. You'll earn points on every dollar you spend, plus extra rewards for reviews and referrals. Ask a budtender for a beginner-friendly recommendation, and start your journey the easy way.