What is a dab?
A dab is a dose of cannabis concentrate. Concentrates come from cannabis flower or resin. They contain 40% to 90% THC. Flower contains 10% to 25% THC. A dab the size of a grain of rice can hold 10 to 20 mg THC. A standard dose for a first-time user is 5 to 10 mg THC. Start with half a grain of rice.
Pick a method
Two common methods: a dab rig or a vaporizer. A dab rig uses a nail, torch, and glass water pipe. A vaporizer uses a coil or oven. Vaporizers cost less and have less fire risk. A rig gives a larger hit. For a first time, use a vaporizer with a temperature control. Set the temperature to 400-600°F. Above 700°F produces smoke and irritants. Below 400°F produces weak vapor.
Cannabis First Time Guide for Smoking
Steps for a first dab
- Measure 5 mg THC. Use a scale or a small scoop. A rice grain is about 10 mg. Cut it in half.
- Set the vaporizer to 450°F. Wait for the device to reach the temperature.
- Place the concentrate in the chamber.
- Inhale for 2 to 3 seconds. Do not hold the vapor in your lungs.
- Exhale. Wait 15 minutes. The effect peaks at 10 to 30 minutes.
- If you feel no effect after 15 minutes, take another 5 mg. Do not take more than 20 mg in one hour.
Risks and side effects
Dabs have high THC. THC can cause dry mouth, red eyes, fast heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia. High doses can cause psychosis in some people. THC can impair motor control and memory. Do not drive after a dab. Do not mix with alcohol or other drugs. Cannabis use can lead to dependence. About 9% of adults who use cannabis develop cannabis use disorder. That number rises to 17% for people who start in their teens.
Legal status
Federal law lists cannabis as a Schedule I drug. State laws differ. Some states allow medical cannabis. Some allow adult use. Some allow no cannabis. Check your state law before you buy or use dabs. Do not cross state lines with cannabis.
cannabis first time guide for smoking
CBD and dabs
CBD is a cannabinoid from hemp. Federal law allows hemp with 0.3% THC or less. CBD does not cause a high. CBD products do not replace dabs. Lab-tested CBD products show the amount of CBD and THC. A lab report also shows pesticides and heavy metals. Buy CBD from a seller that posts lab results. Dabs and CBD have different effects and different laws.