By Hernán Panessi via El Planteo. Adapted for GreenState
Let’s face it: sometimes we have what we need, and sometimes we don’t. During times of financial strain, we make adjustments: canceling streaming subscriptions, cutting back on snacks, driving a little further to find better deals, or opting for cheaper alternatives to the products we consume the most. But should we also be cutting back on our cannabis consumption?
In the current U.S. economic climate, many Americans are asking: how much of the budget goes to cannabis, and what’s the best way to manage it during challenging times?
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Top tips to save money on weed
Even though cannabis prices in legal markets are generally becoming more affordable, many Americans are still feeling the impact of inflation. “So, it’s important to be strategic about how we acquire and manage our cannabis,” says Dr. Julieta Sabatini, a physician specializing in cannabis and mental health.
What should we do?
When it comes to answering that question, it’s important to recognize that everyone’s situation is unique. While we’ll offer general advice, individual circumstances will always vary.
“There are as many ways to consume cannabis as there are users. Some people need it as medicine every six hours, while others may use it recreationally once a week or month,” says Sabatini.
One cost-effective strategy for those in states where it’s legal is home cultivation. Not only does it offer economic benefits and independence, but it also allows for control over the levels of THC and CBD in your product without relying solely on lab tests.
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What if you can’t grow?
“If growing isn’t an option, partnering with a friend can help ease the process,” adds Sabatini.
Practical tips from experts
There are also some practical tips for making your cannabis last longer and improving consumption habits.
“For instance, avoid mixing weed with other substances just to make it stretch further—especially with tobacco, which can increase nicotine dependency. This is a common practice in Europe, but one I’d recommend avoiding,” says Nicolás J. Rodríguez, a journalist and cannabis expert.
Rodríguez also suggests avoiding smoking first thing in the morning. “It’s like when you eat too much, and your stomach expands—then it takes more to feel full. The same can happen with cannabis. I recommend starting to smoke later in the day rather than first thing in the morning. It can help reduce overall consumption. Personally, I like to smoke after a meal and a shower. The experience is much more enjoyable when you take your time and savor it.”
Saving money and keeping your dose in check
Sabatini also recommends doing a two-week THC detox. “This helps resensitize the body’s receptors, so when you reintroduce THC, the effects are stronger even with a lower dose,” Dr. Sabatini explains.
To reduce THC consumption while managing anxiety, many experts recommend using CBD as an alternative. Microdosing and rotating strains can also help conserve your stash.
“If you’re a frequent user, keep your doses and frequency low to prevent building up a tolerance, so you don’t need to consume more for the same effect,” advises Sabatini.
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Navigating tough times
Sabatini emphasizes that if you’re using cannabis constantly to feel better but don’t have a medical diagnosis or professional guidance, you might be masking symptoms rather than addressing them. In such cases, consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action.
Additionally, Sabatini points out that buying from local producers and cooperatives, as well as hunting for the best dispensary deals, can often be a cost-effective way to access cannabis. Many dispensaries offer loyalty programs, bulk-buying discounts, and special promotions that can make legal cannabis more affordable.
“And here’s another tip: if you’re growing at home, don’t throw away the small trimmings from your plants. These can be used for making edibles or other cannabis products,” Sabatini concludes.
As the saying goes, “Every little bit counts when times are tough.”
*This article was submitted by a guest contributor. The author is solely responsible for the content.