On May 25, 2022 Democratic Governor Dan McKee signed legislation (The Rhode Island Cannabis Act) into law legalizing the personal use and licensed retail sale of marijuana to those age 21 or older. Provisions in the law permitting adults to possess and home cultivate marijuana took effect upon signing. 

The Rhode Island Cannabis Act allows adults age 21 and up to possess (up to one ounce in public or up to 10 ounces at home), home-cultivate (up to six plants, no more than three mature), and purchase limited amounts of cannabis. It also facilitates the automatic review and expungement of past criminal records. Under the measure, records must be vacated no later than by July 1, 2024.

Yes!  By the Department of Health Standards, Rhode Island can now accept out of state medical marijuana patients. Rhode Island currently has full reciprocity with each state within the United States. Please bring an up-to-date form of identification. This includes a Passport, State license, or State Issued Identification Card as well as your medical marijuana card. Expired forms of identification cannot be accepted, even if Medical Marijuana Patient card/document is valid and up-to-date. 

At Aura of Rhode Island we offer a wide range of products to cater to different preferences and needs. When visiting our dispensary, the following types of cannabis products can be found.

• Flower (Buds): Also known as cannabis buds or marijuana flowers, these are the dried and cured portions of the cannabis plant. They come in various strains, each with unique aromas, flavors, and effects. Flower is primarily used for smoking and vaporizing.
• Edibles: Cannabis-infused edibles are food and beverage products that contain cannabinoids, usually THC or CBD. Popular edibles include gummies, chocolates, cookies, brownies, candies, and beverages. Edibles offer a smoke-free way to consume cannabis and can provide longer-lasting effects.
• Concentrates: Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts of the plant, featuring higher levels of cannabinoids than regular flower. Concentrates are commonly used for dabbing or vaporizing, offering a rapid onset of effects Common types of concentrates include:
  • Hash: Compressed resin extracted from the cannabis plant.
  • Wax: A sticky, crumbly concentrate with high THC content.
  • Shatter: A glass-like concentrate that shatters when broken.
  • Oil and Tinctures: Liquid concentrates usually taken sublingually or added to food/drink.
  • Rosin: A solventless concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower.
• Topicals: Cannabis topicals are infused lotions, balms, or creams designed to be applied directly to the skin. They provide localized relief without producing psychoactive effects, making them suitable for targeted pain relief and skincare.
• Pre-Rolls and Infused Pre-Rolls: Pre-rolls are pre-made cannabis cigarettes filled with ground flower. Infused pre-rolls take it a step further and include a concentrate like kief or hash which increases the THC exponentially. They offer a convenient way to enjoy cannabis without the need for rolling your own.
• Accessories: We offer a variety of accessories to enhance the cannabis experience, including:
  • Vaporizers: Vaporizers or vapes are devices that heat cannabis flower or concentrates to release cannabinoids and terpenes as vapor, without combustion. They come in various forms, including handheld pens and desktop models.
  • Grinders: Used to break down cannabis buds into smaller pieces for smoking or vaporizing.
  • Pipes and Bongs: Devices for smoking cannabis flower.
  • Dab Rigs: Used to consume cannabis concentrates through dabbing.
  • Rolling Papers: For rolling your own joints or blunts.
  • Vape Batteries and Cartridges: For use with cannabis vape pens.

It’s essential to choose products based on your experience level, desired effects, and consumption preferences. Beginners might prefer edibles or vaporizers, while experienced users may enjoy concentrates or smoking flower. Always start with a low dose, especially with edibles, as the effects can take longer to kick in and can be more potent. For medical use, consult with a healthcare professional or budtender to find the most suitable products for your specific needs.

• Sativa Strains:
  • Characteristics: Sativa strains are typically tall with narrow leaves and thrive in warm climates. They have a higher ratio of THC to CBD, leading to more psychoactive effects.
  • Effects: Sativas are known for providing an uplifting and energizing experience, often described as cerebral and creative. They can enhance focus, boost mood, and spark social interactions.
  • Potential Medical Benefits: Sativa strains may be useful for managing symptoms of depression, fatigue, and ADHD. They can also stimulate appetite and reduce nausea.
• Indica Strains:
  • Characteristics: Indica strains are usually shorter and bushier with wider leaves, suited for cooler climates. They have a higher CBD to THC ratio, resulting in more relaxing effects.
  • Effects: Indicas are renowned for their calming and sedative effects, inducing a body-high that can alleviate stress and promote relaxation and sleep.
  • Potential Medical Benefits: Indica strains are often used to manage anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and muscle spasms. They can also be helpful in stimulating appetite and easing nausea.
• Hybrid Strains:
  • Characteristics: Hybrid strains are a mix of both sativa and indica genetics, creating a wide range of possibilities in terms of effects and characteristics.
  • Effects: Depending on the specific hybrid, effects can vary widely. Some hybrids may lean more towards the energizing side, while others are more calming.
  • Potential Medical Benefits: Hybrid strains can offer a blend of the benefits from both sativas and indicas, making them versatile for addressing different medical conditions.

Choosing the right cannabis product for you involves considering several factors based on your individual preferences, desired effects, potency tolerance, and preferred consumption methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Identify Your Purpose: Determine the primary reason for using cannabis. Are you looking for relaxation, stress relief, pain management, improved focus, or something else? Knowing your purpose will guide you in selecting the right product.
• Understand Cannabinoids: Familiarize yourself with cannabinoids, the chemical compounds found in cannabis. The two main ones are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, while CBD offers more therapeutic benefits without intoxication.
•  Consider the THC-to-CBD Ratio: Products with higher THC content generally offer more potent psychoactive effects, while those with higher CBD content tend to have more calming and medicinal properties. Finding the right balance depends on your preferences and desired effects.
• Select the Consumption Method: Decide how you want to consume cannabis. Common methods include smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and capsules. Each method has different onset times and durations of effects.
• Start Low and Go Slow: If you are new to cannabis or trying a new product, always start with a low dosage. This approach allows you to gauge your tolerance and prevent overwhelming experiences.
• Read Product Labels: Check the product labels for information on THC/CBD content, ingredients, and potential allergens. Choose products from reputable sources that provide detailed information.
• Seek Expert Advice: Consult with our knowledgeable budtenders or cannabis experts here at Aura. They can guide you through product selection based on your preferences and needs.
•  Consider Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its flavor and aroma. Different terpenes can also influence the effects. For example, myrcene may offer relaxing properties, while limonene may provide an uplifting effect.
• Explore Product Reviews: Look for product reviews from other consumers to get insights into their experiences with specific strains or products. However, remember that individual responses can vary.
•  Keep a Cannabis Journal: Maintain a journal to record your experiences with different products. Note the strain, dosage, effects, and any adverse reactions. This will help you understand what works best for you over time.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, and they have distinct effects on the body and mind.

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” or euphoric feeling associated with marijuana use.
  • Effects: When THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, it activates the reward system, leading to feelings of pleasure, altered perception of time and space, and increased appetite. It can also cause short-term memory impairment and impact coordination and motor skills.
  • Potential Therapeutic Uses: THC has potential medical benefits, including pain relief, muscle relaxation, nausea and vomiting reduction (commonly used in chemotherapy patients), and increasing appetite (helpful for those with eating disorders or undergoing certain treatments). However, its psychoactive properties can also lead to negative effects such as anxiety and paranoia, especially in high doses.
  • Varying Ratios: The ratio of THC to CBD in cannabis products can vary significantly. Products with high THC content are more likely to produce a potent psychoactive effect, while those with balanced THC and CBD or higher CBD content tend to have more therapeutic effects with less intoxication.
• Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it does not cause a “high” when consumed.
  • Effects: CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which helps regulate various physiological processes. It is known for its potential to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and provide a sense of calmness without impairing cognitive function.
  • Potential Therapeutic Uses: CBD has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic uses, such as managing anxiety and stress, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and helping with certain seizure disorders (e.g., in cases of epilepsy). It is also being studied for its potential in alleviating symptoms associated with various medical conditions.
  • Varying Ratios: CBD-dominant products or those with a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD are often sought by individuals who want the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the intoxicating effects of THC.

CBD and THC in Different Products:

• Full-spectrum products: Contain a wide range of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, along with other compounds like terpenes. They may have trace amounts of THC, but not enough to cause intoxication in most cases.
• Broad-spectrum products: Similar to full-spectrum, but with the THC removed, making them a good option for individuals who want to avoid THC entirely.
• CBD isolate products: Contain only pure CBD, with no other cannabinoids or compounds.

It’s important to note that the effects of THC and CBD can vary depending on the individual’s tolerance, the specific strain of cannabis, the method of consumption, and the dosage. If you are considering using cannabis for medical purposes, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach and the appropriate THC-to-CBD ratio for your specific needs.

Each method has its own pros and cons, and the best option depends on individual preferences, experience, and desired effects. Here’s an overview of some common cannabis consumption methods:

• Smoking:
  • Pros: Smoking is one of the most traditional methods of cannabis consumption. It provides rapid onset of effects, allowing users to feel the effects almost immediately. It’s also relatively easy to control the dosage by taking smaller or larger hits.
  • Cons: Smoking can be harsh on the lungs and respiratory system. Regular smoking may lead to coughing, throat irritation, and long-term respiratory issues. Additionally, it produces a distinct cannabis smell, which may not be ideal for those concerned about discretion
• Vaporizing (Vaping):

  • Pros: Vaporizing cannabis heats it to a temperature where the active compounds are released as vapor, rather than smoke. This reduces exposure to harmful toxins found in smoke. Vaping is discreet and provides a quicker onset of effects than edibles.

  • Cons: Quality vaporizers can be expensive. Also, lower-quality devices may produce harmful byproducts.

• Edibles:

  • Pros: Edibles offer a smoke-free option and have no impact on lung health. They come in various forms like gummies, chocolates, cookies, and beverages, making them enjoyable for those who prefer not to smoke.

  • Cons: The onset of effects is delayed compared to smoking or vaping (can take 30 minutes to 2 hours). It’s crucial to start with a low dose as the effects can be more potent and long-lasting. Overconsumption can lead to uncomfortable experiences or “greening out.”