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  • Bailey Porras

Head Shops vs Dispensaries – What’s the Difference?


In the marijuana community, terms and slang seem to be constantly evolving. There is so much slang used to refer to cannabis and all of the things associated with it.


One of the most commonly used terms in the world of smoking is “head shop.” Chances are, you have probably heard of this. If you are new to, or just aware of the medical marijuana community, you may have also heard the term “dispensary.”


So, what’s the difference between head shops and dispensaries, and do they sell the same types of products?


What Is a Head Shop?


Although many people use the terms “dispensary” and “head shop” interchangeably, there are some huge differences between the two types of shops.


Head shops have been around for many many years, nationwide. They are known for their selection of tobacco and tobacco-related products for the most part.


Head shops do not sell marijuana, but they may sell marijuana accessories or related products, such as pipes, bongs, CBD items, and more.


Head Shop vs Dispensary


Although you can buy marijuana paraphernalia such as smoking instruments and related products at head shops, you can also buy them straight from your local dispensary.


Dispensaries are truly your one stop shop. They carry everything you could want for your medical marijuana journey, from the actual product to many different ways to ingest it.


If you go to a head shop and ask them what type of smoking device or ingestion method is best for you, they will not be able to answer you with the information you need. Sure, they might know what is most popular, but budtenders at your local dispensaries have it down to a science.


Budtenders must take preparatory courses and receive certifications in order to work at a Virginia dispensary. They are knowledgeable about not only their products, but also qualifying conditions and what type of medicine, dosage level, and strain would work best for your personal needs. If you are new to the medical marijuana program, you should always seek advice and try different things until you find what works best for you.


Dispensaries are also few and far between, and it is always a good idea to support the medical marijuana market. The more traction it gains, the better the program will be.


The tobacco market, however, is already established, so try to stick to buying from dispensaries if you want the State of Virginia to recognize the value of its medical marijuana market.

Visit Your Local Dispensary Today!


If you would like to visit a dispensary and see the magic for yourself, you will first need your very own Virginia marijuana card. If you think cannabis could help you with your quality of life, there is a good chance you will qualify.


Schedule an evaluation online today, and we’ll book an appointment for you with one of our experienced, compassionate cannabis doctors. You’ll meet with your new doctor via a telemedicine appointment, using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.


During the appointment, you will find out if you qualify for a Virginia Marijuana Card (and get one if you do) without even leaving the comfort of your home!


 

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.


At Virginia Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness

safely and conveniently through increased access to MMJ. Our focus on

education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by

providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.


Call us at (888) 633-5808, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today! Check out Virginia Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the medical marijuana conversation in Virginia!

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