A shopper’s guide to Alaska weed: Strains, concentrates, edibles and more

Beryl Dell buys three eighth-ounce packets of marijuana from budtender Jerriann Kruger and manager Angelica Horton at Cannabaska during their 420 sale on Friday, April 20, 2018.

The cannabis industry in the 49th state has evolved in recent years, providing Alaskans and visitors with a wide array of consumption choices.

Traditionally, indica strains have had a reputation for creating a more full-body, relaxing effect, whereas sativa strains are reputed to be more cerebral and energizing.

But predicting the effects of a strain is far more nuanced, and there’s no hard and fast rule.

Randy Wells is the owner of The Tufted Puffin in Seward.

“Having no idea what all the terpenes are that are in that same strain, you’re not necessarily going to get the effect you’re shopping for.

Gavin Spudwills is a budtender at Uncle Herb’s, which has locations in Anchorage and Homer.

Michelle Cleaver, owner of Weed Dudes in Sitka, says you have to match each person with the effects they prefer.

“I say to take maybe one to two puffs, and then you put it out and wait 15 minutes …

You can find their products throughout stores in the state, including The 420 in Petersburg, Pipe & Leaf in Fairbanks, Weed Dudes in Sitka and numerous shops in Anchorage.

Marijuana concentrates — highly potent products that have a greater proportion of terpenes and cannabinoids — are an option for more avid marijuana users.

“We sell a lot of vape cartridges, which are those concentrates,” Cleaver said.

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