As cannabis consumption gains more popularity and social acceptance worldwide due to its therapeutic benefits, the array of consumption methods has broadened. From traditional smoking to innovative inhalation methods, sublingual administration, and edibles, the methods of consuming cannabis are diverse and tailored to users’ individual preferences and needs. This article demystifies the commonly used cannabis consumption methods, which can be grouped into inhalation, oral, topical, and hybrid.
Inhalation Methods: Smoking and Vaporizing
Arguably, the most recognized consumption method involves inhalation – either by smoking or vaporizing. Traditional smoking methods include hand-rolled joints, blunts, pipes, and bongs. When smoking, cannabis is ignited, and the resulting smoke is inhaled. While this allows for immediate effects, it is noted that smoking cannabis can expose the user to harmful toxins.
Vaporizing or vaping is a less harmful alternative to smoking, where the cannabis is heated to a temperature that releases its active compounds into a vapor, without combustion. This method is favored for its immediate effects, and the lower health risks posed as compared to traditional smoking.
Oral Methods: Edibles, Tinctures, Oils, and Capsules
These methods involve consuming cannabis by mouth through ingestion or absorption. Edibles, one of the famous methods, contain cannabis, which can be in the form of baked goods, candies, beverages, and more. As the digestive system processes these edibles, it can take a while for the effects to kick in, but they are usually stronger and last longer.
Tinctures are alcohol-based cannabis extracts that typically come in a bottle with a dropper. They are taken by placing a few drops under the tongue – a method known as sublingual administration. They can also be added to food or drinks.
Cannabis oils and capsules are other oral methods. Both are easy to dose and longer-lasting, but similar to edibles, it may take longer for their effects to be felt as they need to be processed by the digestive system.
Topicals: Creams, Lotions, and Salves
Topicals, including lotions, salves, balms, and oils that contain cannabis, are applied directly to the skin. They allow localized relief for inflammation and pain while leaving the consumer free of the psychoactive effects. Thus, they are an ideal method for those who need targeted relief.
Hybrid: Concentrates
Concentrates fall under hybrid methods owing to their versatility– they can be smoked, vaped, ingested, or applied topically. These are highly concentrated forms of cannabis where almost all the plant matter is extracted, leaving basically the active compounds.
Cannabis consumption methods are as diverse as the individuals who use it, with each method delivering a unique experience, onset time, and duration of effects. It is advisable to respect the fundamental mandate of starting with a low dose and going slow, especially for beginners and when trying out a new method.
In the world of cannabis consumption, knowledge is power. Taking the time to understand each delivery method can help consumers make informed decisions and enhance their cannabis consumption experience. From smoking to vaporizing, edibles, tinctures, topicals, concentrates, oils, capsules, or sublingual administration, there are countless ways to consume cannabis, providing options to suit every consumer’s lifestyle and therapeutic needs.
Sources:
1. Healthline – How to Consume Marijuana
2. Leafly – The Complete List of Cannabis Delivery Methods
3. Cannigma – Different Ways to Consume Cannabis
4. Royal Queen Seeds – The Different Types of Cannabis Concentrates
