The world of cannabis consumption has evolved significantly in the past few years, with many new forms of ingestion becoming available. Gone are the days of only rolling a joint or packing a pipe; now there are countless ways to enjoy cannabis in different forms. In this article, we will explore the various methods of consuming cannabis, including smoking, edibles, tinctures, topicals, vaping, and concentrates.
1. Smoking
The most traditional and well-known method of cannabis consumption is smoking. Smoking involves inhaling the smoke produced by burning the dried flower of the cannabis plant. There are a variety of ways to smoke cannabis, including rolling joints, using pipes, and smoking bongs. The effects of smoking cannabis are typically felt within minutes and can last as little as half an hour, or several hours depending on the individual and the potency of the cannabis.
2. Edibles
Another popular method of consuming cannabis is through the ingestion of edibles. Edibles can come in various forms, such as brownies, cookies, gummies, and even beverages. They are created by infusing cannabis into a fat-based substance, such as butter or oil, which is then incorporated into a food product. The onset of the effects of edibles usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours and can last for several hours, depending on the dose and individual’s metabolism. The fact that edibles can take longer to kick in makes dosing a little trickier than smoking, so it’s important to start with a low dose and be patient.
3. Tinctures
Tinctures are concentrated liquid cannabis extracts that can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to food and beverages. They are made by dissolving cannabis in alcohol, which allows for the extraction of cannabinoids and terpenes. Tinctures are a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis, and the onset of the effects is usually more rapid than edibles—generally within 15 to 45 minutes. Tinctures also allow for precise dosing and can be made with specific ratios of THC to CBD, so they are popular among medicinal cannabis users.
4. Topicals
Topical cannabis products are applied directly to the skin, usually in the form of lotions, balms, or salves. They are mainly used to alleviate localized pain, inflammation, or skin conditions. Topicals do not produce the psychoactive “high” associated with other consumption methods, as they do not enter the bloodstream. Instead, the cannabinoids in topicals interact with the endocannabinoid receptors in the skin, providing targeted relief.
5. Vaping
Vaping, or vaporizing, is a popular alternative to smoking and involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes in the form of vapor, rather than smoke. Vaping can be done using a portable vaporizer or a larger, home-based unit. Many users prefer vaping to smoking, as it is perceived to be a healthier alternative since it does not produce harmful byproducts like tar and carcinogens. Additionally, vaping often gives users a more subtle and controlled experience compared to smoking.
6. Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates, sometimes referred to as oils, waxes, or dabs, are potent extractions of cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. They can be consumed in a variety of ways, such as by dabbing, vaping, or adding them to edibles. Concentrates often have higher levels of THC, which can lead to a more intense and rapid high than other methods of consumption. Due to their potency, concentrates are often sought after by experienced cannabis users or those seeking powerful relief from medical conditions.
In conclusion, there are numerous methods of consuming cannabis, each with its unique advantages and effects. Understanding these different options will help users make an informed decision about the most suitable form of consumption for their needs and preferences. As medical research and legalization continue to advance, we can expect even more innovative ways to consume cannabis in the years to come.
