Methods Of Consuming Cannabis

Cannabis has been consumed for many years in many different ways. In the very beginning, cannabis plants were simply laid down on a fire while people inhaled the smoke. As we evolved, so did our cannabis consumption methods. We will go through the different cannabis consumption methods we have at this point so you can determine the best way for you to use cannabis and achieve the desired effects.

Different Cannabis Consumption Methods

Due to its medical potential and recreational purpose, many people have become increasingly interested in finding different ways to consume this plant. Popular methods of cannabis consumption include:

• Smoking
• Vaping
• Edibles
• Dabbing
• Tinctures
• Topicals

Smoking 

The oldest form of cannabis consumption includes any form of smoking cannabis. This includes rolling it up in paper, stacking a pipe or bong, or simply the age-old act of inhaling the smoke produced from burning the leaves on open fires. This ritualistic aspect of smoking cannabis is a big reason for its appeal.

Smoking cannabis allows cannabinoids to absorb directly into your bloodstream, leading to a fast onset of effects. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other consumption methods. This makes smoking cannabis the go-to method of consumption for many users. However, you will need to consider the negative effects of smoking.

Edibles

Edibles are food and drinks that are infused with cannabis. This can be done by decarboxylating cannabis, infusing it into oil, butter, or another base substance, and using the cannabis infusion to make other food. These days, you can find basically anything that is cannabis-infused, including gummies, cookies, brownies, soft drinks, butter, cooking oil, ice cream, and so much more.

Edibles get processed through the liver and stomach. This means that you will experience a longer onset of effects and usually a stronger experience, especially if you are not used to edibles. You can easily dose edibles, they can be very tasty, and they are so easy to use. However, you need to be careful. Start low and go slow, as edibles take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. You can always take more later, but you cannot do anything if you have already taken too much.

Vaping

Cannabis vaping has risen in popularity over the past few years due to the fact that it is much safer than smoking cannabis, yet still an efficient way to get high. Cannabis vaporisers heat up cannabis oil or dry herbs until it produces a vapour. Vapes are easy to use, more discreet, and super portable. Tabletop vaporisers are another option for some more power behind your puffs or versatility in what you want to vaporise. 

Since vaporisation occurs at a much lower temperature than combustion when smoking cannabis does, it is much smoother on your throat. It also preserves the terpenes and cannabinoids better, meaning you will experience better flavour, more aromas, and potentially more intense effects. 

Dabbing

Dabs are a very potent and concentrated form of cannabis, also known as concentrates or extracts. They come in many different forms, including oils, waxes, shatters, and more. All of these can be consumed via a dab rig, a device that looks like a bong with a nail instead of a bowl. This nail is made of material that can withstand high temperatures, and you will torch this nail, then place your concentrates on top to vaporise them.

Dabbing is recommended for the more experienced cannabis consumers due to the fact that concentrates are much more potent than flowers. Make sure that you start out with some other methods and get more familiar with the effects of cannabis before you try out dabbing cannabis.

Tinctures

Tinctures are cannabis-infused liquids that contain specific extracted cannabis compounds. They are usually administered under the tongue and enter the bloodstream immediately. This allows for immediate and fast-acting effects with precise dosage control. Tinctures are available in many profiles, making them suitable for certain purposes, including alleviating pain, aiding sleep, reducing fatigue, suppressing nausea, relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety, and so much more.

These drops are easy to use, discreet, and very versatile, making them a great choice for medical cannabis patients. You can also find capsules with similar effects, but those take longer to act. 

Topicals

Although not technically a consumption method, topicals are cannabis infused lotions, balms, and oils that you can apply directly onto the skin. This can be to relieve pain in that area, reduce inflammation, moisturise dry skin, and more. Topicals are a great consumption method to treat symptoms without experiencing the psychoactive effects of cannabis, giving you clear-headed relief.

Which Cannabis Consumption Method Will Suit Me Best?

Although it mostly comes down to what you want from your cannabis experience, you should pick your cannabis consumption method based on the following factors:

• Your experience level: If you have never consumed cannabis before, start with a low dose and wait long enough before taking more. Vaping, smoking, and low doses of edibles are a good start, while dabbing is for more experienced consumers. Be careful – even bong hits hit harder than other smoking methods!

• The circumstance/situation: Remember to consider what you will be doing once you have consumed your cannabis. If you want to be discreet because your neighbours are nosy, edibles or vaping are good bets. Effective pain relief can be left up to topicals or bong hits. If you are looking to fall asleep, a tincture might be just what you need. 

• Personal preference: Some people just prefer certain consumption methods over others, some switch it up as they go. It really depends on what you want from your cannabis experience and how you feel comfortable with getting it.

When it comes to consuming cannabis, there is a method to fit every user’s preference and lifestyle. It might take some testing and trial and error, but it will be worth it once you find what works best for you. Then, you will be able to enjoy all of the benefits of cannabis and have the best experience possible while doing so. Make sure you always buy your products from a reputable source, and enjoy cannabis responsibly.