As a cannabis expert, one of the most common questions I get asked by new users is: What are the different ways to consume cannabis? There are actually several ways to consume cannabis, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
In this article, I’ll give you a breakdown of the three main categories of consumption methods:
- 1. Smoking
- 2. Edibles
- 3. Vaporizing
Plus other bonus methods!
1. Smoking
Smoking is probably the most well-known and traditional way of consuming cannabis. It involves burning dried cannabis flowers and inhaling the resulting smoke. Smoking can be done using various devices, such as pipes, bongs, and rolling papers. Rolling joints, in particular, are fantastic for social occasions, and there’s a lot of room for experimentation. Some people include other products in their doobies (like hash), some twax them (i.e. decorating the outside with THC concentrated, and some just outright smoke kief in joint as well as other byproducts to send them intersteallar!
One of the main advantages of smoking is that it offers quick and potent effects. Because the smoke enters the lungs and bloodstream directly, the effects can be felt almost immediately.
However, smoking can also have several drawbacks. For one, it can be harsh on the throat and lungs, leading to coughing and respiratory problems in some people. Smoking also produces a strong odor and can be difficult to conceal. Additionally, the effects of smoking tend to wear off relatively quickly, so users may need to smoke more frequently to maintain their desired level of effects.
2. Edibles
Edibles are a popular alternative to smoking, especially for those who prefer not to inhale smoke. Edibles are cannabis-infused foods and beverages, such as brownies, gummies, and tea. They can be made using various forms of cannabis, such as dried flowers or concentrates. If you want to get into edibles, I’d recommend first learning how to make cannabutter fast and in bulk as a base for all your master cheffing pursuits, and then you can branch out into other concentrates and methods of infusion too.
One of the main advantages of edibles is that they offer a longer-lasting and more gradual high compared to smoking. Because the THC is absorbed through the digestive system, the effects can take longer to kick in but can last for several hours.
However, edibles also have some downsides. For one, they can be difficult to dose accurately, as the effects can take up to two hours to fully manifest. This can lead to accidental overconsumption and unpleasant experiences. Edibles also tend to have a stronger and more unpredictable effect compared to smoking, as they are metabolized differently by the body.
3. Vaporizing
Vaporizing, or vaping, involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases its active compounds in the form of vapor. Vaporizing can be done using various devices, such as vaporizer pens and tabletop vaporizers.
One of the main advantages of vaporizing is that it offers a more health-conscious alternative to smoking. Vaporizing produces less smoke and is less harsh on the throat and lungs.
Additionally, vaporizing allows for more precise dosing compared to smoking, as users can control the temperature and amount of cannabis being vaporized. The absence of burning tends to produce a more subtle and less pungent odor compared to smoking. PLUS all that tasty leftover AVB (“already vaped bud”) has many uses for getting the most out of your cannabinoids!
However, vaporizing can also have some drawbacks. For one, it can be more expensive compared to smoking, as it requires specialized equipment. Vaporizing can also be less convenient compared to smoking, as it requires more preparation and maintenance.
4. Bonus Methods!
Finally, there are several other ways to consume cannabis that don’t fit neatly into the smoking, edibles, or vaporizing categories. For example, topical products, such as creams and balms, can be applied directly to the skin for localized pain relief. Tinctures, which are concentrated liquid extracts, can be taken orally or sublingually (under the tongue). Dabbing, which involves inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates, is another popular method among more experienced users.
When it comes to choosing a consumption method, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and needs. Each method has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s also important to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed to avoid overconsumption and unpleasant experiences.
Summary
There are many different ways to consume cannabis, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. It is important for new users to understand these options and choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences. Smoking, edibles, vaporizing, and other methods all have their own advantages and potential risks, so it is important to educate oneself and use cannabis responsibly.
Remember to always start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and never operate heavy machinery or drive while under the influence of cannabis. By following these guidelines, new users can safely and effectively explore the many benefits that cannabis has to offer.
