The Different Ways to Consume Cannabis

The advent of legal cannabis has brought about big developments in the ways we get high. Long gone are the days when smoking a joint or hitting a bong were the only ways to feel the effects Mary Jane offers. Nowadays, a multitude of delivery methods are at our disposal, making it simpler than ever to find a bit of relief. Curious about the most common forms of consumption? Read on for our guide?

Flower – Tried and True

Cannabis at its very core is a plant, and no matter how popular other methods become, enjoying pure flower harvested and cured at its peak is always a pleasant experience. While bud is typically smoked in a pipe or joint, it can also be vaporized using a special device. What’s the difference? Smoking means you’re actually setting the plant on fire and inhaling the smoke, while vaporizers utilize heating elements set to lower temperatures than standard combustion to create a vapor you breathe in, eliminating potentially harmful byproducts. Some of the most popular vaporizers on the market include the Volcano and the Pax.

Concentrates – Cannabis 2.0

Also known as dabs, concentrates such as wax, shatter, and live resin are the result of various extraction methods that seek to separate the active ingredients in cannabis from the plant material. These oily products typically have much higher cannabinoid levels than your standard bud and are consumed via vaporization. It’s important to note that flower vaporizer and concentrate vaporizers are different due to the viscous nature of dabs versus ground herbs, so make sure you’re using the right device at the right time. Pre-filled, disposable vape pens make it easier than ever to harness the power of your favorite strain in a discreet, easy-to-use way.

Edibles – More than Your Grandma’s Pot Brownies

Much like other forms of cannabis consumption, edibles have come a long way. A wide variety of cannabinoid-infused food and drink items are now available, from microwave popcorn to orange soda – and the majority taste nothing like pot! Edibles take longer to kick in than inhaling, anywhere from 30-60 minutes (or even longer depending on your metabolism). That’s why it’s critical to start low and go slow when it comes to these types of products. Some professionals recommend a starting dose of 10mg but it’s this writer’s opinion that 5mg could be more than enough for some novice cannabis consumers.

Topicals – Treatment Without the Buzz

One of the most popular categories of cannabis goods on the market today is topicals, with dozens of cannabinoid-infused salves, lotions, and transdermal patches available. Topicals are applied directly to problem areas in order to offer localized benefits without the risk of active ingredients reaching the bloodstream (i.e., no psychoactive effect). Popular for sufferers of arthritis, muscle pain, and spasms, topicals have also shown efficacy in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. 

Sublinguals – Speedy Relief in Sprays or Drops

Under the tongue drops containing THC or CBD are also gaining prominence due to their ease of use and fast-acting nature. Sublinguals use the mucous membranes in the mouth to deliver cannabinoids to the bloodstream, with effects seen in five to ten minutes. These products are fantastic for people with seizure disorders or anxiety since they kick in quick and can be utilized by caregivers to help their loved ones cope with a distressing medical episode in mere moments. 

Choosing the right cannabis consumption method for you may take some trial and error, as each way offers unique effects and benefits. Don’t be afraid to ask a trusted resource or friendly dispensary employee for more information – knowledge is power!