Consumption methods

A Guide to Cannabis Consumption

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Table of Contents

  1. Inhalation
       a. Smoking
       b. Vaping
  2. Oral
  3. Topical
  4. Find What Works Best for You

Unlocking the full potential of your cannabis experience starts with choosing the perfect product. But the adventure doesn't end there; how you consume it can make all the difference.

Whether you prefer the immediacy of inhalation, the simplicity of oral ingestion, the rapid effects of sublingual application, or the targeted relief of topical use, there's a method for everyone. Dive into the world of cannabis consumption and discover the perfect approach for your needs.

Inhalation

Inhaling cannabis allows for the rapid absorption of active compounds, like THC, into the bloodstream via the lungs, resulting in almost immediate effects. This method is favored by users seeking a quick high.The two primary methods of inhaling cannabis are smoking and vaping.

Smoking

Smoking is a familiar method of cannabis consumption, involving the combustion of cannabis flower and inhalation of the resulting smoke. There are various methods for smoking cannabis flower.

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  • Pipes are favored for their compact size and straightforward design. 
    • Loading the bowl with cannabis, known as “packing,” and igniting it initiates the process. 
    • As you draw, smoke travels through the pipe’s chamber and emerges from the mouthpiece, ready for inhalation.
  • Water pipes, like bongs and bubblers, function similarly to pipes but with an added filtration step. 
    • The smoke is drawn through water, housed in a chamber, which cools it down for a smoother inhalation.
  • Rolling a joint or a blunt offers a classic and straightforward method of consuming cannabis. 
    • Joints are rolled in cigarette form using rolling papers. 
    • Blunts, typically larger and containing more cannabis, can be made by emptying out a cigar and replacing the tobacco with weed or using pre-made blunt wraps.
    • Think of a spliff as a mix between a blunt and a joint. When you roll a spliff, you’re basically wrapping up both cannabis and tobacco in your chosen paper, just like you would with a joint.

Vaping

Vaping has surged in popularity due to technological advancements, offering a cleaner alternative to smoking. This method uses a device to heat cannabis flower or concentrate to a temperature just below combustion, typically between 356 and 374 degrees Fahrenheit.

The heat transforms cannabinoids and terpenes into a vapor, which is then inhaled. Unlike smoking, vaping doesn’t produce tar or carcinogens, making it a potentially healthier option for cannabis consumption.

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  • Vaporizers are a flexible choice for consuming cannabis, accommodating both concentrates and flower. 
    • Load your cannabis into the heating chamber, adjust the temperature to your liking, and inhale the smooth vapor through the mouthpiece. 
    • Whether you prefer a tabletop model or a portable device, vaporizers offer convenience and discretion for your cannabis enjoyment.
  • Vape pens are sleek devices available in various styles tailored for oils or distillates.
    • They typically include a cartridge for holding cannabis oil or distillate and a heating battery. 
    • To mitigate health risks, it’s crucial to acquire vape pens from legitimate, trusted sources, as illicit products have been associated with lung complications.
  • Dabbing is a method of consuming cannabis concentrate using a specialized device called a dab rig. 
    • This process involves heating a surface, typically made of glass, ceramic, or titanium, to a high temperature and then applying a small amount of concentrate onto the heated surface. 
    • The concentrate instantly vaporizes, creating a potent vapor that is inhaled through the rig. 

Oral

When it comes to consuming cannabis orally, there are two primary methods.

  • Edibles offer a straightforward experience — simply eat, drink, swallow, and anticipate the effects to gradually emerge.
    • This method leads to a delayed onset of effects, usually felt between 20 minutes and three hours after consumption. 
    • When you enjoy a cannabis-infused beverage, baked treat, or gummy, the cannabinoids travel through your digestive system. 
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  • Tinctures are crafted by soaking cannabis in alcohol and are typically absorbed under the tongue (sublingually). 
    • For the full effect, place a few drops of the tincture beneath your tongue and hold it there to allow for absorption. Swallow the rest of the liquid. 
    • Any cannabinoids not absorbed sublingually will be absorbed through the digestive system. 
    • This dual absorption process means that tinctures taken sublingually can have a rapid onset of effects, followed by another onset later, similar to an edible.

Topical

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Topicals offer a unique delivery method for cannabinoids, as they are absorbed through the skin to provide localized relief for issues like pain or muscle soreness. Unlike other methods, topicals do not produce psychoactive effects, making them a preferred choice for those seeking targeted relief without a "high."

Find What Works Best for You

With a plethora of consumption methods available, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Your ideal method will depend on the cannabis product, your preferences, and the experience you’re seeking.

Now equipped with an understanding of the various methods, you’re empowered to select the perfect consumption method for your needs.