From smoking flower buds to vaping concentrates and edibles, there's a wide range of cannabis consumption methods available, all of which have their unique medicinal and recreational benefits. Knowing how to consume cannabis is now an important part of responsible indulgence. Whether you're just trying out cannabis for the first time or are looking for new ways to get your desired effects, here are eight great options so that you can find the perfect consumption method for you.
Smoking
Smoking cannabis involves inhaling cannabis smoke produced by drying cannabis flowers and setting them on fire. They may use a joint, pipe blunt, or bongs. Joints and blunts consist of rolling cannabis into a paper or cigar wrap, respectively, while pipes and bongs allow for the combustion of cannabis through different materials like glass or metal. Each method provides a slightly different experience, with joints and blunts offering a convenient, disposable option and pipes and bongs delivering smoother, filtered hits.
However, it's important to be aware of potential negative effects on the lungs and consider ventilation and breaks. Smoking can also have a strong smell, and may not be discreet. Choose quality products and use caution for a more enjoyable experience. Educate yourself on strains and find the method that suits you best.
Vaping
Vaping involves heating the plant to a point where active compounds are released as vapor while burning or combustion does not occur. For portability and use, people use a vape pen, while the stationary version of this device is called a desktop vaporizer. Unlike smoking, it is believed to be less stressful to the lungs.
Vaping eliminates the process of burning plant material, which generates harmful toxins that irritate. Different types of vaporizers and customizable settings offer customized solutions to suit individual user preferences and needs. When shopping for vaping equipment, purchase from reliable and reputable brands that use quality materials. Many resources are available to help users learn how to use their vaping equipment properly and safely.
Edibles
Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts, such as oils or tinctures. They offer a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis without needing any equipment. These can range from baked goods like cookies and brownies to gummies and chocolates. HHC gummies are one popular type of edible that provides a precise dosage and comes in various flavors. Ensure the products you consume are of quality and are from certified dealers.
When consumed, edibles are absorbed through the digestive system, leading to a slower onset of effects compared to smoking or vaping. The high may also last longer due to the slower digestion process. Be mindful of dosage when consuming edibles, as the effects may take longer to kick in and can be more potent than expected. Beginners should always start with low doses and wait until the effects are apparent before continuing to take CBD.
Topicals
These cannabis-infused products are designed to be applied directly to the skin to provide localized relief. They are specifically formulated to target and alleviate discomfort or inflammation in specific areas of the body. They come in:
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Creams
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Lotions
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Balms
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Patches
Topicals can be used as needed without any concern for intoxication or overdose. Check the ingredients before using topicals, especially if you have any known allergies. It can used to treat:
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Skin problems related to pain and inflammation
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Alleviate symptoms of arthritis, eczema, or psoriasis
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Relief from muscle soreness and tension or menstrual cramps
Tinctures
Tinctures are generally liquids containing alcohol-based extracts of marijuana, which have unique ways of usage and application. They can be taken sublingually as a few drops placed under the tongue for absorption. This technique also has the advantage of being faster since it goes through the mucus membrane inside the mouth and thus enters directly into the circulatory system.
However, you can mix tinctures in your food or drinks, which will make it less obvious that one is taking cannabis. Adaptability enables consumers to design an activity to their satisfaction. You can also use a dropper, making it easy for the user to control their dose. This is especially important for people looking for some special therapeutic effects or who do not want to overdose themselves. Start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more, as tinctures can be highly potent.
Dabbing
Dabbing involves the ingestion of cannabis containing wax or dabs, which is a concentrate obtained from the extraction of terpenes and cannabinoids. Dabs are consumed using a particular device known as a dab rig that instantly vaporizes the concentrated cannabis that is in contact with its surface. The user then inhales the vapor into their lungs. This mode of use produces instantaneous yet potent highs because of the high volumes of cannabinoids in the concentrate. It is best for individuals with conditions such as intense pain and acute diseases.
Capsules
Capsules are pills containing a prescribed amount of cannabis oil or powder, just like every other oral medication. They are known for a delayed onset of effects when compared with other fast-acting procedures like smoking or vaping. In addition, the cannabinoids cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream until the capsules have been digested.
One can feel the impact of taking the drug within thirty minutes to three hours after having it. The release of the cannabinoids is controlled and can be predicted, which means they will provide regular but lasting effects without constant dosing. Users should have enough patience and caution with their dosage, particularly when they are not used to using cannabis and trying out one dose for the first time.
Sublingual Sprays
Sublingual sprays are liquid cannabis extracts usually containing an alcohol base and are sprayed sublingually (under the tongue). The sublingual approach facilitates fast absorption of the active compounds directly into the blood via the tissues underneath the tongue. Compared to oral ingestion, this approach provides quicker initiation as it skips past through the digestive system. Sublingual sprays are convenient and easy to use as they allow them to control what they take. The preferred approach is highly suited for users looking for a fast, reliable, and discreet experience.
Endnote
It is advisable to familiarize yourself first with CBD and its products. Seek professional advice and use online resources on how to use cannabis and its products. Learn the different short and long-term effects of it. Individual reactions to cannabis will vary depending on the particular type of strain used, dose of intake, or tolerability levels. Ensure the products you buy are from certified dealers and of quality and legal standards. First-timers should consult with a healthcare provider to practice safe consumption.
CONSUMING CANNABIS, READ ON...
