Cannabis consumption has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more countries legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational use, people are curious about the different ways they can consume it. There are several methods of consuming cannabis, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the four most popular methods of cannabis consumption: smoking, vaping, edibles, and topicals.
- Smoking
Smoking is the most common method of cannabis consumption. It involves inhaling the smoke produced by burning cannabis flowers. The smoke contains cannabinoids and terpenes, which are responsible for the psychoactive effects and unique flavors of each strain.
Smoking cannabis can be done using various tools, such as pipes, bongs, and joints. A pipe is a small handheld device that allows you to smoke cannabis directly. A bong, on the other hand, uses water to filter the smoke and cool it down before inhaling. A joint is a rolled-up cigarette made from cannabis flowers and is the most common way of smoking cannabis.
The main advantage of smoking cannabis is the quick onset of effects, with users typically feeling the effects within minutes of inhaling. However, smoking can also have some negative effects on lung health and may produce a harsher, more irritating smoke.
2. Vaporizing
Vaporizing, also known as vaping, is a method of cannabis consumption that involves heating the cannabis flowers or concentrates to a temperature that releases the active compounds in the form of vapor. This vapor is then inhaled into the lungs.
Vaporizers come in different shapes and sizes, from small handheld devices to large tabletop units. They can be used with dry herb flowers, oil concentrates, or e-liquids.
Vaporizing has become a popular method of cannabis consumption because it produces a smoother and less irritating vapor than smoking. It also allows users to control the temperature and dose more accurately, making it a more efficient and economical method.
3. Edibles
Edibles are cannabis-infused food products that come in various forms, such as gummies, chocolates, brownies, and drinks. Edibles are a discreet and convenient way of consuming cannabis, as they do not produce any smoke or odor.
If you’re interested in trying edibles, you have the option of either making them yourself at home or purchasing them from a licensed dispensary. However, it’s important to keep in mind that edibles can take up to two hours to take effect, but the effects can last for several hours. If you’re a beginner to edibles, it’s recommended to start with a small amount and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. So, take a small bite initially and give it some time to take effect before deciding to consume more.
4. Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused products that are applied directly to the skin. They come in the form of creams, lotions, balms, and patches and are designed to provide localized relief for pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.
Topicals work by penetrating the skin and interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the skin, muscles, and joints. They do not produce any psychoactive effects as they do not enter the bloodstream.
Topicals are a popular option for those who want the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. They are also a non-invasive and discreet way of consuming cannabis. It is important to start with a low dose when using cannabis topicals, as they can take up to two hours to take effect, and the effects can last for several hours.
Conclusion
Cannabis consumption is a personal choice, and there are numerous methods available to do so. The four most common ones include edibles, vaping, smoking, and topicals, each providing a distinct experience. As everyone has unique preferences, discovering your preferred method of consumption may require some experimentation. Cannabis has proven effective in treating various conditions, but it is essential to consume it in moderation. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it can help determine your ideal dosage. EliteBudsBC, an online dispensary, offers a vast range of cannabis products to help you find the perfect one for you.