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The Best Cannabis Consumption Method: Smoking, Edibles, or Vaping?
May
New to medical marijuana? Wondering the best consumption method? It’s highly advisable to try each method to find what suits you best.
Many Americans now look for a dispensary near me that delivers high-quality cannabis products, which are primarily sold for smoking, eating, or vaping. Though these top 3 methods offer symptom relief and relaxation, they affect the body and mind differently. Below, we compare the effects of edibles versus smoking or vaping to aid your decision.
Contents
Different Consumption Methods
| Aspect | Smoking | Vaping | Edibles |
| Method of Consumption | Combustion of cannabis flowers or concentrates | Heating cannabis plant matter or oil to produce vapor | Ingestion of cannabis-infused products |
| Onset | Rapid onset, typically within minutes after inhalation | Within seconds of inhalation | 15 minutes to 2 hours, based on metabolism and ingestion |
| Intensity | Has a quick onset of euphoria and relaxation (this varies by strain) | Effects peak before 30 minutes (intensity varies by strain) | Explicit potent effects due to the conversion of THC (this can vary by dosage) |
| Duration | 1 to 3 hours | 2 to 3 hours | 4 to 6 hours, or longer if high doses |
| Form | Joints, pipes, bongs | Vaporizers, cartridges | Gummies, chocolate, mints, etc. |
1. Smoking
Smoking marijuana is the fastest way to experience relief from medical symptoms and feel better overall. If you’re just starting your prescribed medical marijuana regimen, consider starting with smoking to find the best consumption method for you.
It means inhaling the smoke from burning the Cannabis plant’s dried parts like flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds. Marijuana has psychoactive compounds, notably delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), causing mind-altering effects. When smoked, THC and other cannabinoids enter the bloodstream through the lungs, leading to relaxation, euphoria, changed perception of time and space, increased appetite, and sometimes heightened senses.
Another advantage of smoking pre-rolls or flowers is having total control over the amount you consume compared to edibles, which have a predetermined dosage with each piece. Cutting edibles into smaller portions can be difficult, but with smoking, you can administer the exact amount you desire.
2. Edibles
Taking medical marijuana in edible form is less predictable than smoking or vaping because the onset of effects can be much longer and more intense. When you eat marijuana edibles instead of smoking or vaping, cannabinoids are absorbed into the body differently.
A key benefit of edibles is their prolonged duration of effects. THC and CBD are ingested in the liver and released gradually into the bloodstream, resulting in a longer and more intense experience than inhalation. This makes edibles preferred for those needing long-lasting relief from issues like pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
Another advantage of edibles is the absence of harsh smoke or vapor, potentially making them healthier for lung health. They also offer a discreet way to take cannabis, often resembling regular food or drinks, allowing users to enjoy the effects without drawing attention.
If smoking or vaping is harsh on your lungs, ordering edibles from the best dispensaries might be the best option for you.
3. Vaping
Vaping cannabis is increasingly popular because of its convenience, quick onset of effects, and customizable experience. It involves heating cannabis flowers or concentrates to vaporize active compounds without combustion, creating an inhaled smooth vapor. This method offers several advantages over other consumption methods.
One primary advantage of vaping cannabis is its rapid onset of effects. When inhaled, cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs, bypassing the digestive system. This leads to quicker onset than edibles, with effects felt within minutes.
Vaping also allows for better control over dosage and potency. Many vaporizers enable users to adjust temperature settings, influencing the release of specific cannabinoids and terpenes and shaping the effects and flavors of the vapor. Vaporizers have precise dosing mechanisms that allow you to measure and control the amount of cannabis consumed.
What Survey Says
Ann Intern Med surveyed 16,280 U.S. adults aged 18 years or older using KnowledgePanel (GfK) to investigate the prevalence of various forms of marijuana use among U.S. adults.
Findings
- The overall response rate was 55.3%. Among all respondents:
- 14.6% reported marijuana use in the past year
- 8.7% reporting use within the past 30 days
- The prevalence of past-year marijuana use was 20%, primarily for recreational purposes.
- 14.1% in medical use and 12% in non-medical
- Regarding specific forms of marijuana use:
- 12.9% reported smoking
- 6% used edibles
- 4.7% vaped
- 1.9% used concentrates
- 0.8% used topicals.
- 6.7% reported using multiple forms
Other important findings were:
- Marijuana use was the highest among individuals aged 18 to 34 years and correlated inversely with age. Smoking marijuana was the most prevalent.
- Men were more likely than women to use marijuana in any form and to use multiple forms, while reported use was similar across racial groups.
- Smoking accounted for 55% of marijuana use, with 53% of individuals using multiple forms reporting smoking and consuming edibles and 31% reporting smoking and vaping.
- The prevalence of edible use varied, with baked goods/pastries and candies being the most commonly consumed forms among U.S. adults.
The researchers discovered that 1 in 7 U.S. adults used marijuana. Smoking was the most popular form, followed by edibles. About 1 in 15 adults used multiple forms.
Considerations for Choosing a Consumption Method
When picking a way to consume cannabis, consider personal preferences, desired effects, onset time, duration, convenience, discretion, and potential health risks. Select a method that aligns with your goals and meets your needs.
Mix Consumption Methods
Some people might mix different cannabis consumption methods to get the effects they want. For instance, using a topical for targeted relief alongside edibles or tinctures for overall relaxation. Combining methods should be done carefully, with attention to dosage.
Potential Effects and Onset Time
Various consumption methods bring different effects and onset times. Smoking and vaping give quick onset but short duration, while edibles offer a longer-lasting experience. Topicals target specific areas, while tinctures are absorbed faster under the tongue.
Dosage and Titration
Start with small doses and increase gradually, especially with edibles and concentrates. Knowing the potency and considering personal tolerance is key to a positive experience.
Safety Considerations
Choose products from trusted medical marijuana delivery services, follow dosage instructions, avoid driving while high, and be aware of potential risks and side effects. People with specific health conditions should consult healthcare professionals.
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No matter your preferred consumption method, it is essential to try each to find the best relief for your symptoms. We prioritize your weed delivery needs while ensuring convenience.
With our cannabis delivery service, medical marijuana patients can easily receive their medical cannabis orders right at their doorstep. Our shop differs from other delivery services as we deliver cannabis with care and delivered promptly. Simply confirm your valid medical marijuana card, valid ID, address, and payment upon delivery order, and our knowledgeable staff will ensure a seamless transaction.
Visit our store to consult with our experienced budtenders, who can help you decide the ideal cannabis consumption method for you. Get your weed delivered straight to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cannabis Edibles Right for Me?
Edibles’ onset time can be much longer than vaping or smoking. Depending on factors like metabolism and tolerance, effects may take 30 minutes to two hours to kick in. This delay can lead to overconsumption.
Its potency can vary greatly, so it’s vital to understand cannabinoid concentration and accurately measure dosage for desired effects. Medical marijuana patients should start with low doses (usually 5-10 mg THC) and increase gradually to gauge tolerance and sensitivity.
Moreover, edibles’ effects can be more pronounced and sedating than those of other methods. The high may be intense and body-focused, promoting deep relaxation or couch-lock. This can be helpful for those seeking treatment for chronic pain, muscle spasms, or insomnia.
Is Vaping Cannabis a Better Option Than Smoking?
Vaping is often seen as a healthier option than smoking cannabis, but there are important factors to weigh. Quality and safety matter—be sure to buy from trusted brands to avoid health risks from poorly made or fake vaporizers.
Also, consider the possibility of building tolerance and dependence with regular vaping. Because effects kick in fast and strong, some may use larger doses more often, leading to tolerance and dependence. Vape responsibly, keeping track of your tolerance and avoiding overuse.
What Are The Dos and Don’ts When Using Edibles?
Do
- Avoid driving or operating huge machinery under the influence, as they may affect judgment and behavior.
- Keep edibles away from children, pets, and others who shouldn’t consume them.
Don’t
- Drink alcohol or use other drugs with edibles, as it can heighten effects.
- Resist the urge to have more if you’re not feeling the effects; wait instead.
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