Exploring the Many Ways to Consume Cannabis
Cannabis offers a variety of consumption methods to suit everyone, whether you’re seeking a euphoric high or focusing on improving health and well-being. While smoking dried cannabis flower might be the first method that comes to mind, there are countless other ways to consume cannabis that are just as effective, if not more so. With the launch of Instant Janes, we’re diving into the many options available to enhance your cannabis experience.
1. Inhalation
Onset: Immediate
Duration of Effects: 2-4 hours
Inhalation is one of the most popular methods of cannabis consumption, offering rapid effects within minutes. The cannabinoids and terpenes pass directly through the lungs into the bloodstream, making this method effective for acute relief. However, inhalation’s quick onset comes with a shorter duration of effects compared to other methods.
Smoking
The traditional method of consuming cannabis is smoking dried flower. However, burning plant material can produce harmful chemicals like tar and butane fumes, which is why it’s not recommended by healthcare professionals. Smoking methods include:
- Joints: Rolled with cannabis flower and often considered the most popular form.
- Blunts: Similar to joints but made with cigar leaves or wraps.
- Pipes: Available in various materials, with glass often preferred for purity of taste.
- Bongs: Water-cooled for smoother inhalation, reducing harshness.
Vaping
Vaporising heats the plant material or oil without burning it, preserving cannabinoids and terpenes while avoiding harmful byproducts of combustion. Be cautious when choosing vape products, as low-quality options can contain harmful additives like vitamin E acetate.
2. Cannabis Concentrates
Onset: Immediate
Duration of Effects: 1-2 hours
Concentrates like wax, shatter, and oil are potent cannabis extracts with high levels of cannabinoids (50-99%). These products are ideal for experienced users looking for powerful effects but require careful dosing due to their strength.
3. Sublingual
Onset: 15 minutes
Duration of Effects: 4-6 hours
Sublingual products, including tinctures and lozenges, are absorbed under the tongue for faster results. Tinctures are discreet, easy to dose, and longer-lasting than inhalation. For best results, hold the product under your tongue for at least 60 seconds before swallowing.
4. Edibles
Onset: 60-90 minutes
Duration of Effects: 6-8 hours
Edibles, such as cannabis-infused brownies, gummies, and teas, offer a fun and versatile way to consume cannabis. Effects take longer to kick in due to digestion but often last much longer than other methods. Always wait at least 90 minutes before increasing your dose to avoid overconsumption.
Raw cannabis juicing is another innovative method, allowing you to consume cannabinoids in their natural, non-psychoactive form (like THCa and CBDa).
5. Capsules
Onset: 60-90 minutes
Duration of Effects: 6-8 hours
Capsules are convenient and easy to incorporate into daily routines. Like edibles, they must pass through the digestive system, leading to delayed onset and variable absorption rates.
6. Topicals
Onset: 10-20 minutes
Duration of Effects: 2-4 hours
Topical cannabis products, such as creams, lotions, and balms, are applied directly to the skin for localized relief. These products interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, providing benefits without intoxicating effects. High-tech formulations with enhanced penetration ingredients like terpenes may deliver deeper relief.
7. Transdermals
Onset: 10-20 minutes
Duration of Effects: 2-4 hours
Transdermal patches or balms allow cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream, providing systemic relief. These products are a great option for those seeking deeper pain relief without smoking or ingesting.
8. Suppositories
Onset: 10-30 minutes
Duration of Effects: 4-6 hours
Cannabis suppositories, available for both vaginal and rectal use, deliver cannabinoids directly to localized areas. This method provides relief without psychoactive effects, making it ideal for conditions like menstrual cramps or bowel issues.
Our Recommendations
Cannabis consumption is a deeply personal choice, and the best method depends on your needs and preferences. Whether you’re inhaling for quick relief, using topicals for localised care, or exploring edibles for long-lasting effects, there’s an option for everyone.
What’s your favourite way to consume cannabis? Share your experiences in the comments!
Please Note
- Keep CBD out of reach of children.
- These statements have not been evaluated by the MHRA.
- This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- Consult your doctor before using cannabis or CBD products.
- Purchase with The Strange Apothecary and plant a tree with every order.
