Types of Cannabis Consumption Methods
When cannabis is mentioned, the first thing that usually comes to mind is smoking a joint. This makes most newbies believe that this is the only way to consume weed. Truth be told, there are actually a variety of cannabis consumption methods, and each has its own set of effects.
The method you choose to consume cannabis will have an effect on the THC that enters your system. For instance, when you smoke a joint, almost all of the THC is absorbed into your system.
However, when you eat an edible, only a fraction of the THC is absorbed because it has to go through your digestive system first.
If you’re planning on growing your own marijuana clones this year, you can save lots of money by simply making thee type of cannabis you’d like to consume right at home.
To help you discover the best method of consuming cannabis for your needs, we are going to discuss the different types of cannabis consumption methods and their effects.
Inhaling Consumption Methods
The art of consuming cannabis by inhaling it into your lungs has been around for centuries. The first recorded use of this method was in China over 2,500 years ago. Cannabis was smoked as part of ceremonies and rituals.
Inhaling cannabis smoke into your lungs is the most common and popular method of consumption. Moreover, users can inhale cannabis in a number of ways, including:
Smoking Joints or Blunts
The consumption of cannabis through the smoking of blunts or joints is perhaps the most popular form of inhaling. This is likely because it is the easiest and most common way to consume cannabis, especially for first-time users.
To smoke a blunt or joint, users simply need to roll the cannabis on a paper, light it, and inhale the smoke. The effects of smoking blunts or joints are felt almost immediately as the THC is absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.
Bongs
Bongs are water pipes that are designed for the smoking of cannabis. Bongs have become increasingly popular in recent years as they offer a smooth and potent smoking experience.
To smoke cannabis using a bong, users will need to fill the bong with water, pack the cannabis into the bowl, light it, and inhale the smoke. The smoke will travel through the water and into the user’s lungs.
The main benefit of using a bong is that it filters out some of the harmful toxins and chemicals that are found in cannabis smoke. This results in a smoother and more potent smoking experience.
Vaping Cannabis
Chances are, you have already set your eyes on a cannabis vaporizer or vape pen. Vaping has become an increasingly popular way to consume cannabis as it is a discreet and convenient way to do so. Vaping is a great way to consume cannabis as it is less harmful than smoking.
To vape cannabis, users will need to purchase a vaporizer or vape pen. These devices heat the cannabis flower or oil to a temperature that is below the point of combustion. This produces a vapor that is rich in cannabinoids, which can then be inhaled.
Dabbing
Dabs are a type of cannabis concentrate that is designed to be vaporized and inhaled. Dabs are high in THC, which makes them a potent option for experienced cannabis users. Dabs can be consumed using a dab rig, which is similar to a bong.
Users will need to heat the dab rig and then apply the dab to the heated surface. The dab will then vaporize, and the user can inhale the vapor.
Hookah
Hookahs have been around for centuries and were originally used for the smoking of tobacco. However, in recent years, they have become increasingly popular for the smoking of cannabis.
Hookahs are similar to bongs as they offer a smooth and potent smoking experience however, they tend to be more social as they can be shared with others.
Consuming Edibles
Edibles are cannabinoids that have been infused into food or drink. Cannabis edibles are a popular option as they offer a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. Edibles can be purchased from dispensaries or can be made at home.
When consuming edibles, it is important to remember that the effects can take up to 2 hours to be felt. This is because cannabinoids must first be metabolized by the liver before they are able to enter the bloodstream.
Cannabis edibles may come in the form of candy, cookies, brownies, gummies, drinks, teas, etc, and offer a delicious way to consume cannabis for those that don’t want the side effects of smoke inhalation.
Sublingual Consumption
Sublingual products are cannabinoid-infused products that are designed to be consumed by being placed under the tongue.
Sublingual products have recently become among the preferred cannabis consumption methods as they are discreet, convenient, and offer a potent smoking experience.
The effects of sublingual products can be felt within minutes as the cannabinoids are absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth.
Sublingual products may come in the form of tinctures, oils, or strips, and can offer a convenient and potent way to consume cannabis.
Topical Consumption
Have you heard of topical cannabis? Topical products are cannabinoid-infused products that are designed to be applied to the skin. For users who are looking for the potential benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects, topicals may be a good option.
Cannabis topicals can be purchased from dispensaries or can be made at home. Topicals may come in the form of creams, lotions, salves, or oils, and can offer a very potent way to consume cannabis.
When topicals are consumed, the cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. They help to reduce inflammation and can offer relief from pain, stiffness, and soreness.
Suppository Consumption
Are you familiar with suppositories? Suppositories are cannabinoid-infused products that are designed to be inserted into the rectum or vagina.
Cannabis suppositories are a unique method of consuming cannabis, especially for users who are looking for relief from conditions such as pain, inflammation, and cramps.
Suppositories offer a very potent way to consume cannabis as the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. They can offer relief within minutes, making them a fast-acting option for cannabis users.
Cannabis suppositories may come in the form of capsules, bombs, or balls, and can be inserted using an applicator.
Wrapping Up
As derived from the discussion above, there are a variety of ways to consume cannabis. The method that you choose will ultimately depend on your preference. Some methods may offer a more potent experience, while others may be more convenient.
Whichever method you choose, make sure that you are familiar with the effects before consuming. If you’re brand new to cannabis it would be worthwhile to read our article on the differences between indica vs sativa vs hybrid cannabis strains.
