Traditional Methods of Cannabis Consumption
Smoking
The most common and oldest way of using cannabis is by smoking. This involves the inhalation of smoke given off from the combustion of dried flowers or concentrates.
- Joints are hand-rolled cigarettes filled with ground cannabis. Pipes are small, handheld devices made from a variety of materials, such as glass, wood, or metal, used in smoking cannabis. Bongs are water pipes that filter the smoke through water before it’s inhaled.
These classic tools have been in use for thousands of years and are simple, effective means of consuming cannabis. However, smoking will irritate the lungs and throat and isn’t for everyone.
Edibles
Cannabis is one of the oldest foods to be consumed; most cultures have traditional recipes based around it.
- The baked goods, especially those made with brownies, cookies, and cakes, are a very common use, longstanding in history. Another classic way is teas, either brewed directly from cannabis leaves or by adding cannabis oils.
Oral administration results in a different physiological metabolism of the drug compared with smoking; effects last longer, but onset is usually slower, and dosing can be less precise.
Tinctures
Tinctures are one of the oldest ways to consume medicinal cannabis – dating back to the 19th century.
- Tinctures are concentrated liquid extractions of cannabis that are typically taken sublingually by dropping a few under the tongue, allowing fast absorption into the bloodstream; this is something medical users prefer for precise dosing.
Modern Cannabis Consumption Methods
Vaping
Vaping has emerged as a modern alternative to smoking, with many perceiving it as a possibly healthier and more discreet way of cannabis consumption.
- Vape pens and vaporizers heat cannabis to a temperature where the active compounds are released without combustion, or smoke. This can reduce the intake of potentially harmful byproducts that come from smoking. Vaporizers come in different styles, including small, portable devices or larger desktop units for home use.
Dabbing
Dabbing is a relatively newer way to consume cannabis concentrates but one that has gained popularity among more seasoned users.
- Dabbing is a process of heating a small amount of cannabis concentrate on a hot surface and inhaling the resulting vapor. Concentrates like wax, shatter, and oil have far more THC than dried flowers, so they are much stronger in their effects. Dabbing requires very specific equipment in the form of rigs and may not be ideal for first-time users due to the potency level.
Capsules and Pills
Capsules and pills are simple in use, and far more discreet than inhalation or having to prepare anything.
- Capsules and pills contain an exact dose of cannabinoids and are, therefore, very appealing to medical users who need to dose consistently. They are easily taken and provide a smoke-free alternative. However, they can be a bit slow-acting compared to using inhalation methods, much like edibles.
New Consumption Methods
Transdermal Patches
Transdermal patches are a relatively new, novel approach to delivering cannabinoids transdermally, or through the skin.
- Transdermal patches containing cannabis are directly administered to the skin and release cannabinoids into the bloodstream slowly over a long period. This delivers the required effects over a long duration, avoiding ingestion and inhalation, which many consider an attractive option for those requiring discreet yet continuous relief.
Cannabis-Infused Beverages
Cannabis-infused beverages are also increasingly popular as a social and refreshing way to consume cannabinoids.
- Cannabis beverages literally come in all forms, from sodas and teas to coffee, and even alcoholic drinks infused with THC or CBD. These drinks are a discreet and enjoyable way of consuming cannabis and, in many ways, more controlled than traditional edibles due to dosing.
Nanotechnology and Bioavailability
Innovative methods using nanotechnology are in development to increase the rate of absorption and, subsequently, the bioavailability of cannabinoids.
- Nano-emulsions are very small droplets of cannabinoids, broken down to a microscopic size. They increase surface area for absorption into the bloodstream more quickly, resulting in quicker onset times and possibly more efficient use of the active compounds themselves.
Choosing the Right Consumption Method
There are several factors to consider when determining the best way to consume cannabis.
- Different methods of consumption give different onset times and duration of effects. Inhalation methods, like smoking and vaping, provide fast-acting effects, while edibles and transdermal patches are longer-lasting.
- Some methods of consumption can carry health implications. Smoking will irritate the lungs and throat; edibles may interact with some digestive conditions. Personal health should be taken into consideration when choosing a method of consumption.
- Better for those with discretion requirements are the methods in capsules, tinctures, and transdermal patches. Another aspect is convenience; for instance, edibles and beverages do not require an extra setup or preparation.
Pros and Cons of Different Cannabis Consumption Methods
- Smoking cannabis is classic, simple, but exposes users to dangerous byproducts. Vaping can be a way to minimize those risks, but it often involves an up-front investment in equipment.
- Edibles last longer but can be quite tricky to dose correctly and take longer to take effect. Tinctures allow for much better control of dosing, are absorbed more rapidly, and unfortunately for some, aren’t as fun as edibles.
- Transdermal patches and cannabis-infused beverages offer a special set of advantages: they can provide long-lasting effects and are very social. However, they may be less available and more expensive than traditional methods.
Conclusion
Cannabis consumption has evolved into different methods, each serving various needs and preferences: from the very traditional use of smoking and edibles to innovative techniques, such as vaping and transdermal patches—all come with their own sets of benefits and drawbacks. Knowing the different ways of consumption enables users to make informed decisions based on the effects they want, health considerations, and lifestyle preferences. With more states legalizing and technology advancing, we should expect even more innovative methods of consumption to arise, hence offering users an ever-increasing array of choices to tailor their experience with cannabis. Whether it be the ease of smoking, the subtlety of capsules, or the novelty of cannabis-based drinks, there’s a way to consume that suits any user. You can learn about these and stay updated with new developments in this area, finding a method that best suits your needs.
