- Smoking: is the most common and popular method due to the quick onset of effects and ease of consumption. Dosing is simple; take 1 or 2 puffs and wait 5-10 minutes. You no longer need to take another hit if you are at a comfortable high. There are many ways to smoke cannabis, including but not limited to; Pipes, Bongs, or rolling it (creating what you call a Joint if it’s paper, or a Blunt if it’s a leaf wrap of some kind). The effects can last 1 to 2 hours based on the amount consumed. This is the least discreet method due to its distinct odor.
- Vaporization: Vaporizing plant matter or concentrates has a similar onset time and high duration as smoking, however, it uses lower temperatures/less heat to release more of the natural flavors from the terpenes and cannabinoids. The effects can vary slightly when vaping cannabis and has/have been reported as a “cleaner” option. Vaporizer temperatures will usually stay between 170F-200F, Combustion/smoking begins at 230F allowing for fewer carcinogens and toxins and making it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers.
- Topicals: Usually found in Creams, Gels, and Bath Bombs. Creams and Gels are useful for arthritis, back pain, and as well as joint and muscle injuries. Apply to the area that needs relief and massage the site to get the full effects. Remember/Make sure to always check product labels for instructions. Bath bombs are typically used for relieving muscle soreness, inflammation, and pain but they can also help with reducing stress and anxiety. Topicals typically don’t show up on drug tests, but if you get tested regularly don’t use cannabis products. It’s not worth the risk.
- Edibles/Beverages: Candy, Chocolate, and Drinks can be infused with cannabis so there is room for experimentation. Ingested cannabis metabolizes differently and can be more potent than simply smoking making it harder to dose. The length of time for onset depends on the consumer’s metabolism but typically occurs within 60-90 minutes; however, it can take up to 2 hours. The high can last about 4-8 hours depending on how much was consumed. Remember to take it low and slow, and that you can always eat more, never less.
- Tinctures: are usually made with an oil or water base and packaged with a dropper to simplify dosing. To consume, put it under your tongue, and let it absorb for sublingual consumption, or put it in a tea or other beverage. Onset can occur from 30 minutes to 90 minutes; depending on how it was consumed, the effects can last 4-8 hours. Tinctures have varying levels of THC, CBD, or both.
- Sprays: Sub-lengual sprays are fsat acting, it can be felt 3 to 10 minutes after usage, The high duration is about 1-2 hours. Potency can range based on the number of Sprays/Pumps, Make sure to always check product labels for instructions. Sprays are usually the first step of the “Entourage Effect” to create a more personalized experience.
- Capsules: contain THC, CBD, or a blend of both. Capsules may contain terpenes or other natural ingredients; Dose size can vary from 5mg-50mg per pill, onset can occur 60-90 minutes after consumption, and can last 4-8 hours. Capsules allow for discreet consumption and ease of travel.
Ernesto Ramos
Cannabis Enthusiast