Cannabis consumption has become increasingly popular over the years, with more and more people turning to this plant for both recreational and medicinal purposes. While there are many ways to consume cannabis, some methods are more popular than others. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular ways of consuming cannabis and discuss their benefits and drawbacks.
Smoking Cannabis
Smoking cannabis is perhaps the most popular way of consuming it. It involves lighting dried cannabis flowers and inhaling the smoke that is produced. This method of consumption is popular because it is easy to do and produces a quick and intense high. Smoking cannabis can be done in many different ways, including using a pipe, a bong, or rolling it into a joint or blunt.
One of the biggest drawbacks of smoking cannabis is that it can be harmful to the lungs. Inhaling smoke can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the respiratory system. Additionally, smoking cannabis can produce a strong odor that can be difficult to eliminate.
Vaping
Vaporizing, or “vaping,” is a method of consuming cannabis that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves heating cannabis to a temperature that is high enough to release the active compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) but not high enough to produce smoke. This method is often preferred because it produces a cleaner, smoother experience compared to smoking.
Vaporizing cannabis is considered to be less harmful to the lungs than smoking because it does not produce smoke. However, it is important to note that some studies suggest that vaping can still be harmful to the lungs, especially if the vapor contains contaminants such as heavy metals.
Edibles
Edibles are food items or drinks that are infused with cannabis. They can come in many different forms, including brownies, gummies, chocolates, and more. Edibles are popular because they offer a discreet and convenient way of consuming cannabis. They are also often more potent than other methods of consumption because the cannabinoids are processed by the liver, producing a stronger and longer-lasting high.
One of the downsides of edibles is that they can take a long time to take effect, sometimes up to two hours. This can lead to people accidentally consuming too much because they do not feel the effects right away. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the dosage when consuming edibles, as they can be very potent and can lead to an uncomfortable experience if too much is consumed.
Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that are usually consumed sublingually (under the tongue). They are popular because they offer a discreet and easy way of consuming cannabis, and they are often more precise in terms of dosage compared to other methods. Tinctures can also be added to food or drinks, making them a versatile option for those who prefer not to smoke or vaporize cannabis.
One of the drawbacks of tinctures is that they can have a strong taste or odor, which some people may find unpleasant. Additionally, they can take some time to take effect, depending on how they are consumed.
Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and salves that are applied directly to the skin. They are popular among those who are seeking relief from localized pain or inflammation, as well as those who do not want to experience the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Topicals are often used to treat conditions such as arthritis, eczema, and psoriasis.
One of the benefits of topicals is that they do not produce a psychoactive high, making them a good option for those who want to use cannabis for medicinal purposes but do not want to feel altered. However, topicals are not very effective for treating conditions that are deeper in the body, such as migraines or anxiety.
