Hello fellow cannabis learners! When I first began exploring cannabis as medicine, I was struck by the variety of ways it can be used to support health and well-being. As a nurse trained in medical cannabis science, I’ve seen firsthand how different methods of consumption can impact patients’ experiences, from managing chronic pain to reducing anxiety. I understand that learning how to incorporate cannabis into a wellness routine can feel overwhelming, especially with all the options out there. That’s why I’m here—to help you navigate this journey with clear, practical information. In this post, I'll walk you through some popular methods of cannabis consumption. Let's get into it.
Cannabis products can be broadly grouped into 3 categories with several subcategories that we'll go over here.
1. Oral Consumption
Edibles
Edibles are food or drink products infused with cannabis, often found as gummies or chocolates. However, cannabis can be incorporated into almost any high-fat food—think oils and butters. Once consumed, the cannabinoids and terpenes in edibles pass through the digestive system and are metabolized by the liver, creating long-lasting effects. Though commonly in sweet treats, edibles can also come in the form of capsules, which offer a tasteless alternative.
Infusions
Cannabis infusions are typically made by combining cannabis with fats, like butter or oil. This can be done through a “hot infusion” method, where the mixture is slowly heated, or a “cold infusion” method, which involves letting the cannabis sit in oil over several weeks. These infusions can be used in cooking or added to creams and lotions, providing a versatile way to incorporate cannabis into everyday life.
Capsules
Capsules are a discreet and convenient option, ideal for those who prefer not to smoke or taste cannabis. Capsules can contain dried cannabis or concentrated oils, providing a consistent dose. However, some capsules might not hold up well with oils, so checking the quality is essential.
Sublingual Products
Sublingual products are designed to be absorbed under the tongue or in the cheek, bypassing the liver for faster effects. Tinctures, a popular sublingual option, are often made with high-grade alcohol or glycerin. While effective, alcohol-based tinctures can be harsh on mouth tissues, making glycerin tinctures a gentler choice.
Tinctures
Tinctures are versatile cannabis extracts that can be taken under the tongue, mixed into drinks, or even added to topical creams. This method offers flexibility, allowing users to choose whether to absorb cannabinoids quickly (sublingually) or more gradually through digestion or topical application.
2. Inhalation
Smoking
Smoking is a traditional method of cannabis consumption that involves lighting the plant material and inhaling the smoke. There are many forms of smoking, from joints to pipes to bongs. While effective, smoking may not be suitable for everyone due to the potential for respiratory irritation.
Vaping
Vaping has grown in popularity due to its discreteness and reduced odor. It can involve either dry herb or concentrate vaping. Dry herb vaping heats the cannabis flower without combustion, allowing for terpene and cannabinoid release at various temperatures. Concentrate vaping uses oils and requires high-quality products to ensure safety, especially since they are inhaled directly.
Dabbing
Dabbing involves highly concentrated cannabis forms, such as wax or shatter, and is typically recommended for experienced users. Because of its potency, dabbing can quickly raise tolerance levels if used regularly, making it more suitable for specific medical needs or those familiar with cannabis.
3. Topicals
Creams, Oils, and Lotions
Topical cannabis products like creams, oils, and lotions are designed to be applied directly to the skin. They allow for localized relief without psychoactive effects. Topicals can be infused with cannabis oils or tinctures for a customizable experience.
Transdermal Patches
Transdermal patches provide a longer-lasting option for those seeking sustained effects. These patches contain compounds that help the cannabis compounds penetrate deep into the tissue, allowing for an extended and more consistent release of active ingredients.
Finding the right way to consume cannabis medicinally is a highly personal journey, and the best method depends on your unique health needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in edibles, tinctures, or topicals, starting with the right guidance can make all the difference in achieving the desired effects while minimizing side effects. If you’d like personalized support on this journey, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me to explore which method might work best for you.
For those looking to dive even deeper into the world of medicinal cannabis, my upcoming book covers everything from preparing for your first dispensary visit to understanding the therapeutic roles of cannabinoids, terpenes, and more. Keep an eye out for its release—it’s designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to use cannabis safely and effectively. Whether you’re just starting or ready to refine your approach, I’m here to help you on your path to wellness with cannabis.
References
T B. The many different ways that marijuana is used. Verywell Health. Accessed October 28, 2024. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-is-marijuana-used-63522#toc-topical-methods.
Streck JM, Hughes JR, Klemperer EM, Howard AB, Budney AJ. Modes of cannabis use: A secondary analysis of an intensive longitudinal natural history study. Addict Behav. 2019 Nov;98:106033. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106033. Epub 2019 Jun 24. PMID: 31326775; PMCID: PMC6708744.
Cannabis (marijuana). National Institutes of Health. October 28, 2024. Accessed November 2, 2024. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/cannabis-marijuana#use-cannabis.
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