Cannabis consumption: the in's and out's
When it comes to cannabis consumption, we are spoilt for choice on the many ways we can ingest this beautiful plant. Gaining the most from what this plant has to offer is largely dependent upon how it is consumed, with each method providing a unique experience and a host of different effects.
There are three basic delivery methods: inhalation, oral (sublingual) and topical. Below we'll start delving into the many options that are available to you under each basic delivery method. Let the exploration begin!
Smoking is one of the most well-known cannabis consumption methods. When you smoke cannabis, you light cannabis flower and inhale the smoke. This ancient custom is the method most commonly associated with cannabis, and there are many different ways to smoke, including through joints, blunts, pipes and bongs. Each of these provides different experiences and influences the grade of smoke inhaled.
Vaping is an inhalation method that has become increasingly popular with recent advances in cannabis technology. The process of vaping involves heating dry cannabis flower or concentrates to a temperature right below the point of combustion, converting the desirable cannabinoids and terpenes into a vapour, which is then inhaled. The vapour doesn't release the same potential toxins that are created when you burn dry flower, which many health-conscious cannabis consumers believe makes it a healthier alternative to smoking. There are many devices to choose from when vaping such as vaporisers, vape pens and an assortment of dab rigs.
There are two main ways to consume cannabis orally. The first is through edibles (ingesting cannabis infused goodies), where the cannabinoids are absorbed through the digestive tract.
The second is through tinctures, which are created by steeping cannabis in alcohol. These tinctures are absorbed through the blood vessels under the tongue (sublingually).
Topical application is a delivery method that allows you to absorb cannabinoids through your skin, without experiencing any psychoactive effects.
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