As always, please consult with a medical professional before making any decisions for yourself. This is strictly for informational purposes and I am not a doctor. There are some methods that are harmful with certain medical conditions. For a more detailed, quicker read, check out the attached file!
So! Let's talk about all the ways you can consume cannabis and their different pros and cons. I won't go into as much detail as the attached file, but we'll go over the important stuff! I bet you didn't know that the most common way of consumption, smoking, has the lowest bioavailability (amount of components absorbed into the body) percentage! Let's get into it!
Smoking:
This method has a fast onset of effects and easy to dose, BUT with smoking we have to worry about harmful carcinogens, smoke, odor, cough, congestion, sinusitis, CO2, and butane inhalation. This method only allows 10-21% of the components to be absorbed into the body.
Dabbing:
This method is another fast onset of effects but with very strong dosages. This can be good or bad thing considering this method has all the above mentioned cons and the increased risk of dependency because of its powerful dosages. Your concentrates could also contain harmful toxins- this is why it's important to know what solvent was used (if any) in the production of your concentrate and how much is left after it's been cleaned! This method allows for 31-61% absorption in the body.
Vaporizing Flower:
This method is super popular for its convenience and discretion. There's typically no carcinogens and the smoke is pretty minimal compared to smoking, However, it's important to keep your vaporizer at a good temp so that your terpenes aren't destroyed. Some have a lower temp of evaporation so this could limit the amount of absorption. This method also has the risk of odor and that nasty cough we all hate. This method allows for 31-61% absorption in the body.
Concentrate Vape Pens:
Most of the time this method alleviates the smoke and butane inhalation. I personally love this method for the convenience and minimized odor for me to smoke on the go. Of course there is still some odor, but not as intense in my opinion. This method could have those residual toxins and additives so again, check your concentrates before consumption. There's also been some evidence of increased tolerance with continued use of this method. This method also allows for 31-61% absorption in the body.
Inhaler:
If you have access to this medical product, I highly recommend it! There's no cons with this method since it comes in standardized dosing and has no carcinogens, carbon monoxide, or butane inhalation. This method can deliver those plant cannabinoids in acid form which allows for better effects and relief. The best part about this method is your body is absorbing 60-80% of the components making it one of the most effective methods.
Edibles:
We all love a good edible, right? This method is super popular and has some definite pros! The active components we're searching for are not destroyed by heat or inhalation and there's no byproducts created. THC and Delta 8 are converted in the liver to a compound that's 3-7X stronger and make the effects last way longer! The major downside with edibles in the inconsistent dosing and results. It can be hard to make sure you're getting the right dosage and it does interact with other medications and slow the metabolism down for those. Edibles are unfortunately only responsible for 4-12% absorption into the body because of the metabolic process, but typically last for several hours.
Intraoral (buccal or sublingual):
This is going to be the most effective method of consumption and so underrated! Sublingual (under the tongue) or buccal (in the cheek) consumption is going to allow for 40-98% absorption into the body- wow! This is because there's no heat or exhalation to destroy the components and there's a fast onset of relief. Pro tip- next time you grab a medicated sucker or tincture, let it set under the tongue or in the cheek for a little longer to get even more of an effect.
Juicing:
Did you know you could actually juice the cannabis leaves? They are PACKED with essential vitamins and nutrients and it doesn't provide any intoxicating effects!
Transdermal Patch:
This is a great option for people who have trouble swallowing or cannot smoke/vaporize. This method gives you consistent levels of cannabis over a long period of time and avoids any metabolism effects that diminish effects. You're absorbing 100% of this in your body! They are a little pricey and can cause rashes if you have sensitive skin.
Topical:
Topical salves and creams are perfect for use at work and on the go because they offer discreet, non toxicating relief. I always keep a jar in my stash!
Suppositories:
This method is still undergoing some research, but has great results with pelvic/uterine pain! When used rectally, patients experience minimal to no intoxication and allows for 70-80% absorption!
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