Before you begin selecting your ideal cannabis products, it’s important to consider all the ways humans have developed to consume the world’s favorite plant. For example, you can consume cannabis by eating it, inhaling it, or applying it topically, each of which has its own unique effects. The active compounds in cannabis, too, are present in differing potencies and concentrations across cannabis strains and products, and the way you decide to consume it can alter the sensory experience.
Learn more about cannabis compounds, the ways to consume cannabis, and the benefits and safety precautions of each method of consumption so you can select the cannabis product that’s best for you.
Cannabis Chemistry 101
Understanding cannabis chemistry is a wonderful starting point for anyone who consumes cannabis. The main chemical compounds found in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, are what give the plant its unique effects on the body and mind. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). However, there are over a hundred others that occur in trace amounts, including CBG (cannabigerol) and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), which also have unique effects on the body.
THC is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis, largely responsible for the sensory effects people associate with cannabis consumption. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and inflammation. These two compounds, along with other cannabinoids and secondary compounds, interact with one another and with the body’s cannabinoid receptors. By doing so, they influence the way the receptors pass on chemical messages and thus exact changes in bodily and mental functions.
In this way, the ratio of THC to CBD in a particular strain of cannabis can affect the sensory experience. For example, a strain with a high THC to CBD ratio often produces a steady, lasting euphoria, while a strain with a higher CBD to THC ratio may provide mellow relaxation. By understanding the cannabinoid ratios of a strain, you are better equipped to select a cannabis product for your needs.
Cannabis Beyond THC and CBD
One of the most fascinating things about cannabis is the complex interplay among the wide variety of natural compounds found in cannabis flower. Along with cannabinoids, there are multiple other compounds, including terpenes, flavonoids, proteins, lipids, and more. Terpenes, in particular, can have a significant impact on the cannabis experience.
Terpenes are responsible for the many unique flavors and smells present within the cannabis species. Perhaps you’ve heard of cannabis strains like Wedding Cake and Grape Pie? Those strains were named partially because their unique terpene profiles create the signature scent and flavor combinations. For example, limonene evokes a pleasant citrus aroma, while pinene is the source of that balsam/pine scent profile.
Aside from adding both taste and smell to the overall cannabis sensory experience, terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids as they interact with cannabinoid receptors to nuance the sensations you’ll encounter. This effect is called the entourage effect and is partially responsible for the variety of medicinal benefits and the range of feelings associated with each strain. For this reason, a basic understanding of cannabis chemistry is an important first step to choosing a cannabis product and method of consumption that works for you.
Cannabis Consumption Methods
Despite the staggering variety of cannabis products on the market today, nearly all can be consumed in one of four basic ways: inhalation, ingestion, sublingual administration, and topical administration.
Inhalation
Inhaling cannabis smoke or vapor draws cannabinoids and terpenes directly into the lungs, where they are almost immediately taken into the bloodstream. Via inhalation, cannabinoids and terpenes encounter cannabinoid receptors in a matter of moments, meaning you’ll feel the effects within a few minutes.
The two primary methods of inhalation include smoking and vaporizing cannabis flower or concentrate.
Smoking and Dry Vaping
Cannabis Flower
Cannabis flowers, also known as buds or nuggets, have traditionally been the most-consumed form of cannabis. Flower contains the highest concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes and can be harvested, dried, and cured to create a number of cannabis products. However, the simplest way to consume cannabis flower is by either smoking or vaporizing it.
Consider these cannabis flower forms if you prefer to inhale your cannabis:
- Flower for Wraps/Cones/Papers - Wraps, cones, and papers are all ways one can roll cannabis products into joints, blunts, and similarly-shaped smokables. Joint pre-rolls are especially popular since you only need to light, inhale and repeat.
- Flower for Hand Pipes/Bong/Chillums - Pipes, water pipes like bongs and bubblers, and chillums are distinct types of smoking pipes you can use to inhale cannabis smoke. Simply place the cannabis flower into the bowl, administer flame, then inhale from the device.
- Flower for Dry Herb Vaporizing - A dry herb vaporizer heats ground cannabis flower without the need for an external heat source until it vaporizes. Then, you can inhale the cannabis vapor from a mouthpiece.
Dabbing Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are a highly potent form of cannabis produced through a variety of extraction methods. These methods involve separating the psychoactive compounds from the plant material, resulting in a concentrated substance that can range in consistency from a soft, pliable oil to a hard, crumbly wax. While some concentrates can be smoked, consumed orally, or added to foods, most must be vaporized to activate the cannabinoid compounds.
Dabbing is one of the most popular methods of consuming cannabis concentrates. The process involves superheating a small metal or porcelain appliance known as a dab nail, then placing a small amount of the concentrate on the hot surface. Since a dab rig functions much like a traditional smoking pipe, you must simply use the mouthpiece to inhale the cannabis vapor created.
It’s important to note that cannabis concentrates can be much more potent than traditional cannabis flower, with some containing above 95% THC. This elevated level of THC can lead to an intense sensory experience, especially for those who are new to dabbing or who have a lower tolerance to THC. It’s important to start with a small amount and work your way up to find your ideal dosage. Still, many people enjoy dabs and other forms of cannabis concentrate for their potent effects and unique flavors.
Vape Pens and Pods
Another way to enjoy inhalable concentrates is by using a concentrate vaporizer. These vape pens, as they are widely known, typically consist of a small cartridge or pod filled with cannabis or CBD oil that attaches to a battery unit that heats a small coil inside the pen. The resulting vapor can be inhaled by taking a pull on the mouthpiece.
Consider these vaporizing options:
- Portable Vaporizers - Find disposable vape pens as well as reusable vape batteries compatible with a range of cartridges.
- Tabletop Vaporizers - Tabletop vaporizers range from simple manual dab rigs to more complex digital dab rigs that work at the touch of a button.
- Nectar Straws - Nectar straws or nectar collectors are meant to mimic a butterfly’s proboscis. With a straw, you can suck “nectar” like hash oil through a heated straw mechanism that vaporizes the cannabis.
Ingestion
While inhalation remains a popular way to consume cannabis, the range of ingestible cannabis products grows larger every day. These products are popular in part because they are a supremely convenient way to consume cannabis products. They offer a smoke-free alternative to traditional methods and can provide a longer-lasting and more potent effect.
The effects of ingestible cannabis products can take longer to set in compared to other methods of consumption. This is because the active compounds must be metabolized by the liver before they can enter the bloodstream, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. In addition, when the liver metabolizes THC, it becomes a different form (11-OH-THC) that is twice as powerful. For this reason, it’s important to be patient and start with a low dose of ingestible cannabis to avoid overconsumption.
Popular ingestibles include cannabis edibles, capsules, and concentrates.
Edibles
Edibles can come in a variety of forms, including baked goods, gummies, chocolates, and even drinks. Aside from their delectable flavor profiles, one of the primary benefits of cannabis edibles is the convenience they offer. They can be easily transported and consumed privately, making them a great option for people who prefer not to smoke or vape. Additionally, edibles provide a more controlled and consistent dosing experience, as the cannabinoid content is often labeled directly on the product packaging.
You can choose from the following:
- Gummies and soft chews
- Chocolates
- Mints
- Hard candies and lozenges
- Caramels
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Drinks
Capsules
Cannabis capsules are exactly what they sound like—encapsulated cannabis taken orally like any other medication capsule. Like any other ingestible, they must be swallowed, then travel through the digestive system before reaching the bloodstream. While capsules offer a simple-to-dose cannabis solution, keep in mind that they will take 30 minutes to two hours to set in.
RSO
Some concentrates, like RSO (Rick Simpson Oil), can be taken orally. For most, you simply need to use the syringe it came in to place the RSO in your mouth or onto a small piece of candy, like an M&M before swallowing. Like other ingestibles, prepare for a longer onset time and duration of effects.
Sublingual Administration
Cannabis sublinguals, also known as sublingual tinctures or oils, are a popular and effective way to consume cannabis. These products are typically made by extracting the active compounds from the cannabis plant, such as THC and CBD, and suspending them in a liquid solution. This solution is then placed under the tongue, where it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the sublingual artery.
One of the primary benefits of using cannabis sublinguals is the speed of onset. Unlike eating cannabis edibles, which can take over an hour to begin demonstrating effects, sublinguals can take as few as 15 minutes to begin working. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking quick relief from conditions such as chronic pain or anxiety.
Another advantage of cannabis sublinguals is their dosage accuracy. When smoking or vaporizing cannabis, it can be difficult to gauge the precise amount of active compounds consumed. With sublinguals, the dosage is measured per drop, allowing for more consistent and controlled effects. The liquid solution can simply be placed under the tongue and held for a few minutes before swallowing. Be mindful: factors such as weight, metabolism, and tolerance can all play a role in how the body processes cannabis sublinguals.
Tinctures
These sublinguals are created by soaking cannabis plant material in alcohol or oil. Tinctures are available in a wide variety of flavors and potencies. Find a local dispensary that stocks a solid variety of tinctures packaged for easy dosing in a dropper bottle.
Dissolvable Tablets
Dissolvable cannabis tablets are administered much like other dissolvable medications. Simply place the tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve for a few minutes. Swish, then swallow.
Topical & Transdermal Administration
Topical administration enables you to apply a cannabis product directly to the skin, where it is absorbed and able to provide targeted effects. While topical administration is not often used to achieve sensory high, topical products are used for a variety of purposes, including pain relief, inflammation relief, and to address skin conditions. Topicals are made by infusing cannabis or hemp oil into a variety of base products, such as lotions, creams, and salves.
Topical products can be a useful addition to a wellness routine for those looking for targeted relief from specific conditions or skin issues. Consider these cannabis topicals.
Localized Topicals
Localized topicals like cannabis bath soaks, creams, and salves can provide localized relief. Because they are a fat-soluble product applied directly to the skin, they cannot cross into the bloodstream and work only on the specific area of the body where they are applied. This makes localized topicals a great option for those who are looking for targeted relief for specific conditions, such as muscle soreness or joint pain.
Find topicals like:
- Pain relief lotion
- Pain relief balm
- Epsom salt soak
Transdermals
Cannabis transdermals, also known as topical transdermal cannabis products, are a subvariety of topical products. Like other topicals, transdermals are applied directly to the skin. However, these products feature encapsulation technology that enables the active compounds to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. This allows delivery to the rest of the body, providing whole-body effects. Typical transdermal products include gels and infused patches.
Continue Learning to Discover What Method of Cannabis Consumption is Right for You
There are many different methods of consuming cannabis, each with its own unique benefits. Whether you are a seasoned “cannabisseur” or are new to exploring the wonder of the cannabis experience, you’ve begun your journey to the ideal sensory experience by learning about all four consumption methods.
Now, it’s time to carefully consider your personal preferences, needs, and cannabis goals. Still not sure what administration method is right for you?
Take our quiz now! Quiz: What Cannabis Consumption Method is Best for Me?
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Continue Your Cannabis Learning with Dank Budz
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