SMOKING, VAPING, EDIBLES AND TOPICALS- A GUIDE TO THE DIFFERENCES AND EFFECTS

Cannabis is becoming increasingly popular as a recreational drug and substance to be used for medicinal purposes. What distinguishes cannabis from other drugs is the difference in how it’s consumed: smoking, vaping, eating, or topical. Although cannabis edibles are not as potent as inhaled forms of marijuana, they can be just as effective for many people. 

When you consume cannabis, your brain releases chemicals into your bloodstream that help you relax. These compounds include cannabinoids, which bind to cannabinoid receptors in your body that regulate mood and appetite. Although the two most common forms of ingesting cannabis are smoking (inhaling) and vaping (using an e-cigarette), topicals and edibles are becoming more popular. Here’s an overview on the major differences between these four methods of consuming cannabis and their effects on the body.

Differences between smoking, vaping, eating, and topical cannabis:

Smoking and vaping deliver cannabinoids (the chemicals in cannabis) to the bloodstream more quickly, but edibles take some time to digest before they can enter the bloodstream.  Because smoking or vaping marijuana products releases THC into your bloodstream rapidly, these two methods produce a greater high than consuming edible forms of cannabis. The high from smoking or vaping lasts for about one hour while the high from ingestion lasts for three hours on average.

Cannabis topicals are a type of cannabis-infused product that can be applied directly to the skin. They can come in many different forms such as lip balms, body lotions, oils, ointments and patches. Cannabis topicals can be used to relax the mind and body, and to relieve stress or pain.

Edibles are the most common form of cannabis consumption for medicinal purposes, but they can also be used recreationally. Edibles take time to digest, which is why they last longer.  A process called first pass metabolism occurs when cannabis is consumed through inhalation (smoking or vaping) and causes almost immediate effects like increased heart rate. When cannabis is ingested (eaten), it passes through the digestive system before reaching the bloodstream. This means that edibles produce a high that lasts up to four hours.

The most popular edible types are brownies, chocolates, cookies, and gummies. It’s important to note that the strength of an edible varies depending on products. If you’re new to cannabis or sensitive to marijuana’s psychoactive effects, you may want to consider eating a small amount of an edible first, before consuming more.

Which form of consumption is best for you?:

Smoking is the quickest and most intense way to consume cannabis. THC enters your system through your lungs and causes a fast, heavy high. Smoking is the best option for those who are looking for a quick and potent high, but it can be harsh on your lungs and irritate your throat.

Vaping provides a healthier option to smoking, as you won’t be inhaling smoke or tar. The effects of cannabis are felt faster than other methods because it bypasses the digestive system and goes straight into your bloodstream. Cannabis vapor has an odorless thin mist so you don’t have to worry about offending those around you with the smell of marijuana – another benefit over smoking! If you vape indoors, there’s also no risk of second hand smoke or getting ashes in anything.

Eating or drinking marijuana-infused products takes longer than other methods to produce a high while the effects last longer. This makes edibles great for events like parties where you want to enjoy yourself without worrying about how much time has passed since taking the drug.

Conclusion:

The effects of cannabis can vary based on the form of consumption. While smoking and vaping cannabis can lead to a more acute high, eating cannabis edibles or topicals, on the other hand, can lead to a more gentle and long-lasting high. So, which form of cannabis is best for you? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want a short-term, intense “high” or a long-term, mild “high”? Do you want to feel the effects immediately or gradually? Do you want to feel the effects in your head, body, or both? If you’re not sure what you want, try experimenting with different forms before settling on your favorite. Just remember to keep track of what you’ve tried so you don’t get confused.

If you are interested in trying cannabis in different forms, visit this Online Dispensary in Canada for a wide range of options!

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