Beyond Smoking: Exploring The Different Effects Of Cannabis Edibles Vs. Inhalation

Are you curious about the different ways to consume cannabis and their effects? Beyond smoking, there are other methods like edibles and inhalation that can offer different experiences. Edibles refer to cannabis-infused food products while inhalation involves smoking or vaporizing the plant.

Edibles have gained popularity in recent years for their discreteness and longer-lasting effects. When consumed, THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) is metabolized in the liver and converted into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. This results in a stronger high compared to smoking, but also a delayed onset of effects that can take up to two hours to kick in. On the other hand, inhalation offers quicker onset of effects within seconds or minutes due to THC being absorbed through the lungs and directly entering the bloodstream. However, these effects may not last as long as with edibles. In this article, we'll explore further the differences between these consumption methods and their pros and cons.

Understanding the Basics of Cannabis Consumption

If you want to understand how to consume cannabis, you'll need to know the basics of how it's taken into your body. Cannabis can be consumed through inhalation or ingestion, with each method having different effects on the body. Inhalation involves smoking or vaporizing the dried flowers of the cannabis plant, while ingestion involves consuming edibles made from cannabis-infused oils and extracts.

When inhaling cannabis, the active compounds are absorbed quickly into your bloodstream through your lungs. This results in a rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes of consumption. The effects are generally short-lived but intense, lasting for a few hours at most. In contrast, when ingesting cannabis through edibles, the active compounds are processed by your digestive system before entering your bloodstream. This process takes longer than inhalation and can take up to 2 hours before any noticeable effects occur. The effects also tend to last much longer than inhalation and may persist for several hours or even an entire day depending on dosage and individual tolerance levels.

The Effects of Cannabis Edibles

You'll experience a more intense and longer-lasting high when consuming cannabis through edibles, which can lead to unexpected effects if not consumed responsibly. Unlike smoking or vaping, the effects of edibles take much longer to kick in because they need to be digested first. This means that people who consume edibles may end up overeating or taking too much before feeling the effects, leading to an unpleasant experience.

Consuming cannabis through edibles can also produce different effects than inhalation. The high from edibles is often described as being more body-focused and sedative compared to the heady and energizing high from smoking or vaping. This can make it harder for users to engage in physical activities or concentrate on tasks that require mental clarity. It's important for individuals who are new to consuming cannabis through edibles to start with a low dose and wait several hours before increasing their intake to avoid any negative consequences.

The Effects of Inhalation

When you inhale cannabis, the effects are felt more quickly and are often described as a heady, energizing high. This is because when you smoke or vape cannabis, the THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) enters your bloodstream through your lungs and travels directly to your brain. This rapid onset of effects can be appealing to those who want immediate relief from symptoms such as pain or anxiety.

However, it's important to note that inhalation can also have negative side effects. Smoking anything can irritate your lungs and cause respiratory issues over time. Additionally, some people may experience feelings of paranoia or anxiety when they inhale cannabis. It's important to start with a low dose and go slow when trying inhalation methods for the first time, especially if you're new to using cannabis altogether.

Pros and Cons of Cannabis Edibles

The upsides and downsides of consuming cannabis through edibles are worth considering, as they provide a unique experience compared to inhaling. One major benefit of edibles is the longer lasting high that comes with them. When you consume an edible, the THC is absorbed into your bloodstream through your digestive system, which means it takes longer for the effects to kick in but also means that they last much longer than if you were to smoke or vape.

However, this slower onset can also be a downside for some people. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours for the effects of an edible to be felt, which can lead some people to accidentally over-consume because they don't feel anything at first. Additionally, because the effects last so long (anywhere from four to eight hours), it can be difficult to gauge when it's safe to drive or do other tasks that require full cognitive function. Overall, while edibles offer a unique and enjoyable experience for many people, it's important to consider both the benefits and drawbacks before consuming them.

Pros and Cons of Inhalation

Inhaling cannabis has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account before deciding on a consumption method. One advantage of inhalation is the quick onset of effects. When smoking or vaporizing cannabis, the cannabinoids are absorbed through the lungs and quickly enter your bloodstream, allowing you to feel the effects within minutes. This can be beneficial for those looking for immediate relief from pain or anxiety.

However, inhaling cannabis also has some drawbacks to consider. Smoking anything can damage your lungs and lead to respiratory problems over time. Additionally, it can be difficult to control your dosage when inhaling cannabis as the potency varies between strains and methods of consumption. Finally, inhaling cannabis can have an intense psychoactive effect that may not be desired by all users. It's important to weigh these pros and cons when deciding how to consume cannabis for your individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Well done, you have now explored the different effects of cannabis edibles versus inhalation. It is clear that each method has its own unique set of pros and cons. Cannabis edibles take longer to kick in but tend to last much longer than inhalation. They are discreet and easy to consume, making them an excellent option for those who want a more inconspicuous way to consume cannabis.

On the other hand, inhalation provides a quick onset of effects and allows users to better control their dosage. However, it can also be harsh on the lungs and may not be suitable for everyone. Ultimately, the choice between edibles and inhalation will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

Remember that cannabis consumption should always be approached with caution and moderation. Whether you choose edibles or inhalation, make sure to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. With careful consideration and responsible use, cannabis can provide many benefits for both medical and recreational purposes.

If you're looking for more ideas about this topic, feel free to read this blog post from  Local Product of Colorado.