Smoking has its drawbacks for some and is no longer necessary for cannabis consumption. You can even use certain products without any psychoactive effects, depending on your preference. These alternative cannabis partakers highlight all the different ways you can consume cannabis without lighting up, so you’re sure to find a method that suits your needs.
Transdermal Patches and Sublinguals
While smoking has long been the most common method of consuming cannabis, it is not without its drawbacks, such as potential health risks associated with inhaling smoke. Fortunately, there are several alternative methods that offer a safer and more customizable experience for cannabis consumers.
Vaporization: Vaporizing cannabis involves heating the plant material or concentrates to a temperature where the active compounds, such as cannabinoids and terpenes, are released as vapor but without combustion. This method significantly reduces the potential harms associated with smoking while still providing quick onset effects. Vaporizers come in various forms, including portable handheld devices and desktop models, offering users a wide range of options to choose from.
Edibles: Edible cannabis products have gained popularity in recent years, providing a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. These products include a wide array of options, such as infused chocolates, gummies, beverages, and even savory items like infused oils or butter for cooking. Edibles offer a delayed onset, typically taking 30 minutes to two hours for effects to kick in, but they provide longer-lasting and more intense experiences. It's important to note that users should start with low doses and wait for the effects to fully manifest before consuming more, as the potency can vary widely.
Sublinguals: Sublingual cannabis products are designed to be absorbed under the tongue. These products often come in the form of tinctures or sprays, allowing for precise dosing and ease of use. By placing a few drops or sprays under the tongue, the active compounds are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method offers a faster onset compared to edibles and can be a preferred choice for those seeking a more controlled and predictable experience.
Topicals: Creams, lotions, and balms that contain cannabis are administered directly to the skin. These products are primarily used for localized relief from pain, inflammation, and skin conditions without inducing psychoactive effects. Topicals can be an excellent option for individuals seeking therapeutic benefits without the desire to experience the traditional "high" associated with cannabis.
Transdermal Patches: Transdermal patches are an emerging method of cannabis consumption that allows for controlled, time-released dosing. These patches are applied to the skin and slowly release cannabinoids into the bloodstream over an extended period. They offer a discreet and convenient option for individuals who require long-lasting effects throughout the day without the need for frequent administration.
It's worth mentioning that the optimal method of cannabis consumption varies for each individual, depending on their preferences, desired effects, and medical conditions. Additionally, the potency and composition of cannabis products can vary significantly, so it's crucial to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed while being mindful of personal tolerance levels.
Dabbing and Cannabis Capsules
Smoking cannabis is a popular method of consumption, but it's not the only option. Here are some better and alternative ways to consume cannabis:
Vaporizing: Vaporizers heat cannabis at lower temperatures, releasing the active compounds without burning the plant material. This method reduces potential harm to the lungs caused by smoking.
Edibles: Cannabis-infused edibles, such as brownies, cookies, or gummies, offer a discreet and longer-lasting experience. They're ingested and metabolized by the liver, producing a more intense and prolonged effect.
Tinctures: These liquid extracts are typically consumed sublingually (under the tongue) and are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Tinctures provide precise dosing and can be added to food or beverages.
Topicals: Creams, lotions, or balms containing cannabis are applied directly to the skin to treat specific skin ailments such [as] pain, inflammation, or acne. They do not produce psychoactive effects.
Dabbing: This method involves inhaling cannabis concentrates, like oils or waxes, heated on a hot surface. It provides a potent and rapid onset of effects but requires specialized equipment.
Cannabis capsules: Similar to traditional medicine, capsules contain measured doses of cannabis extracts. They offer a convenient and discreet way to consume cannabis.
These alternatives provide diverse consumption methods for individuals who prefer not to smoke or want to explore different experiences with cannabis. It's essential to understand the proper dosing, effects, and potential risks associated with each method before use.
Edibles and Tinctures
There are a variety of alternative methods to consuming cannabis, such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Edibles are one of the most popular methods of consuming cannabis, as they allow for a longer-lasting, more intense experience.
Edibles are typically made with cannabis-infused butter or oil and can be added to a variety of foods and drinks. Tinctures are another popular method of consuming cannabis, as they are easy to dose and can be added to food or drinks.
Tinctures are made with cannabis-infused alcohol or oil and are typically taken sublingually (under the tongue). Finally, topicals are a great way to consume cannabis without any psychoactive effects. Topicals are typically made with cannabis-infused oils and can be applied directly to the skin for localized relief.
Vapors and Topical Products
There are plenty of options out there that may be better for your health and personal preferences. One option is to try edibles, which are cannabis-infused treats like gummies, brownies, or even drinks. These deliver the effects of cannabis through your digestive system, providing a longer-lasting high that can be more intense than smoking.
Another option is to use a vaporizer, which heats up cannabis without burning it, creating a vapor that you inhale. This can be a healthier alternative to smoking because it doesn't produce harmful smoke and can also be more discreet and convenient.
Lastly, there are topical products like lotions and balms that contain CBD or THC, which can provide localized relief without any psychoactive effects.
This is a crowdsourced article. Contributors' statements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this website, other people, businesses, or other contributors.
