Cannabis 101: A Beginner’s Guide

Smoking:

• Dried cannabis flowers are commonly rolled into joints or smoked in pipes.
• This method involves combustion, which releases cannabinoids and other compounds into the smoke, allowing for rapid absorption into the bloodstream through the lungs.
• Smoking is favored by many due to its quick onset of effects, making it easier to control dosage and manage symptoms in real-time.

Vaporizing:

• Vaporizing involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion.
• This method produces a vapor rather than smoke, which is typically less harsh on the lungs and may preserve more of the plant’s flavor and medicinal compounds.
• Vaporizers come in various forms, including portable handheld devices and tabletop units, offering users flexibility and control over their cannabis consumption experience.

Edibles:

• Cannabis can be infused into various food and beverage products, providing an alternative consumption method for those who prefer not to smoke or vaporize.
• Common edibles include baked goods, candies, chocolates, beverages, and savory snacks, each offering a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis.
• Edibles take longer to take effect compared to smoking or vaporizing, as cannabinoids must pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream, often resulting in a more prolonged and potent experience.

Topicals:

• Cannabis-infused topicals come in the form of creams, balms, lotions, or patches applied directly to the skin.
• These products are designed for localized relief and can be used to alleviate pain, inflammation, muscle soreness, and skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
• Topicals work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, providing targeted relief without producing psychoactive effects, making them suitable for those seeking therapeutic benefits without intoxication.