Cannabis 101:
Exploring How to Use Cannabis
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Understanding Marijuana
Understanding Marijuana
The story of marijuana, or Cannabis sativa, begins over a thousand years ago. This humble plant has its roots in Central Asia, and its various uses — from spiritual rituals to medicinal remedies — quickly spread across the globe. Early humans discovered that consuming parts of the plant, specifically the flowers, could produce intoxicating and medicinal effects. This was the birth of marijuana use as we know it today.
At the heart of these effects are over a hundred compounds known as cannabinoids, the most well-known being Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing everything from mood to appetite, pain to memory.
THC is the main psychoactive compound, responsible for the iconic ‘high’ associated with marijuana use. It affects areas of the brain responsible for perception, mood, and consciousness, leading to feelings of euphoria, altered sensory perception, and even time distortion.
CBD, on the other hand, does not cause a high. Instead, it’s gained recognition for its potential therapeutic effects. It has been studied for relieving symptoms associated with conditions like epilepsy, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Its non-intoxicating nature has made it a popular choice for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects.
Understanding these compounds and how they interact with our bodies can significantly enhance our marijuana consumption experience, whether for recreation or therapeutic purposes.
Smoking
When one thinks of consuming marijuana, the image that often comes to mind is a hand-rolled joint, smoke curling up into the air. Indeed, smoking is the most traditional and widely recognized method of marijuana consumption. It’s the way many users are introduced to the world of cannabis and remains a preferred method for many due to its quick onset, dose control, and ritualistic aspect.
There are various ways to smoke marijuana, each offering a unique experience. Hand-rolled joints are the epitome of the communal cannabis experience, often passed around in social gatherings. For many, the act of grinding the buds, rolling the paper, and sparking up is a ritual as enjoyable as the high itself. Joints are portable, disposable, and relatively simple to prepare, making them a perennial favorite.
Pipes offer a compact, convenient alternative to joints. They require less preparation and are reusable, with styles ranging from simple one-hitters to intricate glass pieces. The smoke in pipes can be hotter and harsher due to the shorter path from the flame to your lungs, but the ease of use makes them a popular choice for many users.
Understanding bongsBongs, or water pipes, are for those who enjoy a cooler, smoother smoke. They use water to cool and filter the smoke before inhalation. While less portable than joints or pipes, water cooling does not make the smoke clean or safe.
Inhaled cannabis can act within minutes, but puff size and product potency make the absorbed dose difficult to measure. Avoid deep inhalation and breath-holding; these practices increase smoke exposure. Smoke can harm the respiratory system regardless of whether it comes from a joint, pipe or bong.
Vaporizing
Vaporizers heat flower or extracts to produce an inhaled aerosol. Avoiding combustion does not mean avoiding all harmful substances. Health Canada describes risks associated with vaping and dabbing accessories, including contaminants and device-related hazards. Follow the instructions for the exact device and compatible material.
Vaporizers come in many forms, from large, stationary units to pocket-sized vape pens. Desktop vaporizers are powerful, precise, and ideal for home use, often featuring temperature controls and options for both balloon and whip-style inhalation. Vape pens, on the other hand, offer portability and discretion, perfect for on-the-go use. They’re typically designed for cannabis concentrates but some can handle dry herb.
A smoother sensation is not a measure of lung safety. Vaping can produce rapid intoxication, particularly with concentrated THC products. Device temperature control cannot guarantee an accurately absorbed cannabinoid dose.
However, vaping comes with its own considerations. The initial cost of a vaporizer can be higher than smoking tools, and its electronic nature means dealing with batteries and maintenance. Furthermore, the safety of vaping has been under scrutiny in recent years due to reports of lung injuries associated with the use of black-market vape cartridges.
Edibles
From cookies to gummies, chocolates to teas, edibles present a delectable way to consume marijuana. Unlike inhalation methods, which deliver cannabinoids via the lungs, edibles introduce these compounds through the digestive system, providing a uniquely different experience.
Edibles start their journey in the kitchen, where marijuana is often decarboxylated — a process that involves heating the plant to activate THC or CBD. Once activated, these cannabinoids are typically infused into a fat or oil base (like butter or coconut oil) that can be used in various recipes. The result is a wide array of edible products ranging from the ubiquitous pot brownie to more sophisticated cannabis-infused gourmet dishes.
Safety firstThe effects of edibles can differ significantly from those of inhalation. Due to the digestive process, the onset of effects is delayed, typically kicking in between 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. However, when they do kick in, the effects are often more intense and longer-lasting, usually several hours or more.
This delay is due to the liver metabolizing THC into a more potent form, 11-hydroxy-THC, which can lead to a stronger high. It also means that edibles can pack a potent punch and should be approached with the mantra of “start low, go slow.”
Edibles offer certain advantages. They are discreet, require no extra paraphernalia, and provide a smokeless method of consumption. However, the delayed and potent effects require careful dosing, especially for inexperienced users. Also, the quality of edibles can vary, and the effects can be influenced by factors like stomach content and metabolic rate.
Tinctures and Oils
For a discreet, smokeless, and easily controllable method of consuming marijuana, look no further than tinctures and oils. These products are a concentrated form of cannabis, usually carried in a solution of alcohol (for tinctures) or oil (for cannabis oils).
Some liquids are intended for use under the tongue, while others are swallowed. The formulation and amount swallowed influence onset; a fixed 15-to-30-minute promise is unreliable. Read the intended route and use a marked measuring device with the label concentration.
Cannabis oils can be used similarly to tinctures or can be incorporated into foods or beverages. The onset and duration of effects for cannabis oils will vary depending on how they’re used. Sublingual use will have a similar onset to tinctures, while edibles made with cannabis oil will have a similar onset to other edibles.
Both tinctures and oils are discreet, require no smoking or vaping equipment, and can provide a measurable labeled portion, without guaranteeing a precise absorbed dose. They come in various potencies and cannabinoid profiles, providing options for different experiences. However, the taste can be off-putting for some, and the onset and duration can vary depending on the method of use.
Topicals
Marijuana isn’t just for getting high. It’s also the basis for a variety of topical products — balms, lotions, creams, oils, and even bath salts — that are designed to be applied directly to the skin. Infused with cannabinoids, primarily CBD but sometimes THC, topicals present a unique way to enjoy the benefits of marijuana without the typical high.
Ordinary skin products and transdermal formulations are different. Do not assume every cannabinoid product stays entirely outside the bloodstream. The presence of CBD or THC does not establish relief of pain, inflammation or skin disease; evidence must match the actual formulation and intended use.
Skin care and wellness
There is no universal onset time or guaranteed therapeutic effect for cannabis topicals. Ingredients can irritate the skin, and absorption depends on the formulation. Check the label and seek assessment for persistent symptoms rather than relying on a topical to identify or treat their cause.
The world of cannabis topicals is as varied as it is vast, with products ranging from beauty creams to massage oils, from cooling gels to warming balms. As with any skincare product, it’s important to choose a quality topical and check for any potential allergens or irritants.
Dabbing
If you’re seeking a potent, fast-acting cannabis experience, dabbing might be the method for you. However, it’s worth noting upfront: dabbing is not for beginners. Due to the high potency of the concentrates used in dabbing, this method is typically recommended only for experienced or high-tolerance consumers.
Dabbing involves inhaling the vapor of concentrated cannabis, which is typically a sticky oil or waxy substance. These concentrates, or dabs, are made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis flowers using various processes. The result is a product that can contain up to 80% or more THC, delivering a potent punch in a single inhale.
To dab, you’ll need a dab rig, a special type of water pipe. The dab is applied to a heated surface, often a “nail” or “banger,” and the resulting vapor is inhaled. The onset of effects is almost immediate and can be incredibly intense due to the high concentration of THC.
While dabbing can provide a powerful and efficient cannabis experience, it also comes with risks. The high THC concentration can lead to increased tolerance, dependency, or uncomfortable experiences. The process also involves handling concentrated products and high heat, so safety is a major consideration. Finally, not all concentrates are created equal, and some extraction methods can leave harmful residues, so it’s crucial to choose quality products.
The Legal Aspects
While we’ve explored an extensive list of marijuana consumption methods, it’s vital to underscore the significance of the legal landscape in which these practices operate. The legality of marijuana use varies greatly, with laws changing at a rapid pace across the globe.
Adult-use permission, medical access and prescription medicines follow different rules. Even where adult use is permitted, restrictions on age, products, possession and public consumption remain. Medical access may require certification or registration rather than an ordinary prescription.
Aside from the national and state laws, you also need to consider local ordinances and regulations, including where you can consume marijuana, how much you can possess, and what age you need to be to purchase marijuana products.
Always ensure that you’re informed about the laws in your area before obtaining or using marijuana. If you’re traveling, be mindful that laws can change drastically from one location to another. Never assume that laws are the same across borders.
Conclusion
Marijuana consumption is an art as much as it is a science. From traditional smoking methods to modern innovations like vaping and dabbing, from delicious edibles to soothing topicals, and from straightforward capsules to potent tinctures, there’s a method to suit every preference and need.
Each method has different onset, duration and risks; no method guarantees an exact experience. Whether you’re consuming marijuana for medical purposes, for relaxation, or simply to enjoy its rich culture, remember always to consume responsibly and stay informed.
The world of marijuana is constantly evolving, with new consumption methods and products appearing all the time. Whatever your preferred method, stay curious, be open to new experiences, and most importantly, respect the plant, your body, and the law.
In this rapidly growing field, knowledge truly is power. Happy exploring!
For swallowed products, allow for delayed effects: full effects can take up to four hours. Avoid driving while impaired and store cannabis securely away from children and pets.
