Submitted by nuEra
Today’s cannabis industry has progressed significantly from the days of unregulated flower cultivation and homemade edibles. Modern dispensaries offer a wide range of high-quality cannabis in a variety of strains, and edibles, including infused gummies, candies, tinctures, and seasoning packets. With these options come questions about the best consumption methods.
nuEra believes each method offers a unique experience with cannabinoids and terpenes. This article will explore the nuances, similarities, and differences between smoking and eating cannabis, aiding patients in making informed decisions.
Smoking vs. Eating
The choice between smoking and eating cannabis depends on personal preferences and desired effects, influencing onset time, duration, and intensity.
- Smoking Cannabis: Offers rapid effects, with THC quickly entering the bloodstream through the lungs, peaking immediately but lasting only 2 to 4 hours.
- Consuming Edibles: Edibles can have delayed effects, taking 45 minutes to 2 hours to manifest. They provide a longer, more steady effect due to the conversion of THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, lasting up to 8-12 hours.
nuEra’s expert patient advocate, Zoe Lourey Christianson advises with edibles, “there should be trial and error to find the right dose while smoking provides immediate effect feedback.”
Navigating Dosage and Effects
Understanding dosage is key to a satisfying cannabis experience. For edibles, patience and awareness of individual tolerance are crucial. Beginners or those sensitive to cannabis should start with 2.5 mg to 5 mg of THC, increasing gradually after two hours. Experienced users or those with medical needs might opt for doses over 15-30 mg.
Understanding CBD to THC ratios in edibles is also essential, especially for medical users. Higher CBD ratios are favored for relief from conditions like anxiety or chronic pain, while higher THC ratios are preferred for mood enhancement and also potential pain relief.
Edibles can be a great choice for patients looking to utilize cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, CBN, THCv, CBG, in a consistent, controlled dose.”
Health, Cost, and Enjoyment
Factors like health effects, cost, and personal enjoyment influence the choice between smoking and eating cannabis. Edibles offer a healthier alternative for those with respiratory issues, but require careful consumption due to delayed effects. Every individual’s digestive system is different, affecting how edibles are processed.
Tips for Consuming Edibles vs. Smoking
Edibles:
- Start with a low dose and increase gradually.
- Be patient with onset times.
- Trust reliable sources for consistent dosing.
- Pay attention to CBD/THC ratios.
Smoking:
- Invest in quality products and accessories.
- Assess tolerance periodically.
- Understand the immediate impact and strain preferences.
- Stay hydrated and mindful of respiratory health.
Conclusion
Choosing between smoking and eating cannabis involves more than preference. It’s about understanding the nuances to align choices with personal needs and health considerations. Whether seeking immediate effects or prolonged impact, nuEra offers products for every need.
For more information about the benefits of medicinal cannabis or to talk with one of our staff members, please call 309-966-9830. Free consultations can be booked at nueracannabis.com/bookasesh