Exploring the Many Ways to Consume Cannabis

Joints

Joints are one of the most common ways to smoke cannabis. They involve rolling ground cannabis in a thin rolling paper (usually made of hemp, rice, or wood pulp) – then smoking it.

Pros

• Easy to roll and smoke.
• Portable and discreet.
• Provides control over dosage and pacing.

Cons

• Rolling can be tricky for beginners.
• Smoke can be harsh on the lungs.
• Burns quickly and may not be the most efficient way to consume cannabis.

Bongs

Bongs are water pipes used to smoke cannabis. The cannabis is placed in a bowl, and smoke passes through water before being inhaled, which helps cool and filter the smoke for smoother hits.

Pros

• Smoother hits due to water filtration.
• Requires less cannabis than a joint for the same effect.
• Reusable and easy to clean.

Cons

• Larger and less portable than other smoking methods.
• Requires cleaning to avoid buildup of residue.
• Not very discreet due to size and visibility.

Blunts

Blunts are similar to joints, but instead of rolling the cannabis in regular rolling paper, it’s rolled in a cigar or blunt wrap made from tobacco leaves. This adds an extra kick from the nicotine, which can enhance the overall experience.

Pros

• Larger size than joints, longer burn time.

Cons

• Tobacco content may be harsh on the lungs with the addition of nicotine.

Chillums

Chillums are small, straight pipes that can hold a small amount of cannabis. They are often used for quick, discreet sessions and are easy to carry in a pocket.

Pros

• Very portable, and discreet.

Cons

• No carb for airflow control – may get clogged easily.

Steamrollers

Steamrollers are a type of pipe that delivers a larger hit of smoke due to their open-ended design. They are less common but offer a more powerful smoking experience.

Pros

• Provides large, potent hits.

Cons

• Can be harsh and harder to control for beginners

Hookahs

Some people use hookahs to smoke cannabis, either mixing it with tobacco or smoking it straight. Hookahs are typically shared in a group setting, and the water in the base filters the smoke.

Pros

• Social experience, smoother hits due to water filtration.

Cons

• Less portable, requires more setup.

One-Hitters

One-hitters are small pipes designed to hold just enough cannabis for one hit, making them perfect for discreet, quick sessions.

Pros

• Very discreet, easy to control dosage.

Cons

• Small capacity, requires frequent refilling.

Gravity Bongs

A gravity bong uses water and air pressure to force smoke into the lungs. This method involves submerging a small container with cannabis and lighting it as you lift it out of the water, filling it with smoke.

Pros

• Delivers large, intense hits.

Cons

• Requires more setup and can be harsh on the lungs.

Homemade Devices

In a pinch, many users create their own smoking devices from household items. Popular DIY methods include apple pipes or water bottle bongs. While effective, these are not ideal for regular use.

Pros

• Creative, and convenient when no other tools are available.

Cons

• May not be safe or healthy for long-term use.

Pros

• Less harsh on the lungs compared to smoking.
• Provides immediate effects, similar to smoking.
• Portable devices make it discreet.
• More control over dosage with temperature settings.

Cons

• The initial cost of purchasing a vaporizer can be high.
• Requires maintenance and cleaning of the device.
• Long-term health effects are still being studied.

Edibles

Edibles are cannabis-infused foods or beverages. The effects come on slower but tend to last longer, making this a popular choice for people seeking extended relief.

Pros

• No inhalation is required
• Long-lasting effects, often up to 6-8 hours.
• Wide variety of products available (e.g., gummies, brownies, beverages).
• Great for discreet consumption.

Cons

• Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, making dosing tricky.
• Risk of consuming too much due to delayed onset.
• Difficult to determine precise dosages

Tinctures

Tinctures are alcohol- or oil-based cannabis extracts taken by placing drops under the tongue. This method allows for fast absorption through the bloodstream.

Pros

• Quick absorption (15-45 minutes).
• Easy to control dosage with a dropper.
• Discreet and portable.
• Can be added to food or beverages.

Cons

• Taste can be bitter or unpleasant for some
• Effects may not last as long as edibles.
• Requires careful measuring

Topicals

Topical cannabis products, such as lotions, balms, or patches, are applied to the skin. They are typically used for localized relief and do not produce psychoactive effects.

Pros

• No psychoactive effects, ideal for those seeking pain relief without the “high.”
• Targeted relief for specific areas of pain or inflammation.

Cons

• Limited to surface-level relief, not effective for systemic effects.
• May not be as effective for severe pain.
• Some products can be expensive compared to other methods.

Capsules and Pills

Capsules and pills provide cannabis in pre-measured doses, making them convenient for those who prefer a pill format similar to traditional medicine.

Pros

• Precise, consistent dosing.
• Convenient and familiar form for those used to taking medication.
• Long-lasting effects, similar to edibles.

Cons

• Delayed onset of effects, similar to edibles (up to 2 hours).
• Less flexibility in adjusting the dosage
• Higher cost for pre-dosed capsules compared to other methods.

Dabbing

Dabbing involves vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts like wax or shatter on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor. It delivers highly potent effects quickly.

Pros

• Very potent, so less material is needed.
• Effects are immediate and intense.
• High concentration of cannabinoids, ideal for experienced users.

Cons

• Potency can be overwhelming for beginners.
• Requires specialized equipment

Cannabis Infused Beverages

Cannabis-infused drinks range from teas to non-alcoholic beers. Like edibles, these provide an alternative method for consuming cannabis.

Pros

• Discreet and enjoyable, especially in social settings.
• Convenient to consume.
• Long-lasting effects like edibles.

Cons

• Can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel effects.
• Dosing can be difficult to manage, similar to edibles.
• Limited availability

Sublingual Strips

Sublingual strips dissolve under the tongue, allowing for fast absorption through the oral tissues. They are thin, discreet, and easy to use.

Pros

• Fast-acting, with effects often felt within 15 minutes.
• Discreet and portable.
• Precise dosing for consistent results.

Cons

• May not be widely available in all regions.
• Limited range of products compared to other methods.
• Some users find the taste unpleasant.

Suppositories

Cannabis suppositories are inserted rectally or vaginally for localized or systemic relief. They are sometimes used for medical purposes or for people who cannot consume cannabis orally.

Pros

• Relief for those who cannot smoke or ingest cannabis.
• Fast absorption and bioavailability through mucous membranes.
• Effective for localized issues like pelvic pain

Cons

• Unconventional and not widely used.
• Application may be uncomfortable for some.
• Limited research on long-term effects.