Cannabis consumption in the new legal era offers a diverse array of experiences, each method bringing something unique to your session no matter which one you choose. From the timeless tradition of smoking flower to the delicious experience of edibles, there’s a way to enjoy cannabis that fits everyone’s preferences. Here at BestBüds, premier New Jersey cannabis dispensary, we believe that truly understanding the differences between these methods can help you make informed choices about what’s right for you.
Follow along as we walk you through the most common methods of cannabis consumption, giving you the knowledge to explore your options with confidence.
Smoking
Smoking is the most common method for consuming cannabis flower, the dried and cured part of the plant, offering a rich profile of cannabinoids and terpenes. You can pack a bowl, pipe, or bong, enjoy a pre-roll, or you can roll your flower into joints or blunts. Each of these options provides an immediate way to feel the effects, which typically start within minutes of inhaling.
Pros
- Fast Onset: Effects are felt almost immediately after smoking, making it easier to control your experience.
- Full-Spectrum Experience: Smoking flower allows you to enjoy the full range of cannabis compounds present in the plant.
- Variety: Flower is available in a wide range of cannabis strains, each offering different effects, flavors, and aromas.
Cons
- Lung Irritation: Smoking can cause discomfort in the lungs, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities.
- Odor: The smell of smoking cannabis can be strong and linger, making it less discreet.
Those who prefer this method often enjoy the hands-on, ritualistic aspect of preparing and smoking cannabis. It’s also ideal for consumers looking for quick relief or who want to experience the natural, unprocessed form of the plant.
Vaporizing/Vaping
Vaporizing, or vaping, is a popular method of cannabis consumption that offers a cleaner, more discreet experience compared to smoking. Vaporizers work by heating cannabis flower or concentrates to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes as vapor, without burning the plant material and releasing smoke. This allows for a smoother inhale with fewer toxins than traditional combustion methods.
There are two main types of vaporizers: vape pens and desktop vaporizers. Vape pens are portable, pocket-sized devices that are easy to use on the go. They typically use pre-filled cartridges or concentrate pods. However, you can also find portable dry herb vapes. Desktop vaporizers, on the other hand, are larger, more powerful units designed for home use. These devices can usually vaporize both cannabis flower and concentrates, offering a more customizable experience.
Pros
- Less Odor: Vaporizing produces less odor than smoking, making it a more discreet option.
- Healthier Alternative: Vaping avoids combustion, potentially reducing the intake of harmful toxins and leading to a smoother experience on the lungs.
- Convenient: Portable vape pens are easy to use and offer a mess-free way to consume cannabis, perfect for those on the move.
Cons
- Initial Cost: Vaporizers can be more expensive upfront, especially high-quality desktop models.
- Battery Reliance: Portable vape pens require regular charging, which can be a drawback if you’re away from power sources.
Vaping tends to appeal to those who are health-conscious or who prefer a more discreet, portable way to consume cannabis. It’s also a great option for individuals who want to avoid the harshness of smoking while still enjoying the fast onset of effects.
Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles are another popular way to consume cannabis, offering a completely different experience compared to smoking or vaping. They come in a ton of different options, from gummies and chocolates to baked goods and beverages.
What sets cannabis edibles apart is how the body processes them. Unlike inhaled cannabis, which enters the bloodstream through the lungs, the liver is actually responsible for metabolizing edibles. This process converts THC into a more potent compound, 11-hydroxy-THC, leading to longer-lasting and often more intense effects.
Because the liver metabolizes edibles, the effects take longer to kick in — usually anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. However, once they do, the effects can last much longer, sometimes up to six hours or more, depending on the dose and the person.
Pros
- Long-Lasting Effects: Edibles offer a sustained experience, making them great for anyone seeking long-term relief.
- No Inhalation: Edibles are a smoke-free option, ideal for those who want to avoid inhaling anything into their lungs.
- Discreet: Most edibles look just like regular food, making them easy to consume without drawing attention.
Cons
- Delayed Onset: Since it takes time for the liver to process the THC, edibles can take longer to feel, which can lead to overconsumption if users are impatient.
- More Intense Effects: It can be tricky to gauge the right dosage, especially for beginners, as edibles tend to have a stronger effect once metabolized.
Edibles are perfect for anyone who wants a longer, more consistent cannabis experience without the need to inhale smoke or vapor. They’re also popular among those looking for discreet consumption options, as well as medical patients seeking lasting relief from chronic pain, insomnia, or anxiety.
Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals are an excellent choice for people seeking relief without the psychoactive effects that come with consuming cannabis through inhalation or ingestion. Topicals include creams, lotions, balms, and transdermal patches infused with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and other beneficial compounds. These products are applied directly to the skin, where the cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and target that specific area.
Because topicals don’t enter the bloodstream, they don’t produce a “high,” making them perfect for anyone who wants the therapeutic benefits of cannabis — such as relief from pain, inflammation, or skin conditions — without altering their mental state. However, some transdermal patches are designed to penetrate deeper, offering both localized relief and potential systemic effects.
Pros
- Non-Psychoactive: Topicals provide targeted relief without any mental or psychoactive effects, making them ideal for daily use.
- Targeted Relief: They allow you to directly apply cannabis to a specific area, helping with localized issues like muscle soreness, joint pain, or skin irritation.
- Easy to Use: Applying topicals is straightforward, with effects typically kicking in within minutes.
Cons
- Limited to Localized Relief: Topicals don’t provide full-body effects, so they may not be as effective for those seeking overall symptom management.
- Varied Absorption: The effectiveness of topicals can vary from person to person depending on skin type and the severity of the condition being treated.
Topicals are great for people who are looking for relief from muscle aches, joint pain, arthritis, or skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Athletes, older adults, and those with physical jobs often find topicals particularly helpful for managing discomfort after a long day.
Explore, Experience, & Elevate at BestBüds Recreational Cannabis Dispensary
With so many ways to enjoy cannabis, finding the right method for you is all about exploring what fits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you prefer the immediacy of smoking flower, the smooth experience of vaping, the long-lasting effects of edibles, or the targeted relief of topicals — there’s a method that can enhance your cannabis journey.
Visit us at BestBüds adult-use dispensary to explore a wide range of cannabis products and get expert advice from our friendly budtenders. Let us be your go-to spot for your go-to cannabis products!
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
