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Cannabis: Edibles vs. Smoking- What’s Better?

Cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. With the growing popularity of cannabis consumption, there are now various ways to use it, including smoking and consuming edibles.

Smoking cannabis involves heating and inhaling the smoke from burning the plant’s dried flowers, leaves, or extracts. On the other hand, cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts or oils. These can come in brownies, gummies, cookies, and more. But people often get confused between edibles and smoking, wondering which option is better.

Well, the answer isn’t a simple one. Each method offers different advantages, and the choice is ultimately yours. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision regarding cannabis consumption.

Smoking Cannabis | Inhaling The Smoke

Man smoking a marijuana weed joint, inhaling cannabis smoke.

Smoking cannabis has been the go-to method of consumption for centuries. It’s easy to do, and you get instantaneous effects. When cannabis is burned, it releases cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) into the air.

Smoking cannabis is the most ancient and traditional way of using the herb. The inhaling provides an instantaneous effect to the user as the cannabinoids enter their bloodstream through their lungs.

Compared to edibles, smoking marijuana often results in an expedited absorption process. This leads to rapid delivery of its subjective effects, causing a more immediate and quicker peak that tends to fade after a shortened duration. [1]

Recent studies have found that while cigarette smoking has declined, marijuana use is rising. Those who partake in cannabis are more likely to eat edibles than to smoke the flower, as it is considered a safer option.

Pros Of Smoking Cannabis

Cropped shot of a man rolling a marijuana joint at home

If you’re looking for faster effects delivery, smoking cannabis is your best bet. You can feel the results almost immediately, and the dose can be adjusted easily by inhaling more or less. Some of the pros include: [2]

  • Easy To Consume

Smoking cannabis is the simplest and most convenient way of consuming it, as no preparation or special equipment is required. All you need are some dried flowers or extracts, and you’re good to go.

  • Adjustable Dose

It’s easy to customize your dosage with smoking; take more or fewer breaths, depending on how much you want to consume. This makes it an excellent option for those who need more precise dosing.

  • Quick Effects

you can feel the effects of smoking cannabis almost immediately as the cannabinoids enter your bloodstream via the lungs. This makes it an excellent option for those who need fast relief from specific symptoms.

Cons Of Smoking Cannabis

Despite its many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to smoking cannabis that you should consider before making your decision.

  • Health Risks

Smoking cannabis can cause some health risks, such as lung and throat damage and an increased risk of respiratory illnesses. Rolling papers are often made with toxic chemicals or products, which may aggravate the effects.

  • Less Flavor

Smoking cannabis can lead to a decrease in flavor due to high temperatures and the combustion of the plant material. Those who smoke often find that they get used to lower-quality flavors after smoking for extended periods.

  • Short Duration Of Effects

The effects of smoking cannabis tend to last for a shorter time than edibles. So you’ll need to smoke more often to maintain the products. The duration may also vary from a few minutes to 6 hours. [3]

  • Affect Your Lungs

Smoking cannabis can irritate your lungs and throat, leading to coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory issues. If you are already predisposed to respiratory problems, smoking cannabis is not recommended.

Edibles For Cannabis Consumption | Ingesting THC

This is a stock photograph involving cannabis in brownies, marijuana and its implications in America has just slowly been legalized and used for medicinal and medical purposes and what that means to our economy and culture.

From brownies and cookies to gummies and lollipops, cannabis edibles are becoming increasingly popular. This method involves infusing food products with cannabis extracts or oils, resulting in outcomes that range from incredibly potent to mildly dosed.

Cannabis edibles offer several advantages over smoking. For starters, they’re much easier on the lungs; no flames or smoke are required. And since cannabis is ingested orally, individuals can better tolerate it by individuals with sensitive respiratory systems.

Pros Of Cannabis Edibles

Marijuana - Cannabis - Medicinal Edibles - Cookies & Cocunut Brownies, with tag and leaf

If you are not fond of the idea of smoking cannabis, or if you want to enjoy a longer-lasting high, then edibles are your best bet. Here are some of the benefits of cannabis edibles:

  • Longer Effects

The effects of edibles tend to last for a more extended amount of time compared to smoking. This makes it ideal for those who need relief from symptoms throughout the day. Depending on the dose and individual metabolism, the effects may last 6 to 12 hours or more. [3]

  • Better Flavor

Edibles provide a much better flavor than smoking, as no combustion occurs. This allows you to enjoy all the subtle notes of cannabis flavors without harshness or bitterness.

  • No Health Risks

Unlike smoking, consuming edibles does not pose serious health risks, making it an ideal option for those who do not want to damage their lungs or throat. If you want a healthier way to enjoy cannabis, edibles are the way to go.

  • Discreet

Cannabis edibles can be consumed discreetly, as they do not emit any odors or smoke that can alert others to your consumption. Sometimes, they can even look just like regular food products. Just remember to check the packaging before consuming any edibles.

Cons Of Cannabis Edibles

Edibles have their drawbacks. Here are some of the cons that you should consider:

  • Slower Delivery Of Effects

The effects of edibles are typically slower to kick in than smoking cannabis. The cannabinoids must go through your digestive system before entering the bloodstream.

  • Harder To Control Dosage

Controlling your dosage with edibles can be more challenging, as you must wait a few hours for the effects to kick in properly. It is difficult to adjust the dose if it’s too strong or weak.

  • No Immediate Relief

Edibles are not ideal for those who need immediate relief from specific symptoms, as the effects can take up to a few hours to kick in. When in doubt, start with a low dose and give it some time before taking more.

Cannabis Edibles Vs. Smoking | What’s Better?

Have you ever felt the urge to smoke a joint but had no lighter? Or have you ever wished that your high would last longer? If so, then edibles may be right for you.

Edibles provide a convenient and discreet way of consuming cannabis without any harmful effects associated with smoking. And since they are infused with cannabis oils or extracts, they can provide a longer-lasting high than smoking.

However, there are still some things that could be improved by this method of consumption. The effects of edibles can take a few hours to kick in, and it’s harder to adjust the dosage if necessary. But on the other hand, if you are looking for a healthier option, then edibles may be the way to go.

If you want immediate effects, then smoking may be the better option. It all depends upon the user which one best suits their needs. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference and experimentation. Ultimately, you should try both methods and determine the best for you.

So what are you waiting for? Give edibles a try today and experience cannabis in a whole new way. Farmacy District has a widespread collection of edibles, so hop on the wagon and start munching. Contact us today and get your desired edibles.

FAQs

1. Are edibles better for your heart?

Yes, edibles are generally better for your heart than smoking because they do not involve the combustion of plant material. This means there is no smoke or tar to damage your lungs and cardiovascular system.

2. What happens when you are too high on edibles?

Excessive marijuana use may lead to various physical and mental symptoms, such as extreme confusion, anxiety or paranoia, hallucinations, or delusions.

3. What does a 5 mg edible do to you?

Even a tiny 5 mg edible can relieve mild pain and stress, heightened vigor, and joy for novice users. However, these effects depend on an individual’s metabolism, diet, and tolerance.

References: 

[1]https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/california-weed/article259690200.html

[2]https://drugabuse.com/blog/joints-vs-edibles-how-marijuana-effects-the-body/

[3]https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-06/CCSA-Cannabis-Inhaling-Ingesting-Risks-Infographic-2019-en_1.pdf