Benefits of cannabis are not mutually exclusive with smoking. There are multiple options to consume cannabis without smoking for individuals looking for alternative ways to medicate.
Some of these options you may have heard, and others are gaining popularity. Whether you’re a long time cannabis user or not, it’s always beneficial to try different options to see what works best for your needs. Here’s how you can consume cannabis without smoking:
1. Vaporizing
Vaping has gained a lot of popularity over the past five years as a method to consume cannabis without smoking. Essentially, dried cannabis is heated to a temperature of 392°F then inhaled as a water vapor. Another option is to use oil instead of flower (oil vapes). What some are not aware of is that there are multiple ways to vape.
- Flower Vapes – This portable option creates a great discreet consumption method. This is a great option for flower enthusiasts.
- Oil Vapes – As another portable option, oil vapes are equally as discreet as flower vapes. The big difference is that you are ingesting concentrates.
- Desktop Vapes – Unlike flower and oil vapes, these turn on with a plug. They generally come with a bag or hose mouthpiece.
Great option for: Those who enjoy discretely inhaling cannabis without the smell.
2. Edibles
Edibles are by far the most well-known way to consume cannabis without smoking. The effects last for 12 hours or more, so correct dosing is important. We always recommend starting with a very low dose. This way you can see how your body reacts to the edible.
They come in a variety of forms. With the growth of edible consumption, new flavors and mixes seem to appear every day (especially healthier ones)! For example, chocolates, protein balls, fruit mixes, cereal bars, macaroons, jerky, suckers, marshmallows, and taffy.
Great option for: Those who enjoy the experience of consumption with long-lasting effects.
3. Ingestible Oil Pills
Ingestible oil pills are powder cannabis with oil (typically coconut or olive oil). These also don’t have a scent, so you can enjoy the benefits without a lingering smell.
Great option for: Those who want to know a more predictable dosage, and/or care about the smell.
4. Tinctures
According to BDS Analytics, these are one of the fastest growing sectors in ways to consume cannabis without smoking. Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts infused with alcohol. To consume, you can either drip directly into your mouth or infuse in cooking.
Great option for: Those who want a more predictable dosage, and/or a versatile way of consumption.
5. Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused oils, balms, and lotions that absorb through the skin. They are non-psychoactive and release soreness, inflammation, and pain.
Great option for: Those who are looking for pain relief and/or body calmness.
6. Dabbing
Dabbing is a concentrate that is heated on a hot surface, then inhaled. The concentrates are made by extracting THC and other cannabinoids to produce the oil. Other common names include shatter, wax, budder, and butane hash oil. Dabbing is a very potent method, and quickly felt.
Great option for: Those who need pain relief immediately, and are experienced with cannabis use.
All of these options you can find at most local dispensaries. Explore what’s right for you and if you haven’t yet, get your medical marijuana card today!
