The cannabis consumption industry has greatly changed with the passing of years. Cannabis, whether in any form, continues to gain popularity both with the new users and old time enthusiasts, but with this variety in popularity there is always a question that rages among either new users or long time veterans, what is the best way to consume cannabis? The solution mostly relies on individual tastes, lifestyle, and the desired outcome. Pre-rolls, edibles and vapes are some of the most well-liked consumption practices. These options are all different and it is only after learning the difference between them that you will be able to determine which product is suitable to your needs.
In this blog post we are going to present these three methods and point out the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, what impact it produces and what type of user is most well suited to using the 3 methods. At the end, you will understand better about what cannabis product fits into your life.
What are Edibles?
Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts, such as THC or CBD, that can be consumed orally. These can come in a wide range of forms, including:
- Gummies
- Chocolate bars
- Baked goods (like brownies or cookies)
- Drinks (such as teas, sodas, and even cocktails)
- Capsules and tinctures
How do Edibles Work?
When you consume an edible, the active compounds like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidiol) are absorbed into the digestive system. This process takes time-typically between 30 minutes to 2 hours for effects to kick in. Once absorbed, the compounds travel through the liver, where THC is converted into a more potent form (11-hydroxy-THC), which can create a stronger and longer-lasting high.
Pros of Edibles
- Long-Lasting Effects: The effects from edibles tend to last much longer than those from smoking or vaping, often lasting between 4 to 8 hours. This makes edibles ideal for people who want sustained effects over a long period, such as those managing chronic pain or anxiety.
- Discreet and Convenient: Edibles are easy to consume on the go without drawing attention. You don’t need any special equipment like a vape or a lighter.
- No Smoking or Vapor: If you’re concerned about the potential harm of smoking or vaping, edibles offer a smoke-free alternative. This makes them a preferred choice for health-conscious individuals or those with respiratory issues.
Cons of Edibles
- Delayed Onset: Unlike smoking or vaping, which provide immediate effects, edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. This delay can lead to accidental overconsumption if you’re not careful. It’s always best to start with a small dose and wait to feel the effects before consuming more.
- Dosing Challenges: It can be hard to know exactly how much THC or CBD is in each edible, especially if it’s homemade. Even pre-packaged edibles can have slight variations in potency.
- Risk of Overconsumption: Because the effects are delayed, some users may consume more thinking they haven’t taken enough. This can lead to an uncomfortable experience, including dizziness, nausea, or anxiety.
Best For:
- People seeking long-lasting relief (e.g., for pain or insomnia)
- Those who prefer a discreet and smoke-free option
- Users who don’t mind waiting for the effects to kick in
Pre-Rolls: A Convenient and Classic Option
A pre-roll is simply a cannabis joint (or cigarette) that has already been rolled and is ready to smoke. These can be found in dispensaries and come in a variety of strains, ranging from high-THC to CBD-dominant options. Pre-rolls are often made with high-quality flower, though some contain a mix of flower and concentrates for a more potent experience.
How Do Pre-Rolls Work?
When you smoke a pre-roll, the cannabis flower is burned, and the active compounds like THC and CBD enter your bloodstream through the lungs almost immediately. This results in instantaneous effects, which is one of the main advantages of smoking over other methods.
Pros of Pre-Rolls
- Instant Effects: Smoking provides rapid relief, which is especially beneficial for those who need quick effects, such as for anxiety or pain relief.
- Convenience: Pre-rolls come ready to use, meaning you don’t have to worry about rolling a joint yourself. For those who prefer the traditional smoking experience but don’t want the hassle, pre-rolls are a perfect option.
- Variety of Strains: Since pre-rolls are available in various strains, it’s easy to experiment and find the strain that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re after a relaxing indica, an energizing sativa, or a balanced hybrid, there’s a pre-roll for you.
- Shared Experience: Pre-rolls are often seen as a social tool-ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply passing around with friends.
Cons of Pre-Rolls
- Shorter Duration: The effects of smoking or vaping typically wear off much faster than edibles. You might experience the effects of a pre-roll for about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the individual.
- Health Concerns: Smoking anything can be harmful to the lungs. While cannabis itself may have fewer harmful chemicals than tobacco, inhaling smoke can still irritate the respiratory system, especially with frequent use.
- Odor: The smell of cannabis smoke can be strong and lingering. This can be an issue if you need to be discreet or if you’re in a non-smoking area.
Best For:
- Users who prefer quick relief
- People who enjoy the traditional smoking experience
- Social users who like to share with friends
- Those who want variety in strains and effects
Vapes: The Modern, Efficient Alternative
Vaping has become an increasingly popular method of cannabis consumption. Vapes heat cannabis oil or concentrates to release the active compounds without the harmful byproducts of combustion, such as tar or carbon monoxide.
How Do Vapes Work?
Vapes work by heating a cannabis concentrate or flower to a specific temperature that allows the active ingredients (like THC and CBD) to vaporize and be inhaled. The vapor enters the bloodstream through the lungs, just like smoking, but without the smoke itself. Vaping typically produces a much cleaner experience.
Pros of Vapes
- Quick Onset: Like smoking, vaping offers immediate effects, which is ideal for users who need fast relief or enjoy a quick high.
- Healthier Option: Vaping doesn’t involve combustion, so it produces fewer harmful toxins compared to smoking. Many users see this as a healthier alternative to smoking pre-rolls or traditional joints.
- Discreet and Portable: Vapes are often sleek and discreet, making them easy to carry around and use without attracting attention. Additionally, the vapor produced is usually much less pungent than smoke, making it a better choice for those who want to keep their cannabis use private.
- Consistent Dosing: Vaping provides more consistent dosages compared to smoking flower, especially with pre-filled vape pens. This consistency allows users to control their intake better.
Cons of Vapes
- Shorter Duration: Like smoking, the effects of vaping wear off relatively quickly, usually within 1 to 3 hours.
- Potential Health Risks: While vaping is generally considered safer than smoking, there are still concerns about the long-term effects of inhaling vaporized cannabis oil. Some vape pens have also been found to contain harmful additives, so it’s essential to buy from reputable sources.
- Cost: High-quality vapes and vape pens can be more expensive compared to traditional pre-rolls or even edibles.
Best For:
- Users who want a clean and discreet consumption method
- People who seek quick effects but want to avoid smoking
- Those who prefer a portable and low-odor option
Which Method is Right for You?
The choice between edibles, pre-rolls, and vapes depends largely on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Choose Edibles if:
You want long-lasting effects, prefer a smoke-free option, and don’t mind waiting for the effects to kick in. - Choose Pre-Rolls if:
You want immediate effects, enjoy the traditional experience of smoking, or want a social cannabis experience. - Choose Vapes if:
You want quick relief, a discreet method, or a healthier alternative to smoking but still prefer inhaling cannabis.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to cannabis consumption. Whether you opt for edibles, pre-rolls, or vapes, the key is to consider how each method fits into your lifestyle. Experimentation is a big part of the process, and it may take a little trial and error before you find what works best for you. Always remember to start slow, especially with edibles, and enjoy the journey of discovering the perfect method for your needs.
