Vapes, Tinctures, or Edibles? A Guide to Cannabis Consumption Methods

More than 8 million American adults use medical marijuana, according to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Medical marijuana has become increasingly popular over the past decade thanks to legalization at the state level and the medical community’s embrace of research and nonpharmaceutical treatments.

Even though more people are using medical marijuana, many new users aren't sure how cannabis is consumed or are unaware of the different methods that now exist.

To help educate patients, board-certified physician Kimberlee Park, DO, has developed this guide to cannabis consumption. Learn why the way you consume medical marijuana matters, and how vapes, edibles, and tinctures vary. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll have a strong foundation to build on and feel more confident during your next trip to the dispensary.

Why does consumption method matter with medical marijuana?

If you’ve never used medical marijuana, you may assume that the consumption method is a minor consideration, similar to choosing a specific flavor or packaging scheme that resonates with you. 

But how you consume medical marijuana plays an essential role in key factors, such as:

• Onset time
• Effect duration
• Intensity and predictability of the “high”

Selecting products blindly may appeal to your sense of wonder, but if you aren’t careful, it can significantly impact your experience and how well medical marijuana manages your symptoms.

Three common ways to consume medical marijuana

You can consume medical marijuana in several ways, but the three most common are:

1. Vapes

Vaping is the process of inhaling medical marijuana vapor through a vaporizer device. You can vaporize marijuana flower or marijuana-derived oils, depending on the type of vape you have. 

Regardless, vaping is typically the quickest way to experience the effects of medical marijuana. Onset typically occurs within minutes, and although the effects don’t last as long as some other consumption methods, you can easily control the dosage, which is why many new users start with this approach. 

The main thing to consider with this consumption method is how it affects your lungs. If you need to use medical marijuana more than once or twice a day, you may want to consider a method that places less strain on your respiratory system.

2. Tinctures

Tinctures are liquid medical marijuana extracts typically administered sublingually (under the tongue). You can take them on their own or add them to foods and drinks, although swallowing them may delay the onset and alter how quickly your body absorbs them.

Tinctures offer a discreet, vape-free and smoke-free alternative for consuming medical marijuana. You can precisely dose them using a dropper, and the effects typically become noticeable within 15 to 45 minutes. Many people use tinctures to manage chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, or inflammation. 

3. Edibles

Edibles are foods or drinks infused with medical marijuana oils. They come in various forms, including gummies, cookies, and sodas. 

Edibles typically take an hour or two to take effect because they must pass through your digestive system and be metabolized before entering the bloodstream. Even so, the “high” produced by edibles often feels stronger and lasts longer than vapes or tinctures.

Because edibles can be easy to overconsume, Dr. Park typically recommends them for experienced users. Even if you’ve used edibles before, it’s important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over time. Taking too much at once can lead to an unpleasant experience and cause side effects like nausea and vomiting.

Edibles may be worth exploring if you experience symptoms related to conditions such as multiple sclerosis, severe anxiety, epilepsy, or inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease.

Things to consider when choosing a consumption method

Everyone responds to medical marijuana differently, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Still, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure a positive, effective experience. These factors include:

• Desired speed of relief
• How long you want the effects to last
• Your experience level using medical marijuana
• The symptoms or medical conditions you hope to manage
• The medications and supplements you currently take
• Lifestyle preferences and discretion

Even if you understand your goals and health history, selecting the right method can still feel overwhelming. Don’t be embarrassed if you have questions. Dr. Park is happy to make recommendations.

The goal with medical marijuana is to find a consumption method that’s safe and effective for your situation.

Explore the benefits of medical marijuana today

If you’re interested in using medical marijuana to help manage symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, or another health condition, request a medical marijuana consultation or certification with Dr. Park.

Contact MediCalm to schedule a phone appointment today. You can call 484-440-9494 or use our online booking. After discussing your goals and reviewing your health history, she can outline a personalized treatment plan.