Medical cannabis patients have more options than ever when it comes to consuming marijuana. In addition to smoking, which is the most common method of consumption, there are also edibles, sprays, topical ointments, and more.
Edibles take about 30 minutes to an hour to kick in and are often high in sugar or allergens, which may lead to a different effect than intended. Sprays are a popular way to accurately dose a patient and are quickly absorbed under the tongue.
1. Tinctures
Tinctures are a simple, straightforward way to consume cannabis without the health risks associated with smoking or vaping. They are easy to make at home and are available from dispensaries in discreet packaging.
A tincture is a mixture of dried and decarboxylated cannabis suspended in alcohol or oil. Many tinctures contain only THC, but others have a variety of cannabinoid compounds and terpenes for different effects. Some tinctures use alcohol, while others use oil or glycerin.
Cannabis tinctures can be taken sublingually (dropped under the tongue) for fast-acting absorption, or mixed into drinks or food. They can also be applied topically to alleviate pain or enhance skin health.
Similar to tinctures, THC sprays are a convenient way to deliver a precise dose of cannabis. The main difference between tinctures and sprays is that tinctures are made from plant extracts suspended in alcohol, while sprays are a combination of cannabinoids and carrier oils like coconut or olive oil. A spray can be applied directly to the skin and usually comes with a squeezable dropper for ease of dosing.
2. Edibles
Many people consume cannabis in the form of edibles, or foods that have been infused with marijuana. These include the longstanding classic, pot brownies, as well as newer options like cannabutter or oil to add to your favorite recipes and THC-infused gummies and chocolates you can find at the dispensary.
Tinctures, which are cannabis extracts in alcohol or glycerin, allow for accurate dosing. When administered sublingually (under the tongue) they can take effect in 15-30 minutes. They’re more commonly used by medical cannabis patients because of their accuracy and ease-of-use.
THC-infused pills and capsules are another food-based way to take cannabis, often providing a dose that starts slow and lasts longer than a typical edible. They’re also a popular choice for those seeking to avoid sugar or other unhealthy ingredients in edibles.
Vape pens are battery-powered devices that hold and vaporize oil concentrate, offering a discreet and convenient way to smoke marijuana. The small, slim devices are easy to use and provide a smooth, controlled inhalation of THC. They can be found at most dispensaries and offer a variety of potency levels to suit any desired experience.
3. Sprays
Oral cannabis sprays come in a variety of concentrations and flavours to suit any preference. There are pure THC sprays that provide a fast and predictable high as well as CBD and THC hybrid sprays which deliver a range of therapeutic effects. These include combating inflammation, anxiety, and chronic pain. These sprays also work well alongside other terpenes to achieve the ‘entourage effect’.
Unlike edibles, which can take up to two hours to reach their full impact, sprays can produce a fast-acting and consistent high that’s easy to regulate throughout the day. Additionally, some sprays are odor-eliminating and can be used in public without fear of detection.
The onset of the high from cannabis sprays is very similar to that of inhalation methods, with most users feeling the effects within minutes. THC sprays are also smoke-free and do not require lungs, making them safe for anyone to use. Moreover, these products are extremely discreet since they look like a breath mint and can be quickly hidden in your pocket. Some even have added flavours that mask the smell of the carrier oil.
4. Drinks Infused With Weed
Cannabis-infused beverages offer a delicious and discreet alternative to smoking or edibles. They can be consumed on their own or mixed into other drinks, such as coffee, tea, smoothies and more. Many of these beverages contain THC and CBD, and some also include other beneficial plant compounds like terpenes.
These beverages are typically flavored with natural ingredients to create a pleasant taste. They can be found in a wide range of refreshing flavors, including citrus, fruit, iced tea and even kombucha!
Some popular brands of cannabis-infused beverages include Recess, a millennial-chic cannabis-infused sparkling water, and Rebel Coast, maker of non-alcoholic cannabis-infused seltzers. Other brands, such as HYTN, offer all-natural sparkling drinks with rapid-onset THC that are low in sugar and calories.
Most cannabis-infused beverages are formulated to deliver specific effects. For example, you can find drinks infused with Indica strains that provide relaxing body effects or Sativa strains that provide more cerebral effects. You can also find drinks formulated with a mix of Indica and Sativa or with different levels of THC and CBD.
5. Topical Ointments
Cannabis topicals are unique in that they offer fast-acting relief directly to trouble spots like sore muscles or joints. They are a great alternative to inhalation as they typically don’t induce the same psychoactive effects. Cannabis topicals include lotions, salves, balms, and transdermal patches.
Once applied, the formula penetrates the skin and interacts with endocannabinoid receptors found on the skin’s surface. The cannabinoids then bind with these receptors and produce specific effects. These can vary depending on the chemovars, potency, and ingredients used in each formula.
Many people enjoy using cannabis topicals because of their skin benefits. They are often used to treat things like psoriasis, dermatitis, mild skin irritations, and can be helpful with reducing redness caused by sunburns.
Cannabis-infused creams are becoming increasingly popular in the industry. Unfortunately, Health Canada regulations prevent them from being sold for home use until new amendments to the Cannabis Act come into effect in October of 2019. But you can make your own infused cream with ingredients you probably already have at home. Then apply the cream as needed to alleviate your symptoms.
