Some people swear by the classic spliff while others wouldn’t dream of not having a delicious infused brownie in hand. But when it comes to cannabis consumption, which method is better: smoking or eating it? How do these two experiences differ? Let’s dive into the details to help you understand the difference and decide which method works best for you.
How Can You Consume Cannabis?
Aside from dabbing and vaping, the two most popular methods for enjoying cannabis are smoking and eating edibles. Whether you enjoy a spliff, blunt, or pipe, smoking cannabis remains the classic way to get high. On the flip side, edibles have evolved far beyond the traditional brownie or space cake. Now, you can enjoy cannabis-infused gummies, coffee, wine, or even ice cream. The variety is endless!
The Key Differences: Smoking vs Eating Weed
As mentioned, the high you get from smoking cannabis differs significantly from the one you experience when eating it. Let's break down the major differences:
1. Absorption: The Process Behind the High
- Eating Weed: When you consume cannabis edibles, your body absorbs THC through the digestive system. The liver metabolizes THC into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC, which is known for its stronger effects and longer-lasting high. This is why edibles tend to hit you harder once they kick in.
- Smoking Weed: Smoking delivers THC directly into your bloodstream through your lungs. The effects are almost immediate as the THC bypasses digestion and enters the brain almost instantly. You feel the effects much faster compared to eating cannabis, making it easier to control how much you consume.
2. Onset: How Quickly Will You Feel It?
- Smoking Weed: One of the key advantages of smoking cannabis is the instant onset. As soon as you take a puff, you’ll start feeling the effects within minutes. This gives you greater control over your experience, as you can easily gauge when you’ve had enough.
- Eating Weed: Edibles take longer to kick in, often up to an hour or more. The delayed onset can cause confusion, especially for new users who might consume more thinking they haven’t felt anything yet. It’s important to wait before taking another dose to avoid accidentally consuming too much.
3. Duration: How Long Will the High Last?
- Smoking Weed: After smoking, the effects usually last about 1 to 2 hours. If you want to keep the buzz going, it’s easy to take another hit and extend the high.
- Eating Weed: The high from edibles is significantly longer, often lasting anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. This makes them ideal for users looking for a longer experience, but also means the high can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
4. Potency: How Strong Is the High?
- Eating Weed: Edibles tend to produce a much stronger high compared to smoking. This is because of the 11-hydroxy-THC metabolite formed when THC is processed in the liver. This metabolite has a higher affinity for the brain’s CB1 receptors, leading to a more intense effect.
- Smoking Weed: With smoking, the THC is absorbed directly into your bloodstream, but the high isn’t as potent as that from edibles. The effects are more predictable, and users can control the intensity by adjusting how much they smoke at a time.
How to Dose: Edibles vs Smoking Cannabis
Because of the different ways cannabis is absorbed and metabolized, dosing for edibles and smoking requires different approaches.
- Edibles: When it comes to edibles, start with a low dose (around 5-10mg of THC) and wait at least an hour before considering taking more. Since edibles are more potent and take longer to kick in, it’s essential to be cautious and patient to avoid overconsumption.
- Smoking Weed: When smoking, it’s easier to control your dose, as the effects are felt almost immediately. You can start with a small amount and adjust based on how you feel. If you know the THC percentage of your strain, you can calculate how much THC you’re consuming per puff. For example, a 500mg joint of a strain with 14% THC will deliver 70mg of THC.
What to Do if You Smoke or Eat Too Much Weed?
It’s easy to overdo it, especially with edibles. If you’ve consumed too much cannabis, the effects can be uncomfortable but not life-threatening. With smoking, the effects tend to wear off in about an hour, so simply hydrate and rest.
With edibles, you may have to ride out the effects for a few hours. Drinking water, getting some fresh air, and eating something light can help ease the discomfort.
Smoking vs Edibles: Which Is Healthier?
When it comes to health, both methods have pros and cons.
- Smoking: Smoking cannabis, while effective, can be harsh on your lungs. However, using a vaporizer or dab rig can minimize the risk of inhaling harmful toxins.
- Edibles: While edibles don't impact your lungs, they can be high in sugar and calories, especially in sugary treats like gummies and brownies. However, healthier options like cannabis-infused olive oil or guacamole are available for those looking to avoid the sugar rush.
Is It Better to Smoke or Eat Cannabis?
It ultimately comes down to preference. If you prefer a quick, manageable high, smoking might be the better option. If you're looking for a long-lasting, more intense experience, then edibles might be the right choice for you.
For those with lung concerns or a sweet tooth, edibles offer a smoke-free alternative, but smoking allows for more immediate control over your experience.
In Conclusion: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to cannabis consumption. Whether you smoke or eat it, the key is to listen to your body and enjoy cannabis responsibly. Visit GeticGlass.com for all your cannabis accessories and vaporizer needs. Whether you’re a smoker or prefer edibles, we have everything to enhance your experience. Stay safe, stay responsible, and enjoy your cannabis journey!