Medical Cannabis

Methods of Consumption

Just like there are many different types of cannabis plants, there are also numerous ways of ingesting cannabis medicine. Each method comes with unique therapeutic benefits which should be understood in order to pick the most optimal method for your specific condition or symptoms. 

Smoking

Smoking cannabis is the most traditional way of consuming this plant. While there are medical benefits to consumption via inhalation, research encourages the use of vaporization rather than smoking as there are other health implications to smoking that may offset the positive benefits of the plant. 

Onset: Within seconds of inhalation

Duration: Effects will peak within 30 minutes and diminish within 1-3 hours

Pros

Cons

Vaping 

Vaping has become synonymous with cannabis treatment as patients recognized early on that they can experience the benefits of oral inhalation without having to smoke their medication.
Reference to vaporizing can be either dried-flower or cannabis oil filled vapes. 

Onset: Within seconds of inhalation

Duration: Effects will peak within 30 minutes and diminish within 1-3 hours

Pros

Cons

Sublingual

The sublingual consumption method works by administering cannabis oil under the tongue or along the gums where mucous membranes are present to rapidly absorb the cannabinoids.  

Onset:  Effects are usually present between 30 mins and 1.5 hours depending on the persons metabolism and what they have eaten throughout the day. 

Duration: Effects are generally reported to last between 3-6 hours.

Pros

Cons

Edibles

Edibles have been part of cannabis medicine for many years, gaining popularity by offering patients delicious ways to consume cannabis. 

The edibles category includes cannabis infused food, as well as cannabis oil-filled capsules. 

Onset: Depending on users’ metabolism, effects will be felt within 30 minutes to 2 hours

Duration: Effects can last roughly 4-6 hours

Pros

Cons

Topicals and transdermal

Research on topical and transdermal use is still evolving but is showing promise in offering a discreet and long-lasting method of consumption. This could be a great option for patients suffering from a chronic condition such as pain, migraines or even certain skin conditions. 

Onset: Five minutes- 2 hours

Duration: Lasting upwards of 12 hours

Pros

Cons

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