Understanding Inhalation
Smoking flower
Smoking cured cannabis flower is one of the most common forms of consumption. Inhalation is the fastest method of delivery for consumers, but flower potency varies by product. Pre-rolls offer a quick and convenient option for smoking with an onset time of five to 10 minutes, lasting anywhere from one to three hours.
vaporization
Vaping involves heating oil through a vaporizing device and inhaling through a mouthpiece. The effects are similar to smoking flower, but can feel much more potent due to the oil extract and is done through an electronic device. Disposable vapes or vape cartridges with reusable batteries are commonly used for this consumption method. This method has an instantaneous onset time, and can last anywhere from one to three hours.
dabbing
This method involves heating cannabis concentrates, a highly potent oil that lacks plant materials, on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor. Also known as “dabs”, this is only recommended for experienced and high-tolerance users as it creates a more intense result for the user.
Benefits of Inhalation
rapid onset
Inhalation offers quick relief, with effects often felt within minutes.
precise dosage
Users can control the amount of cannabis consumed more easily with inhalation methods.
potency
Inhalation allows for efficient absorption of cannabinoids, providing potent effects.
Choosing the Right Method
Consider personal preferences, health concerns, and desired effects when selecting an inhalation method. Consult with knowledgeable budtenders or healthcare professionals for guidance.
What are concentrates?
Concentrate serves as a broad term referring to all products that have been extracted from the cannabis plant. Cannabis concentrates have a very high THC potency.
Consumption Options
Concentrates come in a variety of forms, each with its own unique consistency and potency level, and can be consumed using several different methods, including:
combined with flower
a low-maintenance potency boost
dab
an intensely potent, fast-acting high
vape pen
a light high on the go
Edibles/topicals
produced from concentrates with the ability to quantify doses
Are concentrates and extracts the same thing?
The terms “concentrate” and “extract” are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Extracts are a specific type of concentrate made using a solvent, meaning that all extracts are concentrates, whereas not all concentrates are extracts.
Different Consistencies
Consistency can affect the consumption experience of a concentrate, but ultimately it comes down to the user preference. The following are are terms used to describe the various forms of concentrate appearance and texture:
Shatter
known for its brittle, glass-like texture. It can also have a snap-and-pull consistency. Shatters usually have a golden yellow to bright amber color throughout.
budder/badder
slightly oily and soft in texture. It is malleable, easy to handle, and has a sun yellow to bright orange coloring. The butter-like consistency allows the extract to be easily used as a spread on blunts or joints, or to be dabbed.
crumble
a brittle version of budder or badder, with a crumbly, honeycomb consistency. The color tends to be similar to budder or badder, but with a matte or dull finish.
sugar
used for any concentrate that has a similar consistency to wet, sappy sugar. It’s not uniform in nature and typically has colors ranging from bright yellow to deep amber
sauce
thick and viscous; it looks sticky. The color of sauce can range from deep amber to bright mustard. Sauce is similar to sugar in both its consistency and color, but has a more uniform and prominent crystalline structure.
crystalline/thca
a single, crystallized cannabinoid. Just as the name implies, THCA and CBD crystalline are white crystals that can vary in density and size from small rocks to powder.
live Resin
the extract that comes from fresh frozen cannabis plants. All trichomes are dissolved, leaving behind a flavorful and potent cannabis experience.
live rosin
a concentrate made using solventless extraction methods. This process closely mimics the original plant’s profile, resulting in a more complex, nuanced flavor profile.
bubble hash
paste-like consistency that is a solid concentration of trichomes. This process uses water, ice, and mesh screens to separate the plant materials from the potent resin glands (trichomes).
How do topicals work?
Topicals are applied directly to the skin. They come in various forms, including balms, creams, lotions, and even transdermal patches. As a part of the endocannabinoid system, the skin has cannabinoid receptors which interact with THC and CBD when topicals are applied
Do topicals cause a "high"?
There are some topicals that do not produce a psychoactive “high” because they do not enter the bloodstream. Instead, they work locally on the skin and underlying tissues, offering targeted relief without affecting your mental state. However, there are also topicals that do enter the bloodstream and will deliver on the psychoactive “high” common in other forms of cannabis consumption Please check with your budtender and review product packaging thoroughly to ensure you’re getting the type of topical you’re looking for.
What are tinctures?
Cannabis tinctures are liquid extracts made by infusing cannabinoids from the cannabis plant into oil. This process extracts the essential compounds, creating a potent solution that can be consumed sublingually (under the tongue), providing rapid absorption into the bloodstream. The sublingual method allows cannabinoids to bypass the digestive system, leading to quicker onset times compared to edibles. Tinctures also offer a discreet consumption option with precise dosing, making them a favorite across consumers.
What are tinctures used for?
Tinctures can be used for a variety of purposes, including pain management, sleep aid, and anxiety or stress aid.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BEGINNERS
TINCTURES
CHOOSE A BALANCED PRODUCT
Opt for a product with a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio for a more well-rounded experience.
USE A DROPPER FOR PRECISION
Tinctures often come with a dropper for precise dosing. Start with a single drop or a small portion of a dropper to gauge your sensitivity.
HOLD UNDER THE TONGUE
For optimal absorption, hold the drop under your tongue for about 30-60 seconds before swallowing.
EXPERIMENT WITH RATIOS
If you’re uncertain about THC’s psychoactive effects, explore tinctures with higher CBD content to counterbalance potential euphoria.
TOPICALS
PATCH TESTING TOPICALS
Before applying a significant amount of a topical, patch test a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction to the topical. Topicals should be applied directly on desired areas, such as an area causing pain or discomfort, or to venous areas of the body for maximum absorption and benefits such as ankles, wrists, and behind the knees.
EDIBLES
EMPTY STOMACH VS FULL STOMACH
Edibles may hit harder on an empty stomach. However, consuming them with food can slow down the onset. Experiment to find what works best for you.
STAY HYDRATED
Cannabis can cause dry mouth, so keep water handy.
CREATE A COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT
Being in a comfortable, familiar space can enhance your experience and reduce anxiety.
TIPS & TRICKS
start low and slow
Begin with a low-dose product and observe how your body responds. You can gradually increase the dose as needed.
.
understand the product
Different products may have varying cannabinoid profiles and ingredients. Choose a product tailored to your needs, whether it’s pain relief, anxiety relief, or a sleep aid. If you don’t know where to start, Budtenders can be a great resource!
temperature control
For any inhalation method, avoid excessively high temperatures to prevent combustion and minimize potential health risks.
quality products
Ensure the cannabis products used are tested and from reputable sources to reduce the risk of contaminants. Shopping at a cannabis retailer is a great way to ensure you’re consuming quality products as they’ve been tested through state approved facilities.
responsible use
Always consume cannabis responsibly and in moderation, adhering to local laws and regulations
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