Smoking has always been the most common way to use cannabis. But with the legalization of medical and recreational use of marijuana in different states, including Colorado, cannabis consumers now have a host of creative ways to enjoy getting their high. So, edibles vs smoking, do they deliver a different high? The Best High Dispensary explores the difference between smoking and edibles, their pros and cons, and how to know what works for you.
SMOKING: PROS AND CONS
Delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produces the “high” effect you feel after using weed. However, the ingestion method determines how much THC ends up in your bloodstream as well as how long it takes to get there.
When using the inhalation route (inhaling/smoking a joint, pipe, bong, blunt, or waterpipe), the smoke will first hit your lungs, where it enters the bloodstream through alveoli before being transported to the brain. The intensity of the high depends on the amount of THC ingested. For instance, adding concentrates to a smoking device delivers more THC to the bloodstream, resulting in a much more intense high.
This whole process is very quick, which explains why you get high in as little as 2-10 minutes after smoking a joint. Despite the rapid onset, the effects are short-term, usually lasting about 1-3 hours for experienced consumers. In summary, the benefits of smoking include:
- A near-instant “high”
- Better control of your dosage
- Can savor the aromatic profile of different weed strains
Keep in mind that smoking delivers short-lived effects with the duration depending on individual tolerance levels. It is also harsher on the lungs, especially if you have respiratory problems
EDIBLES: PROS AND CONS
When comparing edibles vs smoking, knowing how much THC enters the body and how it is metabolized can help understand why the two consumption methods produce a different high. Edibles refer to food products infused with cannabinoids. They can take many forms, including gummies, baked goods, chocolate bars, and beverages.
When you ingest edibles, the cannabis is processed through the digestive system. The liver converts half of the TCH to an even stronger form known as 11-hydroxy-THC, which is then released into the bloodstream before heading to the brain. This process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for the effects to kick in but can go up to two hours — however, the more potent 11-hydroxy-THC results in a more intense and longer-lasting high.
- Longer lasting effects
- A more potent high
- Discrete and convenient options that cater to your tastes and preferences
- Easier on the lungs due to the absence of smoking
On the flip side, you will need to wait a little longer for the effects to kick in. If you are using homemade edibles, it may be more difficult to control the dosage. The risk of consuming too much THC is quite high, especially if you eat too many edibles to try and speed up the high.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The difference between smoking and edibles is largely due to their metabolic pathways. While smoking delivers a near-instant high, edibles need to go through the digestive system, where the THC is converted to a more potent form. Despite the delayed onset, edibles deliver a longer-lasting and more intense effect.
In both consumption methods, individual tolerances play a key role in determining the intensity and duration of the high. More experienced consumers may experience short-term effects.
Whether you choose to smoke or use edibles, the amount of THC will also impact the potency of the high. If you are a beginner, it is best to go slow, especially on edibles. To avoid overconsumption, give your body time to metabolize the THC and see how it reacts.
STOP BY FOR YOUR BEST HIGH
Edibles vs smoking have different benefits. The choice of consumption method depends on your individual preferences or how you want to experience your high. At the Best High Dispensary, we offer a diverse selection of cannabis products to help you get your best high. Shop on our online store or visit our physical stores to place your order. Contact us here if you need more information about our products.
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