Smoking vs. Edibles: A Comparison

The social context around marijuana usage is fast changing in the United States. Once strictly taboo, marijuana usage has become more mainstream, and the stigma around smoking weed has decreased. A testament to this is …

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The social context around marijuana usage is fast changing in the United States. Once strictly taboo, marijuana usage has become more mainstream, and the stigma around smoking weed has decreased. A testament to this is President Biden pardoning federal offenses of marijuana usage, a move that would have been unthinkable by a president a few decades back.

As cannabis products are no longer a taboo, their use has increased among US adults. Consuming hemp products is legal as they contain less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in marijuana. Cannabis users consume cannabis products in two forms: inhaling smoke from a cigarette or vape pen or ingesting edibles. What is the difference between these forms of cannabis consumption, and what safety precautions should you take if you use hemp products? Read on to find out.  

1. Time of Onset

The most crucial difference between inhaling and ingesting cannabis products is the time it takes you to get high. Inhaling is analogous to a high-speed car which can take you to your destination in minutes, whereas ingesting edibles is like having a walk to reach your place. 

Inhaling any compound will get it to your bloodstream in minutes through the lungs, while ingesting one will take longer as the substance has to clear the digestive system before it enters your bloodstream, which can take a few hours. Remember that unlike smoking or vaping, even the best Delta 9 gummies will not get you high immediately, but they will definitely affect you for longer.

2. Duration of High

Edibles may get you high more slowly than smoking, but the buzz duration will be longer. You will not shake off the buzz for around 12 hours in most scenarios, so plan your day accordingly if you use edibles! Make sure your day is free of work and devoid of any anxiety triggers before you take edibles.  THC is a psychoactive compound and can impair your decision-making skills. Avoid taking edibles on days you have to work and make crucial decisions.

The Health Effects of Cannabis Consumption And Safety Precautions

Using cannabis products is a health concern, and you must know the risks associated with inhaling and ingesting marijuana to make an informed decision. The smoke from marijuana can irritate your lungs, and long-term consumption can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia. While these risks are not associated with edibles, as they do not pass through your lungs, edibles can cause cardiac issues when used over a long period. The compounds in marijuana can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, so you must take good care of your cardiac health if you use cannabis. 

As THC edibles have a longer onset time, it is easy to overdose. Always use THC edibles responsibly. Start with 2.5 milligrams of THC, and do not take more than 5 milligrams if you aren’t a long-time user. Take at least a two-hour gap between your edibles. Depending on your choice of edible, it can take many hours before you start feeling the buzz, and taking additional koi delta 9 gummies gummies risks overdosing. If you accidentally get too high, distract yourself with TV, and call 911 if you start vomiting or if your heart rate spikes. 

In addition, THCA, a lesser-known cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant, has a unique role in the context of edibles. It’s non-psychoactive in its raw form and only becomes active THC when exposed to heat, explaining the slower onset and extended duration of the high associated with edibles. In this context, Qwin’s THCA, a specialized product, offers a distinct experience worth exploring.

Endnote

The last few decades have seen an increased social acceptance of marijuana usage. Whether it is smoking, vaping, or taking THC edibles, cannabis products have rapidly grown their market share. It’s essential to remember that edibles take longer to get you high than smoking or vaping but give you a longer buzz. Ensure you take necessary security precautions when taking edibles and are careful not to overdose.

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