Smoking Weed Vs. Edibles

Cannabis

Marijuana is legal in several states for either medical or recreational purposes (or both) and many people have reaped the benefits of consuming this drug, which include reduced stress and anxiety. There are also several different ways to consume cannabis, which means you can choose the method that best meets your taste preferences and health concerns. Two common ways of consuming cannabis are smoking weed vs edibles. Each of these methods provides a distinct experience (different “high” effects).

Smoking Weed (Inhalation)

Weed can be inhaled in several different formats. It may be smoked via pre-rolled blunts or joints, or through devices such as pipes and bongs. Before smoking cannabis, however, it’s important to know exactly what compounds you are inhaling, what type of effect to expect, and how long the “high” experience may last. Here is a close analysis of this subject.

Active Compounds Go Into Lungs & Blood Stream

Once you inhale marijuana smoke into your lungs, the many active compounds contained in the drug rapidly become absorbed into your bloodstream and eventually reach the brain. These compounds include Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. This chemical is the main one that is responsible for the psychological effects produced by marijuana. According to a study conducted by the University of Mississippi’s National Center for Natural Products Research, the average cannabis strain in 2014 contained approximately 12% THC, compared to around 4% in 1995.

Another compound commonly found in cannabis plants is cannabidiol (CBD). This compound does not produce a “high” effect but has been demonstrated to help treat depression, anxiety, seizures, nausea, and migraines. Before you purchase cannabis products, be sure to look up your state’s laws regarding permitted uses of marijuana (i.e. medical vs. recreational) and maximum levels of THC. Under federal law, any cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3% THC is considered “marijuana” (non-hemp product).

Almost Immediate Reaction

When THC enters your brain, it attaches itself to CB1 receptors in your endocannabinoid system. This process triggers the sensation of euphoria generally associated with becoming “high.” Given the fact that THC reaches the brain quickly, you should feel this sensation almost immediately. The full results of the effects of smoking weed typically set in approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on the strain of cannabis and the quantity inhaled) and diminish over time. Additionally, every person has a distinct tolerance level.

Eating Edibles (Ingestion) Metabolized By Stomach & Liver

After a cannabis edible (e.g. cookie, brownie, chewable) flows through your digestive tract, your stomach absorbs it. The active compounds found in marijuana then become metabolized in your liver and THC is transformed into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more durable and potent than the compound’s original form.

Given the different parts of the digestive system an edible must pass through before becoming absorbed by the blood stream, if often takes substantially longer for THC to reach the brain. Edibles generally contain less THC than joints and blunts do. However, it may potentially remain inside you significantly longer.

Longer, Even Stronger Effect

Due to the long process involving the absorption and metabolization of THC, you may likely need to wait longer to feel any effects. However, a high sensation from consuming edibles generally lasts longer than one caused by smoking weed (4-6 hours vs. 1-2 hours, depending on potency and dosage). If you have decided to consume edibles for the first time, you will likely be recommended to begin with the lowest possible dose.

Work With Our Cannabis Professionals About Smoking Weed Vs Edibles

Reach out to the professionals at Pure Oasis in Boston to learn more about the differences between the effects of smoking weed and consuming cannabis edibles. We are Boston’s first recreational marijuana dispensary.

At Pure Oasis, we offer an extremely user-friendly experience that includes staff who are highly knowledgeable about all of our high-quality products. We carry several varieties of sativa, indica, and hybrid cannabis flower, as well as pre-rolled blunts and joints and edibles. Our pre-rolls can be infused with concentrates, popcorn buds, and the cannabis flower. One of the main benefits of pre-rolls is that you know exactly what they contain.

If you prefer not to inhale THC by smoking a joint, (or can’t for medical reasons) we also carry different types of edibles (chocolates, chewables, blueberries, root beer, etc.). The THC found in our edibles is infused into either canna-oil or canna-butter. In the case of liquid edibles, drops of cannabis extracts or tinctures are added to the products. Edibles can often increase appetite, relieve pain, and improve mood and sleep. Regardless of the type of product you are seeking, our team will help you find it.

Call Pure Oasis today at (617) 420-6837 or contact us online for more information.