What is a Method of Consumption?
A method of consumption is the way a substance (such as hemp or cannabis) is introduced to the body. There are multiple methods of consumption, each providing a slightly different experience. Choosing a consumption method simply comes down to personal preference, there is no right or wrong way to consume, as long as it's done responsibly!
Sublingual Consumption
Sublingual Consumption occurs when a tincture is placed under the tongue for absorption. In this method, drops of a tincture or oil is placed under the tongue and held for about 60 seconds before being swallowed. The cannabinoids within are then directly absorbed into the bloodstream where effects occur after about 15-30 minutes.
Why People Choose Sublingual:
- Activation Time: depending on the product formulation, effects from sublingual consumption can be felt within 15 - 30 minutes.
- Custom Dosing: tinctures & extracts offer a customizable dose down to the drop. Making it easy to change & adjust the dosage being taken.
- Fast & Easy: these products are easy to use and can be taken in less than a minute, making it an easy addition to a daily routine.
Edible Consumption
Edible Consumption refers to eating an "edible", or infused food product. When an edible is consumed, it travels through the digestive system and eventually into the bloodstream where effects are felt. Because it travels through the digestive system, this method has a longer wait time before the onset of effects. But, this also means that the duration of effects will last much longer.
Why People Choose Edibles:
- Long-Lasting: effects of edibles can last much longer than the effects of other methods of consumption. Sometimes it can last up to 4-6 hours.
- Flavor: edibles are formulated to help mask the flavors of cannabis with sweet or fruit flavors.
- Pre-Measured Dose: edibles are pre-dosed taking away the guesswork of choosing the proper dose.
Inhalation (Vaping or Smoking)
Inhalation is the process of inhaling the smoke of a compound into the lungs. While there are certain risks associated with smoking, some people prefer it due to the near-immediate onset of effects. Inhalation works by heating or burning a compound to a smoking point, then inhaling the smoke into the lungs. These compounds are absorbed almost immediately into the bloodstream through the lungs.
Why People Choose Inhalation:
- Fast Onset: effects can be felt within minutes, making it the fastest method of consumption.
- Bioavailability: inhalation also provides one of the highest absorption rates among methods, meaning more cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Ritual: some users find smoking to be a ritualistic act & even use the time to relax & meditate.
Transdermal Absorption (Patches)
Topical, Transdermal Patches are a less common, but highly effective method of delivering cannabinoids into the bloodstream. Patches can be applied to a veinous areas of the skin (such as the inner wrist or top of the foot) & release cannabinoids slowly over time. Since transdermal patches are designed to deliver cannabinoids through the skin over a long period of time, it can provide consistent, long-lasting effects over several hours.
Why People Choose Transdermal:
- Long-Lasting: depending on the formulation, patches can be designed to release over long periods of time (up to 12 hours).
- Discretion: patches can be applied discreetly & worn throughout the day without a second thought.
- Relief Without Intoxication: patches are a great way to provide relief throughout the day without the added effect of intoxication.
Choosing A Method of Consumption
Finding the "right" method of consumption can seem daunting. With so many options to choose from it is easy to get overwhelmed. Our best advice is to try or "test" multiple methods of consumption to determine which is best for you personally.
Don't be afraid to experiment, each method offers unique benefits, so mix & match - or even double up on methods of consumption.
