Of all the ways to consume cannabis, smoking and edibles remain the two most popular. However, they interact with our bodies differently. Edibles, like our six-tin bundle, can achieve specific effects, while smoking marijuana gives you an instant high.
The method you choose depends on personal preference and the desired outcome, so let's walk you through how the two methods compare.
Cannabis Edibles: What They Are and How They Work
Let's start with cannabis edibles, which are food products, like gummies, baked goods, tinctures, chocolate, and infused beverages.
They contain cannabis-derived compounds, most notably cannabinoids like THC and CBD, though they can also include terpenes and other plant extracts.
When someone is consuming edibles, the cannabinoids must first pass through the digestive tract before entering the bloodstream. Once digestion begins, the THC travels to the liver, where it is metabolized into a compound called 11-hydroxy THC.
This compound crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than standard THC, producing a stronger, longer-lasting effect.
Smoking Cannabis: How Inhalation Delivers THC
Smoking weed involves combustion, and it is often mixed with tobacco to improve the burning process. The user inhales the smoke produced when the cannabis flower is set alight.
Popular methods for smoking include joints, pipes, bongs, and bubblers.
Vaporizors are also becoming increasingly common. These heat cannabis without fully burning it, though the basic delivery method is still inhalation.
When smoking, the THC enters the bloodstream via the lungs. The large surface area and thin membranes of these organs allow the compounds to pass into circulation almost instantly.
Because of this, smoking cannabis has a rapid onset time, but it also has a shorter duration.
Instant Effects vs. Delayed Effects
One of the biggest differences between edible cannabis and smoking it is how long the effects take to take hold.
With edibles, the onset time can take between 45 minutes and two hours. Yet, once they have kicked in, they can last up to eight hours.
In contrast, the effects of smoking can be felt within a few minutes, and the peak is felt within 30 minutes. The quick onset can be an advantage because it allows the dosage to be easily adjusted and controlled.
For example, a user can take a small puff and wait to see how they feel before smoking more.
Edibles don't have this benefit. Once it is consumed, there is no going back. Also, because of how long edibles take to kick in, inexperienced users often believe it's not working, leading them to consume more than they should.
But once you know the right dosage, edibles let you enjoy peak effects for a much longer duration.
How Smoking and Edibles Affect the Cannabis Experience
Because each method is absorbed and metabolized differently, the effects are also noticeably different.
With smoking, you get an effect that's described as light and more head-focused. Users also report that it's easier to control due to how quickly it wears off.
Also, the act of smoking itself can form an integral part of the experience. "Passing the joint" has become an appealing bonding ritual during social occasions.
On the other hand, cannabis in its edible form produces a stronger and fuller body effect. Many users describe it as immersive and deep. And since the experience lasts longer, edibles can feel more intense, even if the THC dose wasn't particularly high.
Additionally, edibles are often infused with other natural compounds to induce certain effects. For instance, our Limitless bundle is designed to boost focus and productivity, while minimizing brain fog. Other THC bundles target pain, sleep, and even libido.
Health Benefits of Smoking Cannabis vs. Edibles
Consuming cannabis products extends much further than simply wanting to get high, and many people use THC for its therapeutic qualities.
Cannabis is increasingly used for fast relief from chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and even appetite loss. However, the method of consumption also influences how well it works for those purposes.
In this instance, edible forms are often preferred because they provide longer-lasting relief, including sustained support throughout the night. And of course, edibles avoid the dangers associated with inhaling smoke.
Smoking, however, provides quicker relief from symptoms. If someone experiences sudden pain or nausea, they won't want to wait for an edible to kick in.
Health Risks of Smoking or Consuming Edibles
Most of us already know the risks of inhaling smoke and the many health risks that can arise as a result. Particularly when marijuana is mixed with tobacco, it exposes the lungs to tar, carbon monoxide, and other harmful compounds.
Even without tobacco, smoking pure marijuana can lead to lung irritation over time, especially if no filtration system is used. This is why anyone suffering from asthma and other respiratory diseases should definitely avoid smoke inhalation.
Although edibles provide a smoke-free way to enjoy THC, they are not without risk. One of the most common concerns is accidental overconsumption.
This is either due to a lack of patience during the delayed onset or via homemade edibles, where the dose isn't regulated.
Another, often overlooked issue, is that edibles are incredibly appealing to children and pets if they are not stored out of sight and reach.
Safe Use: How to Consume Cannabis Responsibly
No matter your preferred method of marijuana use, safe consumption should be your priority:
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Start low. Take a small dose and increase it gradually if needed.
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Exercise patience, particularly with edibles, and wait until they've kicked in before taking more.
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Know the THC concentration of the product you're consuming; most edibles contain mg amounts, while each strain of weed can vary widely in THC potency.
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Do not mix marijuana use with alcohol or other substances because the effects can be unpredictable and dangerous.
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If you take other medicines, ask your health professional if it's safe to also consume cannabis.
Choosing the Right Consumption Method
Choosing the right product and consumption method depends on what you want to get out of your experience:
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Want instant effects or longer-lasting effects? Smoking is fast; edibles last longer.
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Need dose control? Opt for pills or gummies that have a regulated dose, or smoke in small amounts.
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Don't want to smoke? Pick edibles.
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New to marijuana? Start slow and gently, especially with edibles, so you don't exceed your comfort level.
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Looking for targeted effects, like anxiety relief or improved focus? Pick an edible infused with other compounds like CBD and plant extracts.
FAQs
Are edibles better than smoking weed?
Edibles aren't necessarily better than smoking weed. They last longer and avoid smoke inhalation; however, smoking cannabis produces immediate effects, and it's easier to manage the dosage.
How strong is a 10 mg edible compared to a joint?
A 10 mg THC edible often feels stronger and lasts longer compared to smoking a joint. This is because THC enters the body through the digestive tract and is converted to a more potent form.
What are the cons of taking THC edibles?
The cons of taking THC edibles include a delayed onset, risk of overconsumption, and a high that lasts too long.
How many puffs of a joint equal an edible
There is no exact equivalent of joint puffs to an edible because potency varies wildly. However, roughly 5-10 puffs of average-strength cannabis may have a similar effectiveness as a 5-10 mg edible.
Choose the Way You Want to Enjoy Cannabis
We're fortunate to live in an age where we have a wide menu of choices on how to consume cannabis and THC. However, you must do your research to figure out what works best for you.
Consider your medical history, tolerance, and desired experience. This will help you you pick the safest and most enjoyable option.