How to Use Medical Cannabis: A Beginner's Guide
Medical cannabis is becoming more and more popular as a treatment for various health issues, including chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders. But if you're just starting out, the different ways to use it might seem a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry—this guide will break it down for you. We’ll explore the most common methods of consuming medical cannabis, from Edibles like gummies and tinctures to Topicals, so you can discover what works best for your lifestyle and needs.
Whether you're looking for quick relief or a longer-lasting effect, there's a method that suits everyone. Understanding how each option works can help you make an informed decision and get the most benefit from your medical cannabis. Let’s dive in and explore the options!
Edibles:
What are they?
Edibles are foods and drinks infused with cannabis. Common examples include gummies, chocolates, brownies, and beverages.
How they work:
When you consume cannabis edibles, they pass through your digestive system before being absorbed into your bloodstream. This process takes longer, so it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects. However, the effects are usually stronger and last longer than smoking or vaping.
Pros:
- Discreet and easy to consume.
- Long-lasting effects, which can be beneficial for chronic pain or insomnia.
Cons:
- Harder to control the dosage since the effects take longer to kick in.
- Risk of overconsumption if you're not careful with dosing.
Tinctures:
What are they?
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts taken by placing a few drops under the tongue.
How they work:
When you use a tincture sublingually (under the tongue), the active compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in your mouth. This method offers a relatively fast onset of effects, usually within 15-45 minutes.
Pros:
- Easy to dose precisely.
- Discreet and portable.
- Faster onset compared to edibles.
Cons:
- Some people may not like the taste.
- Effects might not last as long as edibles.
Topicals:
What are they?
Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions applied directly to the skin.
How they work:
When applied to the skin, Topicals are absorbed into the area where they're applied, providing localized relief without entering the bloodstream. This means they don't produce any psychoactive effects (no high).
Pros:
- Great for targeted relief, like joint pain or skin conditions.
- No psychoactive effects.
Cons:
- Effects are limited to the area of application.
- May not be as effective for deep pain relief compared to other methods.
Capsules and Pills:
What are they?
Capsules and pills contain measured doses of cannabis extract.
How they work
Like edibles, capsules and pills are ingested and pass through your digestive system before being absorbed into the bloodstream. The effects can take longer to set in but are typically consistent and long-lasting.
Pros:
- Precise dosing.
- Discreet and easy to consume.
Cons:
- Slow onset of effects.
- Effects may last longer than desired.
Choosing the Right Method for You:
The best method for consuming medical cannabis depends on your personal preferences, medical condition, and lifestyle. Here are a few tips to help you decide:
- For longer-lasting effects: Edibles, capsules, or tinctures are good options.
- For localized relief without a high: Try Topicals.
- For precise dosing: Tinctures, capsules, and pills offer more control.
Always start with a low dose, especially if you're new to medical cannabis, and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you're using it safely and effectively.
