What Is The Difference Between Eating And Smoking Weed?

Marijuana is a plant with a complex chemical composition that can be consumed in different ways, including smoking or eating. While both methods can provide the user with the desired effects, there are significant differences between eating and smoking weed that can impact the experience. Understanding these differences is crucial for individuals who use cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes. 

In this article, we will explore the key distinctions between eating and smoking weed, including how they affect the body, how long the effects last, and the potential risks and benefits associated with each method.

 

Effects of Smoking Cannabis

Smoking marijuana flowers can produce a range of effects on the body and mind, both positive and negative. 

Some of the common effects of smoking cannabis include:

1. Euphoria: One of the primary reasons people smoke cannabis is to experience a feeling of euphoria or a “high.” This is caused by the cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in cannabis, which interacts with the brain’s reward system.
2. Relaxation: Smoking cannabis can also produce a feeling of relaxation, which is why it is often used for medicinal purposes to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, stress, and pain.
3. Increased appetite: Another well-known effect of smoking cannabis is an increase in appetite, often referred to as the “munchies.” This is due to the THC in cannabis stimulating the appetite center in the brain.
4. Impaired coordination: Smoking cannabis can impair coordination and motor skills, making it unsafe to operate machinery or drive.
5. Dry mouth and eyes: Smoking cannabis can also cause dry mouth and eyes, which can be uncomfortable but are typically not harmful.

It is important to note that the effects of smoking cannabis can vary depending on the strain, potency, and individual factors such as tolerance and body chemistry. Additionally, smoking cannabis can have potential risks, such as respiratory problems and addiction, so it is important to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional if used for medicinal purposes.

 

How is Eating Marijuana Products Different Than Smoking Weed?

Eating marijuana products, such as THC edibles, differs from smoking weed in several ways. 

Here are some key differences:

1. Onset of effects: The effects of smoking cannabis are typically felt almost immediately, while the effects of weed edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. This is because edibles need to be digested and metabolized by the liver before the THC enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain.
2. Duration of effects: The effects of smoking cannabis typically last for a few hours, while the effects of edibles can last for several hours, sometimes up to 12 hours. This is because the liver converts THC into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and longer-lasting than THC.
3. Dosage control: With smoking, it is easier to control the dosage since the effects are felt almost immediately. However, with edibles, it can be more difficult to control the dosage since the effects take longer to kick in and can vary depending on the individual’s metabolism.
4. Potency: Edibles can be more potent than smoking since the liver converts THC into a more potent form. This can lead to stronger and longer-lasting effects, which can be overwhelming for some people.
5. Health risks: Smoking cannabis can have potential health risks, such as respiratory problems and lung damage. Edibles, on the other hand, can have potential risks associated with the high dose of THC, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and psychosis, especially if taken in excess or if the individual is not accustomed to THC.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the differences between eating marijuana products and smoking weed and to use them responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional if used for medicinal purposes.

 

What Method of Cannabis Consumption is For Me?

Determining the right method of cannabis consumption depends on several factors, including your personal preferences, medical needs, and lifestyle. 

Here are some things to consider when deciding which method is right for you:

1. Desired effects: Consider what type of effects you want to achieve. Smoking or vaping may be more suitable for those who want immediate relief from symptoms, while edibles may be better for those who want longer-lasting effects.
2. Dosage control: If you are concerned about controlling the dosage, smoking or vaping may be a better option since the effects are felt almost immediately, and you can more easily adjust your dose. Edibles can be more difficult to control the dosage since the effects take longer to kick in and can vary depending on the individual’s metabolism.
3. Health concerns: Smoking or vaping cannabis can have potential health risks, such as respiratory problems and lung damage, while edibles can have potential risks associated with the high dose of THC, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and psychosis, especially if taken in excess or if the individual is not accustomed to THC. If you have any health concerns, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before using cannabis.
4. Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and how cannabis consumption will fit into it. Smoking or vaping may be more convenient for those who are on the go, while edibles may be more suitable for those who prefer a discreet method of consumption.
5. Personal preferences: Ultimately, the right method of cannabis consumption is the one that you feel most comfortable with, and that meets your personal preferences. It is important to experiment with different methods and doses to find what works best for you.

In summary, the right method of cannabis consumption depends on your desired effects, dosage control, health concerns, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It is important to research and experiment with different methods to find what works best for you and to use cannabis responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional if used for medicinal purposes.

 

How to Take Weed Products Safely

Taking weed products safely is important to avoid potential health risks and negative side effects. 

Here are some tips on how to take weed products safely:

1. Start with a low dose: If you are new to weed products or have a low tolerance, start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time. This will help you avoid potential overdose and negative side effects.
2. Know the potency: It is important to know the potency of the product you are taking, especially with edibles. Always read the label and start with a low dose to avoid taking too much.
3. Be aware of your surroundings: Avoid taking weed products in unfamiliar or unsafe environments, especially if you are feeling high. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid situations that could put you in danger.
4. Avoid driving or operating machinery: Smoking or consuming weed products can impair your coordination and motor skills. Avoid driving or operating machinery until the effects have worn off.
5. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Always keep weed products out of reach of children and pets, and store them in a secure and locked location.
6. Use with caution if pregnant or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to avoid using weed products since the effects on the fetus or infant are not yet fully understood.
7. Consult with a healthcare professional: If you are using weed products for medicinal purposes, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.

In summary, taking weed products safely involves starting with a low dose, knowing the potency, being aware of your surroundings, avoiding driving or operating machinery, keeping out of reach of children and pets, using with caution if pregnant or breastfeeding, and consulting with a healthcare professional if using for medicinal purposes.

 

Where to Buy Weed Online in Canada?

In Canada, there are several options for buying weed online, including government-run websites, private online retailers, and online dispensaries. 

Here are some options for buying weed online in Canada:

1. Government-run websites: The government of Canada operates a website called the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) where individuals can buy weed products online. Other provinces also have their own government-run websites, such as the BC Cannabis Store and the Société québécoise du Cannabis.
2. Private online retailers: Private online retailers, such as the Highest Farmacy, offers a variety of weed products for sale online. These retailers often require users to provide proof of age and may have additional requirements for purchasing.
3. Online dispensaries: Online dispensaries are private retailers that operate independently of government-run websites. These dispensaries often offer a wider selection of products and may offer more personalized service. However, it is important to research and choose a reputable online dispensary to ensure the quality and safety of the products.

When buying weed online in Canada, it is important to ensure that the website or retailer is licensed and authorized to sell weed products. It is also important to check the quality and potency of the products, as well as any additional fees or restrictions that may apply. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you are of legal age to purchase weed products in Canada, which is 19 years old in most provinces and territories.

 

References

MacCallum, C. A., & Russo, E. B. (2018). Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 49, 12-19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.004

Highest Farmacy. (2023, May 2). Get Timely and Reliable Same-Day Weed Delivery in Toronto and Surrounding Cities. Available at: https://www.highestfarmacy.com/

Grotenhermen, F. (2001). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Clinical Pharmacokinetics, 40(9), 683-694. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003088-200140090-00004

WeedSmart. (2023, May 2). Canada’s Best Weed Edibles Dispensary | Online Dispensary Canada. Available at: https://weedsmart.cc/product-category/weed-edibles-canada/

Huestis, M. A. (2007). Human cannabinoid pharmacokinetics. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 4(8), 1770-1804. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.200790152