Top 6 Methods to Ingest Cannabis

Explore common methods for ingesting hemp, CBD, cannabis, and related products. This guide provides an overview of each method’s typical onset, duration, and usage observations for informational purposes.

Cannabis Ingestion Methods at a Glance

Inhalation

Smoking, Vaping

Onset:

1–15 minutes

Oral

Edibles, Tinctures

Onset:

30–120 minutes

Topical

Creams, Patches

Onset:

15–45 minutes

Duration Observations: Inhalation (1–4 hours) < Sublingual (2–6 hours) < Topical (4–6 hours) < Oral (6–8 hours)

1. Smoking

Traditional Fast Onset

Smoking involves burning cannabis flower and inhaling the resulting smoke. Effects are observed quickly as cannabinoids are rapidly absorbed through the lungs.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Control:

Common Approaches

Joints & Blunts: Rolled in paper or cigar wraps
Pipes & Bowls: Handheld devices
Bongs: Water-filtered smoking devices

Pros

Rapid onset (1–3 minutes)
Ease of dosing control
Widely accessible
Social experience

Cons

Combustion produces byproducts
Distinct odor
Shorter duration (1–3 hours)
Potential throat and lung irritation

Safety Considerations

Smoking involves combustion, which produces byproducts that may irritate the respiratory system. Alternative methods may be considered by those concerned about inhaling smoke.

2. Vaporizing

Modern Lower Byproducts

Vaporizing heats cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids without combustion. This method is observed to produce fewer combustion byproducts while providing rapid effects.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Control:

Vaporizer Types

Dry Herb Vaporizers: Heat flower without combustion
Oil/Concentrate Vaporizers: For cannabis extracts
Desktop & Portable Devices: Various options available

Pros

Reduced respiratory byproducts compared to smoking
Fast onset (1–5 minutes)
Efficient cannabinoid extraction
Less odor
Enhanced flavor profile

Cons

Higher initial equipment cost
Battery-dependent devices require charging
Routine maintenance needed
Effects may be slightly less intense than smoking

Observational Note

Some observations suggest that vaporizing may produce fewer combustion byproducts while maintaining comparable cannabinoid delivery. Please refer to product information for further details.

3. Edibles

Long-Lasting Discreet

Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts. As the cannabinoids are processed through the digestive system, effects are observed later and tend to last longer.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Control:

Common Edible Types

Gummies & Candies: For consistent portions
Baked Goods: Brownies, cookies, etc.
Beverages: Infused drinks and teas
Capsules: Similar to traditional supplements
Chocolates: Pre-dosed options

Pros

Long-lasting effects (approximately 6–8 hours)
No respiratory risks
Discreet consumption
Variety of product options

Cons

Delayed onset (30–120 minutes)
Dosage adjustments can be challenging
Effects may be unpredictable
Potential for overconsumption if guidelines are not followed

Safety Considerations

Please refer to the instructions provided on the product packaging for recommended usage guidelines. Keep edibles stored safely away from children and pets.

4. Sublingual Methods

Fast Absorption Precise Dosing

Sublingual administration involves placing cannabis extracts under the tongue for absorption through the mucous membranes. This method is commonly used with CBD products and offers relatively fast effects without inhalation.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Control:

Common Sublingual Products

Tinctures & Oils: Liquid extracts administered with droppers
Sprays & Lozenges: Pre-dosed options for ease of use

Observational Note

Sublingual products are popular for their efficient absorption and minimal psychoactive effects. Please refer to the product packaging for usage guidelines.

5. Topical Applications

Localized Use Non-Psychoactive

Topical products are applied directly to the skin. They are intended for localized application and typically do not produce systemic effects.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Localized Effect:

Common Topical Products

Creams & Lotions: For direct skin application
Balms & Salves: Thicker formulas for targeted use
Transdermal Patches: For gradual, localized delivery
Bath Products: Such as infused bath bombs and salts

Pros

No systemic psychoactive effects
Targeted application
Easy to apply
Suitable for daily use

Cons

Limited to localized use
Does not produce systemic effects
Variable absorption rates
Potential residue on skin

Observational Note

Topical applications are used solely for localized use and are not intended to address systemic concerns. Please refer to product instructions for further information.

6. Transdermal Delivery

Steady Release Controlled Dosing

Transdermal products are designed to penetrate the skin layers and provide a steady release of cannabinoids. This method can lead to systemic effects as the cannabinoids enter the bloodstream.

Onset Speed:

Duration:

Consistency:

Common Transdermal Products

Patches: Adhesive patches with time-released cannabinoids
Gels & Specialty Creams: Formulated for enhanced skin penetration

Pros

Steady, controlled release over time
Longer duration (up to 8–12 hours for patches)
Bypasses digestive processing
Discreet application
Consistent cannabinoid delivery

Cons

Higher cost compared to other methods
Limited product availability
Cannot be easily adjusted once applied
Potential skin sensitivity
Less common than other methods

Usage Considerations

Transdermal delivery is used by some consumers for a steady, controlled release of cannabinoids. Unlike regular topicals, THC-containing transdermal products may produce systemic effects as cannabinoids enter the bloodstream.