Medical cannabis patients can consume medical cannabis in many ways, and edibles and smoking are popular methods.
Despite the therapeutic benefits of both methods, patients should consider some differences before choosing one.
Edibles are cannabis products consumed orally, always in the form of brownies, gummies, or other sweet treats. Edibles deliver a longer-lasting and more intense high than smoking. Edibles can deliver sustained pain, anxiety, or other symptom relief for several hours, making them a great choice for patients. Edibles do not produce the same harsh smoke as smoking, which can be harmful for the lungs. This makes them a better choice for patients who have respiratory complications or who don’t like to inhale smoke. Furthermore, edibles can be eaten discreetly without attracting attention, making them a great choice for patients who need to use cannabis in public. Edibles also have some potential disadvantages. One of the main complications is that it can be hard to determine the appropriate dosage, as the effects can take longer to kick in and can vary depending on a patient’s metabolism and other factors. Taking too much ingested cannabis can lead to unpleasant side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and anxiety. On the other hand, smoking medical cannabis can deliver more immediate relief from symptoms, as the cannabinoids are immediately absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. This makes smoking a great choice for patients who need fast-acting relief from pain, nausea, or anxiety. Smoking also allows patients to have greater control over their dosage, as they can take smaller or greater hits as needed to achieve the desired effect. This can be especially crucial for patients who are new to cannabis and are still experimenting with the best dosage for their needs. However, smoking can also have some potential disadvantages. The smoke can damage the lungs and throat, and frequent smoking can lead to respiratory complications over time. Additionally, smoking can be less discreet than edibles, which can be a problem for patients who need to use cannabis in public or in situations where smoking is not allowed. However, both edibles and smoking have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to consuming medical cannabis. Ultimately, patients should consider their own needs and preferences when choosing which method to use.