Medical cannabis patients have a variety of possibilities when it comes to consuming it, edibles and smoking are popular methods.
While both approaches offer therapeutic benefits, it’s crucial for patients to consider some differences before choosing one.
Edibles are cannabis products consumed orally, often in the form of brownies, gummies, or other sweet treats. Edibles supply a longer-lasting and more intense high than smoking. Edibles can provide sustained pain, anxiety, or other symptom relief for many hours, making them a good choice for patients. Edibles do not produce the same harmful smoke as smoking, which can irritate the lungs. This makes them a better choice for patients who have respiratory complications or who prefer to avoid inhaling smoke. Furthermore, edibles can be eaten discreetly without attracting attention, making them a good choice for patients who need to use cannabis in public. Edibles also have some potential downsides. 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. Overconsumption of edibles can lead to unpleasant side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and anxiety. On the other hand, smoking medical cannabis can supply more immediate relief from symptoms, as the cannabinoids are almost immediately absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. This makes smoking a good 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 substantial for patients who are new to cannabis and are still experimenting with the best dosage for their needs. However, smoking does carry some potential downsides. The smoke can be harsh and irritating to the lungs and throat, and long-term smoking may lead to respiratory complications. Additionally, smoking can be less discreet than edibles, which can be a concern for patients who need to use cannabis in public or in situations where smoking is prohibited. Both edibles and smoking have their own advantages and downsides when it comes to consuming medical cannabis. Ultimately, patients should consider their own needs and preferences when choosing which method to use.