Is marijuana legal in Hawaii? YES, for patients with a qualifying condition and who have received a state-issued medical marijuana card. However, it is not legal if the purposes is to use cannabis for adult-use or recreational uses.
There are a variety of ways to go about consuming cannabis, from vaping oils, smoking to tropicals. Generally speaking, smoking of cannabis tends to be the most popular way of doing it. It’s both effective and versatile. That being said, it’s also worthwhile knowing how other methods of consumption stack up in comparison.
Now, each consumption method produces different variables in regards to onset time, effect and duration. The right method, however, will vary depending on every person’s personal preference.
Marijuana Tinctures
This is a liquid cannabis concentrate made by dissolving the fat-soluble cannabinoids in alcohol. Tinctures are available in a range of flavors, potencies, and cannabis profiles, but you may be surprised to learn that they have been around since the 1800’s.
Tinctures are arguably underutilized as compared to edibles, bongs, blunts, joints, raw flowers, and dabs even though they work just as well. In fact, in some cases, they tend to work even better. It just depends on how you prefer taking marijuana and what you need from it.
These products come in dark-colored bottles to shield them from light and include a dropper for dosage measurement.
Perhaps the best thing about marijuana tinctures is the rapid onset when compared to edibles. You should be able to feel the effects within 15 minutes after placing a few drops under the tongue.
You may also be able to add marijuana tinctures to your food or drink. This is especially recommended if you are looking for a kind of edible-effect. The effects will take time to kick in, but you can be sure of hours of much-needed relief once it’s in the bloodstream.
Pros of Marijuana Tinctures
- Tinctures are safe.
- They are discreet. You won’t have to worry about standing out.
- You can easily control the tincture amount you take.
- You feel the effects quickly.
Cons of Marijuana Tinctures
- Some people may find the taste to be unpleasant.
With gentle ease of use, quick absorption time, and fantastic bioavailability, tinctures are the way to go for many patients. They are ideal in the treatment of chronic nausea, pain, and anxiety.
Vaping
According to a study, 61% of cannabis users reported to have used a vaporizer before. The users in the study said vaping is “healthier, better tasting, produced better effects, and is more satisfying.”
Vaporization involves two steps. First, the cannabis flower or cannabinoid-rich concentrates are heated to a specific temperature. And secondly, the cannabinoids are left to evaporate into a vapor. It’s important to note that no combustion takes place.
The effects of vaping marijuana are similar to those of smoking and will usually be felt in just a few minutes. This makes controlling the dosage easy.
Pros of Vaping Marijuana
- The effects can be felt almost immediately.
- The vapor is free of tar and carcinogens.
- It makes controlling the dosage easier.
- Gives a discreet smoke since there is no combustion.
Cons of Vaping Marijuana
- Some vapes can be costly or need many hours to be recharged.
Vaping marijuana is recommended in the treatment of anxiety, reducing pain and cramping, and in regulating satiety, mood, and sleep/wake cycle.
Marijuana Edibles
Foods and drinks infused with marijuana are generally referred to as edibles because they tend to have similar effects on one’s body. Of course, effects of edibles aren’t instant due to the digestion process.
The onset time usually ranges anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes after ingestion.
Onset time relies on the digestive process. Once you ingest cannabinoids, they get absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. During the process, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gets converted into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver. 11-hydroxy-THC is a metabolite that’s more powerful and potent than most of the other metabolites that the liver produces.
The effects of marijuana edibles can be long lasting as compared to other consumption methods. You can get a significantly more powerful effect thanks to the combination of delayed onset time and potency.
Depending on a specific dosage, expect the effects to last you anywhere between 4- and 10 hours.
Pros of Marijuana Edibles
- The effects can be long lasting – meaning you won’t have to continue taking dosages.
- Recommended in states where cannabis is not yet legal.
- Edible marijuana contains no toxic chemicals present from combustion.
Cons of Marijuana Edibles
- May not be ideal for people wanting an instant relief.
- The dosage may be difficult to control as the onset time is delayed.
- Can be easily confused with ordinary food, especially when not kept away from children.
Edible cannabis is commonly used to treat pain, poor appetite, and weight loss in people with cancer. Additionally, edibles are ideal in the treatment of muscle spasms, and to enhance sleep quality.
What Consumption Method is Right for You?
So, there you have it, a comparison of marijuana tinctures, vaping, and edibles. Examine both the pros and cons to figure out which method of consumption will work best for you.
If you have questions or want to learn more about these options, get in touch with us right away. Our knowledgeable staff will help you determine the best consumption method based on your needs.