Is eating marijuana edibles safer than smoking it?

As cannabis consumption becomes more mainstream, users have a variety of methods to choose from, including smoking and edibles. Each method has its unique benefits and risks. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether eating marijuana edibles is safer than smoking it. This blog explores the safety, benefits, and potential risks associated with both consumption methods to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Differences

Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These edibles come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and beverages. When consumed, the THC is metabolized by the liver, converting it into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that is more potent and has longer-lasting effects than THC absorbed through smoking.

Smoking Cannabis

Smoking cannabis involves inhaling the smoke from burning cannabis flowers. This method allows THC to enter the bloodstream quickly through the lungs, providing almost immediate effects. Smoking can be done using various tools such as joints, blunts, pipes, and bongs.

Benefits of Cannabis Edibles

No Harmful Smoke Inhalation

One of the most significant benefits of edibles is that they do not involve inhaling smoke. Smoking cannabis can irritate the respiratory system and lead to conditions such as bronchitis. Edibles provide a smoke-free alternative, which is generally better for lung health.

Longer-Lasting Effects

Edibles are known for their prolonged effects, which can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours or more. This makes them ideal for individuals seeking long-term relief from conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.

Discreet Consumption

Edibles offer a discreet way to consume cannabis without the smell or paraphernalia associated with smoking. This makes them a convenient option for those who need to medicate in public or work environments.

Precise Dosing

Many edibles come in pre-measured doses, allowing users to control their intake more accurately. This is particularly beneficial for those who are new to cannabis or require consistent dosing for medical purposes.

Benefits of Smoking Cannabis

Immediate Effects

Smoking cannabis provides almost immediate effects, making it easier to gauge and control your dosage. This is particularly useful for users seeking rapid relief from acute symptoms such as pain or nausea.

Easier to Titrate Dose

Since the effects of smoking cannabis are felt almost immediately, users can easily adjust their intake to achieve the desired level of effect. This titration is more challenging with edibles due to their delayed onset.

Social Experience

Smoking cannabis is often a social activity, bringing people together to share the experience. This communal aspect can be an essential part of the cannabis culture for many users.

Potential Risks of Cannabis Edibles

Delayed Onset and Overconsumption

One of the main risks associated with edibles is their delayed onset. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects, leading some individuals to consume more than intended. This can result in overconsumption and unpleasant side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and nausea.

Inconsistent Effects

The effects of edibles can vary widely based on factors such as metabolism, body weight, and individual tolerance. This variability can make it challenging to achieve consistent results.

Digestive Discomfort

Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from consuming edibles, especially those with high-fat content or artificial ingredients.

Potential Risks of Smoking Cannabis

Respiratory Issues

Inhaling smoke, whether from cannabis or tobacco, can irritate the lungs and airways. Chronic smoking can lead to respiratory issues such as bronchitis and may increase the risk of lung infections.

Exposure to Carcinogens

Combusting plant material releases harmful toxins and carcinogens. While cannabis smoke is considered less harmful than tobacco smoke, it still poses health risks associated with inhaling these substances.

Shorter Duration of Effects

The effects of smoking cannabis are relatively short-lived, typically lasting 1 to 3 hours. This may require more frequent consumption to maintain the desired level of effect.

Recommended Products for Smoking at Ashario Cannabis

Flower

Redecan Animal Rntz 3.5g

Redecan's Animal Rntz offers a potent and flavorful smoking experience. This strain is known for its high THC content and unique terpene profile, making it a popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.

MTL Cannabis Wes' Coast Kush 14g

MTL Cannabis' Wes' Coast Kush provides a classic indica experience with relaxing and sedative effects. This strain is perfect for those looking to unwind after a long day.

Prerolls

MTL Cannabis Wes' Coast Kush Preroll

MTL Cannabis offers Wes' Coast Kush in a convenient preroll format, making it easy to enjoy this popular strain on the go.

Fuego Night Rider 2x1g

Fuego's Night Rider prerolls provide a potent and flavorful smoking experience. Each pack contains two prerolls, perfect for sharing or for multiple sessions.

BOXHOT Fatties Trifecta of Exotic Blunt Smoking Power 3x1g

BOXHOT Fatties offer a unique blend of exotic strains in a blunt format. Each pack contains three 1g blunts, providing a powerful and flavorful smoking experience.

Cartridge

General Admission Tiger Blood 0.95g

General Admission's Tiger Blood cartridge offers a potent and flavorful vaping experience. This distillate cartridge is compatible with standard 510-threaded batteries and provides a convenient and discreet way to enjoy cannabis.

Disposable

BOXHOT Highlighters Peach OG 1g

BOXHOT Highlighters' Peach OG disposable vape offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy cannabis. This disposable vape is perfect for on-the-go use and provides a smooth and satisfying experience.

Recommended Edibles at Ashario Cannabis

Wana Strawberry Lemonade Soft Chews

Wana's strawberry lemonade soft chews are infused with a balanced blend of CBD and THC, offering a delightful combination of sweet strawberry and tangy lemon flavors. These soft chews provide a consistent dosage and are perfect for those seeking a flavorful and relaxing experience.

Wyld Raspberry THC Gummies

Wyld's raspberry THC gummies are crafted with real fruit and infused with THC for a delicious and euphoric experience. Each gummy delivers a burst of juicy raspberry flavor along with the calming effects of THC, making them an enjoyable choice for cannabis enthusiasts.

No Future The Purple One THC Soft Chew

No Future's The Purple One THC soft chew offers a potent dose of THC in a single chew. Known for its intense flavor and consistent potency, this soft chew provides a relaxing and euphoric effect, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Edison Limelight THC Lozenges

Edison's Limelight THC lozenges combine the refreshing flavors of lime with the benefits of THC. These discreet lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth, delivering a precise dose of THC for a soothing and calming experience.

Spinach Blue Raspberry Lemonade THC/CBD Soft Chews

Spinach's blue raspberry lemonade soft chews offer a balanced blend of THC and CBD, providing both relaxation and therapeutic benefits. These soft chews are known for their enjoyable blue raspberry lemonade flavor and are ideal for users looking to unwind with a tasty treat.

Ashario Cannabis Locations

For those interested in exploring a variety of edibles and smoking products, Ashario Cannabis offers a wide selection of high-quality products. Visit one of their locations in Ontario for expert advice and top-notch cannabis products.

ASHARIO CENTERPOINT MALL

• 6464 Yonge St. Unit #187 North York, ON M2M 3X4 (Mall Entrance 1)
• Contact: (416) 477 9333

ASHARIO FINCH

• 1111A Finch Ave. West Unit #1 North York, ON M3J 2P7
• Contact: (647) 368 7722

ASHARIO AURORA

• 15114 Yonge St. Aurora, ON L4G 1M2
• Contact: (905) 503 6770

Conclusion

While both cannabis edibles and smoking have their own set of benefits and risks, edibles are generally considered a safer alternative due to the absence of smoke inhalation and the longer-lasting effects. However, it is essential to approach edibles with caution, starting with a low dose and increasing slowly to avoid overconsumption. Always consume cannabis responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. For a wide selection of high-quality cannabis edibles and smoking products, visit Ashario Cannabis and explore their top-notch offerings.