Oct 09, 2024

Inhaling vs. Eating Cannabis: Why Edibles May Be Your Best Bet

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, many consumers are curious about the different ways to consume it. The two most popular methods are inhaling (smoking or vaping) and eating (through edibles like gummies or beverages). While inhaling has traditionally been a quick way to feel the effects, edibles offer a range of benefits that can make them a more attractive option.

How Inhalation Works: A Quick Breakdown

When cannabis is inhaled, THC and other cannabinoids rapidly enter your bloodstream through the lungs, producing almost instant effects—often within minutes. While this quick onset is helpful for immediate relief, the effects tend to be shorter-lived, peaking within 30 minutes to an hour.

The Benefits of Edibles

1. Longer-lasting Effects

One of the primary advantages of edibles is their long-lasting effects. When consumed, cannabis passes through your digestive system and is metabolized by the liver. This slower absorption results in effects that can last 6 to 8 hours or more, providing extended relief for those who need it. While the effects may take 30-90 minutes to kick in, they last much longer than when inhaled.

2. Fewer Tools Needed

Edibles are simple—there’s no need for extra tools like lighters, pipes, or vaporizers. You can just eat or drink them, making them a hassle-free option. This simplicity makes edibles perfect for those who prefer not to deal with equipment or maintenance, and it’s especially useful when you’re on the go.

3. No Harmful Inhalation

Inhaling cannabis, whether by smoking or vaping, can irritate the lungs and throat, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Edibles offer a smoke-free alternative that’s gentler on the body, allowing you to enjoy cannabis without worrying about inhaling anything.

4. Discreet and Odor-Free

One of the biggest downsides of smoking or vaping is the strong, lingering smell of cannabis. While some people love the scent, others may find it inconvenient or unpleasant in certain settings. Edibles, on the other hand, are virtually odorless, allowing you to consume cannabis discreetly. This makes edibles an ideal choice for those who want a private experience without leaving behind any telltale signs.

5. Avoiding Social Stigma

Despite increasing acceptance of cannabis, smoking or vaping in public can still carry a social stigma in some areas. Whether it’s because of the smell or the visibility of smoking or vaping, it’s not always convenient or socially acceptable to consume cannabis openly. Edibles provide a discreet way to enjoy cannabis without drawing attention or making others uncomfortable.

6. Precise Dosing

Edibles offer precise and consistent dosing, which is particularly helpful for those who want to control their cannabis intake. Unlike inhaling, where the dosage can vary with each puff, edibles are pre-measured, so you know exactly how much THC or CBD you’re consuming with every bite or sip. This makes it easier to find your ideal dosage, especially for new users or those who need to keep their intake consistent. All edible products should have a QR code that leads to a certificate of analysis, that will often show you exactly how much and what cannabinoids are present in the product.

7. The “First Pass” Effect

When THC is metabolized by the liver after consuming edibles, it’s converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that’s more potent and longer-lasting than the THC that enters your bloodstream through inhalation. This means that edibles often produce stronger effects, and a little can go a long way.

A Factor to Keep in Mind: Edibles May Not Work for Everyone

While edibles work well for most consumers, a small percentage of people may experience little to no effect from them. This can happen due to genetic variations in enzymes, specifically the CYP2C9 enzyme, which plays a key role in metabolizing THC. Some people may metabolize THC too quickly or inefficiently, meaning they don’t experience the same effects as others. If you find that edibles aren’t providing the desired effects, this could be a factor, and it’s worth exploring other methods of consumption or adjusting your dosage.

A Tailored Experience

Edibles come in a variety of forms—whether you prefer gummies, beverages, chocolates, or pretzels, there’s something for everyone. You can also choose products with different cannabinoid ratios, allowing you to customize your experience to fit your specific needs, whether for relaxation, pain relief, or overall wellness.

Interested in Trying Edibles?

At Smokeless, we offer a wide range of delicious and effective cannabis edibles. Our edible products provide the benefits of cannabis in a convenient, discreet, and enjoyable way. At Smokeless we try everything, so you don't have to- carefully curating a lineup on our shelves that we believe to be the best on market, so you can be assured whatever you may choose will have good flavor and effects. Come visit us in store today or checkout our many options available online for delivery.