5 Alternative Ways to Smoking Weed

Disclaimer
This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or wellness advice. Cannabis laws vary by location, and individuals should consult a qualified healthcare professional with any health-related questions or concerns.

Introduction

As more countries continue to legalise and decriminalise cannabis, its use is becoming increasingly common. At the same time, more people are becoming mindful of how they consume cannabis and the potential impact different methods may have on their health and wellbeing.

Although smoking weed remains the most popular way to consume cannabis, it is widely recognised that inhaling smoke can be harsh on the lungs and respiratory system. Because of this, many users are now exploring alternative consumption methods to reduce exposure to combustion.

When cannabis is smoked, the flower is burned at high temperatures, which destroys a portion of its cannabinoids and terpenes while producing smoke that also contains potentially harmful compounds. In contrast, non-combustion methods aim to heat or process cannabis in a way that preserves more of its active compounds without burning the plant material.

In this post, I'm going to tell you about five alternative ways to consume weed instead of smoking it, so you can explore options that may be better for your preferences, lifestyle, or health considerations.

Vaporizing

While many people enjoy smoking cannabis, vaporizing is often considered a gentler alternative for inhalation.

The key difference between smoking and vaporizing weed is temperature. Smoking burns the cannabis flower, creating smoke that contains tar and other combustion by-products. Vaporizing, on the other hand, heats the cannabis to a controlled temperature that allows cannabinoids and terpenes to be released as vapour rather than smoke.

Because vaporizers do not involve combustion, many users, including myself, find vaping to be smoother and less irritating to the lungs. Another factor to consider is that, in some regions such as the UK, cannabis is often mixed with tobacco when smoked, which introduces additional health risks. Vaporizing eliminates the need for tobacco.

Many users who use vaporizer also report that vaping allows them to use smaller amounts of cannabis while still achieving the desired effects. Reduced smell and better efficiency can make vaporizers appealing for those looking to be more discreet or stretch their supply further.

If you're considering vaporizing cannabis, it's worth researching different devices and choosing a reputable, high-quality vaporizer designed specifically for dry herbs.

Edibles

Edibles offer a smoke-free way to consume cannabis by incorporating it into food or drinks. Edibles are made by heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids through a process known as decarboxylation, then infusing it into a fat or oil. This infused base can be used in a wide range of recipes, allowing for plenty of creativity and personalisation.

Some popular edible options include:

• Cannabis-infused cooking oils
• Cannabis-infused teas
• Cannabis brownies
• Cannabis cookies
• CBD chocolates
• CBD gummies
• THC sweets
• CBD water

When cannabis is smoked or vaporised, cannabinoids enter the bloodstream through the lungs, producing effects within minutes. Edibles work differently. After consumption, cannabinoids must pass through the digestive system and be processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream. Because of this, edibles typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to produce noticeable effects. The effects also tend to last longer than with inhaled methods, often around 4–12 hours, though this can vary significantly depending on dosage, metabolism, and the individual's tolerance.

For first-time users, starting with a low dose is strongly recommended. Edibles can feel more intense due to the way the body processes cannabinoids, and consuming too much in a short space of time can result in an overwhelming out-of-this-world experience you may not like.  

Tinctures

Cannabis tinctures are a discreet and smoke-free option that does not involve the respiratory system. Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts typically made by soaking cannabis flowers in an alcohol or glycerin solution to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes. The plant material is then removed, leaving a concentrated liquid.

Tinctures are usually taken by placing drops under the tongue (sublingual use)or by swallowing them. Sublingual absorption allows cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream more quickly than edibles, while still avoiding inhalation. And because tinctures are concentrated and easy to dose, many users appreciate the control they offer.

As with any cannabis product, it's best to start with a low dose and increase gradually as you learn how your body responds.

Oral Sprays

Oral sprays, also known as sublingual sprays, are similar to tinctures but are delivered using a spray nozzle rather than a dropper.

These products are typically THC or CBD extracts that are sprayed under the tongue, inside the cheek, or directly into the mouth, and the cannabinoids are absorbed through the tissues in the mouth, offering a relatively fast onset compared to edibles.

Oral sprays provide convenient and consistent dosing, which can be helpful for users who want a straightforward, measured way to consume cannabis without smoking or vaping.

If you're new to cannabis oral sprays, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and begin with a low dose, increasing gradually if needed.

Topicals

For those who want to use cannabis without experiencing psychoactive effects, topicals may be an appealing option.

Topicals are cannabis-infused products such as creams, balms, and oils that are applied directly to the skin. They interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and are commonly used for localised relief, such as muscle soreness or skin discomfort. Because topicals do not typically enter the bloodstream in significant amounts, they do not produce a "high", and Many people use them as part of their wellness or recovery routines.

When choosing cannabis topicals, it's advisable to purchase products made with high-quality ingredients and backed by third-party lab testing to ensure safety and transparency.

Conclusion

If you choose to use cannabis, being mindful of how you consume it can help you make more informed decisions about your health and wellbeing. Since everyone's body, tolerance, and preferences are different, finding the right consumption method is a personal process that often involves some experimentation.