Smoking VS. Edibles

Smoking VS. Edibles: Weighing The Pros and Cons of Different CBD Consumption Methods

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has continued to gain huge popularity in the wellness and health sector because of its therapeutic benefits to users. Even though it is extracted from the marijuana plant, it doesn’t have the psychoactive properties that are majorly found in marijuana because it lacks tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

This simple reason has made it gain so much traction and spread in the market, which has introduced different kinds of consumption methods, the popular kinds are smoking and edibles.

In this article, we will be looking at the pros and cons of these two popular ways of consuming CBD consumption so you can make informed choices as a user.

Also Read – How To Make CBD Oil Taste Better

Smoking CBD

Pros:

  • Immediate Effects: One of the pros of smoking CBD is you get to experience the effect immediately because inhaling it will make it quickly enter the bloodstream of users through the lungs, which instantly gives relief for consumers.
  • Easier Dosing: When users smoke CBD, they can easily determine the quantity and the dosage based on the effects they feel while consuming the product.

Cons:

  • Health Concerns: Though CBD is therapeutic and medicinal, inhaling any form of smoke will expose and make the lungs liable to carcinogens, and this can lead to respiratory issues in the long run.
  • Short-lived Effects: Since one of the pros of CBD is that you get to experience the effects immediately, the disadvantage is that it will dissipate faster than other consumption methods.

CBD Edibles:

Pros:

  • Long-lasting Effects: Unlike when you smoke CBD products, you can be sure of lasting relief when you use edibles because the CBD will gradually be released when ingested, leading to extended periods of effect.
  • Discretion: One thing with using edibles like gummies or chocolates is that it provides a discreet way of consuming CBD because it doesn’t have the different and distinct aroma associated with smoking the product.
  • Variety: Using edibles means users will have different varieties of CBD edibles to choose from. These can range from baked goods to candies, which means the consumers will have a plethora of choices based on their preferences.

Cons:

  • Delayed Onset: One thing with edibles is that, since they are indigested rather than smoked, it can also take as long as 30 minutes to 2 hours before the effects are felt.
  • Dosage Challenges: It can be challenging to determine the right amount of dosage a user should take, especially for new users, which means it can result in unwanted side effects if it is consumed without caution.

General Considerations For CBD Consumption

  • Potential Side Effects: It is important to know that using CBD has some potential side effects that the user might experience irrespective of the consumption method. Some of the side effects are dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue.
  • Drug Interactions: It is very important to understand that CBD can interact with other forms of medication even blood thinners. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using CBD products.
  • Purity and Dosage Concerns: There have been cases where concerns were raised regarding the purity and accurate labelling of CBD products. In fact, a recent study showed that more than a quarter of CBD products that are bought online contained less CBD than what is written on the label, which is quite worrisome.

Also Read – The Evolution of CBD Regulations: Anticipated Changes in The Next Five Years

Conclusion

Smoking or consuming CBD edibles has its advantages and disadvantages. It can provide quick relief and other extended benefits, but it is equally important that users weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Make sure you prioritize quality over quantity and choose CBD products that best suit you after consulting with a health professional to get the best value out of your experience.