For a medical marijuana patient, smoking or vaping are two of the fastest way to consume cannabis for beneficial effects. However, not all patients enjoy the taste and smell of smoke. Fortunately, medical marijuana patients who prefer not to inhale smoke have many options for taking their medicine. In this article, we’ll outline some of the best alternatives to smoking or vaping medical marijuana.
Some edibles and oils can be ingested orally, or there are topical cannabis products that can be applied to the skin. It all depends on your ailment and how your healthcare provider suggests you dose and medicate. Below are some popular alternatives to smoking or vaping medical marijuana.
Alternatives to smoking or vaping medical marijuana:
Marijuana Edibles
Edibles are the most popular way to consume marijuana because you can control the amount of THC and/or CBD, the main active compounds in marijuana, that enters your bloodstream. They also allow you to determine the desired effect of the product on your body. Plus, the flavor of the edible can have a soothing or energizing effect, depending on what kind of taste you prefer.
Instead of smoking the dried leaves and stems, the plant is made into a smoothie, baked in brownies, or ingested in capsule form. Marijuana edibles include cookies, candies, chocolates, brownies, and other baked goods. Edibles usually last longer than other methods, making them perfect for long-term patients.
The most significant difference between smoking and ingesting is the time the active ingredients take effect. With smoked cannabis, the psychoactive effects usually begin within fifteen minutes to an hour and peak between thirty to forty-five minutes. With edibles, however, it can take anywhere from half an hour to several hours to notice the effects, depending on the dose.
Ingestible Marijuana Oils
Cannabis oil tinctures are also a great option. Tinctures are simply the oil extracted from the plant. Because of its non-psychoactive qualities, the oils are safe for people who don’t want to experience the full psychoactive effects of marijuana. Ingestible cannabis oils can be consumed in a few ways, including capsules, gelcaps, or sublingual sprays.
Marijuana Topicals
Marijuana topical products are used in the form of salves, lotions, ointments, and balms. The topical cannabinoid products are applied to the areas of pain or injury, similar to a steroid cream or ointment, and the cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin.
This form of application works well for pain relief and the treatment of inflammation and skin disorders.
Topical application is the best option for a medical patient that does not want to ingest anything. Some companies are working on a transdermal patch that will deliver the active ingredients directly to your bloodstream. The hope is that this application will reduce the risk of intoxication while still providing patients with the relief they need.
Medical Marijuana Products Can Be a Powerful Addition to Your Treatment
Depending on your medical condition, you may have different options, so be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider to find the best alternatives to smoking or vaping medical marijuana for you. For example, edibles are great for conditions such as chronic pain or muscle spasms, and ingestible oils can help with nausea or anxiety.
With so many alternatives to smoking or vaping medical marijuana, working with a qualified healthcare provider is vital to determine which method and dose are suitable for your symptoms.