Smoking vs Edibles: Which is Better?

When it comes to consuming cannabis, various methods are available, with smoking and edibles being two popular options. Both methods have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and desired effects. But if you’re on the fence about which one is right for you, this blog will explore the pros and cons of smoking vs edibles, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs.

The Basics of Smoking Cannabis

Smoking cannabis involves inhaling the smoke produced by burning the plant material. This method has been widely used for recreational and medicinal purposes for many years. It’s a tale as old as time! Here are the pros and cons of smoking cannabis:

Pros of Smoking Cannabis

1. Instant onset of effects: When smoking cannabis, the effects are felt almost immediately. This allows for quick symptom relief or an immediate recreational experience.

2. Easy to control dosage: Smoking provides better control over the dosage compared to edibles. The effects can be felt quickly, allowing users to adjust their consumption as needed.

3. Wide variety of smoking devices: Smoking cannabis offers a wide range of devices to choose from, such as pipes, bongs, and joints. This variety allows users to find a method that suits their preferences.

Cons of Smoking Cannabis

1. Health risks associated with inhaling smoke: Inhaling smoke, regardless of the source, can pose health risks to the respiratory system. The combustion process produces harmful byproducts that can irritate the lungs.

2. Strong smell and potential social stigma: Smoking cannabis can leave a strong odor that may be bothersome to others. Additionally, there is still a social stigma associated with smoking, which can affect the perception of cannabis users.

3. Harsh on the lungs and throat: The act of smoking can be harsh on the lungs and throat, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities.

The Rise of Weed Edibles

Weed edibles have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative method of cannabis consumption. Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts or oils. Here are the pros and cons of weed edibles:

Pros of Weed Edibles

1. Discreet and odorless consumption: One of the significant advantages of edibles is that they can be consumed discreetly without producing a strong smell. This makes them more suitable for situations where smoking may not be practical or socially acceptable.

2. Long-lasting and potent effects: Edibles generally provide longer-lasting effects compared to smoking. The THC in edibles is metabolized by the liver, resulting in a more gradual release and extended duration of psychoactive effects.

3. Versatility in product options: Weed edibles come in various forms, including baked goods, gummies, chocolates, and beverages. This variety allows users to choose the type of product that appeals to their taste preferences.

Cons of Weed Edibles

1. Delayed onset of effects: Unlike smoking, which produces almost immediate effects, edibles take longer to kick in. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours or more to feel the full effects, making it important to be patient and avoid overconsumption.

2. Difficulty in controlling dosage: Determining the right dosage can be challenging with edibles, especially for beginners. The effects can vary depending on individual metabolism and tolerance and consuming too much can lead to uncomfortable experiences.

3. Potential for accidental overconsumption: Edibles can be deceivingly potent, and inexperienced users may underestimate their strength. Accidental overconsumption can result in intense psychoactive effects that can be overwhelming or uncomfortable.

Comparing the Effects

Getting high on edibles versus smoking cannabis is like comparing a slow-motion rollercoaster ride to a spontaneous dance party. These two methods offer distinct experiences that can be summed up in a few entertaining ways:

Smoking Cannabis Effects

When you light up that joint, get ready for a fast and furious ride. The effects hit you like a lightning bolt, getting you into the groove within minutes. However, like a shooting star, the high tends to fade away after a few hours, leaving you wanting more.

Weed Edibles Effects

Edibles are sneaky little devils. They start off mild-mannered but don’t be fooled. Once inside your body, they transform into superheroes of potency. The THC gets processed by your liver and morphs into an even mightier compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This powerful sidekick can take you on a sedating and mind-altering adventure, making every moment feel like a lucid dream. Just remember to buckle up for the slow and steady ascent!

Personal Preferences and Tolerance

When comparing smoking vs edibles, it really comes down to what you like and what your personal tolerance is. There are plenty of things that help you determine what you like, and if you have some cannabis experience, you likely have a good idea of what your tolerance is. 

Factors Influencing Preference

When choosing between cannabis consumption methods, several factors come into play. Taste and aroma are subjective, with some enjoying the flavors of smoking while others prefer the diverse options provided by edibles. Consider your desired effects: smoking offers an immediate and intense high, while edibles provide a longer-lasting and more potent experience. 

Convenience also matters as smoking is quick and on the go, while edibles require planning. Individual tolerance and sensitivity vary, with some finding smoking more comfortable and others preferring the controlled dosing of edibles. Additionally, metabolism influences how cannabis is processed, leading to variations in the speed and intensity of effects.

Individual Tolerance and Sensitivity

It’s important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it until you find the right balance. This is especially crucial for edibles, as their effects can be stronger and longer-lasting. Understanding your tolerance and being mindful of your body’s response will help you determine the optimal method and dosage for your needs.

Combining Smoking and Edibles

Some cannabis users choose to combine smoking and edibles to take advantage of the benefits offered by both methods. Here are a few benefits of combining the two:

• Enhanced and personalized experience: Combining smoking and edibles allows for a more tailored experience, where you can enjoy the immediate effects of smoking while benefiting from the prolonged effects of edibles.

• Balancing immediate and long-lasting effects: Smoking can provide quick relief or recreational enjoyment, while edibles can offer a sustained and more potent experience.

Be mindful of the potency of the edibles you consume and adjust your smoking habits accordingly to avoid overconsumption and unwanted side effects.

Combining different consumption methods can result in unique effects. It’s important to be aware of how the two methods interact with each other and how they may affect your overall experience.

Which is Better: Smoking vs Edibles

The choice between smoking cannabis and consuming edibles ultimately depends on personal preference and desired effects. Here’s a recap of the pros and cons of smoking and weed edibles to help you make an informed decision:

Smoking Cannabis:

Pros: Instant onset of effects, easy dosage control, wide variety of smoking devices.
Cons: Health risks associated with smoke inhalation, strong smell and social stigma, harsh on the lungs and throat.

Weed Edibles:

Pros: Discreet and odorless consumption, long-lasting effects, versatile product options.
Cons: Delayed onset of effects, difficulty in controlling dosage, potential for accidental overconsumption.

Consider your personal preferences, desired effects, convenience, and tolerance when making a choice. Remember, it’s always recommended to start with low doses and gradually adjust until you find what works best for you.