Back to Education Hub
Beginners5 min read

How to Consume Cannabis: Flower, Edibles, Vapes and More

One of the first decisions you'll make as a cannabis consumer is how you want to consume it. Each method delivers cannabinoids to your body differently, which means the onset time, duration, and intensity of effects can vary quite a bit. Understanding those differences helps you make a more informed choice.

Smoking flower

Smoking dried flower is the most traditional method. You can use a pipe, a bong, or roll it into a joint. The effects come on within a few minutes and typically last one to three hours.

Pre-rolls are a convenient option if you don't want to deal with grinding and rolling. They come in a range of sizes and potencies, and many brands now offer infused pre-rolls that include concentrate for a stronger effect.

Vaping

Vaping heats cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion. Many people find it smoother on the throat than smoking. Vape pens use pre-filled cartridges of cannabis oil and are one of the most discreet and portable options available.

Dry herb vaporizers let you vape actual flower rather than oil, which some people prefer for the flavour and the ability to control temperature. The onset is similar to smoking, within a few minutes, but the vapour tends to feel lighter.

Edibles

Edibles are cannabis-infused food and drink products. Gummies, chocolates, beverages, and capsules are the most common formats in the legal market. The key difference with edibles is the onset time. Because the THC is processed through your digestive system and liver, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to feel the effects.

The experience also tends to be more intense and longer-lasting than inhaled cannabis. A dose that feels mild when smoked can feel much stronger when eaten. Start with 2.5mg to 5mg of THC and wait the full two hours before taking more.

Oils, capsules and sublingual products

Cannabis oils can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption, or swallowed like a capsule for a slower onset similar to edibles. They're a good option for people who want precise dosing without inhaling anything.

Capsules are pre-dosed and easy to incorporate into a routine. They're popular with people who want consistency and don't want to think too much about measuring.

Concentrates

Concentrates are highly potent cannabis extracts that come in a range of textures and formats. They're consumed using a dab rig or a concentrate-compatible vaporizer. Because of their potency, they're generally recommended for experienced consumers rather than beginners.

If you're curious about concentrates, our staff can walk you through the options and help you figure out whether they're a good fit for where you're at.

There's no single best method — it depends on your lifestyle, your preferences, and what kind of experience you're looking for. If you're not sure where to start, come in and talk to us. We'll help you figure it out.

Have questions? Come talk to us.

Our staff at The Higher Path are here to help you find the right product. No appointment needed.

Find a Location

Must be 19+ to purchase cannabis in British Columbia. For health information, visit Health Canada at canada.ca/cannabis.