Three different methods of using cannabis are edibles, concentrates and flowers. Many people use the same method, while others prefer to follow a different path. The differences are in their form, mechanisms of action and effects. Newbies need to be informed about what they’re getting themselves into before shopping and making decisions.
Cannabis flower
Cannabis is flowering. The smokable portion of the plant is its flowers. You can smoke the cured flower by rolling it in paper, converting it into blunts, smoking in pipes, bongs and so on. By using cannabis this way you can regulate the amount and intensity of your effects and intake by toking repeatedly, holding and repeating.
The high produced by Sativas can be a bit psychoactive and creative, but it also increases anxiety. It may cause hallucinations or paranoia. Indica strains calm down and reduce anxiety and relieve pain. The majority of strains available are hybrids that offer many variations to the body and mind effects.
Business Insider has identified the five most common cannabis flowers:
- Blue Dream (Sativa).
- Durban Poison
- Bruce Banner #5 (Sativa-dominant Hybrid)
- Sour Diesel (Sativa)
- Blueberry Diesel (Indica-dominant Hybrid)
You can also add classics like Charlotte’s Web and Chemdawg.
Many people have tried weed strains that were recommended to them by their friends, or even black market dealers. The legalization of marijuana has led to the rise in low-cost strains, which are popular among smokers. The only sophisticated smokers with the discretionary funds to do so can afford the full menu.
When you use cannabis flowers, the effects are felt quickly. Through mucosal and lung membranes, the potency quickly enters your bloodstream. This system distributes the positive effects to the entire brain and body.
Cannabis edibles
There are two types of edibles: the ones you can prepare and sell yourself or those available in online dispensaries. People use edibles for a variety of different reasons.
People have been enjoying the benefits of cannabis for thousands of year. At first, it was likely used only as a herb before people realized that there were other uses for cannabis. Cannabis was used by some early medical practitioners in pharmaceutical ways. Other people used cannabis to trigger spiritual phenomena. Some people just want to have a good time.
They started cooking with cannabis at some point. Culinary pioneers today are incorporating cannabis in traditional recipes – from nuts to soup – with a contemporary twist. It’s because canna butter, canna oils, and dried flakes can be used to add an herbal taste. The flakes are tasty and easy to consume.
You must be aware that heat can alter strains and their effects. Therefore, it is important to control your dosage when preparing edibles. Some strains have different flavors or aromas which might not work with your recipe. Some of the best strains to use for cooking are as follows:
You can also use cannabis discreetly and in discrete form, like as brownies or fudge. The edibles all have a different process than smoking. After digestion, they enter the body. Overdosing can delay the longer lasting effects of these drugs by up to an entire hour. It is especially useful for smokers who are not in good health or those with special needs.
Cannabis Concentrates
Concentrates can be defined as a variety of products that are processed differently to keep the desired cannabinoids, terpenes and plant matter without unwanted impurities and undesirable plant materials. Concentrates, which are free from “extras” and impurities, are much more potent.
Concentrates come in seven different forms.
- The Shatter concentrate is the strongest. It has been filtered several times, producing a thin sheet that can be easily broken. Inhaling the fumes from a dab tool is how you use Shatter.
- The distillate has a low aroma, taste, and flavor. The distillation method produces a THC or CBD oil that is highly potent and can be used for vaping. As the terpenes were removed, it is possible that the end product will not provide the same entourage of benefits.
- The wax is created using a butane-extraction process. It produces a crumbly and sticky “candy.” It is different than crumble, as it uses a lower heat to purge the residue. This results in a longer distillation process that preserves the flavor. This product is smoked or dabbed through a tobacco pipe.
- The Budder/Badder/Batter substance is waxy and soft. It contains more Terpenes, with a THC concentration of up to 90%. It should be kept in the fridge as it dries very quickly. It has a stronger flavor and smell than Shatter. It can be added to a pipe or joint for a more enjoyable smoking experience.
- Crystalline isolates include Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). The purest concentrates are made with these. The potency of the concentrates can be as high as 99.9% without any trace of flavonoids or terpenes. They also lack flavor, aroma and color.
- Rosin is a result of pressure and heat. Two heated plates press a cannabis-based product at high pressure, forcing the extrusion resinous trichomes. Honey-like products can be transformed into crumbles, wax, or budder. The end product retains all the valuable properties of the strain because there are no solvents involved.
- The easiest method to make cannabis concentrate is by using a Dry Sift/Sieve. The screens used in dry sifting have different levels of permeability. The dry flower is shifted and shaken to release cannabinoids, essential oils and other plant materials. Branches, sticks and non-effective material are left behind. The kief is then added to joints, pipes, dab and vapes for increased potency.
Many processes (except Dry Sift) involve chemical and heat. This can pose some risks during processing or use. The DIY process and potency of most concentrates make them only suitable for experienced users.
It’s either “take it” or “leave it!”
Cannabis concentrates should not be used by everyone, unless the person knows how to distinguish between concentrates, edibles and flowers. FDA and certain states are worried about the claims made by edible manufacturers that claim medical benefits. These concerns will not affect home cooking.