The medical marijuana industry has grown over the years as more people are now using this alternative medicine to help with a number of ailments. However, what makes medical marijuana popular is the different types of delivery methods available, which can make taking this alternative medicine easy for people to suit their needs. In this article, we’ll go into the different delivery methods of medical marijuana and some more information and benefits of each one. 

Edibles 

Edible medical marijuana products are food-based items that are infused with cannabis. These can be in the form of baked goods, chocolates, and gummies. Edibles when consumed are metabolised by the liver. It converts the primary psychoactive compound delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC. 

Due to this, it can make the results of the edible stronger than other options like vaping or smoking. After eating the edible product, it can take between 30 minutes and 2 hours to start to work, pending on your metabolism and the amount of medical marijuana consumed. After the effects start to work, it can last anywhere between 4 and 12 hours, which helps to make them suitable for long term symptom relief. Some of the pros and cons of edibles include: 

Pros

• They’re discreet and easy to consume in crowds. 
• They can provide longer-lasting effects for more chronic conditions. 
• They don’t cause issues with the respiratory system. 

Cons

• The taste and the consistency of the product can vary. 
• Due to the delayed onset, it may cause issues with impatience. 
• You may have trouble consuming too much or too little, causing dosages to be difficult. 

Before you take medical marijuana, make sure you gain your Maine medical card for marijuana use if you live in this area, or find a supplier that offers medical cards online for added convenience if you’re in a different location. 

Oils 

Cannabis oils, which also include concentrates and tinctures, contain a combination of marijuana and hemp from the cannabis plant. These oils can be taken under the tongue or added to a vaporiser or food. 

These oils contain concentrations of CBD, THC, or both, depending on the brand and type you buy. When used under the tongue, it can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, which can deliver a quicker effect compared to other options like edibles. 

The onset of oils can start within 15 to 30 minutes after being taken. The overall effects can last anywhere from two to six hours, depending on the metabolism of the individual and depending on the dosage. There are some pros and cons of using oils as a delivery method and these include: 

Pros 

• They can provide a faster onset than edibles. 
• You can have a precise dose with droppers for a more controlled intake. 
• They’re versatile because they can be added to drinks and food. 

Cons

• The taste may be a little off-putting for some. 
• They can be less convenient to carry when used on the go. 
• When not stored correctly, they may be messy. 

Vapes

Vaping involves the inhalation of vaporised flower or cannabis oil using a vaporiser. This method is gaining in popularity due to its potential health benefits compared to normal smoking. Vaporisers work by heating up the cannabis or marijuana to a temperature that releases the terpenes and cannabinoids without combustion, which can mean that it can promote fewer harmful by-products compared to smoking. 

The effects of vaping medical marijuana are usually felt within a few minutes after smoking and can last between 1 and 3 hours, which makes it suitable for a lengthy relief. Some of the pros and cons of medical marijuana can include: 

Pros 

• It offers a variety of flavours and strains to choose from.
• It’s less harmful to the lungs compared to smoking.
• It provides quick relief for acute symptoms.

Cons 

• They require a device, which can provide an additional expense.
• They can be easy to overconsume due to the variable dosage. 
• Some people may find them less discreet to use than things like edibles. 

Endnote

Choosing the right delivery method for medical marijuana really depends on the medical condition you have, your preferences, and how long you want the relief to last for. Before choosing medical marijuana, ask your local doctor for advice and make sure you gain your medical card. It’s also good to check the laws surrounding the use of it, as some states may not legalise the use of medical marijuana. 

Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.