The first time I visited a cannabis dispensary, I was amazed by the many methods of consumption.
The delivery method is extremely important. The mental and physical benefits of cannabis are largely affected by how it’s consumed. Each method provides a unique experience and effects. Before I started shopping regularly at my local dispensary I was only aware of the most basic delivery methods, such as inhalation, oral and topical. However, within those methods there are various techniques that make a big difference. For inhalation methods there is smoke and vaporization. For smoking, there’s a lot of devices to choose from, such as hand pipes, water pipes, rolling papers and hookahs. My local dispensary carries an impressive selection of hand pipes that are small, portable and even quite decorative. I was more interested in the vaporizers because of the health benefits. A vaporizer heats the product to a temperature that is high enough to extract THC, CBD and other cannabinoids. However, the temperatures are too low for harmful toxins to be released during combustion. There’s also less odor. Vaporizers accommodate the use of cannabis concentrates that are available in forms such as oil and wax. Dabbing is a form of vaporization where vapor is trapped in a glass globe and inhaled. My local dispensary offers a dab bar that is a convenient place to relax and socialize. They also include an array of oral delivery methods, including tinctures, ingestible oils and infused foods and drinks. After consulting with the budtender at the dispensary, I was really interested in tinctures. This liquid cannabis extract allows dosage control and provides fast-acting effects without the health risks of smoking. With just three or four drops of the tincture placed under my tongue, it’s immediately absorbed into my body and provides fast results. I am thankful that I have access to so many different consumption methods because of my local dispensary.