Product Types
Flower (Buds)
The dried, cured cannabis plant. Smoked or vaporized. Most common form. Full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Pre-rolls
Ground flower in a paper wrap, like a cigarette. Convenient; less control over dose.
Vape Cartridges
Concentrated oil in a cartridge. Attach to battery, inhale vapor. Potent; easy to overconsume. Avoid unregulated cartridges (vaping lung injuries).
Concentrates
High-potency extracts: wax, shatter, live resin, rosin. 60–90%+ THC. For experienced users. Dabbing or vaporizing.
Kief & Hash
Kief: Resin glands (trichomes) sifted from flower. Hash: Compressed kief. Both high in cannabinoids.
Edibles & Beverages
Food or drink infused with cannabis. Effects take longer, last longer. See Beginner's Guide for dosing.
Tinctures
Liquid extract. Drops under tongue (sublingual) or added to food. Precise dosing.
Topicals
Creams, balms, lotions. Applied to skin. Usually no psychoactive effect — for localized relief.
Consumption Method Comparison
| Method | Onset | Duration | Bioavailability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking | 1–5 min | 2–4 hrs | ~10–35% | Quick relief, control |
| Vaping | 1–5 min | 2–4 hrs | ~10–35% | Less harsh than smoke |
| Edibles | 30–90 min | 4–12 hrs | ~5–20% | Long-lasting, discreet |
| Sublingual | 15–45 min | 2–6 hrs | ~15–35% | Precise dosing |
| Topicals | 15–60 min | 2–6 hrs | ~0% systemic | Localized relief |
| Concentrates | 1–3 min | 2–4 hrs | ~10–35% | Experienced users |
Bioavailability
Not all THC/CBD you consume reaches your bloodstream. Different methods have different absorption:
- Smoking/Vaping: ~10–35% of THC absorbed. Fast onset. Some lost to heat and exhale.
- Edibles (oral): ~5–20% absorbed. Liver metabolizes THC first (creates 11-OH-THC, stronger). Slower but longer.
- Sublingual (under tongue): ~15–35%. Bypasses liver initially. Faster than edibles.
- Topicals: Minimal systemic absorption. Local effect only.
This is why 10 mg in an edible can feel stronger than 10 mg smoked — absorption and metabolism differ.