The cannabis market has never been more innovative, with fantastic new products popping up all the time. From joints and vapes to tinctures and topicals, there truly is something for everyone. Of course, you’re probably most familiar with vaping or smoking, which remain the most popular ways to consume cannabis. But with more and more people reaching for edible cannabis products, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between edibles vs. smoking? Read on for more information about the differences in product strength, longevity, and more.

Edibles vs. Smoking: Is There Really a Difference?

First, let’s define “edibles.” If you’re unfamiliar, the term encompasses any and all cannabis-infused foods and drinks. That includes gummies, chocolates, and even cannabis-infused seltzer drinks. Unlike smoking, edibles allow your body to metabolize cannabis via the digestive system, which delays the effects when compared to smoking. (When you smoke or vape cannabis, the cannabinoids are absorbed into your bloodstream almost immediately.) But that’s not the only difference between edibles and smoking.

Are Edibles Stronger than Smoking?

If you’ve tried both edibles and smoking, you may notice that the psychoactive effects (the “high”) are a bit different. When you consume an edible that contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis products, it generally has a stronger effect on the brain. Because of how the body metabolizes THC in the digestive system, you may notice a more intense high compared with smoking. Of course, this also has to do with the ingredients in your edibles of choice. Not all cannabis-infused edibles contain THC. They usually fall into one of three main categories:

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-dominant edibles
• Cannabidiol (CBD)-dominant edibles
• Edibles containing both THC and CBD

If you’re new to edibles and interested in trying a THC-dominant product, we always recommend starting small with just a few milligrams to test your body’s response to the product.

Edibles vs. Smoking: How Long Do They Last?

As we mentioned above, edibles can take longer to take effect. They can also deliver effects for a longer period. You may have to wait up to an hour to feel the effects of an edible, but you may feel lingering effects for up to six hours. On the other hand, you’ll likely feel immediate effects from smoking or vaping THC, but the effects tend to fizzle out earlier than edibles since THC is released from the bloodstream much more quickly after smoking.

The Convenience Factor

If you’d like to take cannabis products on the go, convenience and discretion are key. Edibles are generally easier to transport since they often look like regular candies or sodas. They also don’t produce an odor, so they’re a safe bet if you’re partaking around friends who aren’t keen on the smell of cannabis. Additionally, edibles don’t require access to any equipment like joints, pipes, vapes, or bongs.

Of course, it’s important to remember that THC products aren’t legal in every state or country. If you’d like to enjoy some benefits of cannabis products but plan to travel to a region where THC is not allowed, CBD edibles might be your best bet. Just be sure to research the legality of cannabis products before you pack your suitcase.

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So, is there really a difference between edibles vs. smoking? Short answer: yes, absolutely. While both products are derived from cannabis, you’ll get a different effect depending on how you consume cannabis.

Interested in trying edibles, flowers, or other hemp products for yourself? Check out Metta Hemp. While you’re visiting our online shop, be sure to peruse our vast collection of CBD, CBN, and THC-derived gummies, joints, tinctures, topicals, vapes, flowers, and more. Founded in 2017, Metta Hemp is committed to providing high-quality products, ethically grown cannabis, and kind and helpful customer service. For more information, check out our online shop or contact us!