10 Popular Ways to Consume Cannabis

Are you ready to explore all the possibilities of cannabis? Are you curious about new, exciting ways to get high and enjoy this amazing plant? Then step right up - welcome to your guided tour of 10 popular methods for using cannabis! From classic rolling papers and pipes, to edibles, vaporizers and dabbing - we've got everything covered. So if you're interested in learning more about different consumption methods or just want to try something new, then buckle up as we take a wild ride through all that weed has to offer.

*If you live in a place where cannabis products are not legal for purchase or use please know that you buy and consume it at your own risk of legal action. Purple Haze does not condone cannabis consumption in places where it’s illegal. If you do live in a place where cannabis is legal, be sure you are buying it from a reputable dispensary or retail shop.

Smoking

The most common way to consume cannabis is by smoking it, and it can also probably be considered to be the original method. If you close your eyes, you can imagine the hunter gatherer’s sheer bliss after the first time some cannabis plants were casually heaped over the communal campfire. In today’s age, cannabis can be smoked using a pipe, bong, joint, or blunt.  Smoking cannabis is the quickest way to feel the effects of cannabis as it enters the bloodstream through the lungs and directly to the brain. Here at Purple Haze we supply water pipes, bongs, rolling papers in a variety of sizes as well as flavored blunt wraps. 

It should be noted that the dried flowers of the cannabis plant are what is smoked as they are packed full of the THC, CBD, and the other cannabinoids that people are seeking. In addition to cannabinoids, compounds known as terpenes are also there to give cannabis its distinct range of tastes and smells when smoked. In addition to dried cannabis flowers, “Kief” (a fine powder made from the sticky crystals known as trichomes of the cannabis plant) is very popular. Grinders often have a ‘kief screen’ chamber at the bottom which traps the kief. The kief can then be sprinkled on top of the cannabis in a joint or bowl, used to make hashish, or pressed into cakes called “moon rocks”.

If you are in Colorado, or the next time you visit we highly recommend trying our favorite local brands of flower: Lazer Cat Cannabis, Mighty Tree, and Den Rec. 

Vaping

Vaping is perhaps becoming the most trendy way to consume cannabis today. Vaping involves heating cannabis oil or dried cannabis flower in a portable vape, vape pen or desktop vaporizer to a temperature where vapor rather than smoke (which contains carcinogens) are produced. Vaping is often considered a less harmful alternative to smoking and it also doesn’t produce the lingering “skunk” smell that’s so hard to get rid of. Purple Haze is one of Colorado’s top suppliers of high quality dab rigs and rechargeable batteries. Including 510 thread and adjustable voltage batteries as well as several types of empty vape carts for personal filling.

“510 thread” is the word used to describe the special screw-on fitting for the standard vape pen battery. There are several other cannabis vapes that have their own specialty cartridge that you can buy pre-filled like the Pax Era vape pen.

Edibles

Edibles are a category of cannabis-infused foods or drinks, like those special brownies you see in TV and in the movies. Edibles are the popular choice for those who do not want to smoke or vape, as ingestion offers a discrete and convenient way to consume cannabis. Many of those who consume cannabis for health benefits often state that edibles are a healthier alternative to smoking. It should be noted that edibles can take up to two hours to take effect and the effects can be stronger than smoking, so it is important to start with a low dose and increase as needed. Several of our personal favorite local edibles companies are Dialed in Gummies, and Wana Brands who use hash rosin to make their gummies. For beverages, our favorite local company is Keef which makes infused sodas of all varieties. 

Topicals

Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, lotions, or oils that can be applied directly to the skin. Topicals are often used to treat localized pain or skin conditions such as inflammation, burns, or scarring. It’s our opinion that these products play a critical role in the cannabis market as they work to make THC and CBD products widely available as well as acceptable to people who may have previously had a negative stigma about cannabis, yet can benefit from using cannabinoid rich products. 

Tinctures

Tinctures are concentrated extracts of cannabis that are typically taken orally using a dropper. Tinctures offer a quick and easy way to consume cannabis, and they can be easily added to a food or drink. If you are someone who experiences serious medical issues and can benefit from not only THC but the various beneficial cannabinoids found in the plant, tinctures are a great way to go.

A common THC/CBD capsule medication

Capsules & Salves

Capsules and Salves are another easy way to consume cannabis, as they can be taken like any other pill or cough drop. Capsules and salves typically contain CBD oil, although THC capsules and salves are also available in some states. Pills are similar to tinctures and may be better for people who are used to taking pills on a regular basis.

Cannabis Extract known as "Rosin" being pressed from cannabis buds

Concentrates

Concentrates are highly potent extracts of cannabis that can be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaping, and dabbing. Concentrates typically contain higher levels of THC than other forms of cannabis and can therefore produce an intense high. Many veteran stoners seek out these concentrates after years of tolerance building in an effort to experience the psychoactive effects of cannabis more profoundly.

The extraction methods used to create these concentrates varies and over the years a lot of effort has been put behind ensuring that they do not contain any potentially harmful chemicals left over from the extraction process. The finished product contains zero plant material, but all of the compounds that have given medical marijuana it’s status as a legitimate medicine.

Conclusion

No matter your lifestyle or personality type, there is a cannabis delivery method that's right for you. It should be noted that some common side effects of cannabis use include dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, and impaired memory and concentration. It can also cause feelings of anxiety or paranoia in some people, and may worsen mental health conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder. Long-term use of cannabis may lead to addiction, and heavy use may result in respiratory problems, such as lung infections. Pregnant women and adolescents should also avoid using cannabis as it may have negative effects on fetal development and brain development respectively.

Purple Haze is committed to breaking the negative stigma around cannabis and showing its positive impact on people's lives. Cannabis has been found to have several potential therapeutic benefits, including:

• Pain relief: Cannabis has been shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain and muscle spasms, as well as improving sleep quality in people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia.

• Anxiety and depression: Cannabis has been found to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant properties, which may benefit people who suffer from these conditions.

• Nausea and vomiting: Cannabis has been used to alleviate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and other medical treatments.

• Appetite stimulation: Cannabis can stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for people with conditions that cause loss of appetite, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer.

• PTSD: Some studies suggest that cannabis may be helpful in reducing symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) in some patients. If you're looking for high quality smoking supplies and accessories, be sure to check out our selection here!