From timeless joints to precisely-measured tinctures, there’s never been more variety in how cannabis can be consumed. But with so many options, how do you choose the method that suits your body, lifestyle, and goals?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal consumption method depends on personal factors, such as how quickly you want to feel effects, how long you want them to last, how discreet you need to be, and your comfort with different formats. 

Here are some key considerations to help you choose the right method for your cannabis consumption:

Let your goals guide your method

How quickly do you want to feel the effects, and how long do you want them to last? The answer to this question can help you narrow down your choices quickly. No matter how you consume cannabis, it will take some time for the effects to kick in.

Need fast relief? Smoking or vaping cannabis gets cannabinoids like THC into your bloodstream from a few seconds to a few minutes. This makes them great for on-demand symptom relief, whether anxiety, tackling pain, or unwinding after a long day. You’ll feel the effects almost immediately, and they’ll generally taper off in a few hours.

Looking for long-lasting effects? Edibles and capsules offer a slower onset—typically 30 minutes to 2 hours—but their effects last much longer, often 4 to 8 hours or more. This makes them ideal for sustained relief or when you prefer not to re-dose throughout the day.

Want something in between? Tinctures taken sublingually (under the tongue) kick in within 15 to 30 minutes. They’re fast-acting but with effects that typically last a few hours, offering a middle ground between smoking and edibles, plus excellent dose control.

Choose what feels right for your health

Cannabis isn’t just about how it feels—it’s also about how it fits into your day-to-day life and health. When choosing a consumption method, consider your lifestyle and any health concerns you may have.

Concerned about your lungs? Inhalation isn’t for everyone. If you have respiratory sensitivities or simply prefer to avoid smoke or vapour, then edibles, tinctures, and capsules are your best bet. They’re easy on the lungs and free of combustion by-products.

Need to keep it discreet? Smoking comes with a telltale smell, but vaping is more subtle and produces less odour. Tinctures, edibles, and capsules are virtually scent-free, portable, and easy to use without drawing attention—ideal for keeping your consumption on the down low.

Don’t want to get high? Topicals like cannabis-infused creams, lotions and bath bombs offer localized relief for aches, inflammation, or skin conditions without any psychoactive effects. They’re especially popular with athletes, people with chronic pain, and those looking for a non-intoxicating option.

Start simple, then explore

Some cannabis products require more skill or offer a steeper learning curve than others. If you’re new to cannabis, it’s best to start with a method that is easy to use and offers more control over the dosage.

If you’re just starting... Low-dose edibles, tinctures, or vaping are great introductory options. They allow you to ease in, observe how your body reacts, and adjust your dose accordingly.

Looking for convenience? Pre-rolls, disposable vape pens, capsules, and edibles make consuming cannabis as simple as puff, pop, or swallow. No grinding, rolling, or measuring required—just straightforward relief.

Prefer the classic ritual? For some, nothing beats the tradition of rolling a joint or packing a bowl of dried flower. Smoking offers a social, communal experience, and for many, it's simply the most enjoyable way to consume cannabis.

Taste, dosing, and customization

Enjoying cannabis isn’t just about the high—it’s also about how it tastes and makes you feel. Just as you might choose a flavour of ice cream or coffee, cannabis offers a wide range of flavours and effects to choose from.

Love flavour variety? Edibles are a playground of taste, from fruity gummies to artisanal chocolates and cookies. They’re a great option if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth while getting your dose.

Need accurate dosing? Tinctures, capsules, and many edibles come in pre-measured doses, which makes it easier to control and track your intake.

Enjoy tweaking your experience? Many vaping devices allow you to adjust temperature settings, which can influence both flavour and cannabinoid release. This can add an extra element of fun and customization for enthusiasts.

Need discretion? Cannabis-infused topicals, such as creams, lotions, and oils, offer a discreet way to consume without any smoke or odour. They're great for localized pain relief or overall relaxation.

Quick Comparison: Cannabis Consumption Methods

The power of choice

There’s no “best” way to consume cannabis—only what’s best for you. Whether you’re seeking immediate relief, discreet wellness, or long-lasting effects, there’s a method that fits your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. As your cannabis journey continues, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Stay curious, informed, and enjoy the process.