As more and more people have begun exploring the potential of cannabis, there have been many new and innovative methods of consumption that have been developed. Depending on the reason behind someone’s use of cannabis, their consumption method will vary from person to person. That’s why it is so important to find a medical cannabis dispensary like Hightops Premium Cannabis in Colorado Springs who carries a wide variety of options.

With a seemingly endless number of choices for products, beginning your cannabis journey may seem confusing and overwhelming.  We hope this article will help guide you to the type of cannabis product that is right for you.  We also want you to understand which consumption methods will bring the relief you are seeking.  There are many factors to take into consideration if you are just starting out using medical cannabis. Without any help or advice from experts in the field, you may end up struggling and having a poor experience. By seeking guidance from a quality medical dispensary like High Tops, you are ensuring that you will experience the full potential and positive effects that cannabis has to offer.

FLOWER

The smokeable flower of the cannabis plant comes in many different strains which result in various medical benefits.  You may have heard the terms Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid before. Cannabis strains fit into one of these three categories. Sativa strains will always provide a more energizing experience. If you desire to maintain a productive and active lifestyle, Sativa will be the best option.  If you desire a more relaxed experience, or you are even seeking a sleep aid, Indica strains are the preferred choice.  A Hybrid strain will have varying levels of both Sativa and Indica, and your budtender can help you determine which combination is right for you. There is a huge amount of information about Indica and Sativa strains as research continues to expand. Do a little bit of research online and come in to one of our medical cannabis dispensary locations in Colorado Springs, CO. At High Tops Premium Cannabis, we are fully staffed with experts who can guide you to the strains best suited for your needs. We have many Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid flower options, so you will never run out of opportunities to try new strains.

Cannabis Flower Consumption Methods

Pipe (Bowl) Pipes are made up of three basic parts: a bowl, a mouth piece and a carb hole. Flower is ground up (seeds removed) and packed lightly into the bowl. The index finger is held over the carb hole while the flower is lit by a lighter or hemp wick. The patient pulls air through the mouthpiece pulling the flame into the flower. The smoke is gently inhaled and exhaled. If just starting out, we recommend waiting 10 to 15 minutes between each hit on the bowl so you can see how much is needed for your desired outcome. The expert Budtenders at High Tops can direct you to several glass and silicone bowl options carried in the store.

Waterpipe (Bong) Like pipes, bongs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Most bongs are made from glass with a few different parts making them up. Basic bongs are comprised of a straight tube with a mouthpiece, down-stem and side bowl. The bowl on a bong is the same as on a pipe. Cannabis flower is ground and pack lightly into the bowl. Once the bowl is packed, the mouth is placed on the mouthpiece. As the patient begins to pull air through the mouthpiece, the flower is lit by the flame and the smoke travels through the water within the bong and up the cylinder. Once the bong is filled with the desired amount of smoke, the side bowl is pulled out and the smoke is cleared and inhaled. We recommend starting slow with this method of consumption.

Joints (Blunts) A joint or blunt is simply ground cannabis flower rolled up in a rolling paper or blunt wrap. Once rolled, one end is lit while the smoke is being pulled through the other end and inhaled. Joints and Blunts burn slowly and continuously, and may be best suited for those experienced with the effects of the particular cannabis strain.

CONCENTRATES (Extracts)

As the name implies, concentrates are concentrated THC and CBD extracts from cannabis flower. Concentrates are super-loaded with many different cannabinoids found within the flower, making them highly potent. When consumed in moderation, concentrates can be ideal for medical patients.

Concentrates can be found in many cannabis products carried at High Tops Cannabis. From edibles, to oils and tinctures, there are plenty of avenues to explore with concentrates. It is important to remember that once concentrates are inhaled, the effects are instantaneous and will last 1-3 hours.

How to Consume Concentrates

Dabbing Dabbing is probably the most potent way to consume concentrates. The process involves vaporizing (melting) the extracts on a hot surface. The melting surface is usually made from titanium, ceramic or quartz. The resulting smoke is inhaled through a rig or bong-like piece.

Vaping  Vape Pens are extremely convenient for the consumer who wants a discreet method of consumption. These pens typically come with a USB charger and can be taken anywhere. Most vaporizers are only compatible with extracts like wax, shatter, or oil. The vape allows the patient to experience pure flavor while avoiding the physical combustion of the material being used. This makes it easier on your lungs and results in less carcinogens and tar than regular smoking.

EDIBLES

For those who prefer to ingest their cannabis versus inhaling it, edibles are a great option. Medical cannabis edibles include a huge range of products to be consumed by ingestion. Some types of edibles include baked goods, drinks, candies, lozenges, capsules, tinctures and more. Each product contains a certain dosage of cannabis which is absorbed into the body through the stomach or gums, depending on the product.

People prefer edibles for many reasons. They are convenient to carry and can be discreetly administered whenever medication is needed. Edibles provide long-lasting symptom relief from the slow digestion of the cannabis. Cost is another factor in someone’s decision to try edibles. Strong effects can be achieved at a lower cost to the patient.

At Hightops Premium Cannabis, our selection of edibles is promising. We have many different brands and types of edibles, flower and concentrates available to help you find relief. To find out which products will be best suited for your specific needs, please take some time to talk with our Budtenders. Their expertise will guide you to the best cannabis experience every time.