be depend on their available environment for medicating , their current diagnosis , their cannabis , and any other outlying health issues . One method that we encourage patients to try is dry herb vaping . Dry herb vaporization provides many benefits to a patient ; the primary benefit is the ability to control the temperature below combustion where a vapor is still produced that contains the active cannabinoids / terpenes without the harmful effects of inhaling combustion smoke . Vaporizing has been suggested to increase the amount of anti-inflammatory terpenes that protect the lungs from irritation and can also produce an extremely tasty vapor that has a truer flavor profile of the strain with which you are medicating .
Another method that we recommend to patients is infused products ( savory and sweet foods , edibles , and drinks ). These products can be greatly controlled in their dosages and can be easily microdosed throughout a patient ’ s day to achieve a continually medicated state without feeling overly medicated or “ high .”
When it comes to edibles , they are processed through the body much differently than vaporization or combustion methods . When eating infused products , the cannabinoids reach the cells through the patient ’ s liver , which converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC , that is far more potent and can have a much longer-lasting effect .
Overall , we encourage all patients to be informed and educated consumers . No questions are stupid questions when it comes to cannabis . We all have a lot to learn and a lot to overcome in the future . If you are not getting the answers to your questions at a particular dispensary , then be a smart patient and consumer and find a dispensary that will take time to properly help you .
Here ’ s a handy chart to help you with delivery methods , onset , and |
duration . Start slow and learn the dosage that ’ s is best for you . |
Delivery Method |
Onset |
Duration |
Topical |
5 minutes- 2 hours |
1-12 hours |
Transdermal Patch * |
1-2 hours |
4-12 hours |
Edible |
30 minutes-2 hours |
4-12 hours |
Capsule |
1-2 hours |
4-12 hours |
Tincture / Oil |
10-45 minutes |
2-8 hours |
Smoke Inhalation |
1-5 minutes |
1-6 hours |
Vapor Inhalation |
1-5 minutes |
1-6 hours |
Suppository |
15-60 minutes |
4-8 hours |
Concentrate |
Immediately |
2-8 hours |
* A transdermal patch may last up to 48 hours if it is still in place .
Dr . James McEntire ( Doc Mac ), is the Medical Director of Progressive Osteopathic Therapies and ReLeaf Resources Dispensary in Grandview , MO . 816.597.4POT
www . releafmo . com .
Notice : The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice , but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research and experience . It is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice , diagnosis or treatment .