Beyond the Joint: Exploring the Many Ways to Consume Cannabis

When most people think of cannabis, they think of a joint. It’s iconic, no doubt—but it’s far from the only way to enjoy the plant.

We’re all about expanding your understanding of cannabis so you can find what truly works for you. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, creative spark, or just a more conscious connection to your body and mind, the how you consume matters just as much as the what.

Smoking (Joints, Pipes, Bongs)

This is the most familiar form of consumption, offering quick onset and a familiar ritual.

Best for: Immediate relief from stress or anxiety, social smokers, lovers of tradition.

Why it works: Inhaled cannabis hits the bloodstream via the lungs in minutes, making it easy to feel and adjust your dosage.

Things to consider: Combustion produces smoke, which can irritate the lungs over time. If you’re health-conscious, there may be smoother options.

Vaping (Dry Herb or Concentrates)

A cleaner, more modern approach to inhalation. Vaping heats cannabis to a point where cannabinoids and terpenes are released as vapor—without combustion.

Best for: Health-conscious users, daytime smokers, those sensitive to smoke.

Why it works: Vaping preserves more of the plant’s natural compounds (like terpenes), offering a flavorful and efficient experience.

Things to consider: Device quality matters. Stick to trusted brands and clean your vape regularly.

Tinctures & Oils

Tinctures are liquid extracts of cannabis, taken under the tongue for faster absorption.

Best for: Anxiety relief, microdosing, consistent therapeutic use.

Why it works: Holding drops under your tongue allows cannabinoids to absorb directly into the bloodstream—offering effects in around 15–30 minutes.

Things to consider: They’re discreet, doseable, and smoke-free—but the taste isn’t for everyone.

Topicals & Transdermals

Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and oils can be applied to the skin for localised relief.

Best for: Muscle soreness, inflammation, joint pain, or even skincare.

Why it works: The skin has its own cannabinoid receptors. While most topicals don’t get you high, they interact with your endocannabinoid system to soothe and balance the body.

Things to consider: Transdermal patches can enter the bloodstream and offer full-body effects, but most creams and balms are purely therapeutic.

Edibles

Edibles can offer a completely different cannabis experience—slower to come on, but deeper and longer lasting.

Best for: Sleep, pain relief, deep relaxation, or anyone looking for a smoke-free option.

Why it works: When you eat cannabis, your liver converts THC into a stronger compound (11-hydroxy-THC), leading to a more body-based, often more psychedelic high.

Things to consider: Start low and go slow. Effects can take 30–90 minutes to kick in, and overdoing it is easy if you’re not patient.

Dabbing (For the Pros)

Dabbing involves vaporising potent cannabis concentrates like rosin, wax, or shatter using a special rig.

Best for: Experienced users with high tolerances or those needing strong, fast relief.

Why it works: Concentrates deliver high doses of cannabinoids quickly and intensely.

Things to consider: This is not a beginner’s method—it requires some know-how and high-quality gear. Always source concentrates from trusted, reputable makers.

Final Puff

The way you consume cannabis shapes your entire experience. Whether you’re seeking clarity, calm, connection, or creativity—there’s a method that aligns with your intention and lifestyle.

If you’re curious to explore beyond your go-to joint, come through to House of Tiger - Our team is here to guide you toward a more informed, elevated relationship with the plant.

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