Cannabis Basics
What Are Cannabis Oral Sprays?
How they work, how to use them and why people choose them: Our deep dive on cannabis oral sprays explores the basics of this smokeless cannabis product.
Last updated May 9, 2025 | Published on January 27, 2021
Cannabis oral sprays are a combination of cannabis extract and carrier oil in a precise, and convenient spray bottle. The compact packaging and pre-dosed delivery system make it a product type that requires no additional gear, prep or measuring to use.
Cannabis oral sprays are processed differently in the body than edibles. With an experience that’s more discreet than smoking or vaping, they have some unique features to explore. We dive into all things cannabis oral sprays, from effects and manufacturing to consumption tips.
How are cannabis oral sprays made?
The process of making cannabis oral sprays involves blending cannabis extract with a liquid to dilute it and improve the flow.
Using solvents or CO2 extraction, the desired cannabinoids are extracted from fresh flower. This extract is then combined with a carrier oil, alcohol-based tincture or any terpenes or flavouring. The manufacturing process can also include a step called nanoemulsion, where cannabinoids are broken down into microscopic particles that can be absorbed more easily into the bloodstream through the membranes in your mouth. The spray is then bottled with a sprayer mechanism that delivers an exact amount each time for a precise and fast-absorbing dose of cannabinoids.
How cannabis orał sprays work
First, the cannabis oral spray is sprayed into the mouth, either under the tongue or to the inside of the cheek. Once sprayed, the cannabinoids are absorbed through the mucus membrane, travelling through the mouth’s capillaries directly into the bloodstream.
This is different from ingested cannabis, where cannabinoids pass through the stomach and are metabolized in the liver. Things like how much food you’ve eaten beforehand and individual differences in metabolism can make edibles unpredictable or cause a lot of variation in how they affect people.
In general, ingesting cannabis has a slower onset, lasts longer and produces stronger effects compared to oral sprays created without nanoemulsion. By skipping the digestive system, cannabis oral sprays offer a more consistent and faster-acting alternative to traditional edibles.
Pros and cons of cannabis oral sprays
Pros |
Cons |
Convenient and discreet: Cannabis oral sprays require no additional gear or preparation to consume. They’re easy to transport and discrete. Precise and predictable: Each spray delivers a consistent dose for more reliable effects and easier dosage control. Fresh flavours: Cannabis oral sprays often feature less of a cannabis flavour and sometimes other pleasant flavours. Smoke-free option: Cannabis oral sprays provide a healthier alternative to smoking, with no lingering odour or respiratory risks. |
Less selection: Oral sprays have fewer product options compared to the wide variety of strains and formulations available in flower or edibles. Less flexibility: Unlike flower or cannabis oil, sprays offer limited ability to adjust dosage or consumption method to personal preferences. For total control of your dosage down to the tenth of a millilitre, a cannabis oil with a dropper is your best bet.
Onset time: Oral sprays have a delayed onset compared to smoking or vaping, which may not suit consumers looking for immediate effects.
Associated health risks: Respiratory risks are not the only adverse health effects associated with cannabis use. Prolonged cannabis usage, especially daily or near-daily use of high-THC products, can negatively impact physical and mental health in a number of ways. Learn more about the short and long-term effects of cannabis use. |
How much cannabis oral spray should I take?
Read the product label: Determine the THC and CBD content per spray.
Start low and go slow: Pick a low-THC potency product, starting out with 2.5 mg THC per spray or less. Begin with just one spray and wait at least 30 minutes before attempting more.
Adjust gradually: Your experience can vary from one day to the next. Increase your dose gradually.
How to choose a cannabis oral spray
There are a few factors to consider when selecting a cannabis oral spray.
Which cannabinoids do I want to consume?
THC, CBD or a combination of both? Choosing a cannabis product is a highly individual experience that depends on your goals and experiences. THC-dominant sprays offer more psychoactive effects, while CBD-focused sprays may affect the mind and body without intoxication. Plus, there’s a whole host of lesser-known cannabinoids gaining popularity in cannabis products like CBN, CBG and THCV. Check online product descriptions and product labels for detailed cannabinoid content.
Which flavours or terpenes do I like?
In some sprays, botanical terpenes and other flavourings are added for flavour. From fruity to minty, choose a taste that appeals to you. Some sprays offer natural cannabis terpene profiles for a more authentic experience.
Which strains do I like?
Some cannabis oral sprays are crafted from single-strain extracts, providing a convenient spray format to experience the characteristics of a cannabis strain you already appreciate.
Is this a legal cannabis product?
Ensure you're purchasing from an Authorized Cannabis Store. Legal products undergo rigorous testing for safety and accurate cannabinoid content. Unregulated products may contain unknown or harmful ingredients and inaccurate dosages. Learn how to spot unregulated products.
Cannabis oral sprays offer a unique and convenient method of cannabis consumption. By understanding how they work, benefits and potential drawbacks, and proper dosing guidelines, you can make an informed decision about consuming cannabis oral sprays.