Using cannabis responsibly means making informed choices about what you consume and how. There are many ways to consume cannabis, from inhalation and ingestion to oral and topical absorption. Use these resources to learn the ins and outs of responsible cannabis use, including tips for minimizing the risks of each method, how to safely store cannabis, harm reduction methods and what you need to know about driving and consumption.
Comparing Consumption Methods
This handy article with accompanying diagrams offers a side-by-side look at the differences between the four consumption methods— inhalation, ingestion, oral absorption and topical application — and how to minimize the risks of each.
All About Inhalation
Inhalation is one of the most common forms of cannabis consumption. Here’s what you need to know about dosage, timing, effects and the potential risks of using a joint, vaporizer, vape, pipe, bong or dab rig.
All About Ingestion
Ingesting cannabis — by consuming an edible, beverage or capsule, for instance — affects your body differently than other consumption methods. Learn more about how ingested cannabis is absorbed into your bloodstream, timing of effects and tips for minimizing risks before ingesting cannabis products.
All About Oral Absorption
Consuming cannabis orally means the plant’s cannabinoids are absorbed through the mucous membranes in your mouth. Learn about dosage, timing of effects and risk reduction when using hard candies, bottled cannabis oils and oral sprays.
All About Topical Application
Topical cannabis products — such as THC- and CBD-infused creams, lotions and bath bombs — have more localized effects than other consumption methods. Learn about how topicals may affect you.
Video: What Is Considered a Starting Dose?
It’s hard to say what the appropriate “starting dose” is for cannabis because so many factors are at play. Find out why we suggest repeating after Dr. Daniel Bear, PhD: “start low, go slow” when beginning to use cannabis.
The Importance of Safe Cannabis Storage
Using cannabis responsibly also means protecting those around you — especially those at risk of accidental consumption, such as children and pets. Here’s what you need to know about why proper cannabis storage is important, plus tips for safely storing your products.
How Cannabis Consumption Affects Drivers
Consuming cannabis can significantly impair your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Driving under the influence of cannabis is also a criminal offence with serious consequences. Here’s what you need to know to keep yourself, and others, safe.
Video: Is It Safe to Drive After Consuming Cannabis?
Research has shown that cannabis can impair cognitive functions such as decision-making, reaction time and attention — all of which are needed behind the wheel. Lindsay Lo, MPH, MSc, breaks down key considerations around staying safe after consuming cannabis and therisks of impaired driving.
10 Harm Reduction Tips for Cannabis Consumption
Consuming cannabis comes with potential health, social and legal impacts, but there are practical ways you can reduce them. Here are some harm reduction tips to consider.
What Is a Cannabis Tolerance Break?
When it comes to cannabis, what are tolerance breaks, and should frequent cannabis consumers consider pausing their routine? Learn the benefits of taking a T-break and tips for getting started.
What You Need to Know About Mixing Substances with Cannabis
Combining cannabis with other substances can have adverse health effects. Find out the risks associated with mixing cannabis with alcohol or other substances and ways to mitigate them.
Cannabis and Your Pet
Cannabis can have both toxic and therapeutic potential for domestic animals, including cats and dogs. Learn how to spot, treat and prevent cannabis poisoning in your furry companions.
Why Do Some People Choose to Consume Cannabis While Others Do Not?
Many factors might influence a person’s decision to partake in recreational cannabis or not. In either case, it’s most important to stay informed to make decisions that are best for you. Consider these questions so if you do decide to consume cannabis, you can do so safely and responsibly.
Video: Are All Inhalation Methods Equally Risky?
It might seem straightforward, but there are different ways of inhaling cannabis, each with their own set of pros and cons. Dr. Daniel Bear, PhD, discusses the facts and the risks associated with each inhalation method.
Video: How Can I Reduce the Risk of Having a Bad Experience with Cannabis?
Choosing to consume cannabis? Set yourself up for the best experience possible: Kira London-Nadeau, PhD candidate, offers suggestions for how to reduce the potential harms associated with cannabis use.
