The Pharmacokinetics and Physiological Effects of Cannabis: Contrasting Inhalation and Ingestion Methods

about 1 month ago

Have you ever found yourself arguing about which is better or worse when it comes to consumption of Cannabis, and you argue the Smoking cannabis versus the eating cannabis. This argument isn't uncommon among people both in the health world and in our contemporary day to day lives. We need to understand that ingesting cannabis can give varying effects, depending on the method of ingestion while its experience vary from one individual to another.

While the two process differ based on ingestion, they also interact with our biology in different ways. When it comes to edibles, the strains are easily differentiated, those with CBD and THC content can be identified, and they can exist in different products. When it comes to edible cannabis, emphasis are made on starting with low doses and this can be said also for smoking just that one is more potent than the other.

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When a person inhales cannabis through smoking, there is a sensation of calmness that happens almost instantaneously. Soon the effects of the cannabis begin to take effect, and this is because of the efficient route for which THC gets to the blood which are the lungs. When cannabis smoke is inhaled, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is the primary psychoactive substance in cannabis is absorbed by the alveoli in the lungs. Since the alveoli are connected to blood vessels and capillaries, they can easily send THC to the blood.

Since the blood goes to every part of the body, it can easily get to the brain in seconds or minutes. Since THC can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, then it means THC can interact with the endocannabinoid receptors resulting in different psychoactive effects associated with taking cannabis such as Euphoria, altered sensory perception, increased appetite, and so on. While smoking can be very fast, when it comes to ingesting it, the process take longer from minutes to hours as a result of THC going through the digestive system before being absorbed into the blood and metabolized by the liver.

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When THC from edible cannabis gets into the bloodstream and find its way to the brain, its effect is longer, and its intensity is more than smoking. The liver metabolizes THC to 11-hydroxy-THC which is a more potent. For smoking, the control over dosage is very straightforward as a result of the immediate effect o the THC but for eating cannabis, the dosage can be tricky since it doesn't have immediate effect.

Smoking cannabis like any other thing can affect and irritate the lungs which can lead to respiratory issues in the long run like bronchitis. People who eat edibles excessively can lead to discomfort, extreme anxiety, and nausea. Taking cannabis at a younger age can lead to certain cognitive impairment, although research on the cognitive effect of cannabis is still ongoing. People who have certain gastrointestinal issues can suffer discomfort when they take cannabis.

Both smoking and ingesting cannabis offer distinct experiences and potential risks. Understanding the differences in their effects on the body and considering individual factors such as tolerance and health status are essential for making informed decisions about cannabis consumption. Whether one chooses to smoke or consume edibles, moderation and mindfulness are key to minimizing potential adverse effects and maximizing the benefits of cannabis use.