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How to Take Cannabis Oil Properly: Methods, Dosage & Tips
Cannabis oil has rapidly become a key player in modern cannabis consumption, valued for its discreet, flexible, and fast-acting properties. As more Canadians turn to cannabis oil for wellness, recreation, or symptom relief, knowing how to take cannabis oil properly is crucial not just for effectiveness, but for safety and long-term satisfaction.
In this expert guide, you’ll learn:
- The most popular ways to consume cannabis oil
- How to dose cannabis oil responsibly for your body and needs
- Tips to avoid common mistakes and side effects
By the end, you’ll be empowered to make informed, confident choices about using cannabis oil, whether you’re just starting out or fine-tuning your routine.
What is Cannabis Oil?
Cannabis oil is a highly concentrated extract derived from the cannabis plant. It contains active compounds like THC (Delta-9) and CBD, suspended in a carrier oil such as MCT or hemp seed oil for easy and accurate administration.
There are several types of cannabis oil products, including:
- Tinctures (taken sublingually)
- CBD or THC capsules
- Oil-infused edibles
Each format is tailored for a specific method of use and absorption rate. Potency matters and it’s usually measured in milligrams (mg) of THC or CBD per millilitre (ml) or per serving. Always check the product label to understand strength and dose accurately, especially if you’re a beginner.
Can Cannabis Oil Be Consumed Directly?
Yes, cannabis oil can be consumed directly by placing drops under the tongue for sublingual absorption. This method allows cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream quickly. Effects typically begin within 15–45 minutes. Always use lab-tested oil and follow dosage guidelines to avoid adverse effects.
4 Popular Methods for Taking Marijuana Oil
One of the greatest advantages of cannabis oil is its versatility. It can be taken in several ways, each offering different onset times, absorption rates, and effects. The best method for you depends on your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. In this section, we’ll explore the most effective and commonly used methods of cannabis oil consumption so you can choose the option that best aligns with your needs.
- Sublingual Administration: Under the Tongue
One of the most common and effective methods for taking cannabis oil is sublingual administration. This involves placing cannabis oil drops directly under your tongue using a dropper or syringe.
The mucous membrane under your tongue allows for direct absorption of cannabinoids into your bloodstream, leading to a relatively quick onset compared to oral ingestion. This sublingual application bypasses the first-pass metabolism in the liver, contributing to quicker effects.
- How to use: Use the dropper to place your desired cannabis oil dose under your tongue. Hold it there for 60-90 seconds before swallowing any remaining liquid. This technique is also common for marijuana tinctures.
- Benefits: This administration method offers a more rapid effect, typically within 15-45 minutes, making it a good choice for those seeking quicker feedback on their dosage. It also allows for very precise measurement.
- Tips: Pay attention to the potency of your cannabis oil tincture to ensure accurate dosage. Start with a low dose and slowly increase if needed.
- Oral Ingestion: Capsules, Edibles, and Infusions
Oral ingestion is one of the most discreet and convenient ways to take cannabis oil. This method includes swallowing cannabis oil capsules, consuming edibles infused with cannabis oil, or blending the oil directly into foods or beverages.
Once ingested, the cannabinoids are processed by the digestive system and metabolized by the liver through what’s known as first-pass metabolism. This results in a delayed onset of effects, typically within 30 to 90 minutes, but delivers a longer-lasting and often more potent experience. It’s a preferred method for those seeking sustained relief or a subtle, extended high.
- How to use: Take cannabis oil by swallowing a pre-measured capsule with water, enjoying a cannabis-infused edible, or blending the oil into your favorite meals or beverages for a seamless experience.
- Benefits: This consumption method is highly discreet, offers pre-measured doses with CBD capsules, and provides prolonged effects.
- Considerations: The onset time for orally ingested cannabis oil can range from 45 minutes to 2 hours, so patience is key. Avoid taking more until you’ve felt the full effects of your initial dose.
- Inhalation: Vaping Cannabis Oil and CBD Vape Pens
Vaping cannabis oil involves the use of a specialized vaporizer or vape pen designed specifically for cannabis oil concentrates. This method delivers the fastest onset of effects, as cannabinoids are absorbed directly through the lungs into the bloodstream, typically felt within minutes.
- How to use: Use a vape pen or vaporizer that’s compatible with cannabis oil cartridges or concentrates, ensuring proper temperature settings for safe vaporization.
- Considerations: Only use cannabis oil products labeled and formulated for inhalation. Oils meant for oral or sublingual use often contain carrier ingredients (like MCT oil) that are not safe to heat and inhale. Always purchase from reputable sources, and take extra care when selecting CBD vape pens or any inhalable cannabis product to ensure purity, safety, and regulatory compliance.
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- Topical Application (External Use): CBD Balm and Transdermal Patches
Although not a form of internal consumption, topical cannabis products such as CBD balms, lotions, and creams offer a localized way to use cannabis oil. These products are intended for external application only and work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, particularly CB2 receptors.
They may help reduce pain, inflammation, or irritation in the applied area. However, they do not typically enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts and therefore do not produce systemic effects or psychoactive experiences.
In comparison, transdermal cannabis patches are formulated to deliver cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream. This method can provide whole body effects and is more comparable to oral or sublingual cannabis use. Transdermal products are often used for medical purposes, and their availability and legality can vary based on location and product type.
- How to use: For topical products like CBD balm, apply a small amount to the affected area and massage it into the skin. These formulations are not intended for ingestion and should be used only as directed on the skin.
- Key Distinction: Topical cannabis products provide localized relief without affecting the whole body. Transdermal patches, on the other hand, are designed for systemic delivery and may be more appropriate for individuals seeking full body effects. Speak with a licensed healthcare provider if you are considering a transdermal option.
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Dosing Weed Oil: A Responsible Approach & The Endocannabinoid System
Determining the right cannabis oil dosage is a highly personal journey. The goal is always to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve your desired experience. This process is often called titration. Factors like your individual tolerance, metabolism, and the potency of the specific cannabis oil product (whether it’s THC oil or CBD oil) all play a role.
Your body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and naturally occurring compounds, interacts with external cannabinoids, influencing how you experience the chemical compound present in cannabis oil. Some believe in an “entourage effect,” where various chemical compounds in the plant work together.
Here are our top tips for choosing your weed oil dosage:
- Starting Low and Going Slow: For beginners, starting with a low dose of Delta-9 THC or CBD oil is often recommended. Wait at least 2 hours (for oral) or 1 hour (for sublingual administration) before considering another dose. This is crucial for understanding how the chemical compound affects you.
- Tracking Your Consumption: Keep a simple journal to record the amount of weed oil you took, the administration methods used, the time, and any effects you experienced. This will help you understand your body’s unique response and find your optimal dose.
- Understanding Potency: Labels will display the total cannabinoid content in milligrams. If it’s marijuana tinctures, it will also show mg per millilitre (mg/mL). Use this information and your dropper’s measurements to calculate your dose accurately.
3 popular ways to use cannabis: edibles, concentrates and vaping
Olive Jar: The Best Dispensary for Premium Cannabis in Toronto!
At Olive Jar, your premium cannabis experience begins with trust, quality, and expertise. We’re not just a dispensary, we’re your partner in navigating the world of cannabis with confidence.
Our curated selection features only top-tier cannabis products, hand-picked for their purity, potency, and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, our mission is to empower your choices through trusted guidance and a personalized approach to cannabis wellness.
Experience the Olive Jar difference:
- Expert, Friendly Guidance: Our knowledgeable team is always here to help. We’ll assist you in understanding the nuances of our THC oil and CBD oil options, as well as various administration methods, ensuring you find exactly what you’re looking for.
- Extensive Product Selection: Explore a curated range that includes premium cannabis flower, convenient pre-rolls, delicious cannabis edibles, potent concentrates, versatile vapes & cartridges, and soothing topicals like CBD balm.
- Convenient Curbside Pickup: Enjoy seamless and safe shopping! Simply place your order online, and we’ll have it ready for quick and easy curbside pickup right here at our Toronto location.
Discover our full range of cannabis products and see why Olive Jar is Toronto’s preferred destination for premium cannabis. Purchase for pick-up online or in-store today and take advantage of our easy curbside pickup!
