5 Alternative Ways to Consume Weed Other than Rolling Joints

If you’re tired of the old-school joint-rolling method for consuming weed, then you’re probably looking for a new and exciting consumption method. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to get your daily dose of marijuana, and many of them don’t require rolling papers.

Whether you’re into smoking, vaping, eating, dabbing, drinking, or slathering on your cannabis products, you’ve got plenty of options. In this guide, we’ll cover the best alternative ways to consume weed that don’t require any joint-rolling skills.

Edibles & Beverages

Cannabis edibles are by far one of the most popular choices for consuming weed these days. Not only is chowing down on a weed-infused edible easy and convenient, but it’s also delicious. There are pot brownies, weed cookies, and marijuana-infused gummies and candies, and each one is more mouthwatering than the last.

The options for edibles have increased significantly in the past few years, and a big reason for this is the higher demand. Another reason is the greater range of dietary needs, like vegan-friendly, gluten-free, sugar-free, and keto.

No matter what your dietary needs may be and no matter your taste preferences, there’s an edible (or drinkable!) form of weed out there for you.

How to Use Weed Edibles

Every cannabis edible is different and contains different levels of THC or CBD. For this reason, it’s important to pay close attention to the dosage recommendation on the edible you’re trying out, and always start out slow.

It generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes for an edible’s effects to kick in. So give it time to take effect before nibbling on more of that weed brownie or those CBD gummies.

Bongs & Pipes

If you like the classic, age-old smoking methods for consuming cannabis, but you’re sick of rolling papers, these next alternative options could be for you. Bongs and pipes are great options for no-frills weed smokers who enjoy smoking their bud.

One of the best things about reaching for a bong or pipe is that it’s easy to find high-quality, affordable cannabis strains that are great for smoking. Many dispensaries these days offer full ounces under $100, which is significantly cheaper than in the past.

How to Use Bongs & Pipes

Unlike joints and blunts, these methods are a lot more convenient since they just require you to pack a bowl full of ground flower, and that’s pretty much it. Keep in mind that a bong will require a bit more work since it’s a more complicated apparatus than a pipe.

Topicals

Cannabis topicals aren’t for everyone, but they’re definitely an alternative weed-using method to consider. Topical products like balms, salves, lotions, and creams are great for alleviating surface-level pain, joint stiffness, or skin conditions.

CBD topical products in particular are flying off the shelves these days. CBD is an anti-inflammatory, non-psychoactive (that means it won’t get you high) compound found in marijuana and hemp plants. It can do wonders for the skin, joints, and muscles.

While some marijuana topicals are geared towards enhancing skin vibrance and beauty, others are specifically made for pain relief. Before buying and using a topical product, make sure to choose one that fits your specific needs.

How to Use Weed Topicals

A cannabis topical is used by simply applying the product directly to the skin. Just apply it to the area of pain, discomfort, itchiness, dry skin, or whatever the issue may be. That’s it!

Because they’re not inhaled or consumed directly like edibles, the bioavailability of topicals is lower than with other methods. This means you won’t get high, and the side effects will probably be mild compared to edibles, bong hits, or other alternatives.

Vape Pens & Juices

Weed vapes have become extremely popular. This is a great choice for anyone who likes the inhalation method but doesn’t like that harsh burn of smoke with each inhale.

Vaping is a process that heats up cannabis to a level that releases the cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and other compounds, like terpenes. This heating process produces a vapor that is inhaled; there’s no smoke involved whatsoever. It’s a lot easier on the lungs, and it’s a lot more discreet than smoking pot.

How to Use Vape Pens & Juices

A lot of cannabis product manufacturers have developed vape pens and refillable cartridges for easy, smooth inhalation. For most vape pens, you just have to put the pen to your mouth and inhale. When the cartridge containing the cannabis oil runs out, simply replace it with a new one.

Capsules, Powders & Tinctures

Capsules, powders, and tinctures typically fall under the “edibles” category, but they deserve a spot of their own on this list. All 3 of these alternative methods are easy, convenient, and allow you to measure out an exact dose of cannabis every time.

For these reasons, they’re ideal for medical marijuana use. 

How to Use Capsules, Powders & Tinctures

Capsules are small weed pills that contain an exact dose of THC, CBD, or both. Every bottle of cannabis capsules will have different dosage recommendations based on what’s contained within each capsule, so make sure to read the label closely.

Cannabis powders are often used as additives for smoothies, coffee, or teas. A little bit goes a long way, so read the label and stick with the manufacturer’s dosage suggestions.

A cannabis tincture is a concentrated extract made by soaking the flowers and/or leaves in a solvent, such as alcohol. Most people use the tincture dropper to place a few small drops of the liquid under the tongue, but it can also be added to food or beverages.