CBD Flower has become a popular natural remedy, offering numerous ways to enjoy its benefits. Whether you’re looking for fast-acting relief or a more gradual, relaxing experience, there’s a method for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore seven effective ways to consume CBD Flower—from smoking and vaping to infusions like tea and topicals. Each method has its own unique set of benefits, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your lifestyle. Read on to discover how to get the most out of your CBD Flower.
1. Smoking CBD Flower
Smoking is one of the most traditional and direct methods of consuming CBD Flower. The process involves grinding the dried flower and either rolling it into a joint or smoking it through a pipe or bong. Smoking offers the advantage of rapid absorption as the CBD quickly enters the bloodstream through the lungs, allowing users to feel the effects almost instantly. However, smoking can be harsh on the lungs, and some people may prefer to avoid this method due to health concerns related to inhaling smoke.
How to Smoke CBD Flower:
- Grind the CBD Flower into a fine consistency.
- Roll it into a joint, or pack it into a pipe or bong.
- Light it and inhale the vapour.
Pros:
- Quick absorption of CBD into the bloodstream.
- Easy to control dosage.
- Immediate effects.
Cons:
- Can irritate the lungs and throat.
- Involves inhalation of smoke, which some people may wish to avoid.
2. Vaping CBD Flower
Vaping is another popular method for consuming CBD Flower and offers a less harsh alternative to smoking. Dry herb vaporisers heat the flower just below combustion levels, allowing the cannabinoids to vaporise without creating harmful smoke. This results in a smoother experience with fewer lung irritants. Vaping also delivers CBD quickly to the bloodstream, similar to smoking, but without the toxins associated with combustion.
How to Vape CBD Flower:
- Use a dry herb vaporiser designed for flowers.
- Grind the CBD Flower and load it into the vaporiser chamber.
- Set the temperature (usually between 160°C-180°C) and inhale the vapour.
Pros:
- Smoother on the lungs compared to smoking.
- Quick onset of effects.
- Produces less odour than smoking.
Cons:
- Requires a vaporiser, which can be an additional expense.
- May not be as portable or discreet as other methods.
3. Brewing CBD Tea or Infusions
CBD Flower can be brewed into tea or other herbal infusions. Since CBD is fat-soluble, it’s important to add a fat source like coconut oil, butter, or whole milk to your tea to help your body absorb the cannabinoids more effectively. Brewing CBD Flower in hot water alone won’t release the full benefits. Before adding to tea, the flower should be decarboxylated – a process of gently heating the flower to activate the CBD.
How to Make CBD Tea:
- Decarboxylate the CBD Flower by spreading it on a baking tray and heating it at 110°C for 25-30 minutes.
- Add the flower to a tea infuser or tea bag.
- Brew the CBD Flower with hot water, and don’t forget to add a fat source like whole milk or coconut oil for better absorption.
- Let it steep for 5-10 minutes and enjoy.
Pros:
- A relaxing and gentle way to consume CBD.
- Can be combined with other herbs and flavours.
- Easy to adjust dosage by varying the amount of flower.
Cons:
- Slower onset of effects, as CBD must be digested.
- Requires preparation, including decarboxylation.
4. Edibles
CBD Flower can be used to make a variety of edibles, such as brownies, cookies, gummies, or butter. As with tea, it’s important to decarboxylate the CBD Flower before cooking to activate the cannabinoids. Once decarboxylated, the flower can be infused into butter or oil and then added to recipes. Edibles provide a longer-lasting, gradual release of CBD, but it can take up to an hour or more to feel the effects.
How to Make CBD Edibles:
- Decarboxylate the CBD Flower (110°C for 25-30 minutes).
- Infuse the decarboxylated flower into butter or oil by simmering it on low heat for 2-3 hours, then strain out the plant material.
- Use the CBD-infused butter or oil in your favourite recipes for baked goods or other treats.
Pros:
- Long-lasting effects.
- Discreet and can be enjoyed without the need for smoking or vaping.
- Easy to customise recipes with different flavours and strengths.
Cons:
- Takes longer to feel the effects (typically 1-2 hours).
- Harder to control exact dosage, especially in homemade edibles.
5. Tinctures and Oils
You can make CBD-infused tinctures or oils by soaking decarboxylated CBD Flower in a carrier oil such as coconut oil, olive oil, or MCT oil. This method creates a versatile product that can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption, or added to food and drinks. Tinctures are a convenient and precise way to measure dosages, and they are popular among those who don’t wish to smoke or vape.
How to Make a CBD Tincture:
- Decarboxylate the CBD Flower.
- Soak the flower in a jar of oil (e.g., coconut oil) and let it sit for 2-4 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the flower out of the oil and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
- Take the tincture sublingually by placing drops under the tongue or add it to food or drinks.
Pros:
- Precise dosage control.
- Discreet and can be taken anywhere.
- Versatile – can be used sublingually or in food.
Cons:
- Takes time to prepare.
- Requires decarboxylation for proper effectiveness.
6. CBD Capsules
CBD Flower can be ground and packed into empty capsules for easy consumption. This is a good option for those who want to avoid the taste of CBD or prefer a consistent and discreet way to take it. Capsules provide a slow release of CBD into the body as it is digested, similar to edibles.
How to Make CBD Capsules:
- Decarboxylate the CBD Flower.
- Grind the decarboxylated flower into a fine powder.
- Fill empty gel capsules with the ground flower, using a capsule machine if needed.
- Take the capsules with water.
Pros:
- Discreet and convenient for regular use.
- No preparation needed after the capsules are made.
- Precise, controlled doses.
Cons:
- Slower onset of effects, as it needs to be digested.
- Requires decarboxylation and capsule preparation.
7. Topicals
CBD Flower can be infused into oils or balms to create topical treatments for localised skin or muscle applications. These topicals don’t enter the bloodstream but work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the skin to provide potential relief from pain, inflammation, or skin issues. This method is ideal for those looking for the localised effects of CBD without systemic exposure.
How to Make CBD Topicals:
- Decarboxylate the CBD Flower.
- Infuse the flower into a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
- Blend the CBD-infused oil with beeswax or shea butter to create a balm.
- Apply directly to the skin where needed.
Pros:
- Provides localised relief without systemic effects.
- Ideal for skin conditions or muscle soreness.
- Non-psychoactive and easy to apply.
Cons:
- Doesn’t enter the bloodstream, so no full-body effects.
- Requires preparation and materials for making balms or creams.
Each method of consuming CBD Flower offers unique benefits, and the best option depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and desired effects. Whether you prefer the quick onset of smoking and vaping or the gradual release of edibles and tinctures, there’s a consumption method for everyone. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase it to find what works best for your needs.