Different Ways to Consume CBD & Hemp Flower

CBD is a growing wellness trend, and there's a reason why its popularity continues to rise. As it does, CBD enthusiasts look for new and different ways to consume it. Oils, lotions, and edibles are all common, but are there other ways? In addition to CBD, hemp flowers are also becoming a popular method of consumption.

But what's the difference between CBD and hemp? Don't worry; we'll clear it up and talk about some different ways to consume CBD and hemp flowers.

Related: The History of CBD

The Difference Between Hemp And CBD

To understand the differences between CBD and hemp flower, let's start with two things that you should know about hemp:

Hemp is a plant that has been cultivated for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Historically, its main use has been for industrial purposes. Hemp fiber is used to make various products, from rope and paper to textiles.
In most areas, hemp is legal because the flowers contain little to none of the compound that gets you high: THC. In the US, hemp must contain LESS than 0.3% THC. Cannabis contains MORE than 0.3% THC.
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of many cannabinoids found within the hemp plant.

Hemp contains many other types of cannabinoids, besides CBD, though CBD is the most well known and studied. CBD has the potential to offer some health benefits without the psychoactive properties of cannabis.

8 Ways to Consume CBD and Hemp Flower

First, let's talk about some popular ways to consume CBD.

1. Oils & Tinctures

CBD oil and tinctures are typically used with a dropper and holding the solution under your tongue. And while you can use CBD oil in a vape pen, you cannot use a tincture. CBD typically gets combined with a base oil, like coconut or hemp and can taste bitter. CBD oil usually has a higher concentration of cannabidiol than tinctures, but CBD tinctures often have much better flavors.

2. Edibles

CBD edibles come in a variety of forms, including gummies, chocolate, drinks, and more. They are a tasty and easy way to consume CBD. However, it does have lower bioavailability, which means you might not absorb all of the CBD in a product, because it has to pass through your digestive system. CBD edibles are a great way for people who want to start low and slow.

Other than pre-made edibles, you can make your own by adding hemp flowers into just about any recipe. Recipes that call for a lot of fat or butter, like cookies and brownies, allow for the best absorption of the cannabinoids present in hemp flowers. When cooking with hemp flower, remember to “decarb” your flower to activate the CBD. Put your ground flower on a baking sheet a heat in the oven at 230 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Because CBD is fat-soluble, all you have to do is add some of your decarbed, ground-up hemp flower into your butter, coconut oil, or other sources of fat while you cook!

3. Pills

CBD pills and capsules are perfect for those who don't want to fiddle with oils. They typically take longer for you to feel the effects, but they also might last longer. CBD pills come in a wide variety of strengths and are usually available in powder or gel capsules and solid tablets. They are also a great way to consume CBD discreetly.

4. Lotions

CBD topical products, like lotion, might be able to help relieve localized inflammation and pain. Because our skin is very absorbent, you can apply CBD lotions effectively. They also typically contain vitamins that can help promote healthy skin. CBD lotion can be an excellent choice for many people, but it's important to remember that all topical products are different and affect people in various ways and absorption of the CBD is very low.

5. Vaping CBD Oil

Vaping CBD oil is an easier and arguably safer way to consume it than smoking hemp flowers, and it also produces an almost immediate effect on the body. There are various CBD oil vapes available, including refillable and disposable ones. Be careful selecting oil based vape products, review their ingredients and make sure they come from a reputable source as there are possible health concerns associated with vaping CBD oil.

6. Pre-rolls

Possibly the most popular way to consume hemp flowers is in a joint. It's a great way to experience the full taste and aroma of your hemp flower, but it can be challenging and inconvenient to roll your own, which is why many hemp flower and CBD providers offer pre-rolls. That way, you can enjoy your hemp flower without having to roll it yourself.

7. Pipes

While bongs and pipes are typically associated with cannabis, they are also perfect tools to consume hemp flowers. You don't need to break your flower down much, saving time, papers, and money if you typically buy pre-rolls. In addition, with a bong, you get the benefit of water filtration, which helps to cool the smoke and reduce harshness. Bongs and pipes come in all shapes and sizes, so finding one can be quite an adventure!

8. Dry Herb Vaping

Like CBD oil, you can vape hemp flower, but it requires a slightly different type. You need a dry herb vape that comes with a compartment to place your flower in rather than loading it with oil. These devices then heat the hemp flower to a precise temperature that allows the flower to turn into vapor, which allows the inhalation of the beneficial compounds without actually burning it. Dry herb vaporization is a very effective and fast method of feeling the effects of the flower.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer buying CBD products or hemp flowers, there are a variety of ways for you to consume and enjoy them. One person might prefer oil while others prefer pre-rolls or edibles, but that doesn't mean that one method of consumption is better than the other. You can try a few different ways to see which methods you like best.

At Herbie, we offer high-quality CBD gummies and tinctures, along with fresh hemp flowers and pre-rolls. Find your new favorite today!