Forms & Methods
Cannabis comes in different forms, and they don't all work the same way. The method you choose affects how quickly it hits, how long it lasts, and how easy it is to control the dose.
Tinctures (drops under the tongue)
A liquid you hold under your tongue for 30–60 seconds, then swallow.
- Onset: 15–40 minutes
- Duration: 3–5 hours
- Dosing: Measured with a dropper. Easy to start low and adjust in small increments.
Tinctures are often the best starting point for seniors. They're discreet, predictable, and easy to dose precisely. No smoking, no smell, no special equipment.
Edibles (gummies, capsules, baked goods)
Any product you swallow and digest — gummies are the most common.
- Onset: 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Duration: 4–8 hours (sometimes longer)
- Dosing: Measured in milligrams (mg) per piece. Start at 2.5–5 mg.
Edibles last the longest but take the longest to kick in. The most common mistake is taking a second dose too soon because "nothing is happening." Wait at least two full hours before deciding a dose didn't work.
Inhalation (smoking or vaping)
Breathing in cannabis vapor or smoke.
- Onset: 1–5 minutes
- Duration: 1–3 hours
- Dosing: Harder to measure. One small puff and wait 10 minutes.
Inhalation works fast, which is useful for acute pain or nausea. But it's the hardest method to dose precisely, and some people — especially those with lung or breathing issues — should avoid it entirely.
Topicals (creams, balms)
Applied directly to the skin over a sore joint or muscle.
- Onset: 15–45 minutes
- Duration: 2–4 hours (localized)
- Dosing: Apply a small amount and wait. You won't feel any psychoactive effect.
Topicals don't enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. They won't make you feel high. They're useful for localized pain — hands, knees, shoulders — and can be used alongside other methods.
Which method is right for you?
It depends on what you're treating, how fast you need relief, and what you're comfortable with. Most of Lonnie's clients start with a tincture or a low-dose edible and adjust from there.