Smoking joints is often what comes to mind when people think about marijuana, but as the plant moves into the mainstream as a medical product, many are discovering healthier ways to consume it.

Here are four consumption methods that are healthier than smoking:

Oils and edibles

Cannabis-infused oils are available from licensed producers (LPs)by prescription or from legal cannabis retailers, and can be consumed as is, or added to food. The effects of oils and cannabis-infused foods – also known as edibles – tend to be stronger and longer-lasting than those of inhaled cannabis, and it’s recommended that new users start at a low dose, and increase slowly over sessions to determine the right amount.

Vaporizing

Vaporizers use just enough heat to activate cannabis’s therapeutic ingredients – such as cannabinoids and terpenes – but not enough to combust the plant matter itself. This process allows users to inhale cannabis without taking in toxic byproducts like tar and carbon monoxide.

Not only is vaping healthier than smoking, it’s also more efficient, activating flavourful and therapeutic ingredients instead of burning them off.

Pills and suppositories

Oil-filled capsules can be purchased from a licensed producer. They can then be taken orally, or used as vaginal or rectal suppositories. Researchers are still catching up on the risks, benefits and efficacy of suppositories, so talk to your Natural Care prescriber or nurse if these methods interest you.

Topicals

You can rub infused coconut oil, infused olive oil or LP oil directly on your skin, or mix them with essential oils for an easy DIY cannabis delivery method. Although the therapeutic effects of topical cannabis are not as well understood as other methods, experience suggests that topicals provide anti-inflammatory and relaxing effects without an intoxicating high.