Oral absorption of cannabinoids

Consuming your cannabinoids in a form that can be absorbed through the venous membranes of the mouth is highly recommended. This category of products includes tinctures, oral sprays, lozenges, and dissolving strips. Like edibles, these products are within the category of marijuana-infused products (MIPs). All such products are meant to be held in the mouth until they are absorbed.

This form of consumption avoids agitation of sensitive lung tissues while also allowing patients to easily find and maintain proper dosing. The biggest challenge with these products will be to find manufacturers who can create a consistent line of products. We’ll do our best to help patients with this.

The Good
-No Smoke!
-Quick onset: 5-60 minutes
-No equipment is needed
-Discreet usage
-Ease of transport
-High bioavailability (40% – 50%)
-Relatively easy to titrate doses

The Bad
-Generally of higher cost
-Alcohol based
-Variability in dosing due to oral conditions (e.g. dry mouth)
-Product variability due to manufacturing processes

Be wary of any of these products marketed as indica or sativa, or with any other effects such as creativity or sedating. The potential for these nuanced effects are due to the entourage effect and are usually eliminated during the manufacturing process.

Further reading:
SafeAccessNow.com
MedicalJane.com

Published by Eric

Lit Naturals founder, Eric McSwain, serves as Chairman of the Board for the Missouri Cannabis Industry Association. He is also a certified caregiver and patient. Eric's wife is also a caregiver and he also mentors several other caregivers in the state of Missouri. Eric's passion is for educating patients in the use of cannabis as well as at-home cultivation.