A Guide to Cannabis Product Categories: Exploring Your Options
- Mary Jane
- Jan 7
- 5 min read
If you’re stepping into the world of medical cannabis, it can feel a bit like walking into a candy shop with hundreds of colourful jars and packages, each promising something a little different. I get it - it’s exciting but also a tad overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this friendly guide to help you understand the main cannabis product categories and what they mean for you. Whether you’re curious about oils, edibles, or something else, I’ll walk you through the essentials in a way that’s easy to digest.
Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful variety of cannabis products available, so you can feel confident and supported on your journey.
Understanding Cannabis Product Categories
When we talk about cannabis product categories, we’re really referring to the different forms in which cannabis is available. Each category offers unique benefits, methods of use, and effects. Knowing these categories helps you choose what suits your needs best.
Here are some of the most common cannabis product categories you’ll encounter:
Flower (Dried Buds): The classic form, often smoked or vaporised.
Oils and Tinctures: Concentrated extracts taken orally or sublingually.
Edibles: Food and drink infused with cannabis extracts.
Topicals: Creams, balms, and lotions applied to the skin.
Vapourisers and Cartridges: Devices that heat cannabis extracts for inhalation.
Capsules and Tablets: Pre-measured doses for easy consumption.
Each category has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences, medical needs, and lifestyle.
Flower (Dried Buds)
This is the most traditional form of cannabis. The dried flowers of the cannabis plant are harvested, cured, and packaged for use. Many people prefer flower because it offers a full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, which can provide a more rounded effect.
You can consume flower by smoking it in a joint, pipe, or bong, or by using a vaporiser, which heats the flower without burning it. Vaporising is often recommended for medical users because it’s gentler on the lungs.
Pros:
Quick onset of effects
Easy to dose by adjusting amount used
Wide variety of strains available
Cons:
Smoking may irritate lungs
Strong smell
Not discreet in public settings
Oils and Tinctures
Oils and tinctures are concentrated cannabis extracts, usually taken under the tongue (sublingually) or added to food and drink. They come in bottles with droppers for precise dosing.
These products are popular for medical users because they offer a smoke-free option with a controlled dose. Effects usually take 15-45 minutes to kick in and can last several hours.
Tips for use:
Start with a low dose and increase gradually
Hold the oil under your tongue for 30-60 seconds before swallowing
Store in a cool, dark place to maintain potency
Edibles
Edibles are cannabis-infused foods and drinks, such as gummies, chocolates, teas, and baked goods. They offer a tasty and discreet way to consume cannabis, but the effects take longer to appear - usually 30 minutes to 2 hours - because the cannabinoids must be digested first.
Important to remember:
Effects last longer than smoking or vaping
Start with a very low dose (e.g., 2.5 mg THC or less)
Be patient and avoid taking more too soon
Edibles can be a great option if you want longer-lasting relief without inhaling anything.
Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, balms, and lotions applied directly to the skin. They don’t produce a “high” because cannabinoids don’t enter the bloodstream in significant amounts. Instead, they work locally to reduce pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.
If you’re dealing with arthritis, muscle soreness, or skin issues, topicals might be your best friend.
How to use:
Apply to clean, dry skin
Use as often as needed
Avoid broken skin unless product is specifically designed for wounds
Vapourisers and Cartridges
Vapourisers heat cannabis extracts or flower to release cannabinoids as a vapour, which you inhale. They’re popular because they’re discreet, fast-acting, and less harsh than smoking.
Cartridges are pre-filled containers of cannabis oil that attach to vape pens. They’re convenient and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
Keep in mind:
Choose reputable brands to avoid harmful additives
Clean your device regularly for best performance
Start with small puffs to gauge your tolerance
Capsules and Tablets
For those who prefer a familiar pill form, capsules and tablets offer a precise dose of cannabis extract. They’re easy to take and discreet but have a slower onset time similar to edibles.
Capsules are great if you want consistent dosing without the taste of oils or edibles.
What is type 7 cannabis?
You might have heard the term “type 7 cannabis” floating around, especially in UK medical cannabis discussions. So, what exactly is it?
Type 7 cannabis refers to a specific classification under the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Regulations. It’s a cannabis-based product that contains cannabinoids but is not classified as a controlled drug under Schedule 1. This means it can be prescribed by specialist doctors for medical use.
In practice, type 7 cannabis products often include oils and tinctures with defined cannabinoid profiles, making them suitable for patients who need consistent, regulated medication.
Understanding this classification helps you navigate the legal landscape and ensures you’re accessing safe, approved products.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Product for You
With so many options, how do you pick the right product? Here are some tips to guide you:
Consider your medical needs
Are you looking for quick relief or long-lasting effects? For example, vapourisers and flower offer fast onset, while edibles and capsules last longer.
Think about your lifestyle
If discretion is important, edibles, capsules, or tinctures might be better than smoking.
Start low and go slow
Especially if you’re new to cannabis, begin with a low dose and increase gradually to find your sweet spot.
Consult your healthcare provider
Always discuss your cannabis use with a medical professional, especially if you’re on other medications.
Check product quality
Look for products with lab testing and clear cannabinoid content to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal product might be different from someone else’s, and that’s perfectly okay.
Embracing Your Cannabis Journey with Confidence
Exploring cannabis product categories can feel like a big step, but it’s also an empowering one. By understanding the different forms and how they work, you’re better equipped to make choices that support your health and wellbeing.
If you want to learn more about the cannabis product types available, Natures No.1 is here to help. We’re building a judgement-free community where you can find clear, trustworthy information and connect with others on a similar path.
Remember, your journey is unique, and every step you take is a move towards feeling better and more in control. So take your time, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to try different products until you find what works best for you.
Happy exploring!
