Cannabis oils and capsules provide an alternative, and potentially more precise method of consumption to smoking. Read on to learn about safe ways to consume these products, and upcoming changes to regulations that will see oils and capsules reclassified as extracts.

Cannabis oil can be consumed in several different formats. In liquid form, oils can be dropped or sprayed under the tongue, depending on the way it is packaged. Some producers manufacture oils in a bottle and dropper format, while others also offer oil products in an oral spray bottle, manufactured to dispense the same amount of THC and/or CBD with each spray.

Capsules are often made with cannabis oil, and are intended to be ingested. Ingesting cannabis oil in the form of gel capsules, or swallowing cannabis oil rather than taking it under the tongue, slows the onset of effects as the body needs to digest and process the compounds, such as CBD and THC, before they reach the bloodstream.

Cannabis oil may have a slight earthy, nutty taste and carry the aroma of terpenes from the plant. Capsules allow consumers to consume oil without experiencing the taste. Both oils and capsules are available in a wide variety of potencies (2:1 THC: CBD, THC only, CBD only, etc.) and types (indica, sativa, etc.).

Currently, these products are collectively classified as “cannabis oil”. Under federal regulations, cannabis oils in liquid form cannot exceed 30 milligrams of THC per millilitre, while individual capsules cannot exceed 10 milligrams of THC per millilitre.

As of October 17, 2019, these products have been reclassified to fall under a new category known as ingestible extracts. Another category, inhalable extracts, will include extracts such as shatter, rosin, and other concentrated products that are meant to be inhaled using a vaporizer, vape pen, and other appropriate accessories. Cannabis extracts are now available from BC Cannabis Stores.

Always remember to start low and go slow.