We take a look at the different ways you can consume marijuana.

Smoking: This is for traditionalists. Buy flowers and use a pipe or “prerolls,” packaged cannabis cigarettes. Start small. The effects of smoked cannabis tend to peak within the first 10 minutes and rapidly dissipate over the next one to three hours.

Vaporizing: Smoke-free e-cigarettes called “vape pens” are for the healthconscious. The cannabis is heated below the temperature of combustion, yet it’s still hot enough to extract THC, CBD and other active ingredients, so vaping is easier on the lungs. Vaping is also less conspicuous, delivers precise doses and doesn’t leave a smoky smell on your clothes. Some e-cigarettes require cannabis oil cartridges; others, resembling high-tech tampons, are pre-loaded. As is the case with smoking, the effects are quick, then fade. You just push a button and inhale.

Edibles: They’re tasty — but to prevent rookie error, be conservative. The effects of edibles such as cookies, lemon bars or fruit chews come on more slowly than smoking or vaping — and diminish more gradually. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in, and the effects can last several hours. Try edibles lower than the standard 10 mg per serving; look for 5 mg or less. Note: Plant matter should not be seen. There should be no actual weed in weed brownies.

Topical: Because balms, lotions and gels only touch skin and muscle tissue without entering the bloodstream, you feel the medicinal effects without getting intoxicated. Concentrates: Cannabis extracts have THC levels that range from 50 to 80 percent. In terms of potency, they’re the grain alcohol of cannabis, and experts don’t recommend them for beginners.