Introduction If you’re thinking about trying cannabis edibles, it’s important to know what you’re in for. This guide will help you understand the different types of edibles available, how to find the right dosage, and what to expect from a smoke-free experience with THC.
What are Cannabis Edibles?
Cannabis edibles are food or drinks that contain activated cannabis. According to Health Canada, they can be classified as “edible cannabis solids” or “edible cannabis beverages.” While smoking cannabis is still the most popular method of consuming the drug, eating cannabis is becoming more popular too.
Types of Edibles
Cannabis can be infused into a variety of food products, such as brownies, gummies, and cereal. And with cannabis-infused cooking oil or butter, almost any food can be transformed into a cannabis-infused meal.
Ingesting vs Smoking
Getting high from edibles is just as easy as from smoking weed, if not easier. But the process of getting high from edibles is different from smoking cannabis. The digestive tract and liver metabolize cannabis into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and persistent form of THC, before it reaches the bloodstream. It takes longer for THC from edibles to take effect, but the effects are stronger and longer-lasting once it does.
In contrast, smoking THC reaches the bloodstream almost immediately and binds to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, leading to the euphoric feeling associated with getting high. Smoking has a rapid onset but shorter duration compared to edibles.
The Effect on Your High
The length and intensity of your high from edibles and smoking cannabis can vary greatly. Edibles take 45 minutes to three hours to metabolize and the effects can last eight to twelve hours. On the other hand, smoking has a shorter onset time but lasts only three to four hours. The amount consumed, as well as other factors like dosage, potency, and quality, can also impact your high.
People tend to overconsume edibles less often as the effects from smoking cannabis can be gauged immediately. But overconsumption of edibles can lead to negative effects, such as waiting three hours for THC to metabolize and then consuming more, resulting in a higher dosage and intensity. To avoid overconsumption, start with a small dose and wait 24 hours before increasing incrementally.
Types of Edibles Available
There’s a wide variety of edibles to suit everyone’s taste buds, from chocolate to gummies to THC oil capsules. Cannabis-infused chocolates. Cannabis-infused gummies provide a tasty alternative. And for those who prefer a non-snack option, THC oil capsules offer a convenient way to take 10mg doses of THC without added sugar.
What to Do If You’re Too High?
Overconsumption of edibles is common, but there are ways to reduce the effects. Drinking water, eating non-cannabis food, taking a shower, and finding a quiet, dark place can help. And if needed, CBD can counteract the effects of THC.
Conclusion
Cannabis edibles offer a smoke-free alternative to consuming THC. Understanding the different types of edibles, how to find the right dosage, and what to expect from the effects can help ensure a positive experience. And if you overconsume, there are ways to reduce the effects
