Cannabis edibles are gaining popularity as a preferred way to enjoy the effects of cannabis without the need to smoke or vape. For beginners, understanding what edibles are and how they work is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we'll break down what cannabis edibles are, how they work in the body, and why they’re so different from other consumption methods.
What Are Cannabis Edibles?
Cannabis edibles are food or drink products that have been infused with cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, most notably THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Edibles come in many forms, from gummies and chocolates to beverages and baked goods. They are an excellent alternative for people who want to avoid smoking or prefer a more controlled, discreet way of consuming cannabis.
How Do Cannabis Edibles Work?
Unlike smoking or vaping, which delivers cannabinoids into your system via the lungs, edibles are processed through the digestive system. This fundamental difference in how the body absorbs cannabinoids makes edibles a unique experience. Here's how it works:
1.
Ingestion and Digestion
After consuming an edible, it passes through your digestive system. The cannabinoids in the edible, mainly THC or CBD, are broken down in your stomach and absorbed into the bloodstream through the walls of your intestines.
2.
Metabolization in the Liver
One of the biggest differences between smoking cannabis and eating edibles is how THC is processed in the liver. When THC passes through the liver, it is converted into a more potent form, called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is more effective at crossing the blood-brain barrier, which is why edibles often feel much stronger than smoked or vaped cannabis, even if the THC content is similar.
3.
Delayed Onset
Because edibles are processed through digestion, their effects take longer to kick in compared to smoking. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for you to start feeling the effects, depending on factors like your metabolism, the type of edible, and whether you’ve eaten food recently.
This delayed onset is why beginners are advised to start with a low dose and wait before consuming more. It's easy to overconsume if you're not patient, as the effects may not be immediate.
4.
Longer Duration
While it may take a while for the effects of edibles to start, they also last much longer than other consumption methods. Depending on the dose and your body's chemistry, the effects of edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with some lingering effects lasting up to 12 hours.
Why Are Edibles So Potent?
The conversion of THC into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver is one of the primary reasons edibles feel stronger than smoking or vaping cannabis. The psychoactive effects of 11-hydroxy-THC are generally more intense and last longer, making edibles a powerful option even at lower doses.
For this reason, many beginners are advised to start with microdoses—typically 2.5 to 5 mg of THC—to avoid uncomfortable experiences like anxiety or over-intoxication.
Types of Cannabis Edibles
Edibles come in various forms, each offering a different experience based on how they are processed:
- Gummies and Chocolates: These are among the most popular types of edibles. They are easy to dose, discreet, and widely available.
- Baked Goods: Brownies, cookies, and other baked goods are classic cannabis edibles but may be harder to dose accurately unless produced by a regulated company.
- Beverages: Cannabis-infused drinks, such as teas and sodas, are gaining traction as a way to consume edibles more subtly.
- Tinctures and Oils: While not traditional "edibles," tinctures and oils can be added to food and drinks to create your own homemade edibles. They also offer a faster onset than traditional edibles, as some absorption occurs sublingually (under the tongue).
Benefits of Choosing Edibles
Edibles offer several advantages over other methods of cannabis consumption:
- No Smoking Required: For individuals who prefer not to smoke, edibles are an attractive option that avoids exposure to harmful toxins and carcinogens found in smoke.
- Discreet: Edibles are discreet and don’t produce the odor that smoking or vaping does, making them a more private option.
- Longer-Lasting Effects: The effects of edibles last much longer than smoking or vaping, which can be beneficial for those seeking prolonged relief from pain, anxiety, or insomnia.
Potential Risks of Edibles
While cannabis edibles can offer a controlled and enjoyable experience, they also come with potential risks if not used properly. The delayed onset of effects often leads to accidental overconsumption, especially for beginners. It's essential to start with a low dose (typically 2.5 mg to 5 mg of THC) and wait at least 2 hours before considering another dose.
Overconsumption of edibles can lead to uncomfortable effects, such as paranoia, increased anxiety, dizziness, or nausea. However, these effects are temporary and will subside as the cannabinoids are metabolized.
Tips for Beginners
- Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a small dose, such as 2.5 mg or 5 mg of THC, especially if you’re new to cannabis or edibles. Be patient and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
- Know Your Product: Always read the label of any edible product to understand the dosage and ingredients. If you're making your own edibles, make sure to follow a trusted recipe to control the amount of cannabis in each serving.
- Eat Before You Consume: Eating a meal before taking an edible can slow down the absorption rate and help prevent unwanted side effects like dizziness or nausea.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after consuming cannabis edibles to avoid dehydration, which can sometimes exacerbate the effects of THC.
Conclusion
Cannabis edibles are an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without the need for smoking or vaping. They offer a discreet, long-lasting experience, but it's essential to approach them with caution, especially if you're a beginner. By understanding how edibles work, starting with a low dose, and being patient, you can enjoy all the benefits of cannabis edibles safely and effectively.
