Cannabis edibles are food products that have been mixed with cannabis. They can come in many forms, including baked goods like brownies and cookies, gummies, chocolates, and more. Unlike smoking or vaporizing cannabis, consuming cannabis edibles results in the effects being felt primarily in the body rather than the head because the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) has to pass through the liver before entering the bloodstream, which results in a stronger, longer-lasting “high.” The onset of effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the individual and the type of food consumed. It’s essential to be aware that dosage can vary greatly, and it’s important to understand the strength of the edible before consuming it.

Different Types of Cannabis Edibles

Many different types of cannabis edibles can be found in the market. Some of the most popular forms include:

1. Gummies: These are a popular form of cannabis edibles, often made with fruit juice or concentrates. They come in various flavours, shapes, and sizes and are accessible to portion and consume.
2. Brownies: One of the most popular cannabis edibles, brownies are a classic way to consume cannabis. They can be made with butter or oil infused with cannabis.
3. Chocolate: A versatile form of cannabis edibles, chocolates can be infused with various cannabis concentrates and come in multiple strengths.
4. Capsules: Cannabis edibles that come in a pill form, capsules are great for those who want a precise and measured dose.
5. Baked Goods: From cookies to cakes, many different types of baked goods can be infused with cannabis.
6. Drinks: Cannabis edibles also come in liquid forms, such as sodas, teas, and coffee, providing another alternative to consuming cannabis.
7. Savoury Edibles: Some people prefer savoury over sweet edibles; for that reason, cannabis-infused butter, oil, and salad dressings are also available.

It’s important to note that the availability of these products will depend on the laws of the state where you live.

How to Consume Cannabis Edibles Safely

Understanding how to consume cannabis edibles safely is crucial for having a positive experience and avoiding adverse side effects. Cannabis edibles can be much more potent than smoking or vaporizing cannabis, with results that can last much longer. However, consuming too much can lead to an uncomfortable or even dangerous experience, which is why it’s essential to be aware of the following:

Dosage and serving size

Start with a low dosage and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more. Some cannabis edibles can be pretty potent, with a single serving containing several doses.

Strength of the edible

Different cannabis edibles will have varying levels of THC and CBD, meaning the effects will vary. Always check the label or ask for information about the product’s strength before consuming.

Time to onset

Cannabis edibles can take up to 2 hours to take effect, so it’s essential to be patient and not consume more before the full effects are felt.

Proper storage

Keep cannabis edibles in a cool, dry, and dark place to ensure they last as long as possible and maintain their potency.

Avoiding over-consumption

Over-consumption of cannabis edibles can lead to uncomfortable experiences such as anxiety and paranoia, and it’s essential to be aware of personal limits and to start with small doses.

Understanding these safety guidelines allows you to consume cannabis edibles safely and enjoy their potential benefits.

Determining the Strength of Cannabis Edibles

Determining the strength of a cannabis edible can be a bit tricky, as the effects can vary depending on the individual and the type of food consumed. However, there are a few ways to get a general idea of the strength of a cannabis edible:

1. Labels: Many cannabis edibles will have a label that lists the amount of THC and CBD in each serving. This can give you a general idea of the strength of the edible.
2. Ask the budtender or the manufacturer: If you are buying from a dispensary or a store, the budtender or the manufacturer should be able to provide information about the edible’s strength. They should also give you an idea of the recommended dosage.
3. Personal experience: If you are familiar with consuming cannabis edibles, you can use your personal experience to gauge the strength of a new edible. Start with a small dosage and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more; this will give you an idea of the edible’s effects and strength.

It’s essential to keep in mind that the way the edible is made, the type of cannabis and the method of infusion can also affect the strength and the onset of the effects, making it difficult to give a precise estimate.

It’s always recommended to start with small doses, mainly if you are new to consuming cannabis edibles, and wait for the effects to manifest before consuming more.

Duration of Effects

The time to onset and duration of effects of thc edibles can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s metabolism, the type of food consumed, and the strength of the edible.

Time to onset: The onset of effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the individual and the type of food consumed. Edibles that are consumed on an empty stomach will typically take effect more quickly than those consumed after a meal.

Duration of effects: The effects of cannabis edibles can last much longer than smoking or vaporizing cannabis, typically anywhere from 4 to 12 hours. Factors such as the individual’s metabolism, the strength of the edible, and the type of food consumed can all affect the duration of effects.

Factors affecting onset and duration: Different factors can affect the start and time of the effects of cannabis edibles. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, is metabolized in the liver, and the process of metabolizing THC into 11-hydroxy-THC can extend the duration of effects. Although the type of food and the digestion process also play a role, as well as the personal metabolism, some people may absorb and metabolize THC faster than others.

It’s essential to remember that the onset and duration of effects can vary greatly, and it’s necessary to be patient and wait for the effects to take place before consuming more. It’s also important to understand that cannabis edibles can be much stronger than smoking or vaporizing cannabis, and the effects may last longer. Hence, it’s essential to start with a low dosage and wait for the full effects to be felt before consuming more.

Potential Side Effects and Ways to Manage it

Cannabis edibles, like any other form of cannabis consumption, can have potential side effects. The most common side effects of cannabis edibles are:

Drowsiness: Cannabis edibles can cause drowsiness and sedation, especially at higher doses.

Dry mouth: Cannabis edibles can cause dry mouth, also known as cottonmouth, making it difficult to speak or swallow.

Dry eyes: Cannabis edibles can cause dry eyes, leading to redness, itching, and a burning sensation.

Nausea: Cannabis edibles can cause nausea, especially at higher doses.

Anxiety and paranoia: Consuming too much cannabis, mainly THC, can cause stress and paranoia in some individuals.

Delayed onset and over-consumption: As the onset of effects can take up to 2 hours, some people may consume more, thinking that the edible is not working, leading to over-consumption and an uncomfortable experience.

To manage these adverse effects, it’s essential to be aware of the following:

1. Start with a low dosage and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
2. Drink plenty of water to help with dry mouth and dry eyes.
3. Eat a small amount of food to help with nausea.
4. If you experience anxiety or paranoia, try to stay calm and remind yourself that these feelings will pass.
5. If over-consumption occurs, try to relax and wait for the effects to pass, it’s important to remember that the results of cannabis edibles can last up to 12 hours.
6. If the effects are too strong and uncomfortable, it’s recommended to seek professional help.

It’s important to note that these side effects are not typical, and most people have a positive experience with cannabis edibles. Still, it’s essential to be aware of the potential adverse effects, especially when consuming for the first time or trying a new product.

Mental Health Benefits

Cannabis edibles have been shown to have potential benefits for mental health, including:

1. Anxiety relief: Cannabis edibles, particularly those high in CBD, have been shown to have anxiolytic properties, which can help to reduce feelings of anxiety.
2. Depression relief: Some studies have found that cannabis edibles, particularly those high in CBD, may help to improve symptoms of depression.
3. PTSD treatment: Cannabis edibles, particularly those high in THC, have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares, flashbacks and anxiety.
4. Stress relief: Cannabis edibles can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which can help to improve overall well-being.
5. Mood stabilization: Cannabis edibles, particularly those high in CBD, may help to stabilize mood and improve overall well-being.

Insomnia treatment: Cannabis edibles, particularly those high in THC, may have soothing properties that can help people suffering from insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep.

It’s important to note that cannabis edibles can have different effects depending on the individual and the edible consumed, and the quality of the edible taken, inconsistent lowquality edibles might produce no effects at all. Moreover, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of cannabis edibles on mental health. It’s also important to remember that cannabis can cause anxiety and paranoia in some individuals, especially if consumed in high doses. Hence, it’s essential to start with a low dosage and wait for the full effects to be felt before consuming more.

Federal laws regarding cannabis edibles

Federal laws regarding cannabis edibles are complicated and constantly evolving.

Currently, cannabis (including cannabis edibles) is considered a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government, which means it is illegal under federal law to manufacture, distribute, or possess cannabis. However, many states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, and the federal government has generally chosen not to interfere with these state-level laws.

The Rohrabacher–Farr amendment, a federal spending bill rider, prevents the Department of Justice from using federal funds to interfere with state medical cannabis programs. Still, it’s not permanent and needs to be re-approved every year.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products, including CBD, but it did not legalize cannabis or cannabis-derived products.

It’s important to note that the situation is complex and constantly evolving. It’s essential to check the laws of your state and check for updates regularly, as well as consult a legal professional if you have any doubts.

References

Eating Weed: Safety, Benefits, and Side Effects. (2019, June 7). Healthline. clear filters cbd https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-weed

Edibles 101: How to consume edibles, benefits, effects, & more. (n.d.). Leafly. clear filters thc https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles

Edibles: Effects, side effects, and what to know. (2020, March 12). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/effects-of-edibles

7 Common Questions About Cannabis Edibles Answered. (n.d.). GoodRx. Retrieved January 31, 2023, from los angeles students appear https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/cannabis/edibles-vs-smoking

Marijuana Edibles Safety | Get the facts about Marijuana. (n.d.). Health.alaska.gov. Retrieved January 31, 2023, from https://health.alaska.gov/dph/director/pages/marijuana/edibles.aspx

The Real Risks & Side Effects of Edibles. (2019). American Addiction Centers. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/marijuana-rehab/risks-of-edibles

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