Cannabis edibles are a popular alternative to smoking marijuana, offering a discreet and convenient way to consume the medicinal therapeutic compounds. When your medicine is in the form of a delicious treat, taking it tends to be a more enjoyable process. However, it’s important to note that only patients with marijuana cards are legally permitted to eat or drink edibles. With that said, there are many different types of edibles, each with its own unique set of effects on the body and mind. In this article, we’ll explore four of the most common types of edibles and how they affect you, so you can make informed decisions about what to consume and how much. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned user, understanding the different types of edibles and their effects can help you get the most out of your therapeutic experience.
What Are Edibles?
If you’re looking for a tasty and discreet way to consume medical marijuana, edibles might just be the perfect option for you. Edibles are food or drink products that have been infused with either THC, CBD, or both. This means that you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in a delicious and convenient way.
Unlike smoking or vaping, which involve inhaling the cannabinoids into your lungs, edibles are absorbed through the gastrointestinal system. This means that they take longer to take effect, but the effects can also last much longer than smoking or vaping. Edibles are a popular choice for those who prefer not to inhale smoke, or for those who need longer-lasting relief from their symptoms.
It’s important to note that every edible company has its own process for making treats. This means that the THC ratios, along with the potency and taste, can all vary from one edible to another. It’s crucial to read the labels and do your research before consuming any edible to ensure that you’re getting the desired effect and that it’s safe for you to consume.
How Will Edibles Affect Me?
The effects you’ll feel from ingesting edibles are unlike those of smoking and vaporizing. It’s good to know what to expect before trying edibles for the first time. For one, the effects of smoking or vaporizing cannabis are nearly instant, while it’ll take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects of an edible. The effects of an edible will also last much longer (3-14 hours) and be more potent. The time and intensity will vary depending on the dose, your last meal, any other medications you’ve taken, your tolerance level, and your body chemistry. Your experience level and body weight are also factors to consider here.
The psychoactive effects of edibles often seem stronger as well, so it’s highly recommended that you start slow and go slow. It can be difficult to control how much THC you consume when the amount in each edible product can vary. While 10 mg of THC is typically considered one edible dose, some products may come with several doses in one package. Read the label carefully to determine whether you should eat an entire handful of popcorn or just two kernels, one bite of brownie, or the whole thing.
A rule of thumb for using edibles
As a rule of thumb, beginners with a very low tolerance should consume a suggested dose of less than 5mg to start with.
- Around 2.5mg will give you relief from mild symptoms and an increased feeling of relaxation without mind-altering effects.
- Anything from 3mg to 15mg would be better for MMJ patients looking for relief from more intense symptoms.
- Only veteran users should try a dose of 16mg and up.
If you’ve had too many edibles, know that you cannot fatally overdose on cannabis itself. While there’s no way to immediately reverse the way you’re feeling, the effects will start to dissipate in a few hours. In the meantime, hydrate, rest, look for a distraction and stay with a friend.
Types of Edibles
While cannabis brownies and cookies are probably the most popular types of edibles, MMJ patients have so many more options to choose from. In fact, there is almost a limitless number of different types of edibles. Each type has its own characteristics and use, so it’s good to experiment to find the right one for you. All edibles, however, are made using decarboxylated cannabis, which means the cannabis plant material has been heated to activate the THC. This is what gives the treats their psychoactive effects.
Cannabis-Infused Food
Cannabis-infused food is a delicious and convenient way to consume cannabis, and is becoming increasingly popular among medical cannabis patients. Cannabis brownies and cookies fall under the food category of edibles and are some of the most popular types of cannabis-infused foods.
Cannabis-infused foods can take on almost any form, including baked goods, candy, pasta sauces, bacon, and even potato chips. This makes it an incredibly versatile and diverse type of edible, and patients can choose from a wide range of products to suit their individual preferences and needs.
Using cannabis-infused food for medicinal purposes is becoming increasingly popular, as it provides a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis without smoking or vaping. For patients with respiratory issues, such as asthma, cannabis-infused food can be a game-changer. Additionally, edibles can provide long-lasting relief from symptoms such as arthritis, inflammation, and anxiety, making them an excellent choice for patients who need extended relief.
However, it’s crucial to use cannabis-infused food responsibly, and patients should start with a low dose and wait at least an hour before consuming more. The effects of cannabis-infused food can take longer to kick in than other methods of consumption, so patience is key. Patients should also be mindful of the potency of the product they are consuming and choose products that are labeled with accurate THC ratios and potency information.
Doctors on the Heally platform believe that cannabis-infused food can be an excellent addition to a patient’s medical cannabis regimen, but it’s essential to use it responsibly and mindfully. With a little bit of experimentation and patience, patients can find the right cannabis-infused food products to suit their individual needs and enjoy the full benefits of cannabis in a delicious and convenient way.
Cannabis-Infused Drinks
Cannabis-infused drinks are another type of edible that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Edible companies have been experimenting with different types of cannabis-infused drinks, including teas, sodas, coffee, and even alcohol. These drinks offer patients a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis, without the need for smoking or vaping.
Like cannabis-infused foods, the THC in these drinks is also metabolized through the stomach and can be just as potent as eating a cannabis brownie or gummy. This means that patients should be mindful of the potency of the drink they are consuming and start with a low dose, waiting at least an hour before consuming more.
Cannabis-infused drinks can provide many benefits to medical cannabis patients. For example, a cannabis-infused tea can be an excellent choice for patients who need help with relaxation or sleep, while a cannabis-infused coffee can provide a stimulating effect to help patients focus and stay alert. Additionally, cannabis-infused drinks can provide long-lasting relief from symptoms such as pain and inflammation.
However, it’s important to note that cannabis-infused alcohol should be used with caution. Mixing cannabis and alcohol can result in unpredictable effects and can be dangerous, so patients should avoid consuming cannabis-infused alcohol altogether.
Overall, cannabis-infused drinks are an exciting addition to the world of edibles and can offer patients a wide range of benefits. As with any cannabis product, patients should be mindful of their dosage, start with a low dose, and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. With proper usage and careful experimentation, cannabis-infused drinks can be an excellent addition to a patient’s medical cannabis regimen.
You may be interested: A guide to dosing THC edibles
Tincture
Tinctures are a popular type of edible that are often used for medical purposes. These potent, alcohol-based cannabis extracts are typically placed under the tongue using a dropper. The tincture is then absorbed into the bloodstream through the tissues in the mouth and tongue, which can provide quick and effective relief for a range of medical conditions.
Alternatively, tinctures can also be added directly to foods or drinks, making them a versatile option for patients who prefer to consume cannabis in a more discreet manner. This allows for a controlled dosage and makes it easier for patients to adjust their dosage as needed.
One of the benefits of using a tincture is that it provides more control over dosage than cannabis-infused foods and drinks. Patients can start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, allowing them to find the right dosage for their specific medical condition. Additionally, tinctures are often more potent than other types of edibles, which means patients can use less product to achieve the desired effects.
Tinctures can provide relief from a wide range of medical conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia. However, it’s important to note that tinctures can be highly potent and should be used with caution. Patients should start with a low dosage and wait at least an hour before consuming more.
In summary, tinctures are a highly effective and versatile type of edible that can provide relief for a range of medical conditions. With proper dosage and usage, tinctures can be an excellent addition to a patient’s medical cannabis regimen.
Dissolvable Cannabinoid Powder
Dissolvable cannabinoid powders are a cutting-edge type of edible that offer a range of benefits. These powders are tasteless and odorless, which makes them an excellent option for patients who want to benefit from the medicinal properties of cannabis without having to endure the strong taste and smell that is often associated with edibles.
Dissolvable cannabinoid powders are incredibly versatile and can be added to virtually any food or beverage. You can mix them into your favorite tea, juice, smoothie, or protein shake. They can also be used in baking or cooking, which opens up a whole new world of possibilities for patients who prefer to consume their cannabis in a more discreet manner.
One of the major benefits of dissolvable cannabinoid powders is their precise dosing. Because the powders are measured in milligrams, patients can easily control their dosage and adjust it as needed. This allows for a more consistent and predictable experience compared to other types of edibles.
Tips how to use edibles safely
Edibles are a tasty and convenient way to consume medical cannabis, but it’s important to use them safely to avoid any unwanted side effects. Cannabis Colorado along with doctors on the Heally platform, offer some tips to help you use edibles safely:
- Start with a low dose: As we mentioned earlier, the effects of edibles can take longer to kick in and can be more potent than other methods of cannabis consumption. It’s essential to start with a low dose and wait at least an hour before consuming more.
- Be patient: It can be tempting to consume more edibles if you don’t feel the effects right away, but it’s crucial to be patient and wait for the effects to take hold. Consuming too much too quickly can result in unpleasant side effects.
- Read the labels: Every edible product is different, and it’s crucial to read the labels and understand the THC ratios and potency before consuming. Make sure that the product is safe for you to consume and that it contains the desired amount of THC or CBD.
- Avoid mixing with alcohol: Consuming edibles and alcohol at the same time can amplify the effects of both substances, leading to unpredictable results. It’s best to avoid mixing the two and to consume edibles in a safe and comfortable environment.
- Store safely: Keep edibles out of reach of children and pets, and store them in a safe place away from heat and light.
Conclusion
In conclusion, edibles offer a tasty alternative to smoking and vaping cannabis. They come in various forms, including food, drinks, tinctures, and dissolvable powders, and can provide a long-lasting and potent experience. However, it’s essential to remember that edibles affect everyone differently and require more time to take effect than other forms of cannabis consumption. Always start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. As always, it’s essential to talk to your doctor or a cannabis specialist to determine if edibles are right for you and what dosage is appropriate for your specific medical needs. With the right knowledge and responsible use, edibles can offer a convenient and effective way to medicate with cannabis.
