From Gummies to Oils: Full Guide to Weed Edibles
Every cannabis enthusiast can get stuck in a rut from time to time, and the best way out of that route is to enjoy your weed in a new way. That’s where edibles come in. So, what are edibles, how do they work, and how do you choose the right type and dosage for you? We’ll answer all of these burning questions below.
Table of Contents
What Is an Edible?
Cannabis edibles are a group of weed products that include baked goods, drinks, snack foods, and more, all with cannabis as an ingredient. Edibles, weed enthusiasts say, are fun to use for a variety of reasons — they’re tasty, they get you high without inhaling, and they’re a blast at parties.
How Do Edibles Work?
Edibles work by delivering THC to your stomach, then to your liver. Here, the THC is metabolized and takes a different form called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolic byproduct has a faster onset than standard THC, which means you may experience the effects of an edible faster (and more powerfully) than when you smoke.
How Long Does it Take for Marijuana Edibles to Work?
So, knowing that 11-hydroxy-THC can make the effects of cannabis set in faster, your next question might be, “How long for edibles to kick in?” The answer depends on a few factors.
The time it takes for marijuana edibles to work depends on your metabolism and individual tolerance level, as well as the dosage in the edible. The edibles weed enthusiasts choose can vary widely in dosage, so it’s best to start low and see how you feel.
Your next question is probably, “How long does an edible high last?” The answer varies, but a high from edibles typically lasts about four hours, with residual effects lasting as long as 12 hours in some cases. The duration of your high mainly depends on the dosage.
What Are the Different Types of Edibles?
Cannabis edibles come in a variety of forms, including gummies, brownies, and many more. Below are some of the most popular types of edibles and what to expect from them.
Cannabis Gummies & Chews
Cannabis gummies and chews come in a variety of flavors and dosages, so there’s something for everyone. Gummies and other candy edibles are ideal if you want something quick, tasty, and potent for your cannabis consumption experience. The average gummy typically contains about 10 mg of cannabis.
Baked Goods & Weed Brownies
Baked goods, especially weed brownies, are some of the edibles weed enthusiasts turn to most often. Made with cannabutter, a baking-friendly combination of weed and butter, these edibles are addictively delicious and easy to make at home. It’s important to note that brownies tend to be very high in THC and are best enjoyed in pieces.
THC Beverages & Drink Mixes
THC beverages and drink mixes are some of the most popular pre-made edibles weed enthusiasts can buy at dispensaries. If you’re looking for something to sip that gets you nicely high, a bottled drink or a mix that you can add to water are some of your best options.
Like gummies, THC beverages typically contain about 10 mg of cannabis per serving.
Marijuana Mints & Candies
Marijuana mints and candies contain small amounts of THC in most cases, but they’re tasty, portable, and easy to find at a dispensary near you. Your average THC mint or candy contains between five and 10 mg of cannabis.
THC-Infused Baking & Cooking Oils
THC-infused oils are ideal for cooking or baking your own edibles at home. While you can make homemade cannabutter and other weed-based cooking and baking products, a store-bought option from a reputable dispensary near you is often a simpler option. Bear in mind that these oils are often highly concentrated and made to be used in small amounts.
Savory Edibles
Not all edibles are sweet! From THC chips to cheese biscuits, there are plenty of savory edible options out there. These snacks and baked goods vary in their THC content and can either be purchased at a dispensary or made DIY at home.
How To Choose the Right Dosage for Edibles
We’re big fans of the “start low and go slow” approach to dosages for edibles. In general, edibles are more potent than other forms of cannabis, which means you might be surprised by how a low dosage makes you feel. We recommend starting out with about 10 mg and increasing if necessary.
In addition, factors like your previous experience weed and the desired effects for your cannabis use come into play here as well. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to edible dosages, but we generally recommend starting small.
Potential Risks and Precautions
As with any other substance, cannabis edibles come with their own set of precautions and potential risks. An extra-high dosage can lead to feelings of anxiety and paranoia that can take several hours to wear off, making responsible and moderate use essential. In addition, it’s always safest to get your edibles from a reputable dispensary rather than a less trusted source.
Where To Buy and How To Store Edibles
The best purchasing options for edibles are always legal and quality-focused. We recommend finding a dispensary near you that sells weed gummies or opting for an online retailer if you don’t have any local shops.
In addition, storing your edibles properly helps you maintain potency and freshness, making it a number-one priority for any weed enthusiast. Different types of edibles have their own storage instructions, but airtight containers are typically the best option.
Conclusion
Edibles taste delicious, get you a nice high, and come in a variety of forms and flavors. Remember to always start with a low dose and work your way up, following safe consumption practices as you go. And make sure to explore the diverse world of weed edibles — there’s plenty of delicious options, so enjoy the process of trying everything that’s out there!
