There’s a good reason that cannabis edibles are more popular than ever right now – they’re fantastic! Edibles are a safe and delicious way to enjoy the pleasant effects of cannabis, but it’s essential to know the basics before you dive in. If you’re curious about trying edibles, this article is for you! Here’s what you need to know about getting started with cannabis edibles.
What Are Cannabis Edibles?
A cannabis edible is exactly what it sounds like: cannabis you eat to get high. But instead of chowing down on buds, you get to enjoy a delicious product that has been infused with cannabis. Edibles come in a huge variety – everything from the classic brownie or cookie, to pretzels, candy, and even beef jerky!
They provide a unique and enjoyable experience that’s totally different than inhaled cannabis. And the best part is they are a healthier option for people who don’t want to smoke, and an easy way to be discrete!
How Do Edibles Work in the Body?
Eating cannabis is a lot different than smoking it. When you inhale cannabis, cannabinoids like THC rapidly absorb into your bloodstream, and you feel it right away. But when you eat a cannabis edible, it has to be broken down in your digestive system like any other type of food.
As you digest a cannabis treat, your liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC before it enters your bloodstream. The whole process can take an hour or more, and it is hard to predict precisely when you will feel the effects.
The Cannabis Edible Experience
There is a general rule in the cannabis community that edibles produce more physical sensations than smoking, and it’s often referred to as a “body high.” But that doesn’t mean edibles don’t make you feel intoxicated; it just means they tend to affect your body more than smoking. Because 11-hydroxy-THC is a more powerful version of THC, the effects from edibles can actually be much more intense than from smoking. These effects can also last much longer than they do with other methods of enjoying cannabis. So if you’re just getting started with edibles, be prepared for a more physical experience that takes time to wear off.
Go Low and Slow
The best way to make sure you have a good time with edibles is to get the dose right. If you take too much, you could go through what’s known as “greening out,” the term used for getting sick from ingesting too much THC. But on the other hand, you might not feel much at all if you take too little.
Getting the right dose can be tricky. Things like how much you’ve eaten and the speed of your metabolism can all play a factor. The best advice is to “go low and slow.” That means starting with a small dose and slowing taking more as needed. But because they take so long to kick in, and the fact that it’s tempting to keep munching on a delicious treat, it’s easy to go overboard!
Always Read Labels
When you buy your edibles from a dispensary, they are required to come with lab test results and cannabinoid concentrations on the packaging. Always read the labels on your cannabis edible products to understand the mg of THC per serving. A standard dose of edible THC is usually around 10 mg, and many brands offer products that come in 10 mg serving sizes. If it’s your first time, you might want to try beginning with 5 mg before increasing your dose.
Getting started with edibles usually requires a bit of trial and error. Always remember that you can eat more, but once it’s down the hatch, there’s no going back. So start with a very low dose of THC and allow plenty of time before you decide, “I’m not feeling anything yet.” It may take a few tries to find the perfect dose for you and your tolerance.
What if I Eat Too Much?
Overdoing it with edibles can happen to even the most seasoned cannabis connoisseur. If it happens to you, try to remember that you’re not going crazy – you’re just really high! It will wear off. If you are feeling panicked, the best thing you can do is try to stay calm. Drink some water and put on your favorite movie or album. If you are still feeling anxious, talk to a friend, or lay down and sleep it off. You’ll feel fine in a few hours. And on the plus side, you can use the experience to understand your tolerance so you can get it right next time.
If you have questions about edibles, we’re here for you! Our knowledgeable budtenders can answer all your questions and help you choose the products and dosages that are right for you.
Ready to get started? Check out our Des Moines dispensary menu to see what’s in stock.
