Do you want to consume cannabis, but smoking isn’t really your thing? Well, inhaling cannabis isn’t the only way you can get the mind and body effects you are looking for! Edibles are a great way to consume cannabis without inhaling it. In this blog, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about cannabis edibles.
How Cannabis Edibles Work
When you consume an edible, it goes through your stomach and intestines, and the cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, get absorbed into your blood. Then, they travel all around your body, including your brain, where they attach to special receptors that create the mind and body effects you expect from cannabis. Edibles take longer to start working compared to smoking, and their effects can last for several hours.
Types of Edibles
There are countless types of edibles out there – basically, if you can eat it, it can be an edible. But, to make things easier, here are some of the types of edibles that you are likely to find at dispensaries:
- Gummies/candies: The most common type of edible is a gummy or a dancy. They are small, delicious, and can pack quite the punch. When looking for gummies or candies, look for THC-infused edibles; this ensures that all of the edibles are equally potent as opposed to edibles that have the THC coated on the outside and aren’t as reliable.
- Cannabis-Infused oils/butter: Some dispensaries sell canna-butter or THC edible oils that you can mix into any food you want. This is where your imagination can run wild. Cannabis-infused spaghetti and meatballs, cannabis-infused salad dressings, cannabis-infused shrimp cocktail; the possibilities are endless!
- Baked goods: Cannabis-infused oils or butters are used in pre-made baked goods recipes, which is how you get edibles like the classic “special brownie.” Again, you make it on your own, but when you’re starting out, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
- Beverages: Cannabis-infused drinks are a little bit different than a food because the cannabis can be absorbed under the tongue in addition to or instead of going through the digestive tract. Because of this, the effects of drinking a beverage may cause different effects than eating an edible.
- Tinctures/sublinguals: Dispensaries can sell edibles that are specifically made to be absorbed under the tongue. As mentioned, cannabis absorbed sublingually (under the tongue) goes directly to the bloodstream rather than having to travel through the digestive system, so effects are similar to smoking in that they are quicker and last for a shorter time than edibles.
Pros of Edibles
Why and when would edibles be a better choice than smoking? These are the main pros for choosing edibles over smoking:
One of the main advantages of edibles is that they provide a gradual onset of effects and a longer-lasting high compared to smoking or vaping. When you consume an edible, it takes time for the body to digest and metabolize the cannabinoids, resulting in a slower release of the active compounds into your system. This gradual process can lead to a smoother and more prolonged experience, allowing you to enjoy the effects for an extended period of time.
Unlike smoking, which involves inhaling smoke into your lungs, consuming edibles eliminates the potential risks associated with smoking-related lung irritation or damage. Edibles offer an alternative method of cannabis consumption that bypasses the respiratory system entirely. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues or those who prefer to avoid smoking altogether.
Edibles provide a discreet and odorless way to consume cannabis. Unlike smoking, which can leave a distinct smell and visual smoke, edibles can be consumed without drawing much attention. They can be easily enjoyed in various settings, allowing for a more inconspicuous and private experience. This makes edibles a preferred choice for those who value discretion or need to consume cannabis in situations where smoking may not be appropriate or allowed.
Furthermore, edibles often come with precise dosing information, allowing consumers to have better control over their cannabis intake. Each edible is typically labeled with the amount of cannabinoids it contains, such as THC or CBD, allowing users to accurately measure and monitor their dosage. This can be advantageous for individuals who require specific dosages for therapeutic purposes or those who prefer a consistent and predictable experience.
Cannabis edibles offer a wide range of options when it comes to flavors, types of food, and beverages. From sweet treats like gummies and chocolates to savory snacks and infused beverages, there is a diverse selection of edibles available to suit various tastes and preferences. This versatility allows consumers to explore different flavors and enjoy cannabis-infused products in a way that aligns with their personal preferences.
Tips for Consuming Edibles
Before you jump right into consuming edibles, there are a few things you have to keep in mind. Here are our best tips for starting out with edibles:
- Slow & Steady: Begin with a low dose, especially if you are new to edibles or have a low tolerance. Edibles can have a stronger and longer-lasting effect compared to smoking or vaping. Start with a small portion and wait for the effects to fully kick in before considering consuming more. It’s easier to consume more if needed than to deal with the consequences of consuming too much.
- Patience is a Virtue: Unlike smoking, the effects of edibles take longer to kick in. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours or even more before you start feeling the effects. Avoid the temptation to consume more because you think it’s not working yet.
- Plan Ahead: Edibles can provide a long-lasting experience, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Choose a time and place where you feel comfortable and can dedicate several hours to the experience. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of edibles.
- No Empty Stomachs: Consuming edibles with a meal or snack that contains fats can enhance the absorption of cannabinoids. The presence of fats can provide more consistent and potent effects. Consider having a light meal or a small snack before consuming edibles.
- Read the Label: Pay close attention to the dosing instructions on the packaging. Edibles typically indicate the amount of cannabinoids (such as THC or CBD) per serving. Read the label carefully to ensure you are consuming the desired dosage.
Staying Lit & Staying Informed at Fire Island in Alma, MI
Overall, edibles are a long-lasting smoke-free alternative to consuming cannabis that can provide the mind and body effects that you are looking for. Ready to try edibles? Take a look at our huge selection of edibles on our menu!
Fire Island – Gratiot County’s (& Michigan’s) Premier Cannabis Dispensary is open daily to kindle new interests in cannabis while tending to currently burning passions. Be sure to join our loyalty program to become an official member of the tribe, today!
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