A Beginners Guide to Consuming Cannabis Edibles: How to Maximize Your Experience
Cannabis edibles can be a wonderful way of consuming; however, many people have stories about overdoing it on edibles and turning what could be a positive experience into a negative. It's important to note that many negative edible experiences can be attributed to dose and with legalization came higher confidence in the potency of the edibles consumed. Erring on the side of caution, health Canada regulates the maximum THC dose per edible package at 10mg THC, this limit can help new consumers feel confident when illicit edibles could be >100mg. It’s a popular, discrete method of consumption that doesn’t compromise the lungs but there is some background information you should know prior to diving in. In this beginner's guide, we'll provide tips on how to consume edibles and maximize your experience.
Cannabis edibles are food products – go figure - that are infused with THC or CBD, the two main compounds found in cannabis. These products can come in many forms, such as gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and more.
Unlike smoking, where the cannabinoids like THC are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs and reach the brain almost immediately, resulting in a quick onset of effects. When consuming edibles, the THC and other cannabinoids must pass through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream, resulting in a much slower onset of effects. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours for the effects of edibles to fully kick in, depending on factors such as your metabolism, the dosage, and whether you consumed the edibles on a full or empty stomach.
Important to remember: Edibles can take longer to take effect and can last for several hours, providing a longer lasting and more intense experience.
When it comes to edibles, there are many different options to choose from. It's important to choose the right product that fits your personal preferences and experience level. For beginners, it's recommended to start with low-dose edibles, and wait at least two hours before consuming more. This can help you avoid taking too much and having an unpleasant experience.
When it comes to choosing the right edible, one important consideration is whether to go with a full spectrum or distillate product. Full spectrum edibles contain a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, while distillate edibles have been stripped down to just the THC or CBD molecule.
While both types of products can provide effective results, full spectrum edibles offer a more holistic and synergistic experience. This is because the different cannabinoids and terpenes in the plant work together in what's known as the "entourage effect," enhancing each other's effects and providing a more well-rounded experience.
In contrast, distillate edibles can be more straightforward and predictable in their effects, making them a good option for those who are new to edibles or who prefer a more consistent experience. Ultimately, the choice between full spectrum and distillate edibles comes down to personal preference and desired effects.
To maximize your experience with edibles, it's important to consume them in a safe and comfortable environment. It's also recommended to have some snacks and drinks on hand, as edibles can cause dry mouth and increased appetite. Additionally, consuming edibles with a high-fat food, such as nuts or cheese, can help increase the effects.
Another important tip is to pay attention to dosage and the amount of THC or CBD in each product. For a more balanced experience, try an edible containing both CBD and THC, my personal experience has been having some CBD in there contributes to a more relaxing high. Keeping track of your dosage and experience can help you find the right amount for your personal preferences.
Cannabis edibles can be an excellent method of consuming cannabis, but it's important to be cautious when starting out. We’re here to try and create as many positive experiences as we can and by starting low and assessing your tolerance you can increase the proportion of positive experiences you have. By choosing the right products, consuming in a safe and comfortable environment, and paying attention to dosage, you can maximize your edible experiences.
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