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Originally Posted On: https://kindmedsaz.com/blog/cannabis-edibles-beginners-guide/

When venturing into the world of cannabis edibles online, you will encounter a plethora of perspectives from individuals worldwide, portraying these products as either amazing or outright terrible. The enjoyment of cannabis edibles often stems from their notable potency, but for some, the high dosage of THC in the digestive system may prove overwhelming.

To ensure a positive initial experience with edibles, proper dosing is crucial. Consuming too much THC in one sitting can lead to feeling unwell or what is commonly referred to as “greening out.” Conversely, consuming too little may result in minimal effects, depriving you of the desired edible experience. Dosing is influenced by several factors, including the strength of the edible, recent food intake, and metabolism rate.

Before delving into the world of cannabis edibles and consulting an online dosing chart (like the one we have below), it is important to consider the various types of edibles on the market and understand the effects they can have on the body and the potential experiences that await.

When it comes to cannabis edibles, the options are vast and varied. From delectable baked goods and sweet gummies to infused chocolates and refreshing beverages, there is truly something for everyone.

Here are some of the popular edibles you can find at most dispensaries:

• Cannabis Baked Goods: This category includes brownies, cookies, cakes, muffins, doughnuts, and cupcakes, all infused with cannabis.
• Weed Gummies: These are soft, sweet, and small treats infused with cannabis. They often come in a variety of fruit flavors, including sour options, and offer different strength options for consumers of varying experience levels.
• Hard Candies and Cannabis Suckers: This category includes mints and hard candies made with distillate to mask the taste of cannabis. They are easily portable and dissolve in the mouth, potentially leading to quicker effects.
• Infused Chocolates: For chocolate enthusiasts, infused chocolates are available in white, milk, and dark variations, as well as unique flavors like mint. They provide a sweet treat while also offering the effects of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.
• Canna Drinks: Cannabis beverages come in various forms such as teas, juices, seltzers, lemonades, and coffees. They are available in cans or as drink mixes, allowing for flexibility in consumption.
• Salty Infused Snacks: This category offers cannabis-infused snacks that cater to the salty cravings. Options may include trail mix, popcorn, and corn nuts.
• Gel Caps: Gel caps are a discreet and tasteless option for those who prefer to consume cannabis without the need for enjoying the taste. They are easy to swallow and often contain hybrid blends for a balanced experience.

When it comes to the effects of cannabis edibles on the body, it’s important to understand that they can be quite different from other consumption methods, such as smoking or vaping. When you consume an edible, the cannabinoids, primarily THC, are metabolized by the liver and converted into a different compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound is known to have a more potent psychoactive effect, which can lead to a stronger and longer-lasting high compared to other methods of consumption.

The onset of effects from edibles can also be delayed compared to smoking or vaping. It typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to kick in, as the edible must first be digested and absorbed by the body. This delayed onset can sometimes catch people off guard, leading them to consume more because they think the edible isn’t working. It’s important to be patient and wait for the effects to fully manifest before considering additional consumption.

The effects of edibles can vary depending on factors such as the dosage, individual tolerance, and the strain or blend of cannabinoids used. Common effects include relaxation, euphoria, increased creativity, heightened sensory perception, and a strong body high. However, it’s worth noting that edibles can also produce intense and potentially overwhelming effects, especially if consumed in higher doses or by individuals with low tolerance. It’s crucial to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed to find the right balance for your desired experience.

Additionally, it’s important to mention that edibles can affect each individual differently. Factors such as body chemistry, metabolism, and the presence of food in the stomach can influence the absorption and intensity of the effects. Therefore, it’s recommended to start with a low dose, wait for the effects to kick in fully, and adjust accordingly to find the optimal dosage for your personal preferences.

Remember, responsible consumption and dosing are key to enjoying a positive and enjoyable experience with cannabis edibles.

The general consensus of the cannabis community is that edible cannabis produces more physical sensations while smoking generally causes more psychoactive sensations. This does not mean that edibles will not get you “high” in the traditional sense; it just means that edibles tend to affect the body more than smoking cannabis. For people who take cannabis for medicinal purposes, edible dosing can alleviate symptoms of musculoskeletal conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and other ailments while often bypassing the typical side effects of smoking, such as increased risk of bronchitis and other lung disorders.

When you consume cannabis edibles, the body breaks down the THC into a different molecule than what results from smoking. Some research suggests this can be ten times as potent as the results of smoking cannabis. While the most important factor in predicting the effects of edibles dosing is the THC content, eating cannabis tends to produce more intense effects than smoking.

When it comes to determining the appropriate dosage for edibles, for beginners, it’s recommended to start with a small dose within the range of 1mg to 2mg. This could be achieved by consuming a single infused candy or gummy treat. Those who prefer micro-dosing usually stick within this dosage range.

As you move into the range of 3mg to 15mg, you can anticipate more intense effects and a heightened sense of euphoria. Edibles containing 30mg to 50mg of THC often produce strong euphoric effects that can last for a substantial amount of time. However, it is generally advised to avoid edibles with 50mg or higher THC content unless you have prior experience with edibles or a naturally high tolerance to ingested THC.

It’s important to note that individual tolerance and sensitivity can vary, so it’s always advisable to start with a low dose, assess your response, and adjust accordingly in subsequent sessions. It is also crucial to be mindful of the potency of the specific edible product you are consuming, as THC levels can vary among different brands and products. Taking a responsible and measured approach to edibles dosing will help ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

If you’re interested in trying cannabis edibles, the golden rule is to “start low and go slow.” If you have never tried any kind of cannabis edibles before, eating a 100mg brownie on an empty stomach is probably going to lead to a bad experience.

Follow a few simple tips before you consume any edible products.

You should only purchase cannabis edibles from licensed cannabis dispensaries in your area. Before taking a product home, be sure to carefully read the label so you know the potency and other ingredients to avoid adverse reactions. When you are ready to try your cannabis edible, do so in a safe place and try to have a sober and reliable friend with you just in case you have a negative experience. Paranoia, nausea, and even mild hallucinations are possible if you are inexperienced with cannabis and consume too much.

If you are in the right headspace to enjoy cannabis, be sure to eat a full balanced meal and drink plenty of fluids before ingesting your cannabis edible. It’s generally a bad idea to consume a cannabis edible on an empty stomach as it can cause a much more intense effect than you are expecting and cause a negative experience. Additionally, do not consume additional edibles if you do not feel noticeable effects after a few hours. Edibles could take three hours or longer before you can feel their effects, so keep this in mind and avoid taking more in rapid succession. If you do not feel desired effects during your first edibles dosing, wait at least one day and then increase your dosage slightly, such as going from 10mg to 15mg.

CBD can counteract the effects of THC, so if you start “greening out” or feel the edible experience take a turn for the worse, having a dose of pure CBD nearby can help you nullify the THC’s effects. If you have a friend or friends with you, they can help you steady yourself if you start to feel sick or unpleasant. It’s a good idea to try edibles for the first time in a place you can stay for a while and when you do not have any obligations on your schedule for the day. For example, in your own home in the company of friends is ideal, whereas trying a cannabis-infused edible or beverage for the first time a few hours before your shift at work is not.

In conclusion, trying cannabis edibles can be a fun and unique way to explore different aspects of the cannabis plant. By following our dosing chart, starting with a low dose, and being mindful of individual tolerance levels, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with cannabis edibles. It’s important to keep in mind that the effects of edibles can vary greatly based on a number of factors, including the specific product, dosage, and individual sensitivity.

By taking a responsible and measured approach, you can better understand how edibles affect your body and have a positive experience with this exciting category of cannabis products. Remember to always consume edibles in a safe and comfortable environment and to never drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of any cannabis products.

Looking for quality edibles in Mesa, AZ? Check out our full cannabis menu now!

*Editor’s Note: This article was originally published Jul 22, 2020and has been updated March 3, 2024.