The Pros and Cons of Using Edibles as Your Preferred Marijuana Consumption Method

As cannabis continues to gain mainstream acceptance, cannabis consumption has become more varied. Cannabis consumption methods now include traditional smoking, vaping, and edibles. Cannabis-infused edibles offer a unique way to experience the effects of THC and CBD. From brownies and gummies to beverages and savory treats, the range of edible options available caters to diverse tastes and preferences. However, as with any method of consumption, there are both benefits and potential drawbacks to consider.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of using edibles as your preferred marijuana consumption method, examining how they work in the body, their therapeutic potential, and the challenges they present.

Understanding Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis edibles refer to a broad category of food products infused with cannabinoids, most commonly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. These edibles come in many forms: baked goods, chocolates, candies, drinks, and even savory dishes, making them a popular choice for cannabis consumers who want a more discreet or enjoyable way of consuming.

The main difference between edibles and other methods of consumption, like smoking or vaping, is how the THC gets into the bloodstream. When consumed orally, THC goes through the digestive system and is metabolized by the liver, which delays the onset compared to inhalation.

The slower absorption process often results in a longer, more intense and sometimes unpredictable effect. But edibles offer a cleaner, more palatable way to avoid the harms of smoke inhalation.

Plus, with the rise of both homemade and dispensary edibles, consumers have options, whether they want to make their own or choose from a wide range of professionally made edibles designed for consistent dosing.

What Are Edibles?

Marijuana edibles are simply food products that have been infused with cannabis, most commonly THC or CBD (cannabidiol). They are consumed like regular food, except they produce a different set of effects due to the infusion process. Edibles can be homemade, where individuals infuse cannabis flower or concentrate into baked goods or other meals or pre-made and professionally packaged, often from regulated dispensaries.

Edibles are discreet. Unlike smoking or vaping, which often produces strong smells, edibles allow you to consume cannabis without drawing attention to yourself. This makes them a great choice for those who want a subtle and private way to consume cannabis. With a wide range of edible options from gummies to teas, there’s a product for every taste.

How Edibles Work in the Body

When eating edibles, the process starts with the cannabinoids being absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system. This is different from inhalation methods, where THC goes into the bloodstream almost immediately through the lungs. After consumption, the THC travels through the stomach and small intestine before reaching the liver.

In the liver, THC is converted into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC. This form of THC is much more potent than its precursor, resulting in effects that can feel stronger and longer lasting than smoking or vaping. The delay in onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) can catch some off guard, but the high is often more intense and longer lasting, sometimes for several hours.

This process makes edibles a great choice for those looking for extended relief, especially for conditions like chronic pain or insomnia. However, it also means users should be cautious and patient when dosing, as the delay in onset can lead to overconsumption if you don’t wait long enough to feel the effects.

Therapeutic Benefits of Cannabis Infused Edibles

Edibles have many benefits, especially for medical cannabis users. Chronic pain patients, for example, prefer edibles because they provide longer-lasting relief than smoking. Since the effects can last from 4 to 8 hours, edibles are perfect for those who need relief throughout the day or night, like arthritis, migraines, or other chronic conditions.

Additionally, for those with respiratory issues or those who just don’t want to inhale smoke or vapor, edibles are a smoke-free option. This is especially important for medical users who are more sensitive to the irritants in cannabis smoke. The convenience of consuming an edible without any special equipment or the time it takes to smoke also adds to their appeal.

Also, for those who want a more precise and controlled dose, many dispensaries offer edibles in exact doses so users can better manage their intake than they would with less predictable methods like smoking or vaping.

Risks and Challenges of Consuming Edibles

While edibles have many benefits, they also come with some challenges that make them a more complicated consumption method for some. One of the biggest cons of cannabis edibles is the delay in onset. Because THC has to go through the digestive system and liver, it can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects. This delay can cause some users to take an additional serving, thinking the first one wasn’t enough, only to feel overwhelmed later on.

Another challenge with edibles is dosing. While some edibles, especially those from dispensaries, come in pre-measured doses, others, especially homemade edibles, can be hard to dose accurately. Without paying attention, users can easily over or under-dose and experience uncomfortable side effects like anxiety, dizziness, or nausea.

Lastly, edibles are more expensive than other consumption methods like smoking. The production of edibles, especially from professional dispensaries, involves additional processing, packaging, and testing costs, all of which are added to the price. This higher cost can be a barrier for some users who would otherwise prefer this consumption method.

Safe Consumption Practices

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when consuming cannabis edibles, it’s essential to follow some guidelines for responsible use. Here are some tips to help you consume edibles safely:

Guidelines for Responsible Use

1. Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. This will help you avoid overconsumption and unpleasant side effects.
2. Read labels carefully: Make sure to read the packaging and labels carefully to understand the dosage and ingredients used in the edible.
3. Wait for the effects to kick in: Edibles can take longer to take effect compared to smoking or vaping, so be patient and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
4. Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure you’re in a safe and comfortable environment when consuming edibles, and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
5. Keep edibles out of reach of children and pets: Cannabis edibles can be attractive to children and pets, so make sure to keep them out of reach to avoid accidental consumption.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

1. Don’t overconsume: Overconsumption can lead to unpleasant side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.
2. Don’t mix with other substances: Avoid mixing cannabis edibles with other substances, such as alcohol or other medications, as this can increase the risk of adverse reactions.
3. Don’t consume cannabis edibles on an empty stomach: Consuming cannabis edibles on an empty stomach can increase the risk of adverse reactions, so make sure to eat something before consuming edibles.

Choosing the Right Edibles For Cannabis Consumption

With the wide variety of cannabis edibles available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when selecting cannabis edibles:

Factors to Consider

1. Dosage: Consider the dosage of the edible and start with a low dose to avoid overconsumption.
2. Ingredients: Check the ingredients used in the edible and avoid any allergens or substances you’re sensitive to.
3. Type of cannabis: Consider the type of cannabis used in the edible, such as indica, sativa, or hybrid, and choose one that suits your needs.
4. Method of consumption: Consider the method of consumption, such as eating, drinking, or vaping, and choose one that suits your preferences.
5. Brand reputation: Research the brand and read reviews to ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable source.

By following these guidelines and considering these factors, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when consuming cannabis edibles.

Regulation and Oversight of Edible Cannabis Products

Cannabis edibles are regulated differently in each region. Where cannabis is legal for medical or recreational use, cannabis edibles are required to go through stricter regulations. This includes compliance with packaging standards like child-resistant containers and clear labeling of THC content per serving.

Also, edible cannabis products are tested for potency so consumers know exactly how much THC or CBD they are consuming. Testing for contaminants like pesticides, molds, or other harmful substances is also part of the regulatory process. These regulations are in place to protect the consumer so products are safe and effects are predictable. But as with all cannabis products, the specifics of the regulations vary from state to state, so consumers should know the laws in their area before buying edibles.

With the rise of edibles, the conversation around standardization of production practices, especially around potency testing and labeling, is ongoing. As the edible market grows, consumers can expect more regulation to ensure products are safe, effective, and consistent.