Weed Edibles: Types, Risks, and the Best Ways to Use Them
Edibles aren't regular food or drinks; they are infused with weed. They are mind-altering and are recommended for various health conditions.
Weed edibles are one of the most widely used methods to consume cannabis. People prefer edibles for their accurate dosing and great taste.
But there are some facts about the best edibles that you need to know to use them safely—otherwise, you might be in for an unexpected ride.
This article is all you need if you want to take this ride. By the end of this article, you will have no doubts about weed edibles, their types, and how to use them safely.
If this is something that interests you, keep reading as we uncover exciting facts about weed edibles.
What are weed edibles?
Weed edibles are food or drinks infused with cannabis. They may look like regular eatables but contain THC, which creates a euphoric feeling, and CBD, which helps reduce pain.
People can freely use weed edible gummies for fun or medical purposes in states where its use is legal. However, how they source edibles may differ.
Some people prefer making their own weed edibles using cannabis-infused oil or butter. However, most people buy it from local dispensaries or use Bay Area weed delivery services to get their edibles delivered to their doorstep.
How to make weed edibles?
Female weed flowers are used to make cannabis edibles. This is because they have higher amounts of CBD and THC. Here is a simple process to make edibles:
Activate THC and CBD by heating cannabis flowers.
Cook the decarbed cannabis in butter or oil, then strain out the plant material.
Replace regular butter or oil with an infused one in cookies and brownies.
There you have it, your own cannabis-infused edibles ready to enjoy.
Types of Weed Edibles
As we discussed earlier, you can make your own edibles at home. Having this freedom means you can infuse cannabis into hundreds of food items and beverages. However, here, we will talk about some of the most popular weed edibles. These include:
Gummies
Weed gummies are by far the most popular cannabis edibles, and for good reasons. They are discreet and easy to carry.
Gummies offer precise doses, reducing the risk of overdosing. And the best part? They come in a variety of flavors. Moreover, their soft, chewy texture makes them more enjoyable than other edibles.
Candies
Hard candies are another popular way to enjoy weed edibles. They are small, easy to carry, and look like regular candy.
If you want your candies to give the same potent effect without tasting like marijuana, go for THC distillate. They feel just like eating normal sweets. This makes them a great choice for those who want a discreet and tasty option.
Chocolate Bars
Chocolate bars infused with weed are also available for chocolate lovers. People can enjoy the benefits of CBD and THC while savoring their favorite dark, white, or mint-flavored chocolates.
Baked Goods
Brownies, cookies, and muffins—baked edibles are the most classic ways of using weed cannabis. They are also popular because people can easily buy them or make them at home. They often take more time to digest, so their effects are prolonged.
Just be careful about potency and dosing when making them at home. You may get so indulged in the experience that you don't notice how much you have eaten.
Expert Tips to Use Edibles Safely
Many new cannabis users are worried about the side effects of weed edibles. Allows us to clarify that there may be little to no side effects of using edibles if you take them responsibly. Here is what experts have to say about consuming edibles safely:
Start Low, Go Slow
Start Low, Go Slow means you should start with a low dose and wait 3 to 4 hours for effects.
Know Your Tolerance
If you are new to cannabis, you must stick to low doses (5mg) for some time to gauge your tolerance. As you know your tolerance, you can go for higher doses.
Stay Hydrated & Eat Beforehand
Drink a lot of water and eat a little before taking cannabis edibles. This is because weed can lead to mouth dryness, and the effects intensify if you take edibles on an empty stomach.
Read Labels Carefully
Check the THC/CBD content to make sure that you're consuming a dose that suits you.
Store Edibles Safely
Keep edibles out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental consumption.
Risks of Irresponsibly Consuming Weed Edibles
There is no denying the benefits of cannabis edibles; however, irresponsible use may pose some risks that users should be aware of. Here are some important things to keep in mind to make your experience with edibles one of a kind:
Overconsumption Due to Delayed Effects
Edibles usually take up to 2 hours to take effect and reach their peak after 4-5 hours. Some people may think that edibles are ineffective for them and consume too much. Avoid doing this and be patient for at least 4 hours before consuming more.
Longer-Lasting High
Edibles take a long time to kick in, and their effects last just as long. The effects of edibles may last 6-12 hours. There is no need to panic, as it will make your experience even worse. Be mindful that the effects will fade away with time.
Increased Risk of Anxiety & Paranoia
A mistake that most beginners make is to consume too much THC. It can lead to paranoia and sometimes anxiety. So, it is best to read labels carefully before using weed edibles and try to begin with low doses.
The Bottom Line
Edibles are a popular choice among individuals when it comes to cannabis. They allow users to experience both psychoactive and therapeutic effects while enjoying their favorite flavors. However, weed edibles can be strong, so you need to use them carefully. Know your dose, be patient, and understand how long they take to work.