Our focus at Root & Bloom is to exceed the expectations of our customers by crafting exceptional cannabis products. Through meticulous curation and rigorous testing, we ensure that only the finest cannabis is served. It’s not limited to flower; we strive to offer you the best of everything.
In previous blogs, we discussed different types of concentrates as well as how to consume those concentrates. In this blog, we will be talking specifically about edibles: what they are, the benefits and risks of edibles, and how to consciously consume them.
What are cannabis edibles?
Edibles refer to cannabis-infused food products that contain cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. These edibles are made by infusing cannabis extracts or oils into food products, including gummies, chocolates, brownies, cookies, and beverages.
The cannabinoids are first extracted from the plant material and then infused. The dosage of cannabinoids in edibles varies widely, and it is essential to pay attention to the potency when consuming edibles.
There are different types of edibles available in the market, including those that are made with THC, CBD, or a combination of both. THC-dominant edibles can produce psychoactive effects, including euphoria and relaxation, while CBD-dominant edibles are non-psychoactive and can produce a range of therapeutic effects.
Additionally, there are edibles that combine THC and CBD in varying ratios to produce specific effects, such as pain relief, stress reduction, and improved sleep. The availability of edibles varies by state and country due to different regulations regarding cannabis use.
Edibles provide different effects from other consumption methods because the THC has to be metabolized by the liver to enter the bloodstream rather than entering the bloodstream directly through inhalation.
Another reason edibles can affect the body differently than smoking is due to the way the body absorbs and metabolizes fats. Many edibles are made with fats, such as butter or oil, which can increase the absorption of THC and other cannabinoids by the body.
This means the effects can take longer to kick in, and they are also more intense, lasting for a longer period of time.
Benefits of Consuming Edibles
- Longer lasting effects:
The effects of smoking or vaping typically last for a few hours, while the effects of edibles can last for up to 12 hours, making them an excellent choice for those looking for long-lasting relief.
- Discreet and convenient:
Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles do not produce any smoke or odor, making them an ideal option for those who want to consume cannabis without attracting attention.
Edibles are also easy to carry around, and they come in various forms, such as gummies and chocolates, which are easy to consume on-the-go.
- Potential relief of various medical conditions:
Studies have shown that cannabis can help alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and other conditions. Edibles provide an excellent way to consume cannabis for those who do not want to smoke or vape or prefer a more controlled and consistent dosage.
However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming edibles for medical purposes.
Risks Associated with Edibles Consumption
- Delayed onset of effects:
Unlike smoking or vaping, which produce immediate effects, it can take up to two hours for the effects of edibles to kick in.
This delay can lead to overconsumption, as users may not feel the effects immediately and consume more than necessary (which can lead to adverse effects).
- Adverse effects such as anxiety and paranoia:
Overconsumption of edibles, caused by either impatience or improper dosing, can lead to adverse psychological effects such as anxiety and paranoia. It can also lead to physical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, dizziness and lightheadedness, and rapid heart rate.
It’s quite the opposite experience that most people are looking for when consuming edibles.
- Difficulty in dosing homemade edibles accurately:
When purchasing edibles from a dispensary, you know exactly what dosage you will be ingesting, making it easier to manage your consumption. However, when making edibles at home, it is much harder to measure the dosage.
The distribution of the cannabis may not be even, making some of the edibles very strong and some very weak. This can easily lead to overconsumption and a negative experience.
How to Consume Cannabis Edibles Safely & Effectively
- Start with a low dosage:
It is important to start with a low dosage of edibles and gradually increase it over time. (Slow and steady keeps you in the race!)
- Wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more:
It can take up to two hours for the effects of edibles to kick in. It is important to wait for the effects to take hold before consuming more, as overconsumption can lead to adverse effects.
- Keep track of the dosage and timing:
It is essential to keep track of the dosage and timing of edibles consumed. This can help to ensure that the effects are consistent, and can also help to avoid overconsumption.
- Be mindful of your setting and surroundings:
It is important to consume edibles in a safe and comfortable setting. It is also important to be mindful of your surroundings, as edibles can cause impairment and affect coordination.
Root & Bloom: Helping You to Enhance Your Cannabis Experience
While edibles can offer longer-lasting effects and provide a discreet and convenient option for consumption, they also carry potential risks if not consumed responsibly. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog, you can enjoy the benefits of edibles while minimizing potential adverse effects.
At Root & Bloom, we remain committed to providing our customers with the best cannabis products and information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Want to learn more about cannabis products and how to consume them? Check out our blog where we keep you up-to-date on cannabis education and news.
