How Do I Get Started with Cannabis Edibles?

Cannabis edibles are a fantastic alternative to smoking. They’re less intimidating than joints, pipes, or bongs and won’t make you cough or burn your throat.

Additionally, edibles are a great way to dip your toes in cannabis and don’t require rolling skills or fancy contraptions. You just pop them in your mouth and wait for the magic to happen.

But before you run to your nearest dispensary, you should know that edibles are potent and will hit you hard if you aren’t careful – we would hate for you to have a bad trip on your first try.

After reading this post, you’ll know:

• What edibles are

• How to shop for edibles

• What to expect after eating edibles

• How to ensure a pleasant experience with edibles

What are edibles?

The use of cannabis in food has been around for a long time. The ancient Egyptians consumed it some 3500 years ago. Scythians used it to concoct beverages in the 7th century BC. And the ancient Chinese used it as an essential medical ingredient for thousands of years.

Today, cannabis edibles are more popular than ever (thanks to legalization). Plainly put, edibles are food and drinks infused with cannabis. You can find a massive selection of cannabis-infused gummies, chocolates, mints, gum, breath strips, cooking oil, and baked goods at dispensaries.

What are the best edibles for beginners?

Not all edibles are created equal. So, it’s crucial you buy high-quality edibles to make sure you have a pleasant experience. That said, understanding some basics will help you choose the right edibles for you.

When it comes to marijuana, there are two main types of plants: Indica and Sativa. Both are psychoactive but produce significantly different effects. 

Indica

• Body high

• Relaxation

• Pain relief

• Sleep aid

• Sedative 

Indica edibles are best used in the evening because of their sedating effects. If you’re feeling stressed and looking to chill on the couch, this one is for you. 

Sativa

• Alertness

• Uplifting

• Euphoric

• Creativity

• Cerebral

Sativa edibles awaken your curiosity and are far more energizing than their Indica counterparts. If you want to be up and about with an active high, Sativa is a good choice.  

Hybrid 

Hybrid edibles are great if you want a more balanced high. You can find Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or perfectly balanced edibles. So, which one should you choose? It depends on how you’d like to feel. But starting with a perfectly balanced hybrid edible is an excellent way to get the best of both worlds.

A word on cannabis edible potency

We’ve come a long way since our ancestors started experimenting with cannabis. Today, modern science has taken the guesswork out of the equation; we can determine the exact strength of an edible.

Cannabis edible potency is measured in milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Edible potency ranges anywhere from 2 mg to 100+ mg. If it’s your first time trying edibles or you haven’t had cannabis for a long time, we recommend starting with the lowest dosage to see how it feels.

I ate my edible. Now what?

Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles take longer to kick in. Your digestive system needs time to break down the cannabinoids and let them enter your bloodstream. Typically, you need to wait 30 to 60 minutes before feeling the effects. Be patient.

A word of caution: wait at least 2-3 hours before eating more if you don’t feel the effects because overeating can be dangerous.

How long do the effects last?

According to Medical News Today, the effects of smoking or vaping marijuana last between 1 to 4 hours. The effects of edibles however, can last longer than 6 hours. Of course, this all depends on how much you eat, and it’s largely subjective for each person.

So, make sure your schedule is clear before popping in your edibles.     

I’m too high! How can I reduce the effects of edibles?

Ok, it kicked in. If the high is too intense, don’t panic. Remember that it will pass. Here are some things you can do to help you sober up

1. Breathe
2. Get up and move
3. Occupy your mind with something fun and positive
4. Take a warm shower
5. Drink water
6. Munch on something yummy
7. Take some CBD

Even if you feel awful, remember that the effects are not permanent. Once your body metabolizes the THC, you will feel like your good old self again.

Where should I get my edibles?

You can make your own edibles, but if you aren’t experienced with cannabis, we recommend buying them from a trusted dispensary. The best part is that you don’t need to go to the store to get them.

From tasty sour chews to gooey caramels and refreshing sodas – online dispensaries like Canna Cabana have a massive selection of delicious THC edibles for any experience level.

Start with something like the XPRESS Berry Citrus Blast Gummies. Containing 2 mg of THC per gummy, they’re an excellent choice to get started with cannabis edibles.

Tips for a good experience with edibles

Like any other psychoactive drug, edibles should be approached with respect and a positive state of mind. Remember to start with a small amount the first time. If you’ve never had edibles, start with the lowest dose. If the effects are minor, carefully increase potency the next time out. Find a potency level that suits you and keep experimenting.

Here are some tips to make your edible experience enjoyable:

• Start slow, start low

• Be patient (it will kick in)

• Make sure you have nothing to do that day 

• Have a buddy with you (it’s more fun)

• Don’t smoke weed or drink alcohol (stick to edibles)

• Set up your vibe 

• Plan for something to do (movies, TV shows, board games)

• Have plenty of tasty snacks around

• Dance, play, let loose!

Last thoughts

As long as you eat an edible with low THC content, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have a great experience. They’re fun, long-lasting, discreet, and elevate your mind smoothly and gradually. Edibles are definitely a great place to start if you’ve been on the fence about cannabis.

This is a sponsored post and Save On Cannabis has been paid for the placement of the content and did not author the content of the piece as well as does not necessarily share the opinion of the author. 

Save On Cannabis

Save On Cannabis is the most trusted source for cannabis discounts and education information.  Vetted deals and clearly written articles to help you become a wiser consumer whether focused on the medical or recreational value of cannabis products.