What Are Edibles? Everything You Need to Know About CBD and THC Edibles
08.09.22 - 4 min read
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08.09.22 - 4 min read
More and more people are talking about marijuana edibles these days, but are you familiar with the various types of edibles out there?
A growing number of states are legalizing medical and recreational marijuana, hence the rise in popularity of edibles. If you’re curious about trying different CBD and THC edibles, this guide is for you! In this article, we’ll help you to understand what you’ll be consuming and encourage you to discover what’s best for you as an individual.
Edibles are cannabis-infused food products or drinks. These can be a great alternative to smoking marijuana, as they are a simple, subtle consumption method with plenty of versatility.
Cannabis edibles come in various forms, like baked goods, savory snacks, homemade infused food, etc. They are rich in the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, THC; both compounds offer a wide range of medical benefits and effects. CBD and THC may have the same molecular structure, but they cause different effects on the body.
In short, the most significant difference is that THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the intoxicating effect so often associated with marijuana. On the other hand, CBD is sometimes psychoactive and offers a wide range of benefits but doesn’t have the same mind-altering and intoxicating effects as THC.
In detail, you can check our other guide in this link to find out more about the difference between THC and CBD.
Depending on which state you live in, your only option may be CBD edibles since THC is only legal in some states. CBD is legal in some states where THC is not. Don’t forget to check the marijuana laws in your state before purchasing any product.
Cannabinoids are fat-soluble, which means that for your body to process them, they need to bind to fats. [Source]
The most common way to make edibles is by heating marijuana flower in oil or butter to extract CBD and THC. The heating process causes these cannabinoids to diffuse from the plant and dissolve into the oil. The oil/butter extracted from this process can be added to various recipes to make edibles.
Wondering how to make your own cannabis-infused butter or cannabis cooking oil for edibles? Check out our cannabutter recipe and our canna-oil recipe.
Edibles are more than just brownies. You can find THC and CBD-infused products of virtually any kind. Here are just a few examples of edible options:
You can find all of these in our online dispensary menu.
As you see, almost any food or drink can become cannabis-infused edibles.
Edibles have a number of benefits over smoking and vaping cannabis:
Edibles have plenty of benefits, but there are a few things you’ll want to note before trying them.
First of all, decide whether you’re making your cannabis edibles or buying them. First-timers might consider buying them from a dispensary where dosages are marked. But if you want to make them, these recipes make it easy.
If this is your first-time trying edibles, try starting with CBD-infused (or THC) gummies that are easy to divide into smaller pieces. This way, you can try a little at a time and have full control of the dosage.
If using THC-infused edibles, make sure you’re in a safe, familiar place—preferably, your own home. (Always remember you cannot legally drive after consuming THC.)
After you eat or drink your edible, be patient. Edibles take time to kick in, and consuming them after a meal could potentially cause delayed effects. However, taking edibles on an empty stomach may cause stomach discomfort. If you’re going to eat to prevent this discomfort, you might try adding some healthy fats. In fact, one study showed that eating a high-fat meal before your edible can increase absorption in the body.
So, you’re ready to take your edibles—but do you know what dose is right for you? Read on as we break down the basics of dosing.
Start slow. When consuming cannabis edibles, it’s much better to take too little and not feel anything than to ingest too much and face unwanted effects.
Even regular cannabis users should begin slowly with edibles. Depending on the potency of the product, edibles can have powerful effects. Also, it typically takes longer to feel the effects, making it easier to overconsume.
A good dose for first-timers to begin with? Simply take the smallest amount possible. You can track your feelings from there and add the amount later if necessary.
When purchasing edibles from a dispensary, always clarify the dosage. Most packages should include the number of milligrams per dose, but some packages may list the total dosage. If you are confused about the dosage, ask a dispensary employee for clarification before consuming.
When storing cannabis snacks, keep in mind the type of product you have. Is it gummy? A drink? A cookie?
Here are some general tips for storing your edibles:
For a deeper dive, check out our detailed guide on how to store marijuana products.
Now that you know how to use and store your edibles, you might be wondering, “why not just smoke marijuana?” Let’s look at the difference between orally consuming marijuana and smoking it.
When you smoke flower, THC goes into your lungs, then makes its way directly to the bloodstream and quickly to the brain. It only takes a few minutes to feel its effects.
When you consume edibles, cannabis makes its way to your stomach first, then to the liver, the bloodstream, and finally to your brain. After consumption, it takes 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel its effects. [Source]
The effects of marijuana edibles can last longer vs. smoking, and they can be consumed more subtly.
RISE Dispensaries carry a curated selection of cannabis edibles for all experience levels and tastes. Find a dispensary nearby and browse our online dispensary menu for edible marijuana products.
With so much to learn about edibles, you’re likely left with some questions. Here are some answers that might help.
Yes, you can make edibles yourself at home. There’s no shortage of recipes out there to try. Many people start by making cannabutter and then use it in your baking. Before baking, make sure to have all the ingredients you need and the right strain of marijuana to match your needs. Also, do any necessary math ahead of time to get your dosage right!
Depending on your dosage, effects from edibles can potentially last much longer than effects from smoking. Duration can vary depending on your metabolism, the amount and type of edible you took, and many other factors.
No. Driving after consuming edibles is illegal and considered driving under the influence.
It depends on the dose, potency, and how the edible is consumed. Chewing and swallowing an edible can take longer to absorb than products orally absorbed. It also depends on your tolerance to cannabis, your weight, and your metabolism. It may take more than 2 hours for you to feel the initial effects from edibles.
Where you can consume edibles legally depends on where you live. State marijuana laws vary, and some states don’t allow the possession of marijuana in any amount. Generally, if marijuana edibles are legal in your state, they’ll need to be in the original unopened package from the dispensary for them to be in your car.
Since you cannot drive after using edibles anyway, it’s best to consume them in your own home.
Always remember to know your rights and keep up to date with your state’s laws on marijuana.
It depends. Assuming the food itself stays good and doesn’t get stale, the potency of edibles lasts about three to six months if stored properly. Any longer than that and the CBD or THC in the edibles might lose their effects.
However, different types of edibles vary in shelf life. For example, THC- or CBD-infused gummies last longer than a cookie.
If your edibles are homemade baked goods, they’ll last about as long as homemade baked goods without THC or CBD. Take cookies, for example. A homemade chocolate chip cookie without marijuana will have the same shelf as a homemade chocolate chip cookie with marijuana.
When it comes to edibles purchased at a dispensary, expiration dates should be printed directly on the label and products.
Do you have more questions about edibles? Don’t hesitate to talk to one of our knowledgeable patient care specialists at your local RISE dispensary, they’ll be happy to guide you.
Of course, not everyone is a smoker. Luckily, cannabis edibles are one of many oral consumption methods that offer an alternative. Other options include tinctures (cannabis extract), capsules, drinks and oils. You can find more information in our detailed guide on marijuana consumption methods.
You can also browse the selection of marijuana edibles on our online dispensary menu or visit your nearest RISE Dispensary for consultation with our friendly experts.
Select your state and preferred dispensary to shop .