Edible Cannabis Key Facts and Tips For Safe Consumption
What Is Edible Cannabis?
Edible cannabis products, often referred to as edibles, are items you can eat or drink that contain cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis that can impact both your mind and body. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is known for its euphoric and intoxicating effects, while CBD is non-intoxicating and may have therapeutic benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand its potential medical uses.
While some edible cannabis products might resemble everyday food items, it’s important to remember that they are not meant to provide nutritional value. Instead, they offer an alternative method of cannabis consumption to smoking or vaping.
If you’re considering trying edible cannabis, here are seven key things you need to know:
Be Sure to Read the Label Carefully
Edible cannabis products come in various forms, each with different ingredients and levels of THC and CBD. Always read the label before consuming any edible cannabis. If you are new to edibles or cannabis in general, it’s recommended to start with no more than 2.5 mg of THC. Wait to feel the effects before consuming more. Educate yourself on how THC and CBD impact your brain and body, and understand how these effects differ between inhalation and ingestion. Also, check for expiry dates and potential allergens.
Effects of Ingesting Cannabis Last Longer Than Inhaling
When you ingest cannabis, your body absorbs THC more slowly compared to smoking or vaping, resulting in prolonged effects. The high can last up to 12 hours, with residual effects lingering for up to 24 hours. If you’re new to edibles, use them in a safe and comfortable environment, ideally with friends or family who have experience. Plan your travel arrangements in advance or consider staying over if you’re using edibles away from home. Never drive or operate heavy machinery after consuming cannabis.
Ingesting Cannabis Can Be More Intense Than Inhaling
The effects of edible cannabis can be more intense than inhaling the same amount of dried cannabis. This increased intensity is because your liver converts THC into a stronger form when ingested. Both the original THC and this stronger form contribute to the overall effect. If you’re new to edibles, start with products containing no more than 2.5 mg of THC. It’s wise to try edibles for the first time with trusted, experienced friends or family. If you or someone else feels unwell after consuming too much cannabis, contact a local poison center or seek medical attention.
It Takes Time to Feel the Full Effects
The intoxicating effects of edible cannabis can take between 30 minutes to two hours to kick in, peaking around four hours. These effects can last up to 12 hours, with some residual effects lasting into the next day. This is different from smoking or vaping, where effects are felt within minutes and peak around 30 minutes. Because it takes time to feel the full effects of edibles, it’s important to be patient and avoid consuming more cannabis within this period to prevent over-intoxication. Over-intoxication can cause anxiety, panic, nausea, vomiting, and even symptoms of psychosis like paranoia.
Be Sure To Properly Store Your Cannabis Products
Edibles such as chocolates and brownies can be appealing to both adults and children, making it crucial to store them properly. Unintentional ingestion by children or pets can lead to severe health issues. Ensure that all cannabis products are clearly labeled and stored in child-resistant containers, which are re-sealed after each use. Keep these products out of reach and sight of children and pets, and consider using a lockbox for added safety. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact your local poison center or seek medical attention immediately.
Cannabis Should Not Be Mixed With Alcohol
Mixing cannabis with alcohol increases the risk of over-intoxication and impairment. This combination can lead to heightened anxiety, panic, nausea, vomiting, and paranoia. To avoid these negative effects, consume either cannabis or alcohol, but not both. Also, avoid mixing cannabis with nicotine or other intoxicating substances, including stimulants (uppers) and depressants (downers), as these combinations can cause serious health complications. If you’re taking prescription medications, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure there are no adverse interactions with cannabis.
Regular Use of Cannabis Can Affect Your Mental Health
Frequent or daily cannabis use can increase the risk of dependence and exacerbate mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Regular use of high-THC products can also raise the risk of developing psychosis, especially if you have a family history of psychosis or schizophrenia. To minimize these risks, choose products with lower THC levels—no more than 100 mg/g (10%) for inhalation and no more than 10 mg of THC for ingestion. Limiting your use of cannabis can help reduce the likelihood of mental health problems.
By keeping these points in mind, you can make more informed decisions about consuming edible cannabis and enjoy a safer experience.
