Smoking is undoubtedly the most common way to consume cannabis. But the now-legal realm of recreational cannabis use and consumption has evolved, giving rise to a trend: cannabis-infused edibles.

Cannabis-infused edibles have gained popularity for their unique medicinal effects and health benefits, many of which are backed by legitimate scientific research. They also attract many users due to their discreet nature and alternative experience.

Unlike smoking or eating the raw form of cannabis, edibles offer a subtler way to enjoy cannabis, making them appeal to a wide audience. In addition, chewing on an edible in the form of baked goods is definitely a much more enjoyable experience than eating raw weed. Plus, it is better for lung health than smoking it.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of eating cannabis edibles, shedding light on what happens when one indulges in these culinary delights.

Our goal is to uncover the mental and physical effects and therapeutic benefits of consuming cannabis-infused edibles, from how they work in the brain cells and body to the cognitive and physical experiences they induce.

Join us on this journey of discovery as we provide insights into this intriguing aspect of cannabis culture!

I. Why Eat Weed?

Why do people eat cannabis-infused foods to begin with? Are there any physical, mental, or therapeutic benefits to doing so compared to smoking a joint or inhaling the vapors?

Consuming cannabis through edibles offers a discreet and longer-lasting alternative to smoking or vaping. Edibles provide a smoke-free experience and can have a more intense and prolonged effect. They also allow for precise dosing and offer a unique way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis. However, it’s important to use them responsibly to avoid any potential negative effects.

Potential Benefits of Eating Cannabis Edibles

Here are some notable benefits of consuming cannabis edibles:

Discreet consumption: Edibles can be consumed discreetly without the need for smoking or vaping, making them ideal for private settings.
Longer-lasting effects: The effects of cannabis edibles tend to last longer compared to smoking or vaping, providing an extended experience.
Precise dosing: Cannabis edibles offer precise dosing options, allowing users to control their intake more accurately.
Smoke-free experience: Edible products eliminate the need to inhale smoke, reducing potential lung irritation and health concerns.
Intense and prolonged highs: The slower onset of cannabis edibles can lead to a more intense and prolonged high than other methods. It can take longer to get high from eating weed, but you get the same effects, only longer and more powerful.
Versatile culinary options: Edibles can be infused into various foods and drinks, allowing for creative and enjoyable consumption methods.
Potential for stronger medicinal effects: Edibles can provide potent relief for medical conditions due to their longer-lasting impact. A process called decarboxylation converts CBD and THC molecules into their active forms, ensuring higher-quality products.
Reduced lung irritation: Edibles bypass the respiratory system, reducing the risk of lung irritation and related issues.
Suitable for non-smokers: Individuals who prefer not to smoke can still enjoy the benefits of cannabis when they get high from eating edibles.
Enjoyment of unique flavors: Infusing cannabis into edibles can create diverse flavor profiles, enhancing the overall experience.

II. How Cannabis Edibles Work

When you consume cannabis plant edibles, cannabinoids enter your body through digestion. Once ingested, they’re absorbed through the stomach and intestines into the bloodstream. From there, they’re transported to the liver, a crucial player in the metabolic process of cannabinoids.

The liver plays a fascinating role in transforming delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively. This conversion increases the marijuana compound’s potency, producing more pronounced psychoactive effects.

This conversion, orchestrated by liver enzymes, is a key reason why edibles can deliver a more intense experience than smoking or vaping. The 11-hydroxy-THC produced is more potent, contributing to the distinct effects users often report after smoking or consuming edibles.

Unlike inhaling or smoking cannabis, the effects of marijuana edibles don’t kick in immediately. This is also the case when eating raw weed, albeit more pleasant!

Due to the digestion and metabolic process, it takes time for cannabinoids to take effect. This delay can lead to impatience, causing some individuals to consume more, thinking the initial dose was ineffective.

Patience is crucial when consuming marijuana edibles, as when eating raw cannabis. The delayed onset can result in overconsumption if users aren’t mindful.

Even if you’re eager to get high from eating weed, it’s advised to wait for at least an hour or more before taking additional doses. This waiting period allows the body to fully process and absorb the cannabinoids, preventing the risk of overwhelming effects.

III. The Physical Effects of Eating Weed

Users can experience a wide range of physical sensations when eating cannabis edibles or eating raw weed. These sensations can vary based on individual experiences and context. Some common sensations include:

Relaxation
Increased heart rate
Dry mouth
Goosebumps
Sweating
Tingling sensation
Butterflies in the stomach
Muscle tension
Dizziness
Warmth/coldness

These physical sensations can vary in intensity and frequency, and they play a significant role in how individuals perceive and react to different situations.

Engaging in certain activities or consuming medical marijuana edibles can lead to additional physical sensations. For instance, in some cases, marijuana users might experience bloodshot eyes and an increased appetite, often referred to as “the munchies.”

Bloodshot eyes can result from the dilation of blood vessels, which can also occur due to other factors like heat or tiredness. Similarly, an enhanced appetite, commonly associated with consuming certain substances, can lead to a desire for food and snacks.

It’s important to recognize that these effects can vary based on individual responses and specific circumstances. Maintaining careful dosage control is crucial to prevent overwhelming effects and ensure a balanced experience.

IV. Eating Weed: The Cognitive Effects

The impact on cognition is a significant aspect to consider. Users may encounter altered perceptions of time and space, where minutes feel like hours, and surroundings might seem distorted. This can be intriguing, but it’s important to note that it might affect daily tasks.

Memory and concentration could be impaired temporarily. Recalling information or staying focused might become challenging during the experience. Being aware of this can help manage expectations.

In some cases, high doses or lack of familiarity could lead to heightened anxiety or even paranoia. It’s advisable to start with lower doses and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable.

Finding the right balance is key to a positive experience. Additionally, creating a calm and familiar environment can greatly reduce the chances of anxiety or paranoia.

V. Effect Duration and Intensity

Edibles offer a distinct experience from smoking cannabis or vaping due to differences in how the body processes THC.

When consuming cannabis edibles, or eating raw cannabis, for that matter, the onset of effects is typically slower, often taking one to two hours or more. This delayed onset can lead to a longer-lasting and more intense high than smoking or vaping.

Several factors impact the duration and intensity of edible effects. Metabolism plays a crucial role – individuals with faster metabolisms might experience shorter-lasting effects, for example, while those with slower metabolisms could feel the effects for an extended period.

Tolerance also matters – regular cannabis users might require higher doses to get the same effect, potentially prolonging the experience.

Closing Thoughts on Eating Weed

Excessive THC consumption can lead to uncomfortable or adverse effects, often referred to as a “bad trip.” To reduce nausea and vomiting and ensure a positive experience, start with a low dose, especially if you’re new to cannabis or edibles.

Patience is key. Edibles have a slower onset than smoking or vaping, often taking an hour or more to feel the full effects. Avoid the common mistake of taking more before the initial dose has fully kicked in. Rushing this process increases the risk of overconsumption.

If you do find yourself feeling overwhelmed or experiencing other symptoms or unwanted effects, remember that the effects will eventually subside. Stay hydrated, try to relax, and distract yourself with activities you enjoy.

Responsible and informed consumption is the key to a positive THC experience. Stick to low doses, be patient, and prioritize your well-being throughout the journey.