While smoking delivers THC almost instantly, edibles take longer to kick in but are much more potent. Unlike smoking, the metabolism of THC is altered when someone consumes it through an edible. Due to this reason, it results in a more substantial impact that lasts longer. Edibles can also induce relaxation and euphoria and relieve pain. However, consuming excessive amounts can lead to adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia, or an uncomfortable high.
Knowing the correct dosage is very important to make the most out of your experience. With The wrong dose, you may find yourself uncomfortable for hours. In this guide, you will learn why edible effects take longer to set in and how to dose them so that one has a smooth and controlled experience.
Understanding Edible Dosages
How Edibles Work in the Body
Ingestible cannabis products, which are commonly known as edibles, are processed very differently in the body when compared to smoking. Instead of instant absorption in the lungs like smoking, eating requires the product to be digested first. After ingestion, the liver processes the THC by converting it into 11-hydroxy-THC. The liver processes the THC and turns it into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is a much stronger compound. The body takes time to process all these steps, so the onset of edibles is delayed. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects.
Why Edibles Take Longer to Kick In
Given the fact that edibles need to be digested, there is a delay in the onset of effects, as opposed to other methods of consuming cannabis. The precise timing relies on metabolism, body weight, and recency of food consumption. Ingesting edibles with no food may allow for faster absorption; however, it will take longer to onset. Onset time will be reduced when food is consumed with edibles; however, the high will be prolonged.
How Metabolism Affects Potency
Everyone metabolizes differently, which creates different experiences when using the exact dosage. This means that depending on one’s metabolic speed, other people will react to the same dose in contrasting ways.
Faster metabolism might reduce the recovery period and vice versa, making it necessary to increase doses to reduce intensity gradually. For high-quality supplements that support your metabolism, check out Eden Goods to find products that are tailored to your needs.
Breakdown of Edible Dosage
Microdose (1-2.5 THC) – No High, Mild Relaxation
If one is new to the consumption of cannabis, a microdose is excellent as it has very subtle effects. This dose offers slight mood enhancement, stress relief, and relaxation. Microdosing is also beneficial while trying to be creative and social or focusing on tasks without further blocking or impairing daily activities.
Low Dose (2.5 – 5mg THC) – Slight Buzz, Light Euphoria
This range serves those trying to sleep better and mildly relieve pain. Some users may feel a slightly euphoric feeling. However, the level of buzz is too low to affect a clear mind. Moreover, this is an ideal and effective range for beginners as it offers the effects of cannabis without overpowering the user.
Moderate Dose (5-10mg THC) – Relaxed, Increased Sensory Perception, Noticeable High
A moderate dose works for regular casual cannabis users, as it provides a variety of sensations. This is the most common dose used by casual cannabis consumers due to the distinct high it gives. The level of colors a person sees is brighter, food tastes better, the person gets deep relaxation and enhanced esteem, and the perception of music intensifies. However, some users still find this dose to be overpowering.
Excessive Dose (25mg THC and more) – Uncomfortable Side Effects, Psychosis, Overdose Risk, Loss of Consciousness Infamously referred to as a Stoner Dose
Those who consume over 25mg may feel an intense effect, nausea, and loss of consciousness. Stoner Dose is not suggestable loosely as the effects are considered supraphysiological, and those who consume this amount above the recommended dose are prone to develop psychotic episodes due to an intense state of delirium, along with severe anxiety and impossible-to-control panic attacks. It is advisable to use anti-anxiety medication such as diazepam before attempting to go anywhere public or in a crowded place.
How to Dose Safely
Edibles, unlike traditional smoked marijuana, take a longer time to provide any effects. Hence, one should always start low, at 2.5mg to 5mg, and take more THC only when no effects are being felt after a two-hour duration. Many novice users tend to eat more edibles too soon and end up feeling uncomfortable due to the high dose. Therefore, if the desired effects are not felt, increasing the dosage in the next session is preferable rather than overeating in one session.
Factors That Affect Edible Strength
Various individualistic factors impact how a person reacts to edible cannabis.
1. Body Weight: Heavier people tend to require higher doses than skinnier individuals.
2. Empty vs. Full Stomach: Consuming these edibles while fasting yields quicker and stronger results. On the other hand, if the user is satisfied, the effects will be more gradual, but the peak should be longer, leading to a prolonged ‘high’.
3. Level of Tolerance: Regular marijuana users will feel the need to consume more edibles as compared to novice users trying marijuana for the first time.
Tips for First-Time Users
- Best Practice: For first-time users, eat 2.5mg to 5mg of THC and wait two hours before trying to find the desired effects. If these effects are not being felt, consider taking a short break and trying again after these effects have worn off.
- Choose the Appropriate Consumption Environment: Eating the edible in a safe, calm, and private area is best to keep the user relaxed.
- Have CBD Available: If THC consumption causes undesired effects, CBD consumption can help blunt its effects. Water, breathing, and relaxing activities can help as well.
Recommended dosages and care in consumption guarantee safety whenever one intends to partake in using edibles.
Conclusion
To boost your experience with edibles, understanding your limitations is important. Always begin with a small dose and increase as needed. Make sure to store edibles securely and out of reach for children and pets. Mindful consumption of edibles guarantees a pleasurable experience every time.
