So you're interested in taking edibles for the first time? Great! They're a really fun and exciting way to explore the benefits of cannabis and we're sure that with the right preparation, you're going to get a lot out of your experiences with them. 

That said, we understand that for beginners, the world of cannabis edibles can be a little overwhelming. THC, CBD, CBG, THCA, THCP… what do all of those acronyms mean? And with the varying dosages, the types, and the potential side effects of edibles, it’s important to approach this with care and even a little bit of respect.

Don't worry, though. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cannabis edibles, from what they are and how they work to how to consume them safely and effectively.

What Are Cannabis Edibles?

So first things first. What do we mean by "edible?"

Cannabis edibles are food or drink products infused with cannabinoids, the active compounds found in the cannabis plant. The two more common you're going to see are THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" cannabis creates, or CBD, which is non-psychoactive and often used for its therapeutic properties. Some edibles contain a combination of both, since these compounds and others have synergistic effects.

With that in mind, it's also important to point out that edibles come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, cookies, beverages, and even snacky items like popcorn or chips. The appeal of edibles for most people lies in their convenience and the fact that they don’t require smoking or vaping, making them a popular choice for those who want a more discreet and healthier way to consume cannabis.

So that's what they are. Now let's turn our attention to what they do.

How Do Edibles Work?

When you consume an edible, your body processes it differently than smoking or vaping cannabis. The cannabinoids in the edible pass through your digestive system before entering the bloodstream. This means that the onset of effects is much slower — typically taking anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in — compared to smoking, where the effects are almost immediate.

Once the cannabinoids reach your stomach and intestines, they are absorbed and metabolized by the liver. In the case of THC, the liver converts it into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more psychoactive than THC itself. This process is why edibles often produce a more intense and long-lasting high compared to smoking or vaping. That's good news for a lot of people, though. Since it takes time for the body to process the cannabinoids, edibles provide sustained relief for a number of symptoms from chronic pain relief to anxiety reduction, lasting anywhere from four to eight hours or more.

So with that in mind, let's take a look at some of their benefits.

Why Choose Edibles?

Edibles have several distinct advantages over other consumption methods, which is why a lot of folks prefer them these days. Some of the big ones include:

• Discretion: Edibles are portable and can be consumed without drawing attention. There’s no smoke or vapor involved, so you can take them discreetly, whether at home, in public, or at your family's awkward holiday party.
• Long-lasting Effects: As mentioned, before edibles offer a more prolonged experience. This can be really helpful for folks using cannabis for chronic conditions like pain or insomnia, where long-term relief is needed.
• No Lung Irritation: Smoking or vaping cannabis can irritate your lungs, especially folks with respiratory issues. Edibles provide a smoke-free alternative, making them easier on your airways.
• Precise Dosing: Many commercially-produced edibles come in measured doses, making it easier to control your intake. Really helpful if you're looking for a more consistent experience than smoking provides.
• Variety of Options: Edibles come in a wide variety of flavors, forms, and formulations, giving users flexibility in how they consume cannabis. Whether you like succulent sweets or more savory snacks, there’s an edible for everyone.

With that last bit in mind, let's move on and talk more at length about the types of edibles you're going to come across while you're out shopping.

Understanding the Different Types of Edibles

As you've likely seen, cannabis edibles come in many different forms, which allows you to choose the one that best suits your personal tastes or needs. Some of the most popular types include:

• Gummies: These are among the most popular edibles due to their convenience, variety of flavors, and consistency in dosing. Gummies come in different potencies, and many manufacturers like Sherpa offer vegan, gluten-free, and low-sugar options.
• Chocolates and Candies: Chocolates are another favorite, with many varieties available, from rich dark chocolate to creamy milk chocolate and flavored options like caramel or mint. Hard candies and lozenges are also widely available.
• Pills and mints: If you're looking to microdose, small amounts of THC are often infused into mints or put into pill form for easy, quick consumption. If you want the benefits of cannabis without the intoxication, this is an interesting method to try.
• Baked Goods: From cookies and brownies to cakes and muffins, baked goods infused with cannabis provide a pretty tasty way to consume cannabis. These may take a little longer to take effect due to the slower digestion of fats, but if you're looking for indulgence, this is a great way to do it..
• Beverages: Cannabis-infused drinks are a newer trend but have become popular really quickly. They come in many forms, including sodas, sparkling waters, teas, and even coffee. The liquid form means faster absorption compared to solid edibles, with onset usually occurring in about 15 to 30 minutes.
• Snacks: For those who prefer salty over sweet, there are cannabis-infused chips, pretzels, popcorn, and other savory snacks. These are often less common than sweet edibles but are growing in popularity. Heck, we've even seen cannabis-infused beef jerky before.

So as you can see there are tons of options out there. No matter the type of edible you choose, though, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind to make sure you make the most out of your experience and don't end up non-verbal on the couch. Trust us, that's not the outcome you're going for.

Dosing Cannabis Edibles Correctly

Proper dosing is one of the most important aspects of safely consuming cannabis edibles. Remember, edibles can be very potent, and it’s easy to accidentally consume too much if you’re not careful — especially if you're new to this. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Take it Slow

If you’re new to edibles, it’s essential to start with a low dose. Equally important is to wait before consuming more. The general recommendation is to begin with about 5mg of THC or less, especially if you’re a beginner.  After consuming an edible, wait at least two hours before considering taking more. Remember that edibles take time to metabolize, and you won’t feel anything for a while. Do not think that means it isn't working though. One of the classic mistakes people make is assuming their edible isn't working, eating more, and then getting hit by a proverbial bus an hour later. Don't be that guy.

Understand Potency

It's also really important to understand that not all edibles are created equal in terms of potency. While many edibles are carefully measured for THC or CBD, if you don't know the difference between what 10mg and 25mg feels like, you want to stay on the safe side. Always check the packaging to see the cannabinoid content per serving and be cautious. When in doubt, take half. You can always consume more, not less.

Consider Your Tolerance

Everyone reacts to cannabis differently, and your personal tolerance to THC will play a role in how much you can safely consume. If you’re unsure of your tolerance, always start with the lowest dose possible and gradually increase over time. Keep in mind that factors like your weight, metabolism, and experience with cannabis can affect how you react to edibles, and everyone's body is different.

Pay Attention to the CBD-to-THC Ratio

Some edibles are made with a balance of both THC and CBD, while others contain predominantly THC or CBD. If you’re new to cannabis, you might want to start with products that have a higher CBD-to-THC ratio, as CBD can help moderate the effects of THC and reduce the likelihood of anxiety or paranoia. There's some pretty interesting science behind this, actually. It's called the entourage effect, and this phenomenon is responsible for some of the more interesting health benefits of the cannabis plant overall. 

The Importance of Proper Timing

We've said it before, but it's important enough to repeat. Edibles take longer to produce effects than smoking or vaping. The delay in onset can be confusing for beginners who may mistakenly think the edible isn’t working and consume more before the first dose kicks in. That's why it's so important to be patient. If you don’t feel anything right away, resist the urge to take more. Give it at least two hours to kick in before deciding whether or not to consume more. Trust us, it is working.

What To Expect from Edibles

When consumed in the correct dosage, edibles can provide a really interesting and enjoyable experience. That said, it’s important to understand the range of possible effects and how they might show up for you. Here are some of the positive effects.

• A Feeling of Euphoria: If the edible contains THC, you may feel a sense of euphoria or “high.” This can be accompanied by heightened sensory perception, mood enhancement, and a feeling of relaxation.
• A Sense of Calm: CBD-rich edibles, or those with a balanced THC/CBD ratio, are more likely to produce feelings of calm and relaxation without the psychoactive high. This can be great for managing stress, anxiety, or sleep issues.
• Significant Pain Relief: Many people use edibles for relief from chronic pain conditions, including arthritis, muscle soreness, and back pain. Edibles can provide long-lasting pain relief that continues for several hours.

And here are some effects most people would consider negative.

• Dry Mouth and Red Eyes: Some people experience common side effects of cannabis use, such as dry mouth or red eyes. While these effects are generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable for some folks.
• Increased Appetite: Edibles, especially THC-infused ones, may trigger the “munchies,” which can cause you to feel hungrier than usual. It might sound cute, but for some people it feels like an imperative to eat. Having some snacks on hand can help.
• Intense Highs or Paranoia: If you take too much THC, the effects can be overwhelming, and can actually run counter to what you're going for. This might look like an intense lack of coordination, confusion, or extreme paranoia.

What To Do If You’ve Taken Too Much

Hey, we've all been there. Even seasoned cannabis consumers can occasionally overdo it, especially with edibles. If you find yourself feeling uncomfortable or overly intoxicated after consuming too much, don’t panic — there are things you can do to ease the effects:

• Have Some Water. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can amplify the effects of cannabis.
• Get Something to Eat: Eating food can help your body process the cannabinoids more gradually. Avoid alcohol, though, as it can intensify the effects of THC.
• Quiet things down: If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, try to find a quiet and comfortable space to relax. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that the effects will wear off.
• Do something low-stakes: It might feel like lying down is all you can do, but if your mind is racing, it can be helpful to engage in a different activity to help that mental energy engage with something else. Go for a nice walk around the block or maybe wash the dishes. Focusing on something else can put a stop to the spiral you're feeling.

Starting on Your Edible Journey

If you're new to edibles, welcome! We're so happy you've trusted us to help guide you on this journey. LIke we said above, it's important to start off with a low dose, wait for the effects to kick in, and only increase your dose if necessary. If you follow those simple steps, you're in for a world of physical and mental health benefits. Always keep in mind that everyone’s experience with cannabis is different, so take your time and find what works best for you. Be mindful, be curious, be intentional. And most of all, have fun!