Cannabis has come a long way over the years. Even before the legalization of recreational marijuana, more people have started utilizing the wide breadth of benefits provided by the plethora of cannabinoids found within the hemp plant. And along with this wide variety of cannabinoid options are the many methods in which to use them. Not everyone prefers to smoke or vape, but still want the therapeutic benefits found within cannabis. Often, they turn to edibles, like gummies, chocolate or infused drinks.
What are cannabinoids and how do they work?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, which may provide numerous benefits including pain management, sleep aid, stress relief, and more. The most well-known cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but the cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, each one interacting differently with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to potentially produce therapeutic effects for overall wellness.
What are edibles?
Cannabis edibles, simply put, are any food products that contain cannabinoids. It’s a broad category and can include anything from traditional brownies to gummies, lollipops, chocolates, and even beverages like sodas, teas, and seltzers.
How do they work?
Once digested, edibles are metabolized by the liver, before the cannabinoids reach the brain. While this approach takes longer to feel the full effects of the cannabinoid than smoking, which is metabolized by the lungs, the effects often last a significant amount of time longer. Generally, most edibles take between 45 minutes and 2 hours to take effect, and can last as long as 8-10 hours. Additionally, when ingested, cannabis may produce stronger effects when consumed with fatty foods. Cannabinoids bind to fat which can help increase the edible’s longevity.
Will all edibles get you high?
No. While the rising popularity of legalized, recreational marijuana has produced a number of potent Delta-9 edibles with psychoactive cannabinoids, there is a wide variety of cannabinoids that can help contribute to a wellness routine without the high. Cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, and CBG, among others may produce therapeutic benefits that could aid in alleviating stress, inflammation, sleep and more, without the psychoactive effects. With more than 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant, the potential effects are wide ranging, some producing a high, while others may help alleviate stress or help manage pain.
Finding the right edibles.
Each wellness journey is personal, and developed around specific goals, tastes and lifestyle choices. Finding the right edible is a matter of understanding both what you’re trying to achieve with your wellness routine, and what you want to consume. With so many options, finding something that tastes good is the easy part. It’s important to understand the cannabinoids in the product, and how they might affect your body and mind. When exploring edibles, it’s helpful to seek out guidance from experts who understand the products, and can explain how they might affect you.
How much should I take?
There’s no easy answer for this. External considerations like metabolism and tolerance all factor into how an edible affects the user. It’s important to remember that edibles take longer to take effect, which may lead some to consuming too much, too fast. It’s also important to note that the effects of edibles typically last longer than other methods of consumption. Beginners should start with edibles that have a lower potency, and work their way up as they discover how they affect their endocannabinoid system.
Let CBD Kratom be your guide.
Stop by one of our stores today and speak to an expert. Our Doyens are knowledgeable and trained to help you determine your needs and find the right edibles for your wellness journey. You can also schedule some one-on-one time with one of our experts from the comfort of your home via video conference or phone.