If you’re someone who prefers edibles over smoking or vaping cannabis, you may be wondering how much of a cake or brownie you need to eat to get high.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: it depends on several factors, including the potency of the edible, your tolerance level, and your body chemistry.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at edibles, their effects on the body, and how to properly dose them. We’ll also discuss some tips for consuming edibles safely and responsibly.

Understanding Edibles

What are edibles?

Edibles are food products that are infused with cannabis. They can come in various forms, such as brownies, gummies, chocolates, and even drinks. Edibles are an alternative way of consuming cannabis, especially for those who do not prefer smoking or vaping.

How do edibles work?

Edibles are absorbed by the body through the digestive system. When you ingest an edible, it goes through your stomach and into your liver, where it is broken down into delta-9-THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. The liver converts delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and can have a longer-lasting effect than smoking or vaping.

How are edibles different from smoking or vaping?

Edibles have a delayed onset compared to smoking or vaping. It can take up to 2 hours for the effects to kick in, while smoking or vaping can produce immediate effects. Edibles also have a longer-lasting effect, which can last anywhere from 4-12 hours, depending on dosage and individual tolerance. Smoking or vaping typically lasts for 2-3 hours.

It is important to note that edibles should be consumed responsibly and with caution. The effects can be unpredictable, especially for those who are new to edibles or have a low tolerance for cannabis. Always start with a low dosage and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.

For more information on edibles and cannabis consumption, check out Leafly and Project CBD.

Factors Affecting Edible Dosage

Edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. Unlike smoking, edibles take longer to take effect and can provide a longer-lasting high. However, the dosage of edibles can be difficult to measure and can vary from person to person. There are several factors that can affect the potency of edibles and the dosage required to achieve the desired effect.

  • Potency of the edible: The potency of an edible is determined by the amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) it contains. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” sensation. Different edibles can have different levels of THC, so it’s important to read the label and know the potency before consuming.
  • Tolerance level: Tolerance refers to the body’s ability to handle THC. Individuals who consume cannabis regularly may have a higher tolerance level, which means they may require a higher dosage to achieve the desired effect. Conversely, individuals who are new to cannabis or have a low tolerance may experience the effects of edibles with a smaller dosage.
  • Body chemistry: Each individual’s body chemistry is unique and can affect the way they respond to edibles. Factors such as weight, metabolism, and digestive health can all impact how quickly the body processes THC and the potency of the effects.
  • Timing of consumption: The timing of consumption can also affect the potency of edibles. Consuming edibles on an empty stomach can result in a quicker onset of effects and a stronger high. Conversely, consuming edibles after a meal can delay the onset of effects and result in a weaker high.

It’s important to start with a low dosage when consuming edibles, especially if you’re new to cannabis or have a low tolerance level. It’s also important to wait at least two hours before consuming more, as the effects of edibles can take longer to kick in compared to smoking. By understanding the factors that can affect edible dosage, individuals can make informed decisions about consumption and avoid potentially negative experiences.

Properly Dosing Edibles

Edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis, but they can be tricky to dose properly. Unlike smoking or vaping, the effects of edibles can take much longer to kick in and last for much longer. Here are some tips for properly dosing edibles:

  • Starting with a low dose: It’s important to start with a low dose of edibles, especially if you’re new to them or if you’re trying a new product. The recommended starting dose is 5-10mg of THC, but some people may need even less.
  • Waiting for the effects to kick in: Unlike smoking or vaping, the effects of edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. It’s important to wait at least 2 hours before taking more, as overconsumption can lead to uncomfortable side effects.
  • Avoiding overconsumption: Overconsumption is the most common problem with edibles. Taking too much can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and other uncomfortable side effects. If you do overconsume, try to stay calm and remind yourself that the effects will wear off eventually.
  • Titration and microdosing: Titration is the process of gradually increasing your dose over time until you find the right amount for you. Microdosing is the practice of taking small amounts of cannabis throughout the day to maintain a consistent level of effects. Both of these methods can help you avoid overconsumption and find the right dose for you.

Remember, everyone’s tolerance and metabolism are different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to start with a low dose and go slow, especially if you’re new to edibles or if you’re trying a new product. For more information on dosing edibles, check out Leafly’s guide to dosing homemade cannabis edibles.

Tips for Safe and Responsible Consumption

When it comes to consuming edibles, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and to practice safe and responsible consumption. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Keep edibles out of reach of children and pets. Edibles can look and taste like regular food, so it’s important to store them safely to avoid accidental ingestion. Keep them in a locked cabinet or high up on a shelf.
  • Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after consuming edibles. The effects can be unpredictable and impair your ability to drive safely.
  • Stay hydrated and eat healthy snacks. Edibles can cause dry mouth and the munchies, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and have some healthy snacks on hand to avoid overindulging.
  • Avoid mixing edibles with other substances. Combining edibles with alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of adverse effects and may lead to dangerous situations.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when consuming edibles. Remember to always start with a low dose and wait at least an hour before consuming more. If you have any concerns or experience any adverse effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Edibles can be an enjoyable and effective way to consume cannabis, but it’s important to understand how they work and how to properly dose them. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience with edibles.

Remember to always start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. And if you’re unsure about the potency of an edible or how much you should consume, consult with a healthcare professional or budtender for guidance.

Jane Smith brings over a decade of experience as a licensed therapist and life advisor to her role as founder of LifeAnswersHQ.

After earning her masters in social work from NYU, Jane began counseling individuals and families at a local wellness center. During her sessions, she found many struggling not with mental illness per se, but with the universal difficulties navigating career, relationships, identity, life transitions and finding meaning.

Seeing a shortage of judgment-free spaces to openly ask life’s messy questions, Jane launched LifeAnswersHQ as an online resource bridging this gap.

At LifeAnswersHQ, Jane tirelessly empowers a community where people tackle tough life situations together, with empathy and wisdom that comes from shared experiences.

Outside running LifeAnswersHQ, Jane continues to counsel clients invoicing them that “no problem is too messy when we work through challenges guided by compassion rather than shame”.

Jane also consults with startups on building supportive company cultures fostering openness and understanding among employees during difficult times. Drawing from her diverse clinical and coaching experiences Jane published the book “Answers Await: Finding Life Wisdom in Shared Stories” highlighting impactful lessons for navigating adversity.

When she’s not working you’ll find Jane enjoying city strolls, poetry jams and playing scrabble with friends discussing creative ways to keep nurturing understanding on life’s journey of twists and turns.

Similar Posts