Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts. They come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, cookies, and beverages. Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles offer a smoke-free way to consume cannabis. This makes them an appealing option for those who prefer not to inhale substances.
When you consume an edible, the active compounds in cannabis are metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This process is different from inhalation methods where cannabinoids enter the bloodstream directly through the lungs. Because of this metabolic pathway, edibles take longer to produce effects compared to smoking or vaping.
Typically, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours for edibles to kick in. The onset time can vary based on several factors such as your metabolism, body weight, and whether you’ve eaten recently. For instance, consuming edibles on an empty stomach might lead to quicker effects compared to having them after a large meal.
Once they do kick in, the effects of edibles tend to last longer than other consumption methods. You might experience effects for anywhere from four to eight hours or even longer depending on the dose and your individual tolerance level.
It’s important to start with a low dose if you’re new to edibles or trying a new product for the first time. Since they take longer to kick in, some people make the mistake of consuming more too soon thinking that they haven’t taken enough initially. This can lead to stronger effects than anticipated once everything kicks in.
In summary, edibles offer a discreet and smoke-free way of consuming cannabis with delayed onset but prolonged effects. Understanding how they work can help you have a more predictable experience when trying them out for yourself.
