Just 20 or 30 years ago, eating hash brownies was considered taboo and was reserved solely for Cheech & Chong-watching stoners. Back then, people thought the only “benefit” of marijuana was getting high and having a good laugh. 

Of course, unless you’ve been living under a rock for a few years, you probably won’t know that cannabis isn’t just for smoking anymore. So, wait, you can eat weed? Absolutely.

But wait, it gets better. 30 years ago, hash brownies were pretty much the only option. But now the market is booming with a variety of THC-infused edibles, from gummies and tinctures to THC-infused chocolates. You can also cook some delicious THC-infused recipes and call it a Happy Meal.

Today, we’ll be discussing everything related to edibles from their basic meaning, their types and how long do edibles last.

What are Edibles?

What counts as an edible? Pretty much anything infused with THC or other cannabinoids. You might hear the term “infused” thrown around a lot, like THC-infused chocolate, tea, or even a few savory dishes. 

Demand for edibles is booming in Canada! In 2023, a whopping 57.1% of cannabis users were for edibles, with women 62.7% and men 57.1%. Interestingly, for the younger crowd ranging from 18-24, both genders are equally into them.

Why are Edible More Potent?

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One of the most asked questions is undoubtedly, ‘How long do edibles take to kick in?’ 

When you eat or drink edibles, your body processes THC differently than when you smoke it. Smoking sends THC directly from your lungs to your bloodstream, then straight to your brain for quick effects. But with edibles, your liver processes the THC first, turning it into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent compound that slaps harder and lasts longer. This is why edibles take up to two hours to kick in, but when they do, the effects last longer and hit harder. 

Full-spectrum edibles include the plant’s entire range of cannabinoids and terpenes, while others, like capsules, are more targeted, focusing on specific cannabinoids like CBD, CNN, CBG, or THCa for effect-specific applications. 

We’ve all heard the classic edible horror story: a young lad on vacation eats an edible, feels nothing for 30 minutes, then eats another. Suddenly, the first pill hits him, and the second one hits hard. Now, the dude is strapped on a wild, anxiety-fueled ride through the galaxy. He can’t escape it until the starship comes down and lets him go.

This person is not you. You’re wise! Start low, be patient, and enjoy the trip. 

Smoking V/S Edibles: Which is Better?

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Not all THC are created equal. You may be consuming the same strain, but how you take them makes all the difference. Let’s break down the main differences between smoking and edibles because, trust us- they’re like night and day!

Smoking

Edible
Onset time 10-15 minutes 30 minutes-2 hours
Duration 2-4 hours 6-8 hours
High Moderate Strong

Many doctors advise people to use smokeless forms of cannabis, especially those who have problems with their lungs or breathing. Many recreational consumers may also opt for smokeless products such as edibles, capsules, tinctures, and many more.

While edible may sound like a popular and safer choice, they come with their own set of risks. Risk of overdosing, not suitable for newbies, to name a few. Those with a low tolerance should start slow and take their time.

That said, with a little bit of education and awareness, edibles are an exciting option filled with numerous choices. Below, you can find various types of popular edibles.

Different Types of Cannabis Edibles

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Some edibles have a fast effect. They also give flexibility in choosing ingredients and consumer preferences. When heading over to the dispensary to check out the different types of edibles, you’ll most likely see some (or all) of these on the sales shelves:

  • Gummies or Chews

Gummies are hands down the most popular edible, and for a good reason. They’re fun, fruity, and super easy to dose, starting as low as 2.5 mg, which is perfect for newbies. 

They’re discreet and portable. Pop one on the bus, and no one will bat an eye.

  • Sweet Treats

Sweet treats go on and on—brownies, cookies, and chocolate, all packed with cannabis oil or distillate. These titbits come in various strengths, making dosing easy and taste delicious. 

  • Honey

Yes, honey. They keep your life sweet and get you high at the same time. With its precise dosing, discreetness, and easy portability, honey is a total game-changer. They also are a healthier option.

  • Drinks

It may sound weird, but yes, you can drink your weed. These days, the market is filled with cannabis-infused tea, iced drinks, and even powdered drink mixes like some old-school Kool-aid.

  • Tinctures

Tinctures aren’t like any other edibles on our list. They are taken sublingually and absorbed directly under your tongue, so they hit your bloodstream faster. The effect usually kicks in around 20 minutes.

  • Capsules And Pills

Capsules and pills are our favorite cannabis edibles. They are a cost-effective, precise, portable, and convenient way to consume cannabis. If taken under a doctor’s prescription, they can deliver high doses.

Dosing Cannabis Edibles

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If you’re new to edibles or have a lower tolerance, the golden rule is simple: start low and go slow. Always remember to avoid the dreaded overconsumption and find your perfect dose without going overboard. 

Begin with a small dose, somewhere between 2.5 and 5mg THC. If you’re a little more experienced, a “standard” dose is usually around 10mg. Some states even offer higher doses, but those are typically for medical cardholders.

Always read the labeling carefully! Make sure you know exactly how much THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are inside, and check the duration of the trip so you’re not left wondering. Keep in mind that it takes anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to feel the full effects, especially if you’re a newbie. So, resist the urge to make more before it fully kicks in. 

If you truly want to experiment, try making your own edibles at home. You can pick up some butter, oil, or other baking fats to make your own infused options. It’s ideal for anyone who loves to make delicious meals or desserts at home. 

Final Thoughts

There you go now, know the inside out of edibles, from how long they last to how long they kick in. Cannabis edibles are easily one of the most exciting parts of the cannabis world, with something for everyone. Whether you’re after a specific high or just want to try something new, knowing your options and how to use them is key to having the best experience possible.

And if you’re looking to stock up, check out The Green Ace—your go-to online dispensary. We’ve got everything from top-shelf gummies to tasty chocolates and refreshing drinks, all at budget-friendly prices. Plus, we offer fast shipping and killer deals to make your shopping easy and affordable!