Edibles 101

Available in a variety of high-quality baked goods, chocolates, candies, beverages, and more, edibles are ingestible products that have been infused to produce effects without the need to smoke or vaporize cannabis. While edibles provide an easy, prolonged & discreet method of consumption, onset of effects take longer to set in, can increase over time and does not subside as quickly. For these reasons, we recommend a slow and low approach to your dosage, as well as waiting up to 6 hours to determine the maximum effect of the edibles ingested. Below are some general guidelines and suggestions for creating a pleasant edible experience and mitigating unwanted side effects.

Many factors influence the effect of edibles on your particular biology, which is why this information is for educational purposes only. Riverside Wellness always recommends consulting with your doctor or another qualified medical professional when exploring the right form & dosage of cannabis for your unique medical needs.

Considerations When Taking Edibles:

  • THC has biphasic properties, meaning that a lower dose may have one effect such as relieving stress and producing relaxation, while a larger dose can produce the opposite effects such as producing increased feelings of anxiety and stress.

  • Taking THC edibles on an empty stomach can cause faster absorption, onset and increased intensity. In addition, consuming foods high in fat in conjunction with THC may cause higher rates of absorption.

  • Edibles are absorbed through the digestive system, which results in delayed onset, compared to inhalation or sublingually, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours to produce effects, and effects may last from 4-8 hours. Higher dosages can create more intense and prolonged effects.

  • Potency of an edible is measured in milligrams of cannabinoids contained in the product, rather than percentage of cannabinoid strength. Edible packaging will state milligrams of cannabinoids per serving as well as milligrams in the entire package. For example, an entire chocolate bar may contain 50 milligrams, but be divided into 10 pieces that contain 5 milligrams per piece. Always read labels carefully to understand how much you are actually consuming.

  • Edibles have a wide variety of CBD to THC ratios in order to produce varying entourage effects. Ratios with a higher concentration of CBD can be less intoxicating than edibles without CBD, although intoxication is dependent on how much THC you consume. For this reason, we recommend you decide on the best dosage based on the THC content of an edible.

 

Know Your Dose

If you are new to edibles, we always recommend starting small and adding gradually. Below you will find a simple dosage chart for educational purposes only.

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Methods of Consumption

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The Endocannabinoid System