The growing interest in the recreational and functional properties of Cannabis, combined with its ongoing legalization, has made this miraculous plant the most popular choice for casual consumers and connoisseurs alike. The explosion in its popularity has also meant an explosion in cannabis products. As its natural compounds (THC and CBD) can enter the body in many ways -smoking, vaping, ingesting, and through the skin – the number of Cannabis products is bountiful. Certain products, though, seem to be more prominent than others. Infused cannabis edibles are one of them. What is more, as a discrete and smoke-free alternative to other methods of consumption, they have profoundly changed the way people and the market see this fascinating plant.
So, what exactly are weed-infused edibles, and why are they so popular? Let’s dig in.
Cannabis edibles explained
Cannabis-based edibles are any food item that contains cannabis. Traditionally, cannabis edibles are products like cakes, cookies, gummies, chocolate bars, and tea. However, products like weed-infused almonds, dry fruit, honey, smoothie, coffee, and many more are currently also very popular. All these foods are made with cannabis strains of cannabis by-products like oil and butter. While some are made with Indica strains (known for their deep body relaxation effect), others are made with Sativa strains (known for their energizing effect), Hybrid (a combination of the two), or pure CBD, are manufactured and prepared by vendors for both medical and recreational dispensaries.
When it comes to its consumption, ingesting Cannabis has an entirely different effect than smoking. Due to its slow disintegration in the digestive system, the effects of the consumed product can take up to two hours to hit. However, the intensity is higher and may last longer.
Cannabis-infused edibles were made available to patients and the public in Canada in October 2019. According to the Medical Cannabis Network, cannabis edibles are the most intriguing format of consumption (48%) for consumers above 20 years old. Overall, two-thirds (66%) of open non-users are interested in ingestible (edible and drinkable) cannabis. This is no surprise, since edibles also come with a few benefits. They are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Foods or drinks made with raw cannabis are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, iron, calcium, and folate. Also, weed-infused food provides an option to enjoy cannabis’ benefits discreetly though you should never forget to use an adequate dosage. Importantly, with such a significant product diversification, for example in Canada, edibles can be found both in an online dispensary or legal cannabis shops, making them more accessible. To ensure their quality, taste, and, more importantly, safety, always source your infused edibles from a reputable (online) dispensary that offers an extensive variety of edibles Canada-wise.
Why are cannabis edibles so popular?
#1 An emerging field of scientific evidence shows that Cannabis has many therapeutic properties. Some doctors are even prescribing some weed-infused edibles to relieve the symptoms of diseases like epilepsy and autism. Experts also believe that they can amplify the distribution of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids across the brain and body.
#2 Edibles offer people many new and tasty alternatives to try Cannabis. They have changed people’s beliefs and attitudes towards weed, mostly because of their innocent appearance. From baked goods like the humble brownie to fine-dining experiences, Cannabis infused food and drinks are utterly attractive for curious consumers and experimenters, but also older consumer groups. As more and more people are enjoying them, food and beverage companies explore creative ways to launch and enjoy new cannabis-infused products.
#3 Edibles are a safer and better option for people who cannot smoke because of an existing illness; or because they don’t like smoking. Similar to cigarettes, cannabis smoke contains toxins that can negatively impact a person’s health. Although filters make it better, smoking still has some health risks. In contrast, edible weed products do not adversely affect lung health.
#4 Cannabis-infused foods are also convenient and cheaper. Being able to eat an infused edible anywhere and at any time provides consumers with choices. Additionally, Cannabis flowers can cost as much as $20 per gram depending on where you live, and can be consumed fairly quickly. Compared to it, an edible provides an effect that lasts longer and usually for a cheaper price. For value-minded shoppers, buying in bulk budget buds is also a very good route.
#5 Undoubtedly, edibles are the tastiest method to consume weed. From chips to chocolates to CBD gummies, weed edibles come in all things delicious! They allow an even distribution of the essential compounds like fatty acids and vitamins, providing a long-lasting and holistic effect on the body. Not to mention, they taste so much better than traditional supplements.
#6 Edibles take much longer to kick in. You may reach peak hours more slowly, usually after an hour or two, but the effects can last for up to 4-8 hours. On the other hand, smoking is a fast way of providing a near-instantaneous high that may last up to 1 -3 hours.
What to keep in mind
Cannabis can be infused in almost every type of food and drink. Yet, before indulging yourself in a weed cookie or newly- invented edible, make sure you keep in mind the following things:
Get the right dose– One of the challenges of edibles is finding out what your “ideal” dose is. Edibles affect every user differently, so usually, a little “trial and error” method is required in knowing your perfect dosage. Also, the consumption of these products affects people individually. How long will take, and with what intensity the impact will be is different for everyone. It depends on the person’s metabolism, weight, tolerance, etc. Dispensaries typically recommend starting at around ten-milligram doses and slowly advancing towards your perfect blend. If it is your first time to try edibles, keep in mind that there can be a significant variance between products, even when the stated dosage is the same.
Understand the effects of infused food– Edibles are fast becoming a popular alternative to smoking, as they give consumers a better way to enjoy their favorite pastime. Many people also find that they give a calmer, more relaxing high than smoking. However, predicting the effects of edibles can be difficult. They can take from 30 minutes to an hour to kick in but can last much longer than smoked cannabis. Depending on the dosage used, the effects can last anywhere from four to eight hours.
Eating responsibly is the answer- Edibles are utterly attractive due to their taste. However, if your tolerance is lower, or you are a new user, you may even find the dosage displayed on the products too high. Start “small” with, for example, five milligrams. Keep in mind that a single bar of cannabis-infused chocolate could contain as much as 100 milligrams of Cannabis. Rich or dense products can also take longer to digest, increasing the time between ingestion and effects. Brownies, chocolates, and other such (dense) foods mean that you will have a long wait for the hit to kick in. At the same time, infused drinks and tinctures will take effect much faster, almost the same as smoking.
