Cannabis edibles can seem like a tasty adventure—after all, who wouldn’t be tempted by THC tucked inside a brownie, cookie, or candy? But before diving in, it’s important to understand how edibles differ from smoking or vaping, and how those differences can affect your experience.
Dr. Godfrey Pearlson, director of the Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center at Hartford HealthCare’s Institute of Living, breaks it down in clear, practical terms for anyone curious about cannabis products.
1. Timing Is a Sneaky Thing
Unlike smoking, where effects hit almost immediately, edibles need to be digested first. This means it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours—or sometimes even longer—before you notice anything. Because of this delay, people often consume more, thinking nothing is happening—until it suddenly does.
2. Long Stay, No Vacancy
Once an edible kicks in, its effects can last much longer than smoked cannabis—sometimes six to eight hours or more. This extended effect happens because the liver metabolizes THC into a more potent compound along the way.
3. Labels Aren’t Always Telling the Truth
With alcohol, you can trust a bottle’s proof. With edibles, the THC number on the package may not be entirely accurate. That makes dosing tricky—you might think you’re taking a small amount, but it could be more than expected.
4. Side Effects Aren’t Always Sweet
While many seek a mellow, enjoyable experience, intense reactions like anxiety, paranoia, disorientation, or hallucinations are not uncommon—especially at higher doses. Knowing your own limits is critical.
Expert Tips Before You Try One
Dr. Pearlson offers these tips for anyone considering edibles:
Start slow—begin with the lowest possible dose and wait at least two hours before considering more.
Read labels carefully, even if they might not be perfectly accurate.
Keep edibles away from children and pets, since they often resemble candy.
Avoid mixing with alcohol, which can amplify effects unpredictably.
Know your limits—and remember that the effects will eventually wear off.
Cannabis edibles can be a fun and relaxing experience—but a little caution goes a long way. Understanding timing, dosage, and potential effects can make all the difference between a mellow evening and an unexpected ride.
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