Cannabis edibles are a fun and discreet way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without smoking or vaping. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced user, edibles offer a unique and adventurous experience. Before diving in, let’s break down how they work, why dosing can be tricky, and why some edibles hit faster than others.
How Edibles Are Dosed
When consuming edibles, the key is precise dosing. Edibles are typically measured in milligrams of THC, with doses ranging from as low as 2.5 mg to over 100 mg in some products. For beginners, 5-10 mg is a common starting point, but how your body reacts can depend on your metabolism, tolerance, and even the type of edible.
While many homemade edibles are produced using a decarbed butter or oil, edibles sold at retail stores are predominantly made with cannabis extracts. There are different extraction methods, which affects the type and concentration of cannabinoids they contain. Some edibles are created with cannabis distillate, which removes all other cannabinoids and isolates THC. This produces a more pure THC experience but lacks the potential synergistic effects of other cannabinoids, such as CBD or CBG.
In contrast, other edibles are made using full-spectrum extracts, which include a range of cannabinoids and terpenes found in the plant. These full-spectrum edibles may offer more balanced effects, thanks to the “entourage effect,” where different cannabinoids work together to enhance the overall experience.
Extraction Methods
The way the cannabis oil is extracted also varies. Some edibles are made from concentrates extracted using solvents like propane or butane, which can efficiently isolate THC. Other edibles use solventless methods, such as ice-water extraction to create hash rosin, a concentrate made by freezing and agitating the plant material in ice water to separate the trichomes. This method results in a more natural concentrate, free from chemical solvents, and is prized for its purity and flavor.
Why Dosing at Home Can Be Challenging
For home cooks, getting consistent doses is often tricky. The THC doesn’t always distribute evenly throughout the food, meaning some portions can be stronger than others. Additionally, the infusion process is sensitive to temperature and time, which can affect the final potency. For those seeking reliable results, it’s best to stick with professionally made edibles.
Why Does It Take So Long to Feel the Effects?
If you’ve ever tried an edible and found yourself waiting for the effects to kick in, there’s a reason for the delay. It all comes down to how THC is metabolized. When you eat an edible, the THC is absorbed through the digestive system and processed by the liver. This conversion turns THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form of the compound that takes longer to cross the blood-brain barrier.
For most people, this process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, so it’s important to be patient and avoid taking more before you feel the effects.
Beverages: Faster-Acting Edibles
While traditional edibles take time to work, cannabis-infused beverages tend to act more quickly. This is because liquids are absorbed faster than solid foods, and many beverages use nano-emulsified THC, which breaks down the THC into smaller particles for quicker absorption.
With beverages, you might feel the effects in as little as 15-30 minutes, making them a great option for those who want a faster onset of effects compared to other types of edibles.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9: Understanding the Difference
When it comes to THC, Delta-9 is the most well-known compound, providing the classic euphoric high associated with cannabis. However, Delta-8 THC has gained popularity recently, and it’s important to understand how it differs from Delta-9.
Delta-8 THC is a phytocannabinoid present in small amounts in hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant. Because Delta-8 occurs naturally in only trace amounts, it is typically created through a process of extracting CBD from hemp, which is then chemically converted into Delta-8 THC. This means that Delta-8 is a synthetic, less potent form of THC, derived from hemp rather than cannabis.
Thanks to a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill, Delta-8 products made from hemp are legal under federal law, allowing them to be produced and sold in states where cannabis remains illegal. However, because Delta-8 is often produced outside of the tightly regulated cannabis market, it may not undergo the same rigorous testing for purity and potency that Delta-9 THC products do. This could raise concerns for some consumers about product quality and safety.
While Delta-8 provides a milder psychoactive experience compared to Delta-9, it’s important to be aware of these differences and choose products that meet your safety and quality expectations.
Types of Edibles
Edibles come in a wide variety of forms, but nearly any food or drink can be infused with cannabis. Here are some of the most common types:
- Gummies & Chocolates – Perfect for discretion and easy dosing.
- Baked Goods – Cookies, brownies, and other treats.
- Savory Snacks – Chips, popcorn, and more for a flavorful experience.
- Beverages – From sparkling waters to teas, beverages are fast-acting and delicious.
- Capsules & Pills – For those looking for precise, no-fuss dosing.
While you can make edibles at home, the results may vary. For consistent, reliable effects, it’s best to buy professionally made edibles that are tested and labeled for potency.
East Coast Cannabis: Edibles for Every Adventure
At East Coast Cannabis, we believe in offering high-end, craft-quality cannabis products, and our selection of edibles is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a creativity boost or body relaxation, our edibles are discreet, portable, and delicious.
We proudly serve our customers at three convenient locations across Maine: Lebanon, Eliot, and Waterville. Each store provides a welcoming environment with knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you find the perfect edible for your needs. Whether you’re visiting from nearby or traveling.
From low-calorie and sugar-free options to indulgent chocolates and fast-acting beverages, we offer a wide variety of edibles to suit every taste and lifestyle. Whether you’re spending a lazy day at home or embarking on a new adventure, our edibles are the perfect companion.
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Live the Adventure with East Coast Cannabis, your go-to destination for recreational cannabis edibles in Maine.
