Education
Learn more about marijuana, edibles and their effects on you
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are active compounds in cannabis, with over 100 types identified so far. The most common include THC and CBD, offering varying effects from euphoria to relaxation. Understanding these can help guide your cannabis experience and product choice.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
THC is the primary compound in marijuana, and it can make you feel uplifted, energetic, creative and euphoric. It can also stimulate your appetite. After eating an edible with THC, it may take some time for you to feel its effects.
CBD (Cannabidiol):
CBD a compound found in marijuana that does not give a mental, “high” feeling that THC does, and offers potential therapeutic benefits. When consuming CBD-infused edibles, you can experience a sense of relaxation and potential relief from anxiety or discomfort, without the psychoactive effects of THC. Since CBD does not produce a mental high, it can be useful for those seeking the potential therapeutic properties of cannabis without the intoxicating effects.
CBG (Cannabigerol):
CBG is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is gaining attention for its potential health benefits. Ongoing research suggests that CBG possesses anti-inflammatory properties and could potentially offer neuroprotective effects.
CBN (Cannabinol):
CBN is a cannabinoid that is formed when THC breaks down over time. While it gives a mild, mental high, CBN is often associated with sedative properties, potentially aiding in sleep and relaxation.
An Introduction to Understanding Medical Marijuana Edibles
Embarking on the journey through the world of medical marijuana edibles can sometimes feel like navigating uncharted territory, particularly for those new to this form of cannabis consumption. This is largely due to the significant differences between consuming edibles and traditional methods of cannabis consumption, such as smoking or vaping.
When you consume cannabis in an edible format, the body processes it in a unique way. As opposed to being directly absorbed into the bloodstream via the lungs, the active compounds in edibles are metabolized by the liver. During this metabolic
process, the delta-9-THC (the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis) is converted into a compound known as 11-hydroxy-THC. This derivative is more potent and longer-lasting than delta-9-THC, which can result in a more intense and extended effect.
Interestingly, this means that the same strain of cannabis can produce noticeably different effects when consumed as an edible versus when it is smoked or vaped. For example, a sativa-based edible, usually associated with energizing and uplifting
effects, might instead deliver stronger, more sedative effects due to the conversion to 11-hydroxy-THC.
Another crucial difference to consider when consuming edibles is the onset time, or the length of time it takes to feel the effects. Unlike inhalation methods where effects can be felt almost immediately, edibles must pass through the digestive system, which results in a delayed onset. This delay can range anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on factors like metabolism, body weight, and the content of your stomach. This longer onset time can sometimes lead to unintentional overconsumption, as inexperienced users may consume additional edibles thinking they haven’t taken enough, which can lead to uncomfortably intense effects.
When choosing an edible, it’s essential to understand that the traditional sativa and indica classifications may not accurately predict the effects you’ll experience. Rather, you must take into account how edibles are uniquely processed in the body and the different ways they can interact with your individual physiology.