Cannabis edible

Three space brownies

Bhang eaters before two huts (6124556163)

Alice B. Toklas, by Carl Van Vechten - 1949

Sativa cannabis gummies

Jamie Evans, Author of Cannabis Drinks

Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabinoids, the active compounds found in the cannabis plant. These edibles are consumed for both medical and recreational purposes, offering an alternative to smoking or vaporizing cannabis. The primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis edibles is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), although many products also contain cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids.

Types of Cannabis Edibles[edit | edit source]

Cannabis edibles come in various forms, including but not limited to:

Baked goods: Cookies, brownies, and cakes.
Candy: Gummies, lollipops, and chocolates.
Beverages: Teas, sodas, and coffees.
Tinctures: Liquid extracts often administered under the tongue.
Capsules: Pills containing cannabis oil.

Effects[edit | edit source]

The effects of cannabis edibles can vary significantly from those of inhaled cannabis. When ingested, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a potent psychoactive compound, leading to a more intense and longer-lasting effect compared to smoking. The onset of effects typically occurs within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion and can last up to 12 hours, depending on the dose and the individual's metabolism.

Medical Use[edit | edit source]

Cannabis edibles are used by some patients for symptom relief in conditions such as chronic pain, cancer-related symptoms, and neurological disorders. The precise dosing and longer duration of effects can be beneficial for managing chronic conditions.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

The legal status of cannabis edibles varies by jurisdiction. In regions where medical and/or recreational cannabis is legal, edibles are often subject to strict regulations regarding their production, packaging, and sale to ensure safety and prevent access by minors.

Safety and Considerations[edit | edit source]

The delayed onset of effects associated with edibles can lead to overconsumption, as individuals may consume a higher dose believing the initial dose was insufficient. It is important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to manifest before consuming more. Additionally, the packaging and marketing of cannabis edibles that resemble regular food products can pose a risk of accidental ingestion, particularly in children.