Edible Cannabis products ("edibles" for short) has grown in popularity in recent
years. Edibles are Cannabis-infused food and beverage products that usually contain THC or CBD,
the two most well-known cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant.
The legal age for recreational Cannabis consumption (including edibles), is 21, and it is only legal is some states. It's illegal for people under 21 to buy, have or use retail Cannabis, including edibles. It's a felony for anyone to give or sell to, or share Cannabis with, anyone under 21.
Cannabis-infused baked
goods, gummies, candy, chocolate bars, and even beverages are all types edibles. They
provide an alternative to smoking or vaping Cannabis, which can be damaging to
the lungs. Edibles are frequently preferred by those seeking a more discreet and
long-lasting experience (the effects can last up to 12 hours, with
residual effects lasting up to 24 hours). The effects are long-lasting because it takes a long time for your body to absorb the THCfrom edible Cannabis in the intestines and so the THC is present in your body for longer than after smoking or vaping Cannabis.
Chocolates and brownies with Cannabis in them look like chocolates and brownies without Cannabis in them. So, they appeal to both adults and children. In fact, unintentional ingestion of edible Cannabis by children and pets is more common than you might think - - and can lead to severe health problems.
For some people, the effects of edibles can feel more intense than inhaling a similar dose of dried ("flower") Cannabis. This intensity is partly because when you ingest THC, your liver breaks it down and turns it into a stronger form.
Too much Cannabis in the form of edibles can cause a variety of negative side effects, including
impaired coordination, anxiety, paranoia, and, in extreme cases,
hallucinations. It is critical to begin with a low dose (no more than 2.5 mg of THC) and wait for the
effects to take effect before increasing the dose. (Also read: How does Cannabis use impact brain development).
Did you know that alcohol significantly increases the intoxicating and impairing effects of Cannabis? Cannabis over-intoxication can include symptoms of anxiety, panic, nausea, vomiting and paranoia. To reduce the risk of these negative experiences, stick to either Cannabis or alcohol, not both. Also, avoid mixing cannabis with nicotine or any intoxicating substance, including stimulants (“uppers”) and depressants (“downers”), as the mix can cause serious health complications. If you are taking or planning to take prescription medications at the same time as edibles, it is important to speak to a healthcare practitioner about whether Cannabis interferes with them.
To
Summarize
Edibles are
a popular Cannabis consumption method that provides an alternative to smoking
or vaping Cannabis. Sale and consumption of edibles differs by state; where legal, consumers must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
While edibles are simple to use and come in pre-measured
doses, it is critical to begin with a low dose (no more than 2.5mg of THC at a time) and be aware of the onset and
duration of the effects. Before using any Cannabis products, including edibles,
for medical purposes, it is always best to consult with a healthcare
professional. It is also important to remember that edibles look like non-edibles, so be mindful of storage and safety.
If you or someone you know has consumed too much Cannabis and is not feeling well, contact your local poison center or seek medical attention.
Want to learn more about Cannabis? Check out our Cannabis education course for Youth!
