Understanding Edibles
When you eat cannabis, it takes a very different journey through your body than when inhaled. Your liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that's actually more potent and longer-lasting than regular THC. This is why edibles hit differently—and why dosing is so important. The effects can last 4-8 hours, making them ideal for extended relief or all-day experiences. Modern edibles have come a long way from homemade brownies, with precisely dosed gummies, chocolates, beverages, and savory options available.
Dosing Guide
Microdose
1-2.5mg THCSubtle, functional, anxiety relief
Low
2.5-5mg THCMild effects, good starting point
Medium
5-15mg THCFull effects, recreational
High
15-30mg THCStrong effects, experienced users
Very High
30-50mg+ THCVery intense, high tolerance only
How To Use
- 1Read the package carefully for total THC and per-serving dose
- 2Start with 2.5-5mg if you're new to edibles, even if you smoke regularly
- 3Eat a small meal beforehand for more consistent absorption
- 4Wait at least 2 hours before taking more—effects can sneak up
- 5Keep track of what you took and when
- 6Have CBD on hand to help calm effects if too intense
Product Types
Gummies
Most popular format, precisely dosed, many flavors
Chocolates
Rich flavors that mask cannabis taste
Beverages
Faster onset than food (20-45 min), social format
Baked Goods
Classic brownies, cookies—watch for inconsistent dosing
Hard Candies/Lozenges
Absorb sublingually for faster onset if dissolved slowly
Capsules
Precise dosing, no taste, like taking a supplement
Health Considerations
- Easy to overconsume due to delayed onset—wait at least 2 hours before redosing
- Effects intensified by liver processing (11-hydroxy-THC)
- Can be overwhelming for inexperienced users
- Check for allergens in ingredients (gluten, nuts, dairy)
- Keep away from children and pets—many look like regular candy
- May interact with medications metabolized by the liver
At a Glance
Best For
- Extended relief (4-8 hours)
- Sleep support
- Completely smoke-free option
- Maximum discretion
- Consistent, measured dosing
- Long events or travel
Not Ideal For
- •Quick effects needed
- •First-time users (unless very low dose)
- •Those who struggle with patience
- •Precise timing of effects
- •Those with fast metabolisms (may feel less effect)
Pro Tips
- Fatty foods can increase absorption—eat with a small snack
- Cannabis beverages often hit faster (20-45 min) due to nano-emulsion
- Set a timer to remind yourself when you took it
- Plan your evening—don't drive or make important decisions