The world of edibles can be overwhelming for those with no previous experience. In the U.S., there are all types and dosages available, not to mention their reputation for resulting in bad highs. It’s easy to turn away from edibles, choosing something more approachable and has less couch-locked potential.
Despite these considerations, some cannabis users really enjoy edibles, so much so that they choose them over all other methods of consumption. Some argue that edibles are healthier than vaping and smoking (at least when it comes to the lungs) and are capable of producing stronger results. It is also possible they will provide more pain relief and a stronger response whether for the body or the mind.
Still, edibles can be intimidating, especially if a person is unfamiliar. Here are some basics that any user should know.
Cannabutter versus extracts
Edible makers can infuse their foods with cannabis in a variety of ways, primarily with cannabutter and extracts. Cannabutter is the product that results once butter or oil is infused with cannabis. This mixture is then used to make brownies, chocolates, etc. Cannabutter includes the benefits and limitations of the whole cannabis flower, providing a consumer with the full spectrum of cannabinoids. This means there’s THC, CBD and more in these types of edibles, but also that their effects can be less predictable.
Edibles made with extracts are more targeted. Producers can isolate THC or CBD in a lab and later add them to their products, with the idea of making something more reliable and consistent. Edibles prepared with extracts may be a good option for people who are looking for a specific effect.
There are those who enjoy a weedy flavour, so don’t be afraid of it. / Photo: wildpixel / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Photo: wildpixel / iStock / Getty Images Plus
Taste
Taste will vary and depends on the edible. For the most part, though, edibles prepared with extracts tend to have less of a weedy flavour than those made with cannabutter. To be sure, it’s best to ask a budtender and get a full breakdown. Also, there are those who enjoy a weedy flavour, so don’t be afraid of it.
Make or buy?
While buying edibles is the easiest thing to do, especially if a person happens to be a newbie, preparing edibles can be a fun experience done alone or with others. When preparing edibles alone, it’s important to find a recipe and stick to it, keeping in mind that cannabis must be decarboxylated and that the entire process will likely take some time.
It’s also important to have patience and to understand that you’ll be consuming cannabis through your stomach, which makes for a delayed response. The best advice is to pace onself and avoid eating more just because you’re not feeling high yet. That will come.