Edibles have been popular in areas such as Denver, Colorado, Portland, Oregon, and since California passed their 2016 recreational marijuana law. Within the last 3 years, edibles have grown their consumer audience substantially. Besides offering a recreational quality, some edibles can be used in small doses to temper down anxiety attacks. But before you start, here is a guide to help you understand everything you need to know about edibles and the ever-changing lingo that comes with.

Terms You Should Know

CBD

Cannabidiol

Dispensary

is a shop or room that contains or sells medicinal properties, or available to the public.

Indica

is the proper marijuana name for this plant. Indica is most associated with a comforting and anti-anxiety high.

Sativa

is another proper term for this particular marijuana plants. Associated with creativity, high energy, and possibly navigating depressive episodes.

Hemp

Hemp has the highest potency rate and typically this plant has a high ratio of CBD oil.

How Do They Infuse Marijuana with Food?

The fun question! A number of methods are used to cook cannabis with a variety of foods. Most edible based shops find that the easiest and most satisfying way is by baking. Drinks can also be infused with tinctures which is cannabis in liquid form. Butter and oil are the most common ways to infuse cannabis into food.

The Do’s and Don’ts:

What Not to Do:

• Never cook cannabis in its raw state… ever. If you do, the plants THC will never activate and you will just be eating leaves.
• Do not cook at a high temperature. The highest your oven should be set at is 275 Fahrenheit.
• Throwing in cannabis before it’s been grounded up is a big no. Find a happy medium. Don’t grind up your weed too fine, but don’t leave huge pieces.
• Don’t set a timer and forget to stir. Stirring is one of the best ways to distribute the CBD oil all throughout your dish.

What to Do:

• Activate THC with decarboxylation. It’s important to know that without heat, you won’t be able to get THC. Otherwise, you’re just eating leaves.
• Use a cooking thermometer.
• When it comes to making butter or oil infused weed, be sure to cook at a low temperature and pay attention, do not leave unattended at any time.

How does one know their dosage amount?

Always, if you are new to this, the lowest dose is the best. However, if you’re looking to test your dosage ability try this:

• Look up edible dosage charts (hard candy’s like lozenges will have a longer-lasting potency but can come in low doses)
• Going past 15 mg may be met with unwanted effects. So, staying under 5 mg would be highly considered best for new patrons trying edibles.
• Euphoria is best felt at the 3 mg stage.

Each time you want to try a new candy infused with weed, you will know what dosage stage to stay between. Word of caution, no one wants to take something that intends to mellow out and then freak out. Start low in dosage range to enjoy the effects.

The FAQS:

Can I buy edibles online?

Yes, edibles can be bought online for a number of retailers. However, we suggest only ordering from retailers that are licensed,  because then they have to follow the dosage amounts to perfection.

Do edibles expire?

Yes, edibles do have a shelf life. While they are better eaten immediately, they can last up to 5-7 days if stored properly.

How long does the high last if I take an edible?

An edible buzz/high lasts from anywhere from 1 hour to 5 hours. Depends on how much has been eaten, or if you’ve eaten on an empty stomach. After-effects can last for 6 to 12 hours!

How long will it take to feel high?

It will start to kick in at 1.5 hours to 2 hours. A common mistake people make is they will not feel high right away and take a higher dosage. Do not make that mistake as that will lead you to unwanted effects.

Can I travel with edibles?

While most states have made recreational weed legal, we suggest not going through TSA or flying with edibles. They will be confiscated.

How do you know when you’ve had too high of a dose?

Most report feeling dizzy, or sick to their stomach. Try putting on calming music and deep breaths. Wait it out, time is the best cure.

Before Choosing Remember This:

Go to a dispensary that offers edibles before buying online. At a dispensary, the individual working there will have a collective knowledge about every type of edible they offer. If you feel hesitant to walk into a dispensary, then call beforehand and ask about what edibles they sell. Asking individuals who work in the cannabis edible industry is your best option.