How Edibles Enhance Cannabis Consumption

Consuming edibles entails a variety of chemical reactions within the body. While smoke inhalation prompts rapid onset via the lungs into the bloodstream, cannabis drinks and edibles go through the digestive system and gastrointestinal (GI) tract instead. They metabolize into the bloodstream through the gut and intestines. Oil-soluble cannabinoids take much longer to kick in because they are absorbed through the liver and pancreas. The liver converts THC into a metabolite called 11-Hydroxy-THC, which is known for its enhanced potency and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more efficiently.

Reaching Higher Levels

Edibles require more restraint than smoking since the dosage is harder for a consumer to regulate. As mentioned, a more extensive chemical breakdown occurs when consuming edibles to form 11-Hydroxy-THC. Once this compound forms in our bodies, it results in a longer lasting, more intense and psychoactive experience. Factors like metabolism, daily calorie consumption, body weight and tolerance will affect how individuals react to these products. It can take hours for them to kick in versus smoke inhalation which has an onset within minutes.

Baking Chemical Compounds

THC is a chemical compound naturally found in cannabis’ organic plant material, where it exists in a non-psychoactive form known as THC-A. Oral ingestion is only effective after a chemical process known as decarboxylation. This is key for metabolizing THC in the body, and it occurs by heating the plant matter to activate its cannabinoids. Decarboxylation unlocks the full potential of the plant and unleashes the psychoactive effects. Since many edibles are baked, ovens allow the perfect control over the temperature (around 240 degrees) and time for best results. For drinks, the process involves decarboxylating dried cannabis into a syrup or tincture at even lower temperatures (around 110 degrees) for longer times, then adding it to the recipe.

The Distinct Drink Buzz

Beverages made with decarboxylated THC are only available in states with legal cannabis, while hemp-derived products, which contain trace amounts of THC, are legal in many states without legalization. Available at gas stations, liquor stores and groceries, a larger demographic can access both edible and drinkable products. The drinks echo styles utilized by alcohol companies. Users can get the same physiological effects without adding too many sugars to their diet or damaging their lungs. These drinks contain minimal calories compared to most alcoholic beverages, and they rarely result in hangovers like drinking alcohol does. Instead, they promote sleep, relaxation, giddiness and focus. One warning: they both have the ability to impair your driving ability and motor skills.

Balanced Benefits

With so many varieties of cannabis products, each consumer must learn ideal ways to medicate. For many, the goal is to get high; for others, they seek relief from physical pain or an undesirable state, like trauma. Edibles help bridge the gap between physical ingestion and concerns about legal and social issues, making them a wonderful way to enjoy such a beneficial plant. Just remember, patience is a virtue and less can be more when determining potency.