Understanding the Science behind Edibles
Edibles, the popular cannabis-infused treats, have been around for centuries. These treats are known for their high levels of THC, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. While edibles are famous for their euphoric effects, many people use them for their pain-relieving properties. So, do edibles take away pain? The answer is yes; edibles do alleviate pain, but the effects vary based on several factors.
To understand how edibles work to reduce pain, it is essential to understand the science behind them. Edibles are made by infusing cannabis with butter or oil, which is then used to cook the food. The cannabis plant has over 100 cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive compound that produces a “high.” On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive and offers several health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation.
When you consume edibles, the cannabinoids enter your body and bind to the receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system that helps regulate several physiological processes such as pain, appetite, mood, and sleep. The cannabinoids in edibles bind to the receptors in the ECS, leading to pain relief.
Factors That Affect the Pain-Relieving Effects of Edibles
While edibles can alleviate pain, the effects vary from person to person. Several factors affect the pain-relieving effects of edibles, including:
Dosage
The dosage of edibles plays a vital role in determining the pain-relieving effects. Edibles work differently from smoking or vaping cannabis. When you smoke or vape, the effects are felt almost instantly. However, with edibles, it takes longer for the effects to kick in.
The effects of edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. This is because edibles must pass through the digestive system, where they are metabolized into the active compounds that bind to the receptors in the ECS. Therefore, the dosage of edibles must be carefully calibrated to achieve the desired pain-relieving effects.
THC and CBD Content
The THC and CBD content of edibles also plays a crucial role in determining the pain-relieving effects. THC is a potent pain reliever, but it can also cause psychoactive effects such as paranoia and anxiety. On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive and offers several health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation.
Therefore, it is essential to find the right balance between THC and CBD to achieve the desired pain-relieving effects without the psychoactive effects.
Individual Differences
Individual differences also play a role in determining the pain-relieving effects of edibles. Everyone’s body is different, and the way they respond to edibles varies from person to person. Factors such as age, weight, and metabolism can affect the way edibles work to reduce pain.
Benefits of Using Edibles to Alleviate Pain
Edibles offer several benefits over other forms of cannabis consumption when it comes to pain relief. Some of these benefits include:
Longer-Lasting Effects
One of the significant benefits of using edibles to alleviate pain is that the effects last longer than smoking or vaping. When you smoke or vape cannabis, the effects wear off quickly, usually within a few hours. However, with edibles, the effects can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.
No Harmful Smoke
Another significant benefit of using edibles to alleviate pain is that there is no harmful smoke involved. Smoking cannabis can cause respiratory problems, including lung cancer and chronic bronchitis. However, with edibles, there is no smoke involved, making it a safer option.
Discreet
Edibles are also a discreet way to consume cannabis. Unlike smoking or vaping, which can leave a strong odor and draw attention, edibles are easy to consume discreetly.
Precise Dosing
Edibles offer precise dosing, making it easier to achieve the desired pain-relieving effects. With smoking or vaping, it can be challenging to determine the correct dosage. However, with edibles, the dosage is carefully calibrated, making it easier to achieve the desired effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, edibles do take away pain. The science behind edibles shows that the cannabinoids in cannabis bind to the receptors in the ECS, leading to pain relief. However, the effects of edibles vary based on several factors, including dosage, THC, and CBD content and individual differences. Edibles offer several benefits over other forms of cannabis consumption when it comes to pain relief, including longer-lasting effects, no harmful smoke, discreet consumption, and precise dosing. When used correctly, edibles can be an effective way to alleviate pain.
