What are Edibles?
Edibles, also known as cannabis-infused food or drink, are a popular way to consume weed. Edibles contain THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, and they come in many forms, including brownies, gummies, chocolates, and even beverages. The effects of edibles can last for hours, making them a potent option for those seeking a long-lasting high.
How are Edibles Made?
Edibles are made by infusing cannabinoids into food items. The process involves heating the cannabis flower or concentrate in butter or oil, which is then used to cook the food. It is important to decarboxylate the cannabis before cooking to convert THCA into THC, which is the psychoactive compound. This process requires heat and time, and can be done in a variety of ways, including in an oven or on a stovetop.
The Risks of Edibles
While edibles are a popular way to consume weed, they also come with risks. The main risk associated with edibles is the delayed onset of effects. Unlike smoking or vaping, which can produce effects within minutes, edibles can take up to two hours to take effect. This delay can lead to overconsumption, as users may consume more edibles while waiting for the effects to kick in. Overconsumption can lead to unpleasant side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of being too high.
Dosage
Another risk associated with edibles is dosage. It can be difficult to determine the THC content of edibles, as it varies depending on the strain of cannabis used and the cooking method. This variability can lead to unpredictable effects and make it difficult to control the dosage. It is important to start with a low dose and wait at least two hours before consuming more.
Accidental Ingestion
Edibles also pose a risk of accidental ingestion, especially for children and pets. Edibles can look like regular food items, and children and pets may mistake them for candy or treats. It is important to keep edibles out of reach of children and pets and to store them in child-resistant packaging.
The Horror Stories
While edibles can be a fun and enjoyable way to consume weed, they can also lead to horror stories. Many people have experienced unpleasant effects from edibles, such as feeling too high or experiencing a panic attack. These stories serve as a cautionary tale for those considering consuming edibles.
The Story of Alice
Alice was a college student who decided to try edibles for the first time with her friends. They purchased a pack of gummies from a dispensary and split them among themselves. Alice ate two gummies and waited for the effects to kick in. After an hour and a half, she still didn’t feel anything, so she ate two more gummies. Within minutes, she started to feel the effects. However, the effects were much stronger than she anticipated, and she felt like she was losing control. She started to panic and begged her friends to take her to the hospital. Her friends calmed her down and waited with her until the effects wore off, which took several hours.
The Story of John
John was a middle-aged man who had been smoking weed for years. He decided to try edibles for the first time and purchased a chocolate bar from a dispensary. He ate half the chocolate bar and waited for the effects to kick in. After an hour, he still didn’t feel anything, so he ate the other half of the bar. Within minutes, he started to feel the effects, which were much stronger than he anticipated. He felt like he was losing control and started to panic. He called his wife, who took him to the hospital. The doctors gave him medication to calm him down, and he eventually recovered. However, he vowed never to try edibles again.
Conclusion
Edibles can be a fun and enjoyable way to consume weed, but they also come with risks. It is important to start with a low dose, wait at least two hours before consuming more, and keep edibles out of reach of children and pets. If you do experience unpleasant effects from edibles, remember that they will eventually wear off. Edibles can be a great way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis, but it is important to consume them responsibly.
