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Why Edibles Can Feel More Potent
It is a known fact that smoking marijuana and eating a pot brownie produce different effects. A pot brownie usually hits harder and has a prolonged effect. As curiosity grows around cannabis edibles as a smoke-free option, one question lingers: Why do edibles feel stronger? Does the body process cannabis differently when eaten, resulting in a more pronounced and prolonged effect?
In this article, we will answer these questions and uncover the science behind the heightened effects of edibles.
The Basics: Understanding Cannabis
Let’s first understand the chemical composition of the cannabis plant to know why edibles feel more potent.
The cannabis plant houses over a hundred different types of cannabinoids (compounds found in cannabis plants), each with unique characteristics and effects. Among these myriad constituents, two of the most renowned and vastly researched ones are Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).
The primary psychoactive component in cannabis, THC, gives users that 'high' or euphoria. It triggers specific psychoactive responses, manifesting as altered states of consciousness and heightened sensory perception, which captivates recreational users worldwide.
On the other hand, CBD, although a major component of cannabis like THC, does not hold any psychoactive properties. It induces feelings of calm and relaxation in users. It counterbalances the psychoactive effects of THC and has gained recognition for its potential therapeutic applications, leading to an increased interest in its medical and wellness properties.
When consuming cannabis, a complex interaction dictates the unique 'high' that users experience. This interaction goes beyond THC and CBD, involving a delicate balance of cannabinoids and other plant compounds like terpenes and flavonoids. Together, these elements work in harmony to shape the overall cannabis experience.
Absorption of Key Compounds: Smoking Vs. Ingestion
The method of intake plays a crucial role in how the key components and other compounds of cannabis are absorbed by the body. The way of absorption dictates the intensity and timeline of your ‘high’. In simple terms, which route the chemicals take to reach your brain decides how hard you get hit and how long it would take you to realize that the “fly on your desk is not really talking to you!”
Smoking Cannabis: Rapid Onset and Short-Lived Effects
When you smoke cannabis, the active compounds are absorbed immediately by your lungs and they enter the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, THC quickie reaches the brain and you get an instant high. This is why smoking cannabis will show effects within minutes. However, the body metabolizes and eliminates these compounds quickly and thus, the effects are short-lived.
Eating Cannabis: Slower Onset, Prolonged Effects
In contrast, when cannabis is ingested in the form of edibles, the absorption process takes a different path. The compounds must pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream, leading to a slower onset of effects. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours for the full effects to be felt. However, once absorbed, the compounds undergo a different metabolic process, converting THC into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in a stronger and more prolonged psychoactive experience.
Edibles' prolonged effects can also be due to the interaction between cannabinoids and other chemicals present in the cannabis plant. Terpenes and flavonoids, for instance, are compounds that contribute to the overall effects and can enhance the interaction of cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system. Another important point is that since edibles need time to be digested, people often end up consuming more. This comes from the assumption that the previous dose was not enough. This can inadvertently lead to a more intense high.
The Role of Individual Factors on Cannabis Experience
Cannabis experiences differ due to individual uniqueness; no two bodies respond in the same way. Individual factors such as metabolism, body weight, and even your regularity of cannabis use can influence the potency and duration of the high.
Body weight can impact the distribution, metabolism, and elimination of cannabinoids in the body. Similarly, a person with a faster metabolism may feel the effects quicker as their body metabolizes the edible faster. On the other hand, infrequent or new cannabis users may feel a more potent effect, as regular users tend to develop a tolerance over time.
Responsible Consumption
Recreational use of cannabis is practiced in many parts of the world. The exploration of cannabis for medicinal purposes is also an ongoing phenomenon. However, responsible consumption and informed choices are advisable under any circumstances.
Knowing how cannabis works in the body and how different compounds react will help you engage in its consumption in a rather prudent manner. As discussed earlier in the article, edibles take a longer time to reach the brain. Furthermore, the effects induced by edibles tend to linger for a prolonged period, creating a sustained experience that some might not anticipate. Thus, it is advisable to wait at least two hours after the initial consumption before contemplating the intake of additional quantities. This practice allows for a complete understanding and appreciation of the potential impact before consuming more.
Further to the call for responsible usage, one should also consider the safety aspect concerning the storage of cannabis edibles. Considering their potency and possible appeal to the unaware, it is crucial to ensure these substances are securely stored and kept well out of reach of children and pets. Labeling edibles accurately and storing them securely can mitigate the risk of accidental consumption, thereby creating a safer environment for all. The path to enjoyment and exploration should never compromise safety and well-being.
The Future of Edibles
As more states in the USA opt for marijuana legalization, the edibles market is expected to flourish. This rapid growth is likely fuelled by the need for smoke-free cannabis options and the desire for more controlled, lasting effects. There is an anticipation of further advancements in regulations and product innovation, paving the way for a well-regulated and diverse market of edible cannabis products.
At Hibegone, we remain committed to providing accurate and updated information on cannabis. Our goal is to assist our readers in making informed decisions while promoting safe and responsible consumption. In that direction, our revolutionary product offers users a chance to gain a balanced and wholesome cannabis experience. Visit our website to know more.
