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Edibles for Beginners: A Guide for Success

May 29, 2022
Are you searching for information about cannabis edibles for beginners? Wondering how long it takes for edibles to kick in? This article will tell you everything you need to know to get started!

Edibles have come a long way since the days of Alice B. Toklas and Brownie Mary. Cannabis dispensary shelves in legal states overflow with infused THC edibles ranging from THC candies and THC snacks to THC drinks and cannabutter!

If you’re contemplating your first edibles experience, you may not know where to begin. Moreover, your stoner friends may have shared some scary stories about times when they’ve overconsumed edibles. However, with a little know-how, you can find the perfect types of edibles for beginners and determine your ideal dose to have the most enjoyable experience possible.

intro to cannabis edibles

Best Edibles for Beginners

When it comes to edibles, it’s important for beginners to start with low doses and products that are known for their milder effects. Here are some popular options for edibles for beginners:

Gummies: THC gummies are a popular choice for beginners due to their consistent dosing and wide availability. They often come in small, manageable doses, making it easier to control your consumption.

Chocolates: Cannabis-infused chocolates are another popular choice for beginners. They often have a familiar taste and come in several strengths. Break off a small piece to start and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.

Mints: Cannabis-infused mints are a discreet and easy to consume edibles. They usually have a lower THC dosage, allowing you to start with a small amount and gradually increase if desired.

CBD Edibles: If you’re looking for the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects, CBD edibles are a great option. These products contain cannabidiol (CBD) derived from hemp, which does not produce a “high” unlike THC.

Low-Dose or Balanced Products : Many dispensaries offer edibles with lower THC concentrations specifically designed as edibles for beginners. These products typically have a milder effect and allow you to ease into the experience. Your budtender should be able to point you in the right direction!

Remember, it’s crucial to start with a low dose, wait for the effects to fully manifest (which can take up to two hours), and avoid consuming more until you understand how your body reacts to the edible. Always purchase from reputable sources and consult dispensary staff for guidance on dosage and product selection.

How Long Does it Take for Edibles to Kick In?

Every veteran herb lover has made the same mistake. You eat an edible, wait 30 minutes, decide it wasn’t enough, and take more. Bad idea!

When you smoke or vape cannabis, you’ll begin to feel the effects within 10 minutes. However, when it comes to edibles, one of the most important things for beginners to understand is the delayed onset of effects. Edibles can take up to two hours to produce an effect because they need to metabolize through the digestive tract before hitting the bloodstream. This slower process can catch beginners off guard, leading to the common mistake of consuming more before feeling the initial effects. It is crucial for beginners to be aware of this time lag and exercise caution by starting with a low dose, waiting patiently, and avoiding overconsumption.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all dosage when eating edibles for the first time. The amount of time it takes for edibles to kick in depends upon several factors, such as:
  • Bodyweight
  • Tolerance
  • Food in the digestive tract
  • Metabolism

Tips for Eating Edibles for the First Time

  1. Plan ahead: The effects of edibles last longer than when you consume cannabis. The effects from THC edibles can last over 6-8 hours. That’s why we advise eating edibles for the first time on a day when you won’t have many responsibilities.
  2. Choose a familiar setting: Your surrounding environment can profoundly affect your edibles experience. You may want to conduct your first edibles experiments in your home or at another place where you feel safe.
  3. Start low and go slow: Seasoned herb lovers are well acquainted with this rule. Years of prohibition meant that determining the potency of cannabis edibles was mainly guesswork. Today, many of us have access to precisely-dosed edibles. Beginners should take an initial dosage of 2.5 to 5 mg. After two hours have passed, you can safely gauge the effects and take another 2.5-5 mg if desired.

What to Do if You Consume Too Much

The two most useful things to remember if you accidentally consume too much are that it’s impossible to die of an edibles overdose and that the uncomfortable feelings will pass. There are some measures you can take if you unintentionally over consume edibles:
  • Stay Calm: The first and most important thing is to stay calm and reassure yourself that the effects will eventually subside. This is not a life-threatening situation!
  • Find a Comfortable Environment: Move to a comfortable and familiar environment where you feel safe if you’re not already there. This can help reduce anxiety or paranoia that may arise from consuming too much cannabis. Listening to your favorite music or putting on your favorite funny show can help take your mind off the uncomfortable feelings.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Cannabis can cause dry mouth, so it’s essential to replenish fluids. However, avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can further dehydrate the body.
  • Rest and Relax: Find a quiet and relaxing space to rest. Lie down, close your eyes, and focus on deep breathing to help calm your mind and body. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or listening to soothing music, can also be beneficial.
  • Seek Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support. Having someone who can reassure and assist you can make a significant difference in managing the situation.
  • Wait It Out: The effects of consuming too many edibles can last for several hours. It’s important to be patient and remember that the intensity will gradually diminish over time.
Before you know it, you’ll either fall asleep or settle into a more manageable buzz, and you’ll remember to reduce the dose next time.

Get Your Edibles for Beginners from Alternatives Dispensary!

If you’re ready to start your cannabis edibles journey, Alternatives Dispensary has everything you need! Our huge selection of weed edibles has everything you need, including many options for edibles for beginners! Our friendly budtenders are always standing by to point you in the right direction.
We have two dispensaries in Santa Rosa for your convenience!

View edibles available at our Hampton dispensary.

View edibles available at our Bethards dispensary in East Santa Rosa.

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