Edibles vs. Flower: What’s the difference?
There are so many ways to enjoy weed these days, it can be hard to choose which is best. We’re here to help by demystifying the differences between getting high with edibles versus smoking flower. While both methods will certainly get you high, they can be create different experiences. This is because of the different ways the body processes and absorbs THC.
How it Works
When you smoke or vape, THC enters the lungs and is absorbed into the bloodstream where it travels to the brain. This happens quickly, producing a near-immediate onset of effects. Edibles, on the other hand, are digested, processed in the stomach and liver before active cannabinoids travel to the brain. While in the liver, THC is chemically converted into a stronger form, adding to the intensity of the high. This means that in general edibles feel stronger and last longer.
Because edibles must be digested and metabolized, they often take much longer to take effect, sometimes a couple of hours, and the high lasts much longer. It’s important to wait long enough after taking an edible to let the THC fully kick in before taking another. Since the effects take longer to manifest, it’s easy to consume too much or more than the intended dosage. This is one reason some people have had negative experiences being too high from edibles. Proceed with caution!
Edibles used to be mainly homemade pot brownies (a classic, we love ‘em) but now there’s an entire industry with chocolates to gummies to drinks to pretzels. This means there are nearly endless options to find what’s right for you. When purchasing edibles, make sure to choose a brand with consistent dosing to keep control of your high. Homemade edibles can be great, but they are much harder to measure and dose correctly and are therefore especially not recommended for beginners. If you’re new to edibles, start slow and low with a dose of 2.5 mg or less, and wait at least two hours before taking another.
When cannabis is smoked or inhaled, it hits faster and fades faster than with edibles. The high can peak in as little as 10 minutes! The effects of both smoking and edibles depend on many factors including THC tolerance, metabolism, and hydration.
The Experience
When inhaling smoke, the feeling of being high begins in seconds to minutes. Full effects often peak within 30 minutes, and can last up to 6 hours.
The effects of edibles typically begin between 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating. Full effects can peak within 4 hours, and in some cases, can last up to 12 hours. Due to their potency, edibles can often lead to couch lock, with some people reporting that they get more of a body high from edibles and a head high from smoking.
Both smoking and edibles can include different and varied quantities of cannabinoids including THC, CBD, CBN, and others. This means you can customize your experience based on your preferred flavors and effects!
Pros & Cons
Some people prefer edibles due to the fact that they are easier on the lungs and throat. Edibles are great for those who use cannabis medicinally for chronic pain or inflammation due to their potency and longevity, and they’re also great for precise microdosing.
Smoking flower offers instant or near-instant relief, and is easy to adjust in terms of dosage and timing. This makes it the most popular route for many using cannabis for chronic pain, anxiety, nausea, seizures, and appetite issues.
Edibles are often also more discreet and convenient, and don’t leave you smelling like smoke. On the other hand, nothing beats passing a pipe with friends. So which is best for you? It completely depends on your purposes and preferences. There’s no wrong way to consume cannabis and the good news is, you don’t have to choose! High Minded Cannabis Co. offers a diverse selection of products including high quality long lasting gummies, locally cultivated top shelf flower, exceptional concentrates, and smooth vapes. Find us at your local Michigan provisioning center.
