Edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis, as they offer a discreet and tasty option for those who don’t like smoking or vaping. However, the effects of edibles can be quite strong and long-lasting, and it’s not uncommon for people to overindulge or have a bad experience. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed after consuming edibles, don’t panic. Here are some tips on how to recover from edibles and feel better.
What Are Edibles?
Edibles are food products infused with cannabis, usually in the form of cannabis oil or cannabis butter. They can come in a wide range of products, from gummies and chocolates to baked goods and even beverages. The effects of edibles take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping, as they need to be digested and metabolized by the liver before the THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) can enter the bloodstream. This means that it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to feel the effects of edibles, and the effects can last for several hours.
Why Do People Use Edibles?
There are several reasons why people choose to use edibles over other methods of cannabis consumption. For one, edibles offer a discreet option for those who don’t want to draw attention to themselves by smoking or vaping. They also provide a longer-lasting and more intense high than smoking or vaping, making them popular among experienced users or those looking for a stronger effect. Additionally, edibles can be more appealing to those who don’t like the taste or smell of cannabis.
What Are the Side Effects of Edibles?
The side effects of edibles can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the dosage, the potency of the product, and the individual’s tolerance and metabolism.
However, some common side effects of edibles include:
- Intense high: Edibles can produce a more intense high than smoking or vaping, as the effects are slower to kick in and can last for several hours.
- Anxiety and paranoia: Some people may experience feelings of anxiety or paranoia after consuming edibles, particularly if they overindulge or are in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable setting.
- Dry mouth: Edibles can cause dry mouth or cottonmouth, which can be uncomfortable but is not usually a cause for concern.
- Hunger: Edibles can stimulate the appetite, causing some people to experience intense hunger or cravings.
- Dizziness and nausea: In rare cases, edibles can cause dizziness and nausea, particularly if the dosage is too high or if the individual is prone to motion sickness.
Understanding the effects of edibles
Edibles are notorious for their slow onset and unpredictable effects, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in. Unlike smoking or vaping, which deliver THC directly into the bloodstream, edibles must first be processed by the digestive system before the cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream. This process can take a long time, and the effects of edibles can be more intense and longer-lasting than other consumption methods. It’s also worth noting that edibles can vary widely in potency, and it’s important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
Recovering from edibles
Stay calm and find a comfortable environment
One of the most important things you can do if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the effects of edibles is to stay calm and find a comfortable environment. Anxiety and paranoia are common side effects of consuming too much THC, and being in a calm and familiar space can help you feel more relaxed and in control.
Hydrate and eat something
Consuming edibles can make your mouth feel dry, and it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration. Drinking plenty of water or juice can also help to flush THC out of your system more quickly. Eating something can also help to mitigate the effects of edibles, particularly if you choose something high in fat or protein, which can help to slow the absorption of THC.
Take a nap or rest
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the effects of edibles, taking a nap or resting can help you feel more relaxed and in control. THC can make you feel drowsy, and getting some rest can help to mitigate the effects of edibles and help you feel more alert when you wake up.
Use CBD to counteract the effects of THC
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that can help to counteract the effects of THC. If you’re feeling anxious or paranoid after consuming edibles, taking some CBD can help to reduce those symptoms and help you feel more relaxed.
Distract yourself with a relaxing activity
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the effects of edibles, distracting yourself with a relaxing activity can help to take your mind off your discomfort. Listening to music, taking a warm bath, or watching a movie can all be effective ways to help you relax and mitigate the effects of edibles.
Seek medical attention if necessary
While it’s rare, consuming too much THC can be a serious medical emergency in some cases. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms such as vomiting, severe paranoia, or a rapid heartbeat, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. In most cases, however, the effects of edibles will subside on their own within a few hours.
Preventing future incidents
To prevent future incidents of consuming too much THC from edibles, it’s important to take a few precautions:
Start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more
As mentioned earlier, edibles can vary widely in potency, and it’s important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. It’s also important to keep in mind that the effects of edibles can take a long time to kick in, and you should
wait at least two hours before consuming more to avoid overdoing it.
Read the label and understand the potency
Always read the label and understand the potency of the edibles you’re consuming. The label should provide information on the dosage and potency of the product, and you should pay close attention to this information before consuming. If you’re unsure about the potency of the product, start with a lower dose to be safe.
Be aware of your tolerance
Your tolerance to THC can vary based on a variety of factors, including your experience with cannabis, your body weight, and your metabolism. If you’re a new or infrequent user, it’s important to start with a lower dose to avoid overdoing it. As you become more familiar with the effects of edibles, you can gradually increase your dosage if desired.
Avoid consuming edibles on an empty stomach
Consuming edibles on an empty stomach can increase the potency and intensity of the effects, so it’s important to eat something before consuming edibles. Eating a meal high in fat or protein can also help to slow down the absorption of THC and mitigate the effects.
Store edibles safely
Edibles should be stored safely to avoid accidental consumption by children or pets. Keep edibles in a secure location out of reach of children and pets, and always label them clearly to avoid confusion.
Final thoughts
Consuming edibles can be a powerful and intense experience, but it’s important to be cautious and start with a low dose. If you do consume too much THC from edibles, staying calm, hydrated, and finding a comfortable environment can help you recover more quickly. Using CBD, distracting yourself with a relaxing activity, and seeking medical attention if necessary are all effective strategies for mitigating the effects of edibles. By taking precautions and being mindful of your dosage, you can enjoy the benefits of edibles without overdoing it.
