Introduction
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. It is a versatile plant with various parts that can be used for different purposes. While smoking weed is the most popular method of consumption, cannabis-infused edibles are becoming increasingly popular. Eating marijuana-infused foods is a discreet and effective way to consume cannabis, and many people are curious about its effects. In this article, we will explore the history of edibles, the science behind them, cooking with cannabis, legal considerations, and the effects and side effects of edibles.
Whether you are an experienced cannabis user or curious about edibles, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about eating weed and getting high.
History of Edibles
Marijuana use in food dates back thousands of years, with evidence suggesting that early civilizations in China, India, and the Middle East used cannabis as an ingredient in food and drink. In India, for example, bhang is a popular cannabis-infused drink that is consumed during the Holi festival.
The contemporary phenomenon of cannabis-infused edibles can be traced back to the 1960s, when people began experimenting with marijuana brownies. However, it wasn’t until the 21st century that cannabis-infused edibles became mainstream. Today, you can find all kinds of marijuana-infused foods and drinks, from gummies and chocolates to sodas and coffee.
Science Behind Edibles
When you smoke weed, the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and other cannabinoids in the plant are absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream, where they travel to the brain and other parts of the body. The effects of smoking weed are immediate and usually last for a few hours.
When you eat marijuana-infused food, the THC and other cannabinoids are absorbed through the digestive system. It takes longer for the effects to kick in because the THC has to pass through the liver before it enters the bloodstream. This process can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on various factors such as metabolism, dosage, and the individual’s tolerance and body weight. However, the effects of edibles tend to be more intense and last longer than smoking because of the way the liver processes the THC.
The chemistry behind the high is complex, but it is mainly due to the interaction between THC and the CB1 receptor in the brain. THC binds to certain receptors in the brain that are responsible for mood regulation, appetite, and cognition, which is why people experience feelings of euphoria and altered perception when they consume cannabis.
Cooking with Marijuana
There are different ways to use raw weed in cooking to make cannabis-infused food. One way is to make cannabutter or cannabis-infused oil, which can be used as a substitute for regular butter or oil in any recipe. Others prefer to use decarboxylated cannabis, which involves heating the plant to activate the THC before adding it to the food.
Some popular recipes or dishes that use marijuana as an ingredient include brownies, cookies, cakes, and candies. You can also find savory dishes that use marijuana, such as pasta sauces and salad dressings. When cooking with cannabis, it’s important to measure the dosage accurately to avoid overconsumption or underconsumption.
Here are some tips for cooking with marijuana:
- Use high-quality weed
- Decarboxylate the cannabis to activate the THC
- Measure the dosage precisely
- Experiment with different recipes and ingredients
- Store the cannabis-infused food in a safe place away from children and pets
Legal Considerations
The legality of marijuana varies from state to state and country to country. In the US, some states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, while others have decriminalized it or only legalized it for medical use. In countries like Canada, marijuana is legal for recreational use.
It’s important to be aware of the legal implications of ingesting marijuana, regardless of whether it’s legal in your state or country. Possession, distribution, and trafficking of marijuana can result in fines, imprisonment, and other legal consequences. It’s also important to purchase cannabis-infused edibles from licensed dispensaries or reputable sources to ensure their quality and safety.
Effects and Side Effects of Edibles
The effects of edibles vary depending on the dosage, method of consumption, and individual factors such as metabolism and tolerance. Generally, the onset time of edibles is longer than smoking but the effects last longer, sometimes up to eight hours or more.
Some of the potential physical and mental side effects of edibles include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and disorientation
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Dry mouth and eyes
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
It’s important to start with a small dosage and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. It’s also important to consume edibles in a safe and comfortable environment and avoid driving or operating machinery while under the influence of cannabis.
Dosage Regimens
Determining the right amount of edibles to eat can be tricky, especially for beginners. The dosage depends on various factors, such as the individual’s tolerance and body weight, the method of consumption, and the potency of the product.
Here are some factors that can influence the dosage:
- Body weight
- Tolerance
- Metabolism
- Method of consumption
- Potency of the product
It’s important to start with a low dosage and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. It’s also important to keep track of the dosage and avoid consuming too much at once. Overconsumption of edibles can result in unpleasant side effects and, in extreme cases, require medical attention.
Conclusion
Eating weed can definitely get you high, but it’s important to be informed about the science, cooking, legal considerations, effects, and side effects of cannabis-infused edibles. If you decide to try edibles, start with a small dosage and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. Remember to consume edibles in a safe and comfortable environment and avoid driving or operating machinery while under the influence of cannabis.
Whether you are an experienced cannabis user or a curious beginner, edibles can be a fun and enjoyable way to consume weed. With the right knowledge and precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience with cannabis-infused foods.
