Weed Edibles: Benefits, Risks, and Safety Tips

A white plate brimming with vibrant gummy bears, showcasing a delightful assortment of weed edibles.

Understanding the Potential Benefits and Risks of Weed Edibles for Adults and Seniors

Weed edibles offer an alternative way for adults to manage anxiety and chronic conditions such as arthritis, cancer pain, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. However, before incorporating edible weed into your routine, it’s crucial to understand how these marijuana-infused treats interact with your body.

Methods of consuming marijuana vary in potency. Doctors explain that smoking or vaping cannabis leads to effects within five to ten minutes, with active results lasting two to four hours. However, weed edibles take longer to process because they must be digested and metabolized by the liver before their active compounds take effect. This process can take 45 minutes to an hour and a half, with effects lasting up to six hours.

Lack of Regulation a Concern

Since the cannabis industry is only partially regulated at the state level, and there are no federal guidelines, consumers might not always be aware of the exact contents of their marijuana edibles. In some states, a medical certification is required to purchase cannabis products, while others allow adult-use sales with just a valid ID. For safety, experts recommend purchasing from state-regulated dispensaries.

What Are Edibles?

The term “weed edibles” refers to food products infused with cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. The word “cannabis” encompasses all products derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, which contains over 540 chemical compounds. “Marijuana” refers to parts of the plant with significant amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” effect. In contrast, hemp-derived products contain 0.3% THC or less, meaning they lack the psychoactive properties associated with marijuana.

Are Edibles Bad for You?

Regular consumption of THC – the main psychoactive component in marijuana – can increase the risk of dependence and exacerbate anxiety or depression. Young individuals and older adults are particularly vulnerable due to differences in metabolism. Studies indicate that heavy use of weed edibles may lead to cognitive impairment, increased fall risk, and heart arrhythmia in older adults.

Additionally, the side effects of edibles the next day can include grogginess, dry mouth, and lingering psychoactive effects. Understanding these potential consequences is essential, especially for those new to edible weed products.

THC Gummies Side Effects and Safety Concerns

THC gummies may look like regular candy, but their effects can be potent, particularly for inexperienced users or those with slower metabolisms. Children should never consume an edible gummy unless prescribed by a physician for conditions like epilepsy or pediatric cancer.

For adults considering weed edibles, it’s important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects before consuming more. Overconsumption can lead to uncomfortable experiences, including paranoia, dizziness, and nausea.

If you’re curious about trying weed gummies or other cannabis-infused products, make sure to consult reliable sources and purchase from reputable dispensaries. For more information, check out this guide to weed edibles and how to consume edibles safely.

Safety Tips for Taking Edibles

Take precautions to keep yourself safe if you decide to use edibles:

  • Start with a low dose.
  • Avoid taking too much while you wait for the effects to kick in.
  • Read the labels carefully so you know what’s in the edible you’re taking.
  • Check the concentration of THC or any other mind-altering ingredients.
  • Don’t use high-strength cannabis-containing products more than once a week or you may develop a tolerance.
  • Don’t mix edibles with alcohol or other substances.

How to Store Weed Edibles

It’s important to safely store your edibles so that children and pets can’t get to them by mistake. Follow these steps:

  • Keep edibles in their original packaging if they are store-bought.
  • Clearly label them so you know what they are.
  • Add warning labels to avoid confusion.
  • Store them away from other foods or medicines.
  • Keep them in a secure location that is out of sight and reach.
  • Store them in a locked container where children and pets can’t find them by mistake.
  • Don’t use them when children or pets are around.

The best way to keep children and pets safe is to avoid using edibles in your home at all. If you do have them, treat them like medicines.

What to Do if a Child Accidentally Took a Weed Edible

Anytime you think a child (or pet) has eaten cannabis or an edible, you should take action. Call poison control to find out what to do.

It’s best to stay calm so you can help and make good decisions about what to do next. If you or someone else, including a child, took an edible by mistake, watch for signs of cannabis poisoning such as:

  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble walking
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Feeling drowsy
  • Confusion
  • Trouble breathing

If you are worried the situation is more serious, call emergency services.