The wild world ofweededibles is vastand continues to grow.
And once you ingest them, theres no turning back.
So heres what you should probably know before diving in.
ALES MUNT/Adobe Stock
And there is some research to suggest they can be helpful.
But those findings dont address ingestible cannabis specifically or individual products on the market now.
This gap in research is a byproduct of the legal status of cannabis in the U.S.
Although that trial-and-error process can be intimidating, it can also be fun.
Cannabis offers one of those rare opportunities that we can pause and evaluate, she says.
First, determine whether edibles are right for you.
Cannabis is legal for medical use in only 36 states and D.C. (HeresNew Yorks list, for example.)
Theyll be able to provide helpful guidance about using cannabis in your unique situation, which might include edibles.
Edibles are the opposite, he says, likening them to extended-release medications.
Theyre slow to work, but once they work, they last much longer.
But theyre maybe not the best choice for people who need fast-acting relief from conditions like headaches.
The fact that edibles dont require smoking can be attractive as well.
The primary reason why people seek to use edibles might be stigma, Dr. Ward says.
Edibles are generally more discreet than smoking and allow you to avoid any issues with inhaling smoke or vapor.
Be aware that cannabis can interfere with some medications.
Products containing cannabis have the potential to interfere with other medications you may be taking.
There are certain interactions where using cannabis can increase or decrease the strength of other medications people are taking.
Right now experts know more about this withCBD(cannabidiol), which is one component of cannabis.
Unfortunately, there arent a ton of studies in this realm.
Start with a low doseand take a good look at the product label.
In regard to edibles, 5 mg of THC is generally considered a low dose, Dr. Tishler says.
Payan also recommends the low-dosePetramints from Kiva Confections as a great place to start.
Take your first dose in the evening, just in case.
One of the most common effects of cannabis is to make you feel relaxed and sleepy.
The first time you try a new cannabis edible product, Dr. Tishler recommends using it in the evening.
If you overshoot, then you could go to sleep and not ruin the whole day, he says.
Wait at least two hours before taking more.
If youre used to consuming cannabis via vaping or smoking, this might be a challenge.
Then, of course, the firstandsecond doses kick in and youre suddenly in way over your head.
Boomyoure having your after-school special moment, Payan says.
The THC, CBD, and other compounds in cannabis work by interacting with the bodys natural endocannabinoid system.
You might also have a high heart rate and can even develop auditory or visual hallucinations at high doses.
But as unpleasant as these effects may be, theyre temporary and unlikely to cause long-term issues.
And Dr. Tishler even recommends that beginners avoid taking more than one dose in the same 12-hour period.
If youve got a sweet tooth, get a nonmedicated version of your favorite treat.
This is not chocolate; this is medicine, Dr. Niles agrees.
If you want brownies, go buy brownies.
Try using premade cooking and baking ingredients.
From classic weed brownies to infused alcohol, making your own ingestible cannabis at home is a time-honored tradition.
Store your edibles safely.
visits, Dr. Ward says.
Although taking too much cannabis isnt lethal, it can be very unpleasantespecially if its unexpected.
Its not fun to be feeling a certain way and not understand why, Payan says.
