Smoking weed and consuming edibles like delta 8 gummies are two popular methods of consuming cannabis. But how do they compare in terms of their effects? Keep reading to find out.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. The cannabis plant contains a chemical compound called tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. Cannabis is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.
Cannabinoids are a class of molecules that interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis, or balance, in the body. The cannabinoids found in cannabis interact with the receptors in the ECS to help maintain balance and regulate a wide variety of physiological processes.
There are two main types of cannibinoids: delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta-8 THC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is found in small quantities in cannabis. Delta-9 THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid and is responsible for the “high” that people feel when they smoke, eat, or vape cannabis. Delta-9 THC is often consumed by smoking, but delta-8 THC is often consumed in edibles like gummies.
What are the effects of edibles vs. smoking?
Cannabis smokers report almost immediate effects from smoking and vaporizing cannabis. This may be because cannabinoids are absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream quickly, delivering the psychoactive effects to the user rapidly.
When you eat an edible, the THC is absorbed through your stomach and small intestine into your bloodstream. From there, it travels to your brain and other organs. This process can take up to two hours, so it’s important to be patient when waiting for the effects to kick in. Once they do, you may feel euphoric, giggly, relaxed, or sleepy. Some people also experience increased appetite (the “munchies”) and dry mouth. Unlike smoking cannabis, which provides an almost immediate high, edibles produce a slower but longer-lasting effect that can last for several hours.
The amount of THC that is absorbed by the body when eating cannabis depends on a number of factors, including potency and weight. A person who weighs more will absorb more THC than someone who weighs less. Similarly, a high-potency strain will have a stronger effect than a low-potency strain. It’s important to start with a small dose and increase gradually until you find what works best for you.
Before trying any form of THC, whether it’s smoking delta-9 THC or eating delta-8 gummies, be sure to consult with your doctor first. Your doctor can let you know if THC may have negative side effects or interact with any other medications you’re currently taking. Your doctor can also give you recommendations for proper dosage.
What should I look for when choosing edibles?
When looking for edibles, it is important to first consider the potency of the product. THC and CBD concentrations will vary from one edible to the next, so choose one that matches your desired effects. Additionally, it is important to look at the ingredients list and make sure there are no artificial colors or flavors. The best way to avoid any unpleasant surprises is to read reviews before purchasing.
Cannabis edibles come in many different forms, from baked goods to candy to drinks. They can be purchased premade from dispensaries or made at home using marijuana extract or oil.
If you are new to edibles, start small and wait a while before eating more. Effects can be unpredictable, so it is best to start slow until you know how your body reacts.
