EDIBLES VS. VAPING CANNABIS: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

There are a few types of THC in the cannabis plant — the most common are delta-8 and delta-9. Despite similarities in the structure of these compounds, the effects and legality of delta 8 and delta 9 THC are very different.

Delta 8 THC is the smoother, clear-headed, and less anxious version. People who find Delta 9 THC products too “stimulating” or “anxiety-inducing” often turn to delta 8 for its more relaxing nature. However, the two molecules breakdown similar in the body when ingesting. 

You may have heard of countless stories of people ingesting too many edibles by accident or by negligence. 

Most everybody will agree; edibles seem to hit harder than just about every other method of consumption.

When you smoke or vape, you actually absorb cannabinoids more efficiently than when you have edibles, but the high from ingesting THC is stronger and lasts longer. 

SMOKING & VAPING VS. EDIBLES

Since you’re consuming the same substances when smoking, vaping, or eating edibles, you’d expect the effects to be the same.

But there are some basic differences between smoking and eating cannabis products that alter the potency and duration of effects. 

Comparing Edibles & Inhaled THC:

Listed below are two main reasons why edibles hit harder than inhaled forms include: 

1. THE LIVER MAKES THC STRONGER

Because of the influence of the liver, THC is converted to a stronger form when using edibles. 

When you smoke, THC enters your bloodstream through your lungs and reaches your brain within minutes. 

But, when you eat edibles, THC is ingested orally, processed in your digestive tract, and metabolized by a middleman: the liver, where THC is turned into 11-hydroxy-THC.

It’s estimated that this metabolite is three to five times stronger than THC, and when it finally reaches your bloodstream and brain, it’ll hit you... harder. 

11-hydroxy-THC is water-soluble, unlike THC, so at this point, it actually spreads through your body and gets absorbed by the brain faster.

2. EDIBLES ARE ABSORBED MORE THOROUGHLY

When you smoke, you hold your breath for a few seconds and exhale. Most of the smoke still comes out on the exhale. This smoke contains a ton of THC in it. 

THC absorption is very efficient in the lungs, however, most of the smoke is still wasted and exhaled into the air. 

With edibles, the THC enters a closed system, and most of it is eventually absorbed (it just takes much longer). 

Inhaling 5 mg, it is estimated that only about 1-2 mg is absorbed. When you ingest 5 mg, closer to 4 mg is eventually absorbed (this will vary depending on individual factors like digestive health, what other foods were consumed that day, and other factors). 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR EDIBLES TO KICK IN?

Edibles can take around 30 to 90 minutes to kick in, but it depends on your metabolism, what you ate that day, and the composition of the edibles you’re having.

Most people feel the early effects by the 45-minute mark and should reach peak effects by around one and a half hours after taking the edible. 

HOW MUCH THC IS IN EDIBLES?

One can find edibles containing doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg THC — but you can find just about any amount. 

It is the upmost importance when ingesting edibles, you ingest a quality product that has been tested and is from a reliable company. This is what makes homemade edibles such a gamble in terms of their potency. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I EAT TOO MANY EDIBLES?

Taking too many edibles isn’t dangerous — but it can still be very uncomfortable if you weren’t expecting it. 

Taking too many edibles could result in feeling of paranoia, anxiety, or sleepiness. You may feel increased heart rate, confused or even agitation.  

The important things to do are to find a comfortable place to chill and wait for the effects to wear off. Try to relax, focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Some positive self-talk helps as well.

Eating some food or drinking some water to dilute the THC still waiting to be absorbed in the digestive tract is also another way to help sober up.  

If you have too many edibles, you may experience side effects, including:

• Cognitive and/or motor impairment
• Sedation or tiredness
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea 
• Vomiting

Some helpful tips for people who have had too much:

• • Lay down.
  • Take a deep breath and try to stay calm — keep reminding yourself that what you’re feeling will go away soon.
  • Drink lots of water.
  • Play relaxing music.
  • Have a shower or slash water on your face.
  • Ingesting some CBD can also help reduce the effects of THC, but it can also slow down its metabolism and keep it in your system for longer.
  • Call someone — chatting can get your mind off of your current symptoms.

• Do not operate vehicles or do anything that can endanger you or others.

TYPES OF CANNABIS EDIBLES

1. GUMMIES

Gummies are probably the most popular type of edibles. There are flavors and cannabinoid concentrations for every taste. They’re convenient, discreet, and delicious.

Besides delta 8 and delta 9 THC, there are CBD, CBN, CBG, THCV, and many other gummies: isolate, broad-spectrum, full spectrum… You name it! There are gummies for every taste and need. Here at Triangle Hemp Wellness, we carry a diverse array of Delta 8 THC edibles & Delta 9 THC edibles.

2. BAKED GOODS

Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC baked goods, like brownies, cookies and Rice Krispy treats are an enjoyable way of ingesting.

Shelf life with these baked goods is something to consider, but, aside from that, they’re equally delicious, discreet, and convenient.

3. CHOCOLATES

There’s white, milk, and dark chocolate, and even other unconventional flavors, like mint chocolate — there’s something for everyone.

The way cannabinoids enter your body follows the same principle as hard candy if you let it melt in your mouth. Otherwise, they act like all other edibles.

Triangle Hemp Wellness carries Bhumi chocolates which are delicious which comes in squares and bars. 

4. DRINK ADDITIVES

Just like candy, the cannabinoids in drink additives start to be absorbed in your mouth before entering the digestive tract, leading to a unique experience.

Triangle Hemp Wellness carries 3CHI additive that can be mixed with your favorite beverage. The Delta 9 THC syrup additive is another way to ingest. Pour it in a soda, make a mixed drink, or take it straight to the head! 

Whether you use our products for health, as a tool for self-growth & creativity, to chill and relax or purely for recreation is completely up to you. No one here will judge you.

Enjoy