Edibles can be a fun and tasty way to enjoy bud but, they can come with their own set of challenges for beginners. Getting started with edibles can be confusing—and if you’re not careful—it’s easy to make some rookie mistakes that can turn a relaxing experience into a bit of a mess. Here are three of the most common mistakes beginners make when trying edibles and how to avoid them. We also cover some short tips and proper use to help you have the best experience possible.
1. You Gotta Be Patient!
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is not giving the edible enough time to kick in. Unlike smoking or vaping, which produces effects almost instantly, they take a lot longer to work their magic. Edibles have to pass through your digestive system before the THC reaches your bloodstream, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours roughly. Impatient beginners often make the mistake of thinking it’s not working, and they end up eating more—sometimes a lot more! The result? A much more intense high than they bargained for!
Proper Use: Always start with a small dose which is usually suggested to be around 5-10mg of THC. If you’re unsure about the dosage, it’s best to consult the packaging or talk to someone knowledgeable at your dispensary. Wait at least two hours before deciding if you need more. Patience is key when it comes to edibles—it’s better to have a mild experience than an overwhelming one. A mild experience can still be enjoyable, allowing you to feel comfortable and in control while getting used to the effects.
Tip: Set a timer for two hours if you need a reminder of how long it’s been. Oral THC can be really sneaky so give it time! Keeping your cell phone’s alarm/stopwatch app or alike handy will let you know when enough time has passed to evaluate how you’re feeling before considering taking more.
2. I Think I Did A Little Too Much!
The second mistake is closely related to the first: taking too much at once. Edibles are often labeled with THC content, but beginners might not realize just how potent a single dose can be. Unlike other forms of cannabis, where you can adjust based on how you’re feeling in the moment, edibles have a delayed effect that can make dosing tricky. Taking too much can lead to an overwhelming high that’s hard to manage and can result in unpleasant side effects like anxiety or paranoia.
Proper Use: If you’re new to edibles, always be cautious (especially if home-made!) Stick to lower doses until you understand how you react. If you’re feeling nervous about trying an edible, consider starting with a CBD-dominant product, which can help balance out the effects of THC and make the experience a little more chill.
Tip: As advised above, stick to a beginner-friendly dose of 5-10 mg of THC – especially if it’s your first time. Remember, you can always take more, but you can’t take it back once it’s in your system!
3. Maybe I Should Have Eaten First …
If you’re new to edibles, you might want to consider a small meal first. Eating edibles on an empty stomach can allow them to come on faster and stronger than expected. This can easily lead to an uncomfortable experience. You don’t want to eat too much either though or you may find the effects delayed, leading back to issue #1. A small snack is perfect.
Proper Use: Eating a light, balanced meal before consuming an edible can help moderate the effects and prevent any sudden, intense highs. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados or nuts, can also help the THC absorb more evenly, leading to a smoother experience. This is because THC is fat-soluble, meaning it binds well to fats, which can enhance its absorption in the body. Avoid heavy meals, though, as they can delay the onset even further, making it harder to judge your dosage. Marijuana-based edibles may also be preferable for first timers as opposed to those made from concentrates. For example, pot brownies may be better than THC gummies the first time, though they may be harder to dose if not professionally made.
Tip: Have a light snack or a small meal before consuming an edible. This will help moderate the effects and make the experience more pleasant.
Additional Tips for Beginners
- Choose the Right Environment: When trying edibles for the first time, make sure you’re in a comfortable, familiar place. Being in a relaxed environment can help you manage any unexpected effects more easily.
- Have CBD on Hand: CBD can help counteract the psychoactive effects of THC if you find yourself feeling too high. Having a CBD tincture or gummy nearby can be a lifesaver for beginners.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep water or another non-alcoholic beverage nearby. Dry mouth is a common side effect of cannabis (which alcohol makes worse), and staying hydrated can help make the experience more enjoyable.
- Start with Tested Products: Who doesn’t love baking weed brownies? Well, for your first time—especially if you’re not accustomed to THC—you may want a product with a standard amount of THC in each serving.
Conclusion
Edibles can be an enjoyable way to consume cannabis, but they require a bit of patience and understanding—especially when you’re just starting out. By avoiding these three common mistakes—not waiting long enough, taking too much at once, and eating edibles on an empty stomach—and following proper usage tips, you’ll be well on your way to a positive experience. Remember, start low and go slow, and always make sure you’re in a comfortable environment. Enjoy responsibly!
