Edibles are cannabis-infused food products that might alleviate pain, anxiety, and prevent seizures while aiding in weight management, though further study is required. Overconsumption can cause adverse effects like panic attacks.
These are a popular way to use both medical and recreational cannabis.
Available in various forms such as baked goods, candies, chocolates, and beverages, edibles online can be bought ready-made or homemade, like oils and brownies.
While considered safe and discreet, edibles pose risks users should be aware of.
Learn about the effects and side effects of cannabis edibles and how they compare to smoking cannabis in this article.
Edible cannabis products offer similar benefits to other cannabis forms, commonly used for relaxation or treating conditions like chronic pain.
The impact of edibles varies with the dosage, typically intensifying with higher doses. However, it’s easy to overconsume, leading to side effects like nausea and vomiting.
Benefits of cannabis edibles include:
Relaxation and anxiety relief
Cannabis contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for its psychoactive effects. THC can induce relaxation and euphoria, according to older research.
Another compound in cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD), has anti-anxiety properties. A 2019 study found that over 79% of participants with anxiety or sleep issues who took CBD saw reduced anxiety during the study, indicating potential benefits. Further research on teenagers with social anxiety also showed CBD significantly lowering anxiety levels. More studies are necessary, but the results are promising.
Pain Management
CBD is known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a favored option for chronic pain sufferers. Research suggests that cannabis products can enhance pain management for medical cannabis patients.
Common conditions treated with medicinal cannabis and edibles include arthritis, cancer pain, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.
Muscle Spasm Control
Medicinal cannabis is often recommended for muscle spasm treatment. A 2013 study shows significant improvements in muscle spasticity and pain from cannabis use. An oral cannabis derivative is used for treating muscle spasticity and pain, though more research is needed on other edible forms.
Antiseizure Effects
CBD has shown antiseizure properties, making it a potential epilepsy treatment. A 2017 study supports CBD’s effectiveness in improving seizure control in certain epilepsy syndromes. While edibles might help reduce seizures, further research is essential.
Other Effects
Edible cannabis products might also address other health issues like appetite and weight loss in cancer patients.
How do edibles differ from smoking?
Edibles are often viewed as safer, more discreet, and effective compared to smoking cannabis. They don’t expose users to the potentially harmful effects of smoking.
Both cannabis and tobacco smoke contain toxins and carcinogens, contributing to lung inflammation, bronchitis, and potentially cancer. Edibles do not impact lung function or cancer risk in these ways, suggesting they may be safer regarding respiratory health.
However, edibles carry risks like accidental ingestion or overdose.
Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of edibles compared to smoking cannabis.
Summary
Edibles offer a discreet method of cannabis consumption without some smoking risks. Yet, caution is advised, particularly for new users. Effects can be delayed up to three hours, and there’s an overdose risk if consumption isn’t carefully controlled. Users should follow recommended dosages and stop if adverse reactions occur.
Long-term, frequent cannabis use can negatively impact mental and physical health.
