How To Make Edibles Hit Harder, Faster, & Last Longer
Christopher Visser
Multi-Cannabis Business Owner
Christopher Visser, the Founder and CEO of Cannabidiol Life and THCGummies.com, is a distinguished figure in the CBD industry, recognized for his pioneering contributions since 2016. With over 120 published articles, Christopher has become a reputable cannabis researcher, writer, and author. He's built two prosperous cannabis ventures that collectively generated millions in annual sales. His in-depth analysis of numerous cannabis studies, collaboration with medical professionals, and personal engagement with thousands of customers underline his expertise and commitment to advancing cannabis understanding daily.
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Written By:
Christopher Visser
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- Updated: February 20, 2024
- 2 Comments: Feed The Flame?
Discover how terpenes, caffeine, and chocolate can enhance your cannabis edible experience. Learn how fatty foods, exercise, and technology can help make edibles hit faster and more effectively.
Table of Contents
Are you ready to elevate your cannabis edible experience? This article will explore how to enhance your high and make edibles hit faster.
We’ll delve into the following:
- the world of terpenes
- the effects of caffeine and chocolate
- how fatty foods can amplify your high
- the role of exercise and technology in making edibles more effective
Get ready, my fellow stoners; I’m about to up your edible game to Boss Mode!
FAQ
How can I get the strongest effect from edibles?
To get the strongest effect from edibles, eat something high in fat along with them, as THC binds to fat cells before digestion, increasing its effects.
Does chewing edibles make them more potent?
Chewing edibles down as much as possible will simultaneously create more saliva. This will aid in faster THC absorption into the bloodstream, making the edibles more bioavailable, and more THC in the bloodstream equals longer-lasting, more potent effects.Â
What is the ideal strength for edibles?
Edibles with 2.5 to 15 mg of THC are recommended for everyday recreational use. This strength also helps promote good sleep or relieve persistent symptoms not addressed by lower doses.
Is 10 mg of THC in an edible too much for a beginner?
If it’s your first time trying edibles, it’s best to start with an edible containing no more than 10 mg of THC, but most experts suggest starting with a dose of 2.5 to 5 mg. To avoid a bad experience, start slow, taking just a small bite.
What is the average strength of edibles?
The average strength of an edible is 10-15 mg of THC, which is generally effective for someone used to cannabis who wants to feel its effects for a few hours. A very high dose starts at about 20 mg of THC.
How quickly can you feel the effects of an edible?
Compared to smoking, the effects of edibles take longer to set in because they must first enter the digestive system. It usually takes 30-90 minutes for the effects to begin, peaking after 2-3 hours.
How long does it take for edibles to kick in at most?
It generally takes 30-60 minutes for edibles to take effect. However, some people might not feel the full effects for several hours. Start with a low dose and wait at least two to three hours before consuming more.
Why aren’t my edible gummies working?
If your edible gummies don’t seem to work, it may be because the edible THC dosage wasn’t high enough to match your body size and tolerance level.
Is a 10 mg edible too much for a beginner?
A 10 mg edible could be too much for a beginner. Instead, start with an edible containing 2.5 to 5 mg of THC. Take it slow by consuming just a small portion to avoid a negative experience.
Understanding Cannabis Edibles and Their Effects
What Are Cannabis Edibles and How Can They Affect You?
Cannabis edibles are food items infused with cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. They come in various forms, such as:
- Brownies
- Cookies
- Gummies
- Chocolates
- Drinks
When you consume cannabis edibles, the cannabinoids interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system. This can lead to a range of effects, including:
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Pain relief
- Anxiety relief
- Improved sleep
Keep in mind everyone’s experience with edibles is unique. Factors such as your metabolism, tolerance, and the type of edible can influence the effects you feel.
How Long Does It Take for Edibles to Kick In?
The time it takes for THC edibles to kick in can vary depending on several factors:
- Your metabolism: Faster metabolism may lead to quicker onset of effects.
- The type of edible: Some edibles, like gummies, are absorbed more quickly than others, like baked goods.
- How much food you have in your stomach: Consuming edibles on an empty stomach can lead to faster absorption.
Generally, you can expect to start feeling the effects of edibles within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. However, this can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to be patient and avoid consuming more edibles too soon.
How Long Do Edibles Last?
The duration of effects from cannabis edibles can vary based on factors like the type of edible, your tolerance, and your body’s metabolism. In general, the effects of edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, with the peak effects occurring around 2 to 4 hours after consumption.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, start with a low dose and wait at least 2 to 3 hours before considering consuming more. Remember, everyone’s experience with edibles is unique, so it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your consumption accordingly.
Foods and Substances That Can Enhance Your High
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They’re responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors in different strains. Some terpenes may even enhance the effects of THC and other cannabinoids. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of these terpenes:
Myrcene’s Role as a THC Enhancer
Myrcene is a terpene found in several plants, including cannabis, hops, and mangoes. It’s known for its earthy, musky aroma. Research suggests that myrcene may enhance the effects of THC by:
- Increasing the permeability of cell membranes allows THC to enter your brain more quickly.
- Potentiating the relaxing and sedative effects of THC.
To take advantage of Myrcene’s effects, try consuming foods rich in myrcene, like mangoes, before enjoying cannabis.
Beta Caryophyllene’s Role
Beta-Caryophyllene is another terpene found in various plants, including cannabis, black pepper, and cloves. It has a spicy, woody aroma and is known for its potential to:
- Reduce inflammation.
- Alleviate pain.
- Enhance the effects of THC.
Incorporate foods containing beta-caryophyllene, like black pepper and cloves, into your diet to potentially enhance your cannabis experience.
Caffeine and THC
Caffeine, a natural stimulant found in coffee and tea, can interact with THC in interesting ways:
- Caffeine may enhance the psychoactive effects of THC, leading to a more intense high.
- Combining caffeine and THC may increase alertness and focus while reducing the sedative effects of THC.
To experiment with the combination of caffeine and THC, try sipping a cup of coffee or tea while consuming cannabis.
Chocolate and Anandamide – The “Bliss Molecule”
Chocolate contains a compound called anandamide, which has a similar molecular structure to THC. Anandamide is sometimes referred to as the “bliss molecule” because it can:
- Stimulate feelings of happiness and well-being.
- Enhance the effects of THC by binding to the same receptors in your brain.
Enjoying a piece of chocolate before or while consuming cannabis might help intensify your high and increase the overall enjoyment of your experience.
Just remember to consume responsibly and be mindful of your limits.
References:
Authoritative Sources:
- Santiago, M., Sachdev, S., Arnold, J. C., McGregor, I. S., & Connor, M. (2019). Absence of entourage: terpenoids commonly found in Cannabis sativa do not modulate the functional activity of Δ9-THC at human CB1 and CB2 receptors. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 4(3), 165-176. This recent study examines the effects of terpenoids commonly found in cannabis on the functional activity of THC at human CB1 and CB2 receptors.
- Di Marzo, V., & Silvestri, C. (2019). Lifestyle and metabolic syndrome: contribution of the endocannabinoidome. Nutrients, 11(8), 1956. This 2019 review article discusses the contribution of the endocannabinoid system to lifestyle and metabolic syndrome, with a brief mention of anandamide and its effects on mood and appetite.
- Orio, L., Alexandru, L., Cravotto, G., Mantegazza, F., & Barge, A. (2020). Psychoactive natural products: an overview of recent developments. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1462(1), 3-29. This review article, published in 2020, provides an overview of recent developments in psychoactive natural products, including the effects of caffeine and its potential interaction with other psychoactive substances like THC.
- Myrcene Potential Benefits – PubMed
Anecdotal Evidence:
- Leafly: Cannabis Terpenes: The Ultimate Guide Leafly is a respected source of cannabis information, and this article provides a detailed guide on cannabis terpenes, including their potential effects and benefits.
- Medium: The Entourage Effect: Unlocking the Full Potential of Cannabis This Medium article provides a detailed explanation of the entourage effect and how various components of the cannabis plant, like terpenes, may enhance the overall experience.
- Merry Jane: Pairing Weed and Caffeine: A Match Made in Heaven Merry Jane is a cannabis-focused lifestyle website, and this article explores the anecdotal evidence supporting the pairing of weed and caffeine for an enhanced experience.
- Royal Queen Seeds: The Science of Combining Cannabis and Chocolate Royal Queen Seeds is a respected seed bank and cannabis information source, and this article delves into the science behind combining cannabis and chocolate, focusing on the role of anandamide.
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How to Make Edibles Hit Faster And Stronger
Everyone’s experience with edibles is different, but if you want to make them hit faster, there are some tricks you can try. Keep in mind, though, that individual results may vary, and it’s always essential to start with a low dose and be patient when trying new methods.
Increase Your Metabolism
A faster metabolism can help edibles take effect more quickly. Some ways to increase your metabolism include staying active, exercising regularly, and drinking water to stay hydrated.
Some ways to increase your metabolism include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
- Staying active and exercising regularly
- Drinking water to stay hydrated
- Consuming green tea, which is known to increase metabolism and heart rate, may also help speed up the effects of edibles.
Empty Stomach
Taking edibles on an empty stomach can help them hit faster, as there’s less food in your stomach to slow down absorption. However, this may also lead to a more intense high, so be cautious with this approach.
Warm-up Your Stomach
Warming up your stomach can help digestion and potentially speed up the onset of edibles. Try drinking a warm beverage like tea or having a light, warm meal before taking your edible.
Specially Formulated Edibles
Some edibles are designed to have a faster onset. Look for products labeled as “fast-acting” or “rapid onset” to find edibles that have been formulated for quicker effects.
Caffeine
Caffeine can potentially help edibles take effect more quickly by increasing your metabolism. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea before taking your edible, but be cautious, as the combination of caffeine and THC might be too stimulating for some.
Water-Soluble Edibles
Water-soluble edibles are designed to be absorbed more quickly than traditional edibles. These products use nano-emulsification or other techniques to make the THC more bioavailable, which can lead to a faster onset.
Fast-Acting Edibles
Some edibles are specifically designed to take effect more quickly. Fast-acting edibles use ingredients and formulations that help your body absorb THC faster. Keep an eye out for these products when shopping for edibles, and give them a try if you’re looking for a quicker onset.
Another Way If You Want To Feel The Effects The Fastest
For those looking for quicker onset times, consider trying vaping, using a bong, or incorporating cannabis oil into your routine.
These methods can deliver THC into your system faster than traditional edibles, providing quicker effects. However, it’s important to remember that these methods may also lead to a different experience than consuming edibles.
So, start slow and adjust as needed.
Bioavailability And Concept To Consider
Some ingredients can help to enhance the absorption and onset of edibles. For instance, consider incorporating the following:
- Cannabis oil or cannabutter into your edible recipes to help increase the bioavailability of THC.
- Adding delta-8 THC, a trending cannabinoid, might also provide a quicker onset than traditional delta-9 THC (although this is purely purported evidence)
- Sublingual edibles, which we discuss in the following topics, are absorbed under the tongue because they’re water-soluble and may tend to offer faster effects.
11-Hydroxy-THC and Enzymes
When edibles are consumed, they pass through the digestive tract, where enzymes in the intestine break them down. The THC is then converted into a more potent metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC. Having a slower metabolism can delay the onset of the effects, so finding ways to speed up this digestive process can help edibles hit faster.
Knowledge is power: Visit a Dispensary!
Visiting a dispensary can help you find the right products for your needs. Medical cannabis experts can recommend fast-acting edibles or water-soluble options to help you experience the desired effects more quickly. They can also guide you on appropriate dosages based on your age, weight, and experience level.
In conclusion, there are various ways to make edibles hit faster, from incorporating key ingredients to speeding up your metabolism. However, always be cautious and patient when trying new methods, and consult a medical cannabis professional or visit a dispensary for guidance.
References:
Authoritative Sources:
- This study examines the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids, including how the method of consumption affects the absorption and onset of effects.
- This research investigates the pharmacokinetics of THC in blood and oral fluid following the consumption of a cannabis brownie, which can provide insights into the absorption and onset of edibles.
Anecdotal Evidence:
- The Science of Munchies: Why Does Cannabis Stimulate Your Appetite? This article explores the science behind cannabis and appetite stimulation, which can help in understanding the relationship between metabolism and the onset of edibles.
- How Long Do Edibles Take to Kick In? THCGummies.com article discusses factors that influence the onset of edibles, including metabolism and the presence of food in the stomach.
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Alternatives to Edibles That Work Quickly
If you’re looking for a faster way to enjoy the benefits of THC gummies and other cannabis products, there are alternatives to edibles that can kick in much quicker than edibles. The majority of all edibles are hydrophobic, meaning they don’t work well with water (which is what we’re generally made of).
So, choosing a hydrophilic edible (works well with water) will decrease the amount of time it takes THC to enter the bloodstream, reach the brain, and the effects of cannabis to kick in.
The two most popular alternative options to edibles are THC tinctures and THC Beverages (infused drinks).
THC-Infused Tinctures
Tinctures are a great option if you want fast results. Here’s what you need to know about them:
- They’re liquid cannabis extracts.
- Made by soaking cannabis in alcohol or glycerin.
- High concentration of cannabinoids.
- Administered under your tongue (sublingually) or added to food and drinks.
- Effects felt in as little as 15 minutes.
Why choose THC tinctures?
- Faster absorption than edibles.
- Easy to control the dosage.
- Discreet and convenient to use.
- Long shelf life.
How to use THC tinctures:
- Shake the bottle well.
- Use the dropper to measure your desired dose.
- Place the drops under your tongue and hold for 30-60 seconds.
- Swallow and wait for the effects to kick in.
Remember, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. Everyone’s tolerance is different, so take your time to find what works best for you.
THC-Infused Drinks
Infused drinks are another fantastic alternative to edibles that can deliver quick results. Here’s the scoop on cannabis-infused beverages:
- They come in various forms, like teas, sodas, energy drinks, and even coffee.
- Contain cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
- Faster absorption rate than traditional edibles.
Why choose infused drinks?
- The quicker onset of effects (as fast as 20-30 minutes).
- Great for social situations or parties.
- Wide variety of flavors and options to choose from.
How to enjoy infused drinks:
- Pick your preferred cannabis-infused beverage.
- Check the label for dosage information.
- Start with a small serving (a quarter or half a drink) to gauge your tolerance.
- Wait for at least 30 minutes to an hour before consuming more.
As with any cannabis product, it’s important to start slow and be patient. The key is to find the right balance that works for you.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for faster-acting alternatives to edibles, tinctures, and infused drinks are excellent choices. Give them a try and discover a new way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis!
Fatty Foods Increase Edible Potency
Did you know that eating fatty foods can enhance the effects of edibles? That’s right! The fats in your food can help your body absorb THC more efficiently, making your edible experience even better.
Fatty Foods to Eat with Edibles
So, which fatty foods should you eat with your edibles? Here are some delicious options:
- Avocado:Â Packed with healthy fats, this fruit is both nutritious and perfect for pairing with edibles.
- Nuts:Â Almonds, walnuts, and cashews are all great choices for snacking while enjoying your edible treat.
- Cheese:Â Enjoy a cheese platter with your edibles for a tasty and fat-rich experience.
- Full-fat yogurt:Â Creamy and delicious, yogurt can help enhance your high while providing a healthy snack.
What Types of Fats Are Best?
While all fats can help with the absorption of THC, some fats are better for you than others. Here are the types of fats you should focus on:
- Monounsaturated fats:Â These fats are found in foods like avocados, olive oil, and nuts; all heart-healthy and can help improve your cholesterol levels.
- Polyunsaturated fats:Â These fats are found in fish, seeds, and some nuts. They’re also great for your heart and can help reduce inflammation.
- Omega-3 fatty acids:Â Known for their brain-boosting benefits, omega-3s can be found in fish like salmon and sardines.
Try to avoid trans fats and limit your intake of saturated fats. While they may still help with THC absorption, they’re not as healthy for your body.
So, next time you enjoy an edible, consider pairing it with some fatty foods to enhance your experience. Just remember to choose healthier fats for the best results!
References:
Authoritative Sources:
- Cannabinoid Bioavailability: This study provides information on how different methods of consumption, including oral ingestion, can affect the bioavailability of cannabinoids like THC.
- Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins (FABPs) and the Blood-Brain Barrier: This scientific article explains how fatty acid-binding proteins play a role in transporting cannabinoids across the blood-brain barrier, which may contribute to the enhanced effects of edibles when consumed with fatty foods.
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Anecdotal Evidence:
- Eat Your Cannabis With Fat, Dude!: This High Times article offers anecdotal evidence supporting the idea that consuming cannabis with fatty foods can enhance its effects.
- How to Increase the Bioavailability of THC When Making Edibles: Merry Jane provides anecdotal suggestions for increasing the potency of edibles, including the use of fatty foods.
The Role of Physical Exercise & Technology in Enhancing Edible Effects
How Physical Exercise Can Affect Your High
Physical exercise can have an impact on your high when you’ve consumed cannabis edibles. Here’s how:
- Exercise increases blood flow, which can help distribute THC throughout your body more quickly.
- Physical activity can boost endorphins, which may enhance the positive feelings associated with a high.
- Exercise might help to clear your mind, making it easier to focus on the pleasurable aspects of the high.
However, be cautious when exercising after consuming edibles, as overexertion might cause dizziness or exacerbate the psychoactive effects.
Can Technology Help Edibles Hit Harder?
Technology has its role in making edibles more effective. Here are some ways technology can help:
- Nano-emulsification:Â This process breaks down THC into tiny particles, increasing its bioavailability and speeding up absorption.
- Time-release capsules:Â These capsules are designed to release THC slowly over time, ensuring a consistent and long-lasting high.
- DNA testing:Â Some companies offer DNA testing services that can help identify the ideal cannabis strains and products for your unique genetic makeup, potentially enhancing your experience with edibles.
Foods That Could Help If You Feel Too High
If you feel too high after consuming cannabis edibles, certain foods might help you come down. These include:
- Lemon:Â Citrus fruits like lemon contain limonene, a terpene that may help counteract the effects of THC.
- Black pepper:Â Contains beta-caryophyllene, a terpene that may help alleviate anxiety and paranoia associated with a too-intense high.
- CBD-infused products:Â CBD can help counterbalance the effects of THC, potentially reducing the intensity of your high.
- Water and light snacks:Â Staying hydrated and consuming light snacks can help your body metabolize THC more quickly, shortening the duration of the high.
If you want to get the full scoop on this article, you should definitely check out my other article on How To Recover From Edibles.
References:
Authoritative Sources:
- Cannabis and Exercise: Exploring the Connection: This study explores the relationship between cannabis and exercise, discussing potential benefits and risks.
- Limonene and its role in chronic diseases: This research article delves into the properties of limonene, including its potential impact on mitigating the effects of THC.
- Beta-caryophyllene: A dietary cannabinoid with promising medicinal properties: This study discusses the potential medicinal properties of beta-caryophyllene, including its potential to alleviate anxiety and paranoia.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to enhance your high and make edibles hit faster; from terpenes and caffeine to fatty foods and exercise, you have plenty of options to experiment with.
Give these tips a try, and let me know in the comments below which method you already knew about or after you try a few of mine, which worked best for you?
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You’ll find a few articles here that give you information on How To Make and individual recipes for THC edibles and THC gummies. Thanks for reaching out!
You have an awesome gummy recipe you can share brother?