01
Why edibles hit different than smoking
When you smoke cannabis, THC enters the bloodstream through the lungs in 2 to 5 minutes. When you eat it, THC passes through the digestive system and liver first. The liver converts delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is stronger and longer-lasting. That's why edibles feel more intense per milligram than smoking.
02
Dosing by experience level
New to cannabis: 1 to 2.5 mg THC. Occasional user: 2.5 to 5 mg. Regular user: 5 to 10 mg. Experienced/high tolerance: 10 to 20 mg. Very high tolerance (heavy daily users): 20+ mg. These are rough guides — individual response varies widely based on body weight, metabolism, and previous exposure. If you are considering cannabis for any health-related reason, speak with a licensed physician before starting.
03
How to take them safely
Eat a small meal first — empty stomach makes the hit faster and harder. Take the dose and set a 2-hour timer. Do not take another dose during that window. Stay home or somewhere safe for the first-time dose so you can settle in without needing to drive or perform. Have water and a snack nearby.
04
Signs you took too much
Racing heart, anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, cold sweat, nausea. None of these are medically dangerous in healthy adults — you cannot overdose fatally on cannabis. But the experience can be unpleasant. If it happens, drink water, lie down somewhere comfortable, and remember it peaks at 2 to 4 hours and fades from there. CBD can counteract THC anxiety.
05
Fast-onset edibles (nano-emulsified)
Some modern edibles use nano-emulsion technology that lets THC absorb sublingually and bypasses the slow digestive process. These hit in 15 to 30 minutes and feel more like smoking in duration (3 to 4 hours). Labeled as 'fast-acting' or 'quick-onset.' Dose the same milligrams but expect faster onset.