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.