One of the many advantages of CBD is how many ways there are to consume it. The most popular ways of CBD consumption are oils, vapes, and edibles. And it’s the edibles we want to focus on in this article. There’s a good chance you’ve already come across the term ‘cannabis edibles.’ After all, people have eaten ‘pot brownies’ for decades now. However, there’s much more to edibles than that.
In this article, we’re going to explore what edibles really are and what benefits they bring, beyond what has become common in popular culture. On the most basic level, CBD edibles can be described as an ingestible form of cannabis that doesn’t require any fire or combustion to activate its chemical compounds. They offer a fantastic alternative to more traditional ways of cannabis consumption involving smoking or vaping.
Throughout modern history, we’ve typically seen edibles take the form of edible marijuana products, meaning they include the psychoactive compound THC. As many know, the addition of the THC cannabinoid means many of the edibles people are familiar with also come with an intoxicated or “high” feeling. However, CBD does not cause the user to feel high. Instead, it only leaves the therapeutic benefits, providing relief without intoxication. Because of this, more and more manufacturers work hard to create cannabis edibles that contain only CBD. This should translate to even more CBD edible products available for users who want to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without getting high.
ADVANTAGES OF EDIBLE CBD
Edible CBD comes with a plethora of benefits, with the most powerful advantage being the lack of smoke entering the lungs. If a person suffers from chronic lung conditions, using edible CBD products provides the best alternative to consume CBD, perhaps even to relieve the pain of the exact same lung condition. Considering how harmful even the smallest amount of smoke or vape can be for sensitive lungs, edibles are by far the best way to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Another benefit of CBD edibles is that they offer a more discreet option to consume cannabis. It may not seem like a massive advantage, but there are many people who are afraid to feel judged when consuming cannabis, even if it’s CBD. Edibles are definitely a more subtle option than smoking or vaping CBD, providing a more simple way to become familiar with the many benefits cannabis can provide.
The next advantage of edibles is the simple fact that they can last much longer in the system compared to other methods. Because of that, a single dose of a CBD edible is enough to keep a person relieved for longer, eliminating the need for more frequent consumption throughout the day. This also makes edibles more effective for people with conditions requiring sustained treatment over several hours, such as anxiety, pain, or sleep disorders [1]. Other than that, edibles are typically more sedative, which can prove beneficial for people who deal with issues related to relaxation or sleep.
Lastly, most people will find edibles to be a more affordable option when compared to a pure CBD flower or oil. Most often, edibles will cost less per item than other CBD options, making them the best option for those looking for the best bang for their buck. Many fans of edible CBD products have even taken to making their own, combining their love of cannabis and cooking into one relaxing hobby.
HOW CBD EDIBLES ARE MADE
Typically, you can come across three different styles of edible CBD, with some containing more chemical compounds derived from cannabis plants than others, including THC. This is why it’s vital to know the difference between them, especially if you live in a state where marijuana is illegal, or you are sensitive to THC.
The three main varieties of CBD are as follows:
- Full-spectrum CBD: These products contain all cannabinoids, terpenes, as well as other molecular compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC. Usually, the THC found in full-spectrum CBD products is only present in very small amounts, but it can be significant enough to deem it illegal in certain states. When purchasing full spectrum CBD, make sure to carefully check the label if THC is something you’re trying to avoid or minimize or if it’s not legal in your state.
- Broad-spectrum CBD: Products labeled broad-spectrum will contain all the same cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in full-spectrum CBD, with the exception of THC. Manufacturers of broad-spectrum CBD will remove the THC from these products, making them completely safe for anyone sensitive to THC and legal in states where marijuana is not.
- Isolate CBD: Isolate products that contain only CBD and nothing else. They don’t include any other cannabinoids, terpenes, or other compounds derived from the cannabis plant. These edibles go through a more extensive process to remove other cannabis components, leaving isolated and pure CBD. Isolate CBD products practically always come from a hemp plant, making them entirely legal across the United States.
An important phenomenon to note in regards to the various CBD styles is the entourage effect. This entourage effect is a process where all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils found in cannabis work together to increase the benefits of the whole.
The entourage effect means hundreds of compounds in the plant work together in synergy to amplify the combined therapeutic effects. Research has shown that removing even one of the compounds found in cannabis can reduce the effectiveness of the whole product [2], meaning that both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD have the added benefit of the entourage effect, while, unfortunately, isolate CBD does not. By removing everything except CBD, isolate also removes the beneficial entourage effect process.
WHICH EDIBLES ARE THE BEST
Since edible products come in a large variety of options, including gummies, hard candies, chocolates, baked goods, and capsules, the choice regarding which of those is the best relies on an individual preference. If you believe baked goods work better with your life than gummies, then it makes sense to try them out first. In general, it’s best to take your time and try different types of CBD edibles before deciding which offers the best experience and meets your needs. For instance, if you prefer an edible that also comes with a body high, finding a full-spectrum CBD with a more balanced ratio of CBD to THC might be the best bet.
If the psychoactive properties aren’t appealing or important to you, a broad spectrum CBD will be your safest option. You’ll get all the benefits of full-spectrum CBD without the risk of intoxication. With the legalization of hemp in the United States, you will likely see many broad-spectrum products with a THC level of less than 0.3%, which is a trace amount and not enough for anyone to feel the psychoactive effects.
If you’re absolutely only interested in the therapeutic benefits of CBD, or perhaps you’re sensitive to other cannabinoids, CBD isolate is the product for you.
ARE EDIBLES THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR ME?
Edible CBD products are a fantastic way to enter the magical world of cannabis. While other forms of consuming CBD can be a little too intimidating for a newbie, edibles provide a straightforward alternative.
If you wish to start your journey with CBD edibles, the first thing to learn is if the type of CBD product you want to use is legal in your state. For example, full-spectrum edibles might not be legal if they consist of more than 0.3% THC, which is the federal limit for hemp-derived products. If the edible exceeds this limit, it most likely comes from a marijuana plant and may be illegal in your state.
If you believe that you might benefit from CBD in any way, it’s the right time to find out. Scroll through the offer of a reliable online CBD manufacturer and pick the edible that sounds the most appealing to you. Start by eating a small amount at first, then wait for at least an hour to see how it affects your body. You can then increase the amount a little bit, and soon enough, you’ll discover just how much CBD is the right dose for your needs. What’s more, considering that edibles are so much easier to adjust than other CBD products, you’ll be able to experiment with different dosages much more effectively.
Disclaimer
The statements expressed on this website are purely opinion of the author and not factual. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products referenced on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It’s highly suggested to consult with your medical professional prior to any use of the products referenced on this website. This website and author specifically disclaim any liability in connection with the products contained on the website.
