Welcome to vybe’s 3-part series about marijuana, which will provide helpful information about edibles, drug testing, and CBD.
Marijuana use is at an all-time high, with daily U.S. consumption being higher than alcohol. In states where recreational marijuana use is legal, 22% of adults have consumed edibles in the past year.
As marijuana use continues to become more common nationwide, edibles are also gaining popularity. Part one of our series discusses facts about edibles, including if they are a safer way to consume cannabis than smoking.
Edibles are cannabis products that may be taken orally and contain cannabinoids. The word “cannabinoid” refers to any chemical substance that has effects similar to the cannabis plant, such as THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).
Today’s edibles come in a variety of forms, including:
Edibles can be homemade or regulated by the state where they are purchased. Since state-regulated edibles are precisely measured (making the dosage more accurate) and tested for contaminants, they are always the safer option.
Most edibles lose their potency after about a year. As THC degrades, it turns into CBN (cannabinol), which may induce sleepiness instead of the “intoxicating” effects of THC.
Some marijuana users prefer edibles for reasons such as:
Overconsuming is the largest risk of taking edibles because it takes longer to feel their effects. Your body processes edibles differently than smoking. People who smoke marijuana are accustomed to the effects happening almost immediately, but it can take up to two hours to feel the effects of an edible. If you take more edibles while waiting for them to kick in, it can lead to over-intoxication.
Using marijuana in any form comes with risks, and edibles are no exception. When consuming edibles as snacks or treats, be sure to keep them out of reach from kids and pets.
Smoking remains the most popular way to use marijuana. Here are some of the most common reasons why:
There are numerous ways to inhale marijuana, including:
Smoking of any kind – from marijuana to cigarettes – can cause long-term respiratory damage, including lung cancer. Smoking also increases your risk of lung infections (such as pneumonia and tuberculosis) and can worsen existing lung diseases like asthma.
There’s clear evidence that vaping can have serious health consequences as well. Vitamin E acetate, a chemical additive found in many vaping products that contain THC, is commonly associated with lung injuries and deaths.
If smoking is how you choose to partake, joints are probably the lesser evil (but remember, you’re still inhaling smoke). The wrappers on blunts are extremely toxic, containing many cancer-causing ingredients.
Overall, there are many ways to consume marijuana, but moderation is key. While edibles may be better on the lungs than smoking, using marijuana in any form has its own risks. A large risk of marijuana use is not knowing what you are taking, and purchasing from a state-regulated dispensary can help eliminate that.
If edibles are how you choose to partake, stay tuned for our blog next month to learn if they will show up on a drug test. The answer might surprise you!
vybe urgent care is open 7 days a week and offers treatment for a variety of healthcare needs including, discreet and confidential rapid drug testing, employment-related drug screenings, and more.
Walk in or schedule an appointment online at your nearest vybe today.
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