The Difference Between Smoking Cannabis and Eating Edibles

​We use our weekly discussions as a means to understand our community which we call Bento Family and answers questions they may have. In a previous post, we mentioned experimenting with cannabis to understand what works best for you. We know that’s easier said than done. The lack of knowledge of this industry doesn’t help. That’s where we come in, trying our best to provide the most relevant information to you. A common question we hear is “what’s the difference between smoking flower and eating an edible?” There are many horror stories of someone eating an edible, having a bad experience, and never trying cannabis again. We don’t want that to happen to you, so this week’s discussion will clarify the differences between edibles and smoking. 

​How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects?

Effects can be felt faster from smoking than edibles. This is because smoking allows Delta-9-THC to travel through our bloodstream, thanks to the alveoli in our lungs, and binds to endocannabinoid receptors throughout our body, including our brain. Effects can be felt instantly or in a few minutes. When consuming edibles, it typically kicks in around 30-60 minutes. The edible needs time to metabolized through the stomach then liver.
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Although, edibles provide more potent effects. When consumed, Delta-9-THC converts to 11-hydroxy-THC or 11-OH-THC. A 1973 study showed 11-OH-THC may be more potent than Delta-9-THC. 11-OH-THC is water soluble, while Delta-9-THC is oil soluble. This means edibles are more effective in crossing the blood-brain barrier. As a result, the effects from smoking moderately can last anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours while edibles can last four to 6 hours.   

​Risks and Benefits

​Smoking is good for those who want to feel the effects immediately. Despite the fact smoking could irritate and inflame the respiratory tract. Edibles are great for those who don’t want to smoke, smell like cannabis, want a longer/stronger high, or prefer inconspicuous consumption methods. It is important to note some edibles have a stronger cannabis taste than others. If not careful, edibles come with the highest chance of over doing it. Understanding the perfect number of milligrams for you is important. So is taking into consideration your metabolism, how sensitive you are to THC, and what you ate that day. Start with 2.5mg or 5mg and if nothing is felt within an hour take another. Impatience leads to undesired results. 

​Your Thoughts

Experimenting to understand what works best for you is encouraged. Additionally, we want to make sure you experiment in a safe manner. If you like the information we discussed and want us to compare other methods, please email us at peter@bentodelivery.com or comment below. Likewise, if there is something you want to learn more about, or if you have any feedback feel free to comment or email us along with any other questions you may have. After all, our discussions are focused on helping you.