Understand the Delay in Effects of Edibles: Tolerance, Dosage, and Patience
Many users, especially those with long-term smoking histories, often wonder why they don't feel the effects of edibles they ingest, despite their experience with smoking. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, including tolerance, dosage, and the varying times it takes for edibles to kick in.
Why Don#39;t I Feel the Effect of an Edible?
Among regular users, there are several factors to consider when it comes to the delayed effects of edibles. Smoking marijuana typically yields almost immediate effects due to the way THC vapor lingers in the bloodstream. However, edibles have a different mechanism as they are ingested into the body, taken through the liver, and metabolized into different forms, often leading to a slower onset of effects.
Role of Tolerance in Edibles
Some long-time smokers have built up a high tolerance to THC. For these individuals, they may need significantly higher dosages to experience the desired effects. For example, an experienced smoker like Dave, who has been using marijuana for 29 years, can require 500mg of edibles to feel anything. He has even tried putting half an ounce of marijuana into a cake and consuming the entire thing, yet still failed to feel much of an effect. This high tolerance means that they may need to consume much higher dosages to feel the desired effects of edibles.
Dosage and the Onset of Effects
The amount of THC in an edible can greatly influence the onset and intensity of effects. Dave mentioned that he had consumed 1200mg of THCA diamonds (decarboxylated THC) in a chewy form and noted a "nice mellow body buzz," indicating that even high dosages can produce distinct effects. It is important for users to ensure they are getting their edibles from reputable and tested sources. Self-preparation or purchasing from unreliable dealers can lead to inconsistencies in product potency, which may explain why some individuals do not feel the intended effects.
Reasons for No Effect Feeling
There are a few potential explanations for why an individual might not feel the effects of an edible after consuming 500mg. For some, it could be a combination of high tolerance and the way THC is metabolized in the body. Other users, like Dave, may have an enzyme problem that requires unusually high dosages for the edible to take effect. In some cases, these high dosages can result in negative effects or even psychosis, as seen in the tragic case of a Colorado man who consumed 50mg of THC and experienced violent reactions. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being patient and cautious when using edibles.
Conclusion
The time it takes for edibles to take effect and the resulting effects can greatly vary depending on factors such as an individual's tolerance and the dosage. Patience is key when using edibles, and it is crucial to choose reputable sources to ensure the consistency and safety of the product. If you have consumed a high dosage and still do not feel anything, you may need to consider revisiting your dosage. When in doubt, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional or a knowledgeable cannabis educator for guidance.