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5 Types of Edibles and Their Uses
Reviewed by | Raven Ariola, Cannabis Science Educator and Professor of Cannabis Agriculture
Looking for a new way to chill out and let loose with friends? One that won’t leave you groggy and uncomfortable come morning? Or maybe you’re seeking something to help open your mind when diving into a creative pursuit, a new step for your self-care routine, or something that can help soothe tension?
Whatever your reason, when it comes to cannabis, there’s no shortage of ways to get into that floaty headspace you’re craving.
One growingly popular method? Edibles. From energizing, alcohol-free cocktails and seltzers to soothing chocolates and gummies bursting with flavor, there’s an edible out there to match every mood.
If you’re on a quest to find the right type of edible for you and get the most out of your consumable cannabis, we’re here to help.
What Is Cannabis?
The cannabis plant has been used medicinally and recreationally for millennia. Indigenous to Central Asia, this hearty plant is now grown and cultivated across the globe.
So, what makes this plant so buzz-worthy? Its buds, flowers, and leaves are rich with terpenes and cannabinoids, bioactive chemical compounds that can work in the body to produce a range of wellness benefits and cerebral effects.
While there are over 100 known cannabinoids, two of the most abundant and well-researched are THC and CBD. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. When you think of the classic high associated with the cannabis plant, it’s the THC content that’s producing it.
CBD (cannabidiol), meanwhile, is a more subtle cannabinoid that does not alter the mental state. CBD is the main cannabinoid in hemp, a type of cannabis plant with lower levels of THC.
How Do Cannabinoids Work Within the Body?
Once absorbed into the body, these plant-based cannabinoids (or phytocannabinoids) produce their effects by working with the body’s endocannabinoid system (aka the ECS, for short).
The ECS serves as a complex messaging network within the body designed to help maintain homeostasis. The ECS works with neurotransmitters, the immune system, and a range of physiological functions to help encourage healthy sleep patterns, stress levels, immune function, mood regulation, and more.
With the help of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2 receptors), endocannabinoids, and enzymes, the ECS can send messages throughout the central and peripheral nervous system, promoting balance throughout.
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are molecularly similar to our internal endocannabinoids, meaning that they can work with CB receptors to support the ECS. THC, in particular, is capable of binding with CB1 receptors in the brain, causing the perception-altering high and euphoric effects we know and love.
What Are Edibles?
Now, for the cannabis cannabinoids to produce the desired effects, they have to be properly absorbed into the body so they can reach the cannabinoid receptors. There are a few ways this can happen: inhalation (aka smoking or vaping), sublingual absorption (dissolved under the tongue), topical application, or digestion.
Any type of cannabis or hemp product that is consumed and digested is considered an edible.
How Do Edibles Work?
Edibles are different from other forms of cannabis in that they must move through the digestive tract before the cannabinoids enter the bloodstream.
Once digested, cannabinoids undergo first-pass metabolism in the liver, where they are processed before moving on to the bloodstream. From there, the cannabinoids can move throughout the brain and body, allowing them to reach cannabinoid receptors as needed.
While the movement through the digestive tract means edibles typically take longer to kick in than inhalation or sublingual methods, it also creates a longer-laster experience, as the biotransformation that occurs in the liver takes longer for enzymes to break down.
What Are the Benefits of Edibles?
Edibles offer an elevated experience for anyone after sustained, long-lasting benefits. Because of how edibles are processed and broken down in the body, the effects can last between two to eight hours.
We also love edibles for their bold and bright flavors. From summery-sweet watermelon flavors to decadent mocha goodness, edibles come in a range of flavors that ensure your cannabis experience tastes just as good as it makes you feel.
Along with different colors and flavors, edibles can also be chock-full of other wellness-supporting botanicals like soothing ashwagandha, immune-supporting elderberry, and energizing ginseng extract. When it comes to added botanicals, Raven Ariola, Cannabis Science Educator and Professor of Cannabis Agriculture, notes that “Their effects are separate from the cannabinoids and the scientific evidence for their synergistic action with cannabis may vary.” With that in mind, it’s best to do your research and rely on trusted brands.
Edibles from trusted brands also contain a consistent dose of THC, taking out the guesswork so you know exactly how much THC you’re getting with every bite. Not to mention, consuming cannabis is considered a safe alternative to inhalation methods like vaping, or smoking, as any type of smoke inhalation can irritate the lungs.
So, to summarize, edibles give us a way to enjoy cannabis that offers sustained, long-lasting effects, is packed with wellness-supporting ingredients, is easy on the lungs, and tastes great. We love to see it.
5 Types of Edibles
Feeling ready to dive into the world of edibles, but not sure where to start? Let’s get into the different types of edibles available and what vibes they pair best with.
Ariola notes that “The primary determinant of effects is the cannabinoid and terpene profile of the cannabis extract used in the edible, rather than the form factor (gummy vs. chocolate vs. drink), with the exception of potential differences in absorption speed for liquids.”
1. Gummies
A bite-sized option filled with flavors, gummies have become increasingly popular.
Cannabinoid-infused gummies are often bright and fruity, and can contain a range of other beneficial ingredients.
Infused with hemp or cannabis extract, you’ll find gummies rich in THC, CBD, or other minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG. Here at Gigli, our THC gummies have 5 mg of hemp-derived THC each, so you never have to wonder how much you’re getting.
Because they’re convenient and discreet, gummies are perfect for taking on the go or when you’re craving a dependable, no-fuss way to reach your bliss.
Throw a pack in your gym bag or purse to have in easy reach when you’re ready for a pick-me-up, or keep them on your nightstand to take at bedtime when you could use a hand shifting your thoughts to sleep mode (pssst: our CBN Elderberry Sleep Gummies are the perfect bedtime choice).
2. Chocolates and Candies
As if chocolate didn’t already hit the spot! Let it take you even further with some THC-infused delight.
These days, it isn’t uncommon to find cannabis-infused goodies of all sorts, from lollipops to caramels to chocolates. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and bringing a little extra joy to your day when you’re looking to destress or kick your self-care routine up a notch.
Our THC chocolates are ready to get the good times rolling. With 5 mg of THC per square and different flavors to fit your taste, from caramel mocha to funfetti to peppermint crunch, we’ve got something for everyone.
Share with friends during your next night in, or incorporate it into a solo spa day and indulge in the feel-good decadence.
3. Alcohol-Free Cocktails
Gone are the days when you need to risk a hangover to let loose at social gatherings. As more and more people embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle, THC-infused cocktails offer an alternative for the wellness-minded sipper.
Because liquids are processed quicker in the body, you may start feeling the effects of cannabis drinks within 10-15 minutes, making them the ideal party companion.
Each Gigli THC cocktail comes chock-full of bold flavors and a dazzling 10 mg of THC to create the ultimate feel-good drinking experience. Perfect for backyard celebrations, brunch gatherings, or date nights, these drinks blend sophistication and fun, offering a balanced buzz that won’t leave you feeling weak and achy come morning.
4. Seltzers and Teas
When it comes to edible (or drinkable) THC, none are as refreshing as the cannabinoid-infused seltzer or tea.
THC seltzers contain the kind of bubbly that goes straight to your head, and brings on all the giggles. As for teas, you can find THC-infused hot teas to help you relax at the end of a long day or iced teas best enjoyed kicked back in a pool chair for the ultimate relaxation experience.
At Gigli, our crisp, light THC-infused, zero-cal THC seltzers and THC iced teas come in bright flavors like mango, citrus, or raspberry and contain 10 mg of THC — along with ashwagandha root and ginseng extract — to help you unwind in all the best ways.
5. Baked Goods
We’re going old school with this one. Baked goods like brownies are a classic — a ‘90s-era party staple before the age of dispensaries and legalized hemp.
Cannabis-infused baked goods can be made at home by decarboxylating hemp or cannabis flowers.
Basically: heating them up to activate its psychoactive properties (this process is taken care of for you when you purchase a high-quality premade edible like chocolates or gummies!). Then, the decarboxylated buds can be infused into a butter or cooking oil and used in your batter.
While we are all for this type of nostalgic kitchen science project, it’s important to remember that the potency and THC content per bite is harder to track. It may be easier to consume more THC than you realize, leading to more intense effects.
Are There Any Risks to Using Edibles?
While edibles are typically extremely safe when used responsibly, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Some users may experience elevated heart rate, red eyes, dry mouth, or feelings of paranoia and nervousness. These side effects are more likely to occur when THC is consumed in high doses.
If you’re new to THC, we recommend starting small with around 2.5 mg of THC to see how it makes you feel. Try cutting a gummy or chocolate square in half and sipping your cannabis-infused drink slowly over time.
The biggest risk with edibles is taking too much too soon. While this isn’t exactly dangerous, it can lead to an intense and uncomfortable high if you aren’t ready for it.
Remember: cannabis drinks can take 15 minutes to an hour to kick in, while cannabis-infused foods and gummies can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in. Metabolism, product potency, tolerance level, and body chemistry can also affect the timeline.
If you don’t feel the effects right away, be patient, and give your edible the time it needs to reach the ECS before taking more.
Feel Good With Gigli
THC edibles can bring a little added enjoyment to your day, whether you’re savoring a gummy to kickstart your day, getting giggly with friends while sipping on cocktails, or relaxing in style with a seltzer.
For best results, look for products that fit your mood and align with your wellness values. At Gigli, all of our products are vegan, low-sugar, and gluten-free, and our certificate of analysis is easily available so you always know exactly what you’re getting in every bite and sip.
Ready to discover edibles as bold and vibrant as you are? Explore our full collection at Gigli.
Sources:
Cannabinoid - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious | Harvard Health
Benefits of Ashwagandha and How Much To Take | Cleveland Clinic
Ginseng: Uses, Interactions & Side Effects | Cleveland Clinic
