Choosing the right edible is like dating: there are lots of (gummy) fish in the edible sea. With so many options, finding the right one can take time and effort. Not to fear; like dating, choosing the right edible can be lots of fun! So, whether you’re chasing a long-term solution or just a one-night fling, this guide will help you make the right edible choice for you in three easy steps.
Step 1: What do you want?
The key to finding the best edible lies in understanding what you want out of the experience. Whether you're seeking pain relief, better sleep, creative inspiration, a relaxing night in, or just a good time, there’s an edible tailored to your needs.
So before chowing down, let’s understand what the choices are. Generally speaking, most edibles fall into three major categories based on cannabinoid content:
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THC-dominant edibles are the ones that get you high. These offer a wide range of benefits. Some of them are great for relaxing, socializing, exercising, or zoning out in front of your favorite show, while others may be ideal for those managing pain, nausea, or insomnia. Most THC-dominant edibles break down into two categories, defined by strain: Sativa and Indica. For more information, check out our blog on Sativa vs. Indica.
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CBD-dominant edibles won’t get you high, but they will help with stress, inflammation, and general well-being. Ideal if you want to chill without the buzz.
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Balanced (THC: CBD) edibles are the middle path; a nice mix of the two. You get mild euphoria without full blast off. Perfect for first-timers or people who want the benefits under control.
Step 2: How do you want it?
Edibles come in all sorts of forms, and that’s not just for show. The format affects not only the taste of the edible, but also how quickly it works, and for how long:
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Gummies: These are the most popular, and for good reason. They are tasty, varied, discreet, and easy to dose. Most gummies have a predictable onset time (30–90 minutes) and last 4–6 hours.
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Baked goods: Brownies, cookies, and other treats offer a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Because of the higher fat content, these often take longer to kick in. So make sure to wait for it to hit before declaring “these don’t work!” and eating some more.
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Chocolates: For the indulgent stoner. Rich, smooth, and kind of classy. Like baked goods, they’re fat-based and, because of that, they may have a slightly longer onset, but they last longer too.
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Drinks: Cannabis drinks and teas are the new kids in school, and they’re making friends fast. They often use nano-emulsion technology, which allows for faster absorption and quicker onset (as little as 10–20 minutes). They also exit the system more quickly, making them easier to control in social settings. These are perfect for parties or social settings when you wanna skip the booze.
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Capsules/Tablets: Not flashy, but super practical. If you want a no-nonsense, flavorless, consistent, and sometimes extended experience (hello, sleep aid), these are your go-to.
Step 3: How hard do you want it?
We’ve all heard the horror stories of “All I took was one gummy…and then…hey man, what planet are we on right now?” One of the most important factors in finding the right edible is finding the right dose. Even the most perfect edible in the world can be too much if you take too high a dose if it.
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For first timers, we suggest you start with 2.5 mg (or less) of THC and then wait at least 1–2 hours to see how you feel. And then, take more if you want.
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If you’re somewhat experienced, you probably already know your sweet spot (probably in the 5-10 mg range. Just don’t overdo it - remember, you can always eat more later, but you can’t undo what you already ate!
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For the pros out there, you probably aren’t reading this blog. You’re on your own, but the same principles apply…don’t be a hero!
Always look for clearly labeled products from licensed dispensaries and trusted sellers. Guessing = danger.
Last Bite
Finding the right edible is part science, part art, and a little bit of personal adventure. Your ideal experience depends on your purpose, your tolerance, and your schedule. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to edibles. But with a little exploration, you’ll find the right edible for the right time. Remember that your experiences with edibles may change as you discover more and try them in different scenarios. Have fun!