If I Smoke Joints, How Many Edibles Should I Eat?

When it comes to consuming cannabis, the choice between edibles and joints often boils down to personal preference, but the strength and effects of these two methods are far from identical. For both seasoned cannabis users and newcomers alike, understanding the differences between edibles and joints is crucial for having a safe and enjoyable experience.

Edibles and joints deliver THC—the psychoactive compound in cannabis—in fundamentally different ways, leading to varied effects in terms of onset, intensity, and duration. While joints offer a quick and predictable high, edibles can provide a much more potent and long-lasting experience. This disparity often leads to surprising results, especially for those unaccustomed to the powerful effects of edibles.

In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind how THC is absorbed in the body through these different consumption methods, compare the duration and intensity of the highs they produce, and explore why an edible might feel much stronger than smoking a joint. Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or just curious about the differences, this guide will help you understand why edibles are often considered the heavyweight champion in the world of cannabis consumption.

Comparing Joints To Edibles Depends On How Much You Smoke

Not all cannabis users are created equal, especially when it comes to their tolerance levels. The frequency with which you smoke joints plays a significant role in how your body handles THC, which in turn affects how you should approach edibles.

For occasional joint smokers—those who might light up once in a while at social gatherings or as a special treat—their tolerance to THC is likely on the lower end. This means their body isn’t as accustomed to processing large amounts of THC, making them more sensitive to its effects. When it comes to edibles, these users should approach with caution, starting with a low dose (typically around 5-10mg) to see how their body reacts before considering more.

On the other hand, daily smokers—those who consume joints multiple times a day—likely have a much higher tolerance. Their regular use means their body has adapted to the presence of THC, often requiring larger amounts to achieve the desired effects. However, even for these users, edibles can be surprisingly potent. Unlike smoking, where the effects are felt almost immediately and can be managed or stopped by simply putting out the joint, edibles deliver THC more slowly and steadily, leading to a longer-lasting and often more intense high.

For these frequent smokers, starting with a dose of 10-15mg might be reasonable, but it's crucial to remember that the effects of edibles take longer to manifest. Even seasoned smokers should avoid the temptation to consume more if they don’t feel the effects right away. Starting low and going slow is the best strategy to avoid overconsumption and ensure a comfortable experience.

Ultimately, whether you’re an occasional smoker or a daily user, understanding your tolerance is key to enjoying edibles without any unwanted surprises. Adjusting your dosage accordingly can help you achieve the perfect balance between relaxation and euphoria without tipping into uncomfortable territory.

Comparing the Strength of Edibles To Joints & Dosage Guidelines

Type of Smoker

Smoking Frequency

Recommended Edible Starting Dose

Considerations

Occasional Smoker

Smokes once in a while (e.g., social use)

5-10mg

Lower tolerance; more sensitive to THC; effects may feel stronger than expected.

Regular Smoker

Smokes a few times a week

10-15mg

Moderate tolerance; effects are more predictable but still approach edibles cautiously.

Daily Smoker

Smokes multiple joints per day

15-25mg

Higher tolerance; may need a higher dose, but effects from edibles can still be potent and long-lasting.

How To Not Eat Too Many Edibles: Risks of Overconsumption and Understanding the High

Transitioning from smoking joints to consuming edibles introduces a new set of variables that can significantly impact your cannabis experience. Two critical aspects to consider are the risks of overconsumption due to the delayed onset of edibles and the distinct differences in the psychoactive effects compared to smoking. Understanding these factors is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey into the world of edibles.

Overconsumption Risks with Edibles

One of the most common pitfalls for those new to edibles is the risk of overconsumption, primarily due to the delayed onset of effects. Unlike smoking, where the effects are felt almost immediately, edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. This delay often leads to impatience and the mistaken belief that the initial dose was insufficient, prompting users to consume more. By the time the effects finally manifest, the cumulative dose can result in an overwhelmingly intense high that may be uncomfortable or even distressing.

Common Scenarios Leading to Overconsumption:

1. Impatience After Initial Dose: A user consumes a 10mg edible and, after 45 minutes of feeling no effects, decides to take another 10mg. An hour later, both doses hit simultaneously, leading to a 20mg high that may be more potent than intended.
2. Misjudging Potency: A user unfamiliar with the strength of edibles consumes multiple servings, thinking they are similar in effect to smoking a joint. This miscalculation can lead to a much stronger and longer-lasting high than anticipated.
3. Combining Edibles with Other Substances: Mixing edibles with alcohol or other substances can amplify the effects, leading to an unpredictable and potentially overwhelming experience.

Tips to Avoid Overconsumption:

• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a low dose, typically 5-10mg of THC, especially if you're new to edibles. Wait at least 2 hours before considering an additional dose.
• Be Patient: Remember that edibles take time to work. Resist the urge to consume more if you don't feel the effects immediately.
• Stay Informed: Understand the potency of the edible product you're consuming. Read labels carefully and be aware of serving sizes.
• Set and Setting: Consume edibles in a comfortable environment, preferably with people you trust. This can help mitigate any anxiety if the effects are stronger than expected.
• Avoid Mixing Substances: Especially if you're new to edibles, avoid combining them with alcohol or other intoxicants.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of overconsumption and ensure a more controlled and pleasant edible experience.

Psychoactive Experience: Differences in the High

The method of consuming cannabis—whether through edibles or smoking—significantly influences the nature of the psychoactive experience. Both methods deliver THC to your system but do so in ways that affect the onset, intensity, duration, and quality of the high.

Edibles: The Body-Centric High

When you consume cannabis in edible form, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that is more potent and has a longer half-life than the delta-9-THC absorbed through smoking. This metabolic process results in a high that is often described as more body-centric. Users typically experience:

• Intense Relaxation: A deep sense of physical relaxation, sometimes referred to as a "body high," which can be soothing and calming.
• Longer Duration: Effects can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with peak effects occurring later than with smoking.
• Gradual Onset: The high builds slowly, reaching its peak well after consumption, which can make timing activities challenging.

This type of high is often preferred by users seeking prolonged relief from physical discomfort, those looking to enhance restful activities like meditation or sleep, or individuals who prefer not to smoke.

Smoking Joints: The Cerebral High

In contrast, smoking joints delivers THC directly into the bloodstream through the lungs, leading to a rapid onset of effects. The high from smoking is typically characterized by:

• Immediate Effects: Users feel the effects within minutes, allowing for more controlled dosing.
• Cerebral Stimulation: Often described as a "head high," smoking can lead to increased creativity, euphoria, and sociability.
• Shorter Duration: Effects generally last 1 to 3 hours, making it easier to fit into shorter timeframes.

This method appeals to users who prefer a quick onset and a high that is more mentally stimulating and easier to manage in terms of duration.

Appeal to Different Types of Users

Understanding these differences can help users choose the method that best aligns with their preferences and needs:

• For Relaxation and Longevity: Users seeking long-lasting relief from physical ailments, or those who wish to engage in extended periods of relaxation, may prefer edibles for their body-centric and enduring effects.
• For Social and Creative Endeavors: Individuals looking for a quick, controllable high that enhances social interactions or creative activities may find smoking joints more suitable.
• Health Considerations: Those concerned about the respiratory effects of smoking might opt for edibles as a smoke-free alternative.

Both edibles and smoking offer unique psychoactive experiences. Being mindful of these differences allows users to tailor their cannabis consumption to their desired outcomes, whether that's a mellow evening of relaxation or an energizing social gathering. Always consider your tolerance, the setting, and your intentions when choosing your method of consumption to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Health Benefits of Non-Combustion Cannabis Consumption: Why Edibles Are a Smart Choice

For those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the health risks associated with smoking, non-combustion methods such as edibles offer a compelling alternative. Smoking cannabis, whether in the form of joints, blunts, or even through pipes and bongs, involves the inhalation of burnt plant material. This combustion process generates harmful byproducts like tar, carbon monoxide, and carcinogens, which can lead to various respiratory issues, including chronic bronchitis, lung irritation, and in some cases, increased risk of respiratory infections.

Edibles, on the other hand, eliminate these risks by offering a smoke-free method of consumption. When you ingest cannabis in edible form, the THC is absorbed through the digestive system, bypassing the lungs entirely. This means you can enjoy the full effects of cannabis without exposing your respiratory system to potentially harmful substances. This makes edibles particularly appealing to individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), who need to avoid smoke and its irritants.

In addition to avoiding the harmful effects of smoke, edibles also provide a more controlled and consistent dosage. When smoking, it can be difficult to measure exactly how much THC you are inhaling, leading to a potentially unpredictable experience. Edibles, however, are precisely dosed, with each piece containing a specific amount of THC. This allows for a more predictable and manageable high, which can be particularly beneficial for those using cannabis for medical purposes, such as managing chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.

Another significant advantage of edibles is their long-lasting effects. While the onset of effects is slower compared to smoking—typically taking 30 minutes to 2 hours—the high from edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours or more, depending on the dose. This extended duration of effects can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking long-term relief from symptoms, as it reduces the need for frequent re-dosing.

For those looking to make a healthier switch from smoking to a non-combustion method, edibles provide a practical and effective solution. They offer all the benefits of cannabis without the risks associated with inhaling smoke, making them a smart choice for both recreational and medical users. As more people become aware of the potential respiratory dangers of smoking, edibles are increasingly becoming the preferred method of consumption, offering a safer, more controlled, and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of cannabis.

THC Absorption and Metabolism: Edibles vs. Joints

The way your body absorbs and metabolizes THC differs significantly between edibles and smoking joints, leading to distinct experiences in terms of potency, onset, and duration of effects.

Absorption Process

When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. This direct absorption allows THC to reach the brain quickly, usually within minutes, which is why the effects of smoking are felt almost immediately. In this form, THC is primarily in its active state, known as delta-9-THC.

In contrast, when you consume THC in edibles, the process is much slower and more complex. After you eat an edible, the THC is absorbed through the digestive system, particularly in the stomach and intestines. From there, it is processed by the liver, where a significant transformation occurs. The liver converts delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that is much more potent and has a longer half-life than delta-9-THC. This conversion is a key reason why edibles often produce a more intense and prolonged high compared to smoking.

Impact on Potency and Duration

The conversion of THC to 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver results in a compound that is not only stronger but also more capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. This means that the psychoactive effects of edibles can be more powerful and longer-lasting than those from smoking, despite the fact that smoking delivers THC more directly.

Because of this conversion process, the onset of effects from edibles is delayed, typically taking 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully manifest. This delay can lead to a common mistake among users—consuming more edibles because they don’t feel the effects immediately, only to end up experiencing an overwhelming high later.

On the other hand, the effects of smoking are almost immediate but typically shorter in duration, usually lasting 1 to 3 hours depending on the user’s tolerance and the potency of the cannabis. In contrast, the effects of edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with some users reporting lingering effects well into the next day.

User Experience

These differences in absorption and metabolism greatly influence the user experience. Smoking provides a quick, controllable high that’s easier to manage—you can stop as soon as you reach your desired level of intoxication. Edibles, however, require more patience and caution, as the delayed onset and increased potency mean it’s easy to overconsume.

While both methods deliver THC to the brain, the way your body processes and responds to that THC can lead to very different experiences. Understanding these differences is crucial for managing your cannabis use safely and effectively, especially when transitioning from smoking to edibles.

THC Onset Time: Why Edibles Take Longer

The delayed onset time of edibles is primarily due to the way your body processes THC when it’s consumed in food or drink. Unlike smoking or vaping, where THC is absorbed almost immediately into the bloodstream through the lungs, edibles must pass through your digestive system before they take effect. This difference in absorption pathways is crucial to understanding why the effects of edibles can be both delayed and more intense.

The Role of Digestion and Metabolism

When you eat an edible, the THC must first pass through your stomach and intestines, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. However, instead of heading straight to the brain, THC is directed to the liver, where it undergoes a metabolic transformation. The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that is more potent and has a longer-lasting effect than the THC that reaches your brain when you smoke. This metabolic process is what causes the delayed onset of edibles and why the effects can sometimes feel stronger than expected.

Pitfalls of Impatience with Edibles

The delayed onset of edibles often catches users off guard, especially those who are used to the quick effects of smoking. A common mistake is taking more edibles too soon, thinking that the initial dose wasn’t effective. This can lead to an overwhelming experience when the effects of both doses kick in simultaneously. It’s important to remember that edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working, so patience is key.

Start with Half: Ensuring a Safe First Experience with VEED Edibles

Even with the recommended starting doses based on your smoking habits, we always advise first-time users of VEED products to start with half of the suggested dose. This precaution is especially important if it’s your first time trying our edibles, as they can be stronger than what you might be used to. Starting with half allows you to gauge how your body reacts to the product without risking overconsumption.

Edibles have a delayed onset, often taking 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully kick in. This slow absorption can make it tempting to consume more if you don’t feel the effects right away, but remember—you can always eat more, but you can’t take it back once it’s in your system. By starting with half, you’re giving yourself the opportunity to enjoy the experience gradually and adjust your intake as needed.

Whether you’re an occasional smoker or a daily user, starting with a smaller portion ensures that your introduction to VEED products is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. It’s better to build up to the right dose slowly than to dive in too quickly and risk an overwhelming experience.

Syrup Products: Reserved for Seasoned Users

Our syrup products are potent, with each serving containing 75mg of THC. This makes them significantly stronger than our gummies and not suitable for those who are new to edibles, especially if you’re transitioning directly from smoking joints. If you’ve never tried edibles before or if you’re only accustomed to smoking, jumping straight into our syrup products can be overwhelming and lead to an intense experience that may be too much to handle.

The high concentration of THC in our syrups delivers a powerful and fast-acting effect that’s best suited for seasoned edible users who have already established their tolerance with lower-dose products. These syrups are designed for those who understand how their body processes edibles and can manage the strong effects that come with such a high dose.

For those coming from smoking joints, it’s crucial to start with our lower-dose gummies to better understand your edible tolerance. Only once you’re comfortable with how edibles affect you should you consider trying our syrup products. These are advanced-level edibles, and even a single serving can deliver a strong high that lasts for hours, making them unsuitable for beginners.

Recommendation for Casual Smokers: Try Our THC Seltzers & Regular Dose THC Gummies

For casual smokers who enjoy the social aspect of cannabis without wanting an overwhelming experience, our THC seltzers are the perfect option. These low-dose beverages are designed to be fast-acting, allowing you to start "feeling it" even before you finish the whole drink. This gives you the flexibility to decide if a few sips are enough or if you’d like to drink the entire can for a more pronounced effect.

THC seltzers are ideal for those who prefer a lighter, more controlled high. With each sip, you can gauge your comfort level and choose whether to continue or stop, making it a great option for those new to edibles or those who prefer a milder experience. Plus, they come in a standard 4-pack, making them perfect for social settings. This allows you to recreate the familiar vibe of sharing a few beers or drinks with friends, but with the added benefit of THC. 

In addition to our seltzers, we also recommend our 10mg gummies. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly yet potent option, our regular 10mg gummies offer a reliable dose of THC that’s perfect for those who want a manageable but noticeable high. For those interested in a faster onset, our 10mg nano gummies are the ideal introduction to fast-acting edibles. The nano-emulsification process ensures that the effects kick in quicker than traditional gummies, making them perfect for those who want immediate relief without committing to a higher dose.

These options are perfect for casual smokers who want to explore edibles without diving into high-potency products. They offer a controlled, enjoyable experience that can be tailored to your comfort level, whether you’re enjoying a social evening with friends or just unwinding after a long day.

Choosing the Right THC Product for Your Needs

Understanding the differences between consuming THC through edibles versus smoking joints is crucial for anyone looking to tailor their cannabis experience to their preferences and tolerance levels. Edibles offer a longer-lasting, body-centric high that can be deeply relaxing but comes with the risk of overconsumption due to their delayed onset. On the other hand, smoking provides an immediate, cerebral high that is easier to control but shorter in duration.

Both methods have their unique benefits and risks, appealing to different types of users. Whether you’re seeking a prolonged, relaxing experience or a quick, uplifting boost, knowing your limits and starting with lower doses can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By being mindful of the way THC is absorbed and metabolized, you can better navigate your cannabis journey and make informed choices that align with your desired effects.

Remember, the key to a positive cannabis experience is patience, awareness, and understanding your own body’s reactions. Whether you’re indulging in a joint or savoring an edible, approach each experience with respect for the substance and your well-being.