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Decoding Dosages: Understanding Potency In Cannabis Edibles

Published

2 years ago

August 1, 2023

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Cannabis use in the medical and wellness industries is constantly growing. Along with its popularity is the development of various products, like edibles, with different potency levels to accommodate specific needs.

Cannabis edibles have gained popularity for their discreet and diverse forms, providing a smoke-free option for consumption. However, understanding and gauging their potency can be tricky, especially for first-time users.

Understanding the dosages and potencies of cannabis edibles is crucial to maximizing their health and wellness benefits. That said, here’s a quick guide for safe and healthy consumption.

Cannabis Edibles Basics

Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabinoids – compounds derived from cannabis. Some evidence suggests that its usage dates back thousands of years. However, its legalization for medical and recreational use has recently sparked progressive use.

Experts from trusted cannabis dispensaries can provide a complete Edibles Guide. Meanwhile, here’s a more comprehensive list of the most common types of cannabis edibles, each offering unique experiences:

Baked Goods: Baked goods like brownies, cookies, and muffins are often the go-to choice for many consumers. They are typically infused with cannabis butter or oil and offer a tasty way to ingest cannabis.

Gummies and Candies: These are popular for their convenience and variety of flavors. From gummy bears to lollipops, these sweet treats are infused with a specific amount of cannabinoids, making dosage control straightforward.

Chocolates: Cannabis-infused chocolates are another fan favorite. They combine the delightful experience of eating chocolate with the effects of cannabis. They’re available in various potency levels to cater to both novice and experienced users.

Beverages: From cannabis-infused teas and coffees to sodas and elixirs, these drinks offer a different way to consume cannabis. They are typically slower to take effect but provide a unique and often refreshing experience.

Savory Snacks: Cannabis-infused savory snacks like popcorn, chips, or cheese bites offer an alternative for those who prefer something less sugary.

The diverse options in cannabis edibles are the results of years of innovation by cannabis experts. Founder, Alexander Farnsworth of a fine cannabis company, along with other innovators in the cannabis industry, paved the way for developing various cannabis products to suit everyone’s palate.

Due to a wide range of product diversity, emphasizing the importance of understanding potency is crucial. Different products can have vastly different concentrations of THC and CBD, making education and responsible consumption paramount.

Understanding Cannabis Potency

Potency in cannabis edibles refers to the concentration of cannabinoids, primarily THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol), typically measured in milligrams (mg) per serving. THC produces psychoactive effects, while CBD is non-intoxicating. Both are recognized for their potential therapeutic benefits.

However, the potency of cannabis edibles isn’t solely determined by their THC or CBD content. Several factors influence how potent an edible might seem:

Cannabis Strain: Cannabis strains have varying levels of cannabinoids. Some strains are high in THC and low in CBD, while others might have a more balanced or reversed ratio. The strain used in producing the edible will significantly affect its overall potency.

Extraction Method: The method of cannabinoid extraction can also influence potency. Some processes are more efficient, resulting in higher cannabinoid concentrations. For example, CO2 extraction is often hailed as the most effective method, preserving and isolating the cannabinoids better than other techniques.

Decarboxylation: This process involves applying heat to raw cannabis to activate the cannabinoids, a crucial step in making edibles. The duration and temperature of decarboxylation can affect how much THC and CBD are activated, thus impacting the potency.

Preparation Process: How cannabis is incorporated into the edible can influence potency. For example, if cannabis butter is used, the concentration could vary based on how well the cannabis was infused into the butter.

Storage Conditions: Just like many other food products, the potency of cannabis edibles can be affected by how they are stored. Prolonged exposure to light, air, and high temperatures can degrade cannabinoids over time, reducing the product’s potency.

Understanding these factors helps elucidate why different edibles can have varying effects despite having similar THC or CBD concentrations. This emphasizes the importance of responsible consumption and the need to consider factors beyond just the numbers on a product’s label.

Impact Of Potency Levels On The Body

The potency of cannabis edible determines the intensity of the experience by influencing various physical and psychological effects. Here’s a closer look at how cannabis potency impacts the body:

Psychoactive Effects: High-potency edibles containing large amounts of THC can produce pronounced psychoactive effects. These can include euphoria, altered perception, and, in some cases, anxiety or paranoia. On the other hand, low-potency or CBD-dominant edibles may have milder or no psychoactive effects.

Physical Effects: Depending on the potency, cannabis edibles can also cause several physical effects. These might include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, coordination problems, and, in the case of high doses, even dizziness or fainting.

Therapeutic Effects: Many people use cannabis for its potential therapeutic effects. High-CBD edibles can help relieve pain, inflammation, and anxiety without producing a ‘high.’ Meanwhile, high-THC edibles might be used for conditions like insomnia or loss of appetite.

Duration of Effects: The potency of an edible can also influence how long its effects last. Generally, the higher the THC concentration, the longer you can expect the effects to last. However, factors such as metabolism, tolerance, and food intake can also play a role.

Onset of Effects: Interestingly, the potency can impact how quickly you feel the effects. While most edibles take 30 minutes to one hour to take effect, a very high-potency edible may produce noticeable effects more quickly.

Understanding how different potencies can impact the body is crucial in choosing the right edible dosage for your individual needs and tolerance.

Dosage Recommendations

For beginners, experts usually recommend starting with a lower dose, typically between 1-5mg of THC. More experienced or frequent consumers may opt for higher dosages, but caution is still advised. If you’re taking edibles for medical use, follow your prescription to maximize its effects and minimize risks.

Aside from safety considerations, consuming safe dosage is crucial for a pleasant cannabis experience. Starting low is best, especially for first-timers. Low and slow consumption helps maximize benefits while minimizing adverse effects.

The Role Of Regulation In Ensuring Safe Consumption

Regulation plays an important role in the safe consumption of cannabis edibles. In many regions where cannabis is legal, regulatory bodies oversee the production and labeling of these products. They set limits for THC concentration and help ensure that consumers know the potency of the products they purchase.

Conclusion

Understanding the potency of cannabis edibles is pivotal for safe and enjoyable consumption. Buying from licensed cannabis dispensaries can help ensure that the edibles’ potency is accurate, reducing the risk of overconsumption. Reaching out to a health professional is also advised for a safer cannabis experience.

Author’s Bio:

Jake Sullivan is a cannabis enthusiast and an expert in understanding the potency in cannabis edibles. With a background in cannabis research and education.

The post Decoding Dosages: Understanding Potency In Cannabis Edibles appeared first on United Patients Group.

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Can CBD Provide Some Foot Pain Relief

Published

2 weeks ago

February 13, 2025

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It hobbles millions – but CBD could be step in the right direction for foot pain.

Roughly 75% of people suffer some type of foot pain at some point. But can CBD provide some foot pain relief? Foot pain can be debilitating, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. Conditions like gout, plantar fasciitis, neuroma, neuropathy, and metatarsalgia are common causes of foot discomfort. While traditional treatments often come with side effects, CBD oil has emerged as a promising alternative for managing foot pain. Here’s why CBD is gaining attention for its potential benefits in alleviating foot-related issues.

RELAETD: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a safe option for those seeking pain relief without altering their mental state. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and mood.

CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, a key factor in many foot pain conditions. By minimizing swelling and redness, CBD can help alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like gout and plantar fasciitis.

CBD’s ability to modulate pain perception makes it effective for managing chronic pain. It can increase levels of anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation, potentially reducing pain perception.

For conditions like neuropathy, where nerve damage leads to pain, CBD’s neuroprotective qualities can help mitigate symptoms. It may reduce neuropathic pain by interacting with receptors in the nervous system.

CBD products come in various forms, including topical creams, gels, and oils, which can be applied directly to the affected area. This localized application avoids systemic side effects and ensures targeted relief.

While more research is needed to fully understand CBD’s effects on chronic pain, existing studies suggest it is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects are mild and include fatigue, decreased appetite, and dry mouth. The FDA has not approved CBD for pain management, but it is approved for certain epilepsy conditions, indicating its potential therapeutic benefits. As research continues to uncover the full potential of CBD, it may become a valuable tool in the arsenal against foot pain, providing comfort and improving quality of life for many.

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Cannabis

The NFL, Super Bowl, CBD And Hemp

Published

3 weeks ago

February 7, 2025

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All eyes are on New Orleans for the Super Bowl. What role will CBD and Hemp play for players and fans?

The big game is in the party Capital of New Orleans this weekend – so what about the NFL, Super Bowl, CBD and hemp? New Orleans is a party capital and know for a good time. Football players and fans love a good times, but what can they do with cannabis while in the Big Easy? For fans, while it is illegal, it isn’t hard to find and CBD and hemp products, including edibles since they are legal.

The National Football League (NFL) has historically maintained a strict stance against cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, due to its classification as a Schedule I substance under federal law. However, recent developments have shown a shift in the league’s approach, particularly with the increasing acceptance of hemp-derived CBD.

The NFL has taken significant steps towards reevaluating its stance on cannabis, particularly CBD. The league has relaxed its cannabis policy, reducing penalties for players who test positive for cannabis. This shift focuses on ensuring responsible use without compromising health or performance2. Additionally, the NFL has partnered with researchers to study the safety and efficacy of CBD for pain management and neuroprotection from concussions, investing $1 million in such studies.

CBD has emerged as an alternative for pain management and recovery in football. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high,” and research suggests it can reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve sleep—critical factors in athlete recovery. The NFL’s acceptance of CBD could pave the way for other sports leagues to reconsider their policies, reflecting broader societal trends toward cannabis normalization.

The NFL’s evolving stance on CBD and hemp reflects a growing recognition of the potential health benefits of these substances. As research continues and public opinion shifts, it is likely that the league will further adapt its policies. The partnership with researchers and the investment in studies signal a commitment to understanding the therapeutic benefits of CBD, particularly in managing pain and protecting against concussions.

As the NFL continues to navigate this complex issue, its decisions could have far-reaching implications for professional sports and beyond.

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Can Cannabis Provide Some Relief From Chronic Pain

Published

4 weeks ago

February 3, 2025

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Chronic pain can be life changing – from the pain to zapped energy. But can cannabis make a difference?

An estimated 20% of adults in the US and roughly 8 million Canadians experience chronic pain. This condition is defined as pain that lasts for more than three months. It can lead to insomnia and fatigue. If can impact many other parts of life, including mood and the ability to move and body functions. It can also lead to changes in the brain and nervous system, which can make the pain worse and harder to manage. But can cannabis provide some relief from chronic pain?

Medical cannabis (MC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have show promise in managing chronic pain, though efficacy varies by condition and formulation. Research indicates cannabinoids may reduce pain severity by 30–50% compared to placebo, particularly in neuropathic and inflammatory conditions. A 2023 systematic review of 15 studies found CBD alone or combined with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) reduced pain by 42–66%.

Can Cannabis Provide Some Relief From Chronic Pain

Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, modulating pain signaling and inflammation:

THC binds to CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, altering pain perception.
CBD enhances anandamide (a natural pain-regulating compound) and activates glycine receptors, potentially reducing localized inflammation.
Combined THC:CBD formulations (e.g., nabiximols) often show superior pain relief compared to single cannabinoids, with CBD mitigating THC’s psychoactive effects.

Clinical Evidence by Condition

Neuropathic pain: THC:CBD sprays reduced pain scores in multiple sclerosis and spinal injury patients.
Arthritis/fibromyalgia: Topical CBD improved peripheral neuropathy, while oral formulations alleviated fibromyalgia pain in 30% of patients.
Chronic back/neck pain: Preliminary trials suggest vaporized cannabis may rival oxycodone’s efficacy.

The good news is studies report 18–29% of patients achieve ≥30% pain reduction with cannabinoids vs. 14–26% on placebo. Effective CBD doses range widely (2.5–1,500 mg/day), and prolonged use may alter drug metabolism. So trend carefully with both CBD and THC. Remember, only THC:CBD combos like nabiximols are FDA-approved for specific conditions; most CBD products remain unregulated.

CBD alone shows fewer side effects (fatigue, diarrhea) than THC-containing products. Notably, real-world data associate medical cannabis with 60% reduced opioid use in chronic pain patients, though long-term safety data remain limited.

While cannabinoids offer a potential alternative for refractory chronic pain, optimal use requires personalized dosing and further high-quality trials targeting specific pain subtypes. Current evidence supports cautious integration into multimodal pain regimens, particularly when conventional therapies fail. Always talk with your health professional when adding something new to your pain management regime.

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