Are LA Dispensary Edibles Really Safer Than Smoking?

LA Dispensary Edibles

Many would argue that LA Dispensary edibles – or edibles in general – are a much safer way to consume cannabis compared to smoking. The main argument here is that unlike lighting up and smoking a joint or a blunt or taking a huge bowl rip, consuming marijuana in edible form does not compromise the lungs in any way. But how accurate is this assessment? Better yet, is there any truth to this claim? These are important questions that need answers, and hopefully, this article can address them.

What Is in A Cannabis Edible?

Theoretically, edibles are cannabis-infused products that come in different varieties. Apart from the space cakes, cookies, and other baked desserts that we know, edibles these days can also be manufactured as gummies, hard candies, and even fizzy beverages. Edibles are known to contain a purified form of THC known as distillate. THC in pure form, as we know, is more potent and hard-hitting, which bodes well for the reputation of edibles as a much stronger form of cannabis consumption. But there are low-dose edibles for people who are just starting out. Typically, these products contain less than 50 mg of THC. Some may even contain CBD, which is more for medical purposes.

LA Dispensary Edibles

How Are Edibles Absorbed By the Body?

Unlike smoking, THC from edibles goes through the body differently. Since it is ingested, it will first go through the liver and the digestive system before it gets into the bloodstream. This is known as the first-pass effect, and because of this, the effects of an edible take longer to manifest. If you’re used to the 10-20 minute psychotropic window from smoking a blunt, expect at least 45 minutes before you feel anything after taking a bite off an edible. The same effect happens if you consume a cannabis-infused beverage.

Are Edibles Safer Than Smokables?

If we’re comparing edibles and smokables, there is an argument to be made that the former could indeed be the “safer” option. Studies have found a connection between smoking and potential adverse effects on respiratory health. And although the risks were found to be “significantly” different compared to tobacco smoking, research also established a link between cannabis smoking and certain complications like airway inflammation and obstructive pulmonary issues.

However, the potential risk factors of consuming edibles are also worth noting. Among them are intense anxiety and fear, delusions and irrational thoughts, and hallucinations. One thing to keep in mind when consuming edibles is that the high may also last way longer. On average, the effects may last for up to two hours, but some people report feeling the same sensations until the next morning. The best tip to remember is to take things low and slow.

The Best LA Dispensary Edibles Are In the Sun Valley Area

Those living in the Sherman Way area of Sun Valley in Los Angeles have likely seen our shop, Roots Los Angeles. We carry a wide variety of cannabis goods, from edibles to smokables, concentrates, even topicals, and other medical marijuana products. Our doors are open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, and we have many other branches across LA County. For more information, visit our website or call us at (818) 210-0095.