The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
Curiosity about the effects of consuming cannabis in various forms is growing. Many people wonder, “Can you eat weed?”
This question encompasses both processed edibles and unprocessed plants. Edibles, such as gummies and baked goods, are popular for their convenience and taste. On the other hand, eating raw weed is gaining attention for its potential health benefits and unique properties.
In this blog post, we address safety concerns around the ingestion of marijuana edibles and raw cannabis, take a critical look at the scientific literature on edible consumption, and discuss the unique effects, potential benefits, and risks of eating weed.
Consumed edible marijuana products (also known as edibles) are food and drink items that contain cannabinoids. These can be made from the whole plant, including the leaves and flowers, or extracted from the resin of the plant.
The most common forms of edible cannabis include the following:
Before diving into the effects of eating weed, it is crucial to understand the process of decarboxylation. [1] Raw cannabis contains non-intoxicating, acidic compounds such as THCA and CBDA.
However, when heated, these compounds undergo a chemical reaction and are converted into THC and CBD, respectively. Decarboxylation is essential for the activation of the psychoactive properties of weed, as these compounds have to bind with our endocannabinoid receptors to produce their effects.
When you eat cannabis-infused edibles, your body processes the cannabinoids differently than when you inhale them. After ingestion, THC is metabolised by the liver into a more potent compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound crosses the blood-brain barrier more easily, leading to stronger and longer-lasting effects. [2]
Additionally, the absorption process is slower but steadier. Cannabinoids get absorbed through the digestive tract. These compounds are then distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. For a deeper understanding of how cannabinoids interact with the human body, refer to our detailed section on cannabis in the body.
Unlike the immediate effects of smoking, the onset of effects from consuming cannabis edibles can take between 30 to 120 minutes. As also highlighted above, this delayed onset is due to the time required for the cannabinoids to be absorbed and processed by the digestive system.
Additionally, the effects of edible consumption are known to last significantly longer, often ranging from four to eight hours. These prolonged effects are particularly useful for individuals seeking relief from chronic pain or insomnia.
One notable aspect of edible consumption is the potentially intense psychoactive experience it can produce. The conversion of THC to 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver results in a more potent form of THC. This compound possesses a higher affinity for the brain’s CB1 receptors, leading to more intense and profound psychotropic effects than vaping cannabis. [2]
More specifically, the experience of such an edible high can vary from person to person. Still, common effects include intense relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, increased sensory awareness, and potential physical and mental sedation.
While mostly consumed for recreational use, edible cannabis products also provide a wide range of therapeutic effects. Some individuals use edibles to treat a number of conditions, including chronic pain, chemotherapy nausea, and sleep disorders such as insomnia.
Other benefits of edible use include:
Just as with any cannabis product, edible consumption should be approached with caution.
Given the slow-acting and long-lasting effects of cannabis edibles, it can be difficult to establish the right dosage. Users, especially beginners, often underestimate the potency, leading to potential discomfort or unwanted effects. It is highly important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to find the desired effect while avoiding negative experiences.
Edibles have a delayed onset of effects compared to inhalation methods, which can lead to overconsumption as users may consume more before feeling the effects. However, impatience and overconsumption can lead to adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and dizziness. [3] Understanding personal tolerance levels and being patient with the onset of effects is essential to prevent such adverse outcomes.
Various factors, including metabolism, body weight, and tolerance level, may vary from person to person. Users need to be aware of their limitations and adjust their dosage accordingly.
There’s also a greater chance of interactions with other medications due to the liver’s involvement in metabolising both weed and other pharmaceuticals. Always consult with a medical professional, like those at Lyphe, before mixing marijuana with other medications.
There are a number of different ways to consume marijuana, and each method has its pros and cons.
Factor | Edibles | Vaping | Tinctures | Topicals |
Onset Time | 30 minutes to 2 hours | Immediate to 15 minutes | 15 to 45 minutes | 15 to 30 minutes |
Duration | 4 to 8 hours | 1 to 3 hours | 2 to 4 hours | 2 to 4 hours |
Potency | High (due to 11-hydroxy-THC) | Moderate to high (depends on product) | Moderate to high (depends on dosage) | Mild to moderate (localised effect) |
Health Considerations | Potential for overconsumption, slower absorption | Respiratory risks, faster absorption | Generally safe, sublingual absorption | Generally safe, localised application |
Ease of Dosage Control | Difficult (can be inconsistent) | Moderate (depends on device and product) | Easy (dropper allows precise measurement) | Easy (apply as needed) |
Discretion | Low (consumption can be noticeable) | Low to moderate (vapour can be visible and smell) | High (easy to use discreetly) | High (applied directly to the skin) |
A common question that arises in discussions about marijuana is whether psychoactive effects occur when you eat raw weed. Delving into the chemical composition and the process of activation provides a clear answer.
Unprocessed cannabis contains a variety of compounds that differ from those in processed forms. The main components include:
When you consume weed in its unprocessed form, the plant does not undergo the necessary chemical transformation to convert THCA into THC. The conversion of THCA to THC, a process known as decarboxylation, is essential for the psychoactive effects to manifest.
Given the necessity of heat to activate THC, consuming it in its raw form essentially bypasses the compound’s capacity to induce psychoactive effects. Those looking for psychoactive experiences or other related effects through consumption need to seek alternative methods that involve heating the plant material, such as vaping or preparing edibles.
When discussing whether you can eat raw cannabis, a frequently asked question revolves around the safety of consuming raw cannabis. Unlike the process of heating cannabis, which activates its psychoactive and therapeutic compounds, eating it raw offers a different array of benefits and considerations.
Consuming unprocessed marijuana presents a novel approach to harnessing the plant’s potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects, existing studies suggest anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties. Consumers should consider bioavailability, safety, and legal aspects when deciding to eat cannabis that has not been processed.
Raw cannabis buds and leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibres. Here’s a brief overview of its nutritional content:
Unprocessed cannabis may offer several medical and therapeutic benefits due to its unique composition:
While the potential benefits are promising, several factors should be considered:
Curing is an essential post-harvest process for marijuana that involves drying and ageing the plant to enhance its quality, potency, and flavour. This meticulous process helps stabilise the plant’s chemical composition and prevents the growth of mould and bacteria.
The curing process significantly influences the chemical profile of weed, affecting cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds.
Compound | Fresh Cannabis | Cured Cannabis |
THCA | High levels, not psychoactive | Remains stable, minimal conversion to THC |
THC | Low levels | Slight increase due to minimal decarboxylation |
CBDA | High levels, not psychoactive | Remains stable, minimal conversion to CBD |
CBD | Low levels | Slight increase due to minimal decarboxylation |
Terpenes | Present but can degrade quickly | Better preserved, enhancing aroma and flavour |
Flavonoids | Present but unstable | Better preserved, maintaining antioxidant properties |
When it comes to consuming weed-infused edibles, it is essential to know the source and quality of the marijuana used.
Reliable Provider | Illicit Market |
Quality assurance through testing | Lack of quality control |
Accurate dosing information | Inconsistent potency and dosing |
Peace of mind regarding safety | Concerns about product integrity |
Guidance from healthcare professionals | No professional guidance available |
Legal compliance | Engaging in illegal activities |
At Lyphe, we understand the growing interest in alternative methods of cannabis consumption, and we are here to provide you with a wide range of options.
When it comes to consuming medical marijuana edibles, understanding the source and quality of the plant used is crucial. While it may be tempting to turn to illicit sources, it’s essential to prioritise your health and safety by sourcing weed from a reputable and regulated provider like Lyphe.
Having a medical weed prescription from Lyphe offers numerous advantages, including:
By choosing Lyphe as your trusted source of weed options and obtaining a prescription, you can ensure that you are consuming medical cannabis safely and responsibly.
Let us be your partner on your journey to well-being, providing you with the highest quality products and compassionate care you deserve. Book a call today!
Exploring the concept of “can you eat weed” unveils a layered insight into the consumption of both edibles and raw plant material. While edibles interact with the body uniquely and potently due to liver metabolism, consuming raw marijuana does not produce the psychoactive effects many anticipate but offers its spectrum of potential benefits.
For those curious about incorporating these methods into their lifestyle or seeking to understand their implications further, expert advice is invaluable. At Lyphe, our dedicated professionals are ready to provide you with the guidance necessary to navigate your options safely.
Book your consultation with Lyphe to begin your informed journey!
When you eat cannabis, it is metabolised by the liver, leading to a longer onset time and potentially more intense and longer-lasting effects compared to smoking. Vaping provides a faster onset of effects that are typically less intense and short-lived
.
Edibles produce effects by being metabolised by the liver, converting THC to the more potent 11-hydroxy-THC, which can lead to a longer onset and a different, often more intense, experience than inhalation. The effects from edibles are longer-lasting and can range from relaxation to euphoria, altered time perception, and, in some cases, anxiety or discomfort if taken in high doses.
The experience of an edible high varies from person to person, but common effects include intense relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, increased sensory awareness, and potential physical and mental sedation. The high from edibles is often described as longer-lasting and more potent and long-lasting compared to other consumption methods.
Eating weed in its raw form is not recommended and can potentially lead to unpleasant effects such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. However, consuming properly prepared weed edibles made with decarboxylated cannabis usually results in a safe and enjoyable experience as long as consumed in moderation.
Edibles are not currently legal for recreational purposes in the UK. However, certain weed-based products for medicinal purposes can be prescribed by a specialist doctor.
Lyphe is your patient-first path to wellness, so book an appointment with one of our medical cannabis expert Doctors and get the relief you need.
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