Here you are, standing on the precipice of a momentous decision that will shape the course of your evening. Should you reach for the familiar and comforting hemp edibles as your go-to companion to avoid restless nights? Or are you about to throw caution to the wind and go for a weed snack tempting you with promises of a cosmic odyssey?
Before you have that brownie, you should know what goes into weed and hemp treats. Although they both come from cannabis, the fundamental distinction is in their chemical makeup.
Weed treats will make you delighted. Their cousins are made from hemp, a variety of cannabis that spotlights beneficial cannabinoids but leaves you clear-headed.
This is a primary distinction. Now, let’s take a deeper look at both delicacies. (The munchies just got a lot more interesting!)
Understanding hemp and weed edibles
The two goodies look very similar. Weed snacks come in many of the same forms as hemp ones, including gummies, chocolates, and cookies. But that’s where the similarity probably ends.
Even for some seasoned enthusiasts, the difference between hemp and weed can be hazy, to say nothing of curious amateurs. That’s because both originate from Cannabis sativa.
But they have different compounds in their formulas. Tetrahydrocannabinol (found in weed tidbits) is a cannabinoid at the bottom of psychoactive effects. Edibles with weed can elicit an intense sensation that lasts for hours. You’ll likely experience an altered mental state, euphoria, and relaxation (which, if the dose is exceeded, can quickly turn into paranoia).
In contrast, hemp treats contain an insignificant amount of tetrahydrocannabinol. Instead, they are high in cannabidiol, which is non-intoxicating. These edibles won’t get you stoned, alter your thinking, or change your perception, but they will leave you relaxed.
If you suffer from a sleeping disorder, both weed and hemp morsels can help relieve it in the proper dosage. They can also dampen the side effects of certain medications, especially those used in cancer treatment. However, hemp pieces tend to be favored more for wellness, while weed treats are, on the contrary, considered recreational.
Health benefits of weed vs hemp treats
Before you hastily gobble up whatever appetizingly colored tidbits are within your arm’s reach, take a moment to consider the health side of the matter. As an eager consumer, you may assume weed treats reign supreme due to their mind-expanding properties. But don’t be so quick to pass over the benefits of their ‘less exciting’ counterpart.
While an edible with weed may take you on an otherworldly adventure to lands filled with rainbows, hemp yummies can relieve your crippling anxiety or chronic back pain. Before choosing a side in this battle, weigh all options carefully – your mental and physical well-being depends on it.
For pain
Hemp and weed edibles are rich in compounds that help ease pain, but they work in a different manner. The former interact with receptors in your brain and immune system to stop inflammation and pain. At the same time, marijuana edibles activate cannabinoid receptors involved in pain perception. For some continuous pains, the combination of both edibles may be the most effective.
For anxiety
If you struggle with mental dismay, hemp snacks can calm your mind. CBD is a natural anti-anxiety agent that increases feelings of relaxation. Edibles high in THC, on the other hand, may add to uneasiness and paranoia and even induce panic. So, for curbing anxiety, hemp eats are your best bet.
For stomach
Poor appetite or nausea are best relieved with weed edibles. THC activates receptors that regulate hunger and the perception of flavor and can dramatically improve appetite and food enjoyment. Although slightly inducing hunger, hemp nibbles do not have sweeping appetite-stimulating effects to the same extent as weed.
For bedtime
Both hemp and weed bites may help you ZZZ better at night. Hemp pieces are great for restlessness, making it breezier to fall asleep. Weed ones also boast sedative effects that can induce drowsiness and make you sleep longer. However, the hangover sometimes experienced on the day following excessive THC indulgence may leave you feeling groggy rather than well-rested. So, hemp edibles are a finer option for improved sleep with fewer side effects.
What about legality?
Does the thought of imbibing anything illegal make you feel like a naughty child about to be caught with their hand in the cookie jar? Hemp Delta-9 edibles are an above-suspicion way to relax and enjoy some downtime. They are legitimate as long as their THC is within the scope of 0.3% sanctioned by an all-nation bill passed in 2018. You can have, say, Delta-9 gummies without worrying about freaking out your co-workers or failing a drug test.
Weed yummies have a much higher amount of THC, typically 10-25%. Their effects tend to be more intense than smoking because THC gets processed through your liver. Most importantly, these edibles remain criminalized under federal legislation. American employers can still test you for THC or refuse to hire you if you test positive.
What about safety?
If nothing can stop you from getting your buzz on with tasty Delta-9 hemp edibles, heed this advice first. It will ensure your foray into that cake or chocolate doesn’t end up in a dreadful trip:
- Kick it off with a small amount. The effects of snacks can take a while to be felt and last much longer than other forms of consumption. Begin with a tiny dose, around 5 mg, and wait at least 2 hours. Then you can take a bit more. Once you’ve reached the state you have been looking for, adhere to that amount.
- Know what you eat. Not all cookies or gummies are created equal. Check the packaging for the potency and dosage of THC/CBD per serving. Some edibles with weed may not look buzzy but can pack a serious punch.
- Surround yourself with food. Having these treats on an empty stomach can lead to an unpleasant experience. Make sure to eat a full meal before your ride. Staying hydrated and having canapes on hand is a good idea to balance the effects and prevent feelings of being too intense.
Some people may feel uneasy the first time they try cannabis goodies. Don’t worry! That discomfort is temporary and will pass.
Following these tips, you’ll sail smoothly with ethically made, legal Delta-9 hemp edibles.
