What's better: edibles or smoking?
Imagine this: Friday night, you're hanging out with your buddies. One of them is casually rolling a joint, another is grinning as he holds up a THC brownie. The question arises: Which gets you higher, edibles or smoking? Many weed enthusiasts are familiar with this debate – maybe you've even had it yourself. The truth is: there's no simple answer , because both methods have their appeal. But don't worry, we'll get to the bottom of it. The edible boom is already evident everywhere. No wonder – shops like ours now offer a colorful array of delicious cannabis snacks (more on that later). But does that automatically mean that edibles are "better" than a good old joint? Let's compare the two methods of consumption in a head-to-head comparison. We'll answer all the important questions so that you can ultimately decide for yourself which is the right way to get high for you. Ready? Let's ignite the discussion!
Table of contents
- 1. What is better: edibles or smoking?
- 2. How does the effect of edibles differ from that of smoked weed?
- 3. How long does it take for edibles to take effect – and how long does the high last?
- 4. Why are edibles often more intense than smoked weed?
- 5. What are the advantages of edibles compared to smoking?
- 6. Are there any disadvantages to consuming edibles?
- 7. What types of edibles are available and which are the best for beginners?
- 8. How do you dose edibles correctly?
How does the effect of edibles differ from that of smoked weed?
How does the high actually get into your body – or rather, into your entire system? When smoking or vaping, it's quick: You inhale, the THC travels through your lungs directly into your bloodstream and lands in your brain. Bam – you feel the effect within minutes. This often feels like a sudden "head high," a quick kick that hits you right away. Edibles (i.e., edible cannabis snacks) work completely differently. Here, your body first absorbs the active ingredient through the stomach and liver. Imagine it like this: You snack on a space gum or a brownie, swallow it, and... at first – nothing happens.
But the real work starts behind the scenes: The THC is digested in the stomach and then travels to the liver. And that's where the magic happens! The liver transforms the THC into an even more potent substance – the famous 11-hydroxy-THC (if you ever want to impress people with insider knowledge). This variant has a more intense and different effect than the THC you smoke. The result?
Edibles creep up on you slowly. At first you barely notice anything, then more and more – and suddenly it's there: often a strong "body high" that spreads throughout your entire body. Your muscles relax, you feel warm, cozy, and maybe a little like you're melting into the sofa. In comparison, the high from smoking is shorter and more "in your head," sometimes more creative, more energetic – but that also depends on the strain. Of course, there are differences from person to person: metabolism, body weight, how you're feeling that day, and whether you've eaten beforehand all play a role.
In short:
- Smoking weed = fast & direct.
- Cannabis edibles = slow & intense.
But that was just the beginning. The next questions will clarify how long you have to wait for the effects – and why a seemingly harmless brownie can sometimes hit you much harder than a fat joint.
How long does it take for edibles to take effect – and how long does the high last?
Perhaps the most nerve-wracking question for edible newbies: "When will this thing finally kick in?!" And right after that: "How long will I be high?" Don't worry, we have the answers – and yes, the test of patience is part of it.
- Edibles: Patience is key here. You'll usually feel the first effects after 30 to 90 minutes . Sometimes it can even take a good two hours before you notice anything – especially if you've eaten a lot beforehand. This can be incredibly frustrating, of course, because you're thinking, "Hello, is this still working or did I just eat a placebo?" But suddenly, often when you've completely forgotten about it, the effects kick in – and how ! Once the high is there, it lasts a long time . An edible trip usually lasts four to eight hours , depending on the dose and your body, even longer. 💫 So be prepared for an extended chill evening. Perfect for a series marathon or a long gaming session where you don't have to constantly replenish your supply. Pro tip: If you're in a hurry, an edible works faster on an empty stomach (sometimes around 30 minutes is enough). After a heavy meal, it takes longer, but the effects are a bit gentler.
- Smoked weed: In stark contrast, there's the joint or bowl (for the bong fans 😉). Here, everything happens quickly. You take a few puffs, and often after just 2–5 minutes, you feel the THC kicking in. Your heart might beat a little faster, your eyes get heavy—you know the drill. The peak high from smoking usually hits within the first 10–30 minutes. After that, it slowly fades. After about 1 to 2 hours, the high is generally much weaker or almost gone. After 3 hours at the latest, you're usually pretty sober again and can go about your business normally. So, the smoker's high is more of a sprint , while the edible high is a marathon . 🏃♂️🏃♂️💨 vs. 🐢🎢.
What does that mean in concrete terms? If you snack on a brownie at 8 p.m., you could still be lying comfortably on the couch at midnight, drawing unicorns on the ceiling. With smoking, you might already be craving another joint by then because the effects will have worn off. Important to know: Don't get impatient! Many edible fails happen because people don't feel anything after 30 minutes and think there's still more to come – and then consume twice as much. The result: A double high that completely knocks you off your feet. (The "I don't feel anything... oh oh, now I feel everything " moment is real! 😅) So stay relaxed, wait, and enjoy the anticipation. Your body will thank you later with a long, stable high.
Photo by Elsa Olofsson on Unsplash
Why are edibles often more intense than smoked weed?
Ever heard that one? "Wow, this cookie blew me away more than any blunt!" It's no coincidence – edibles often have a more intense effect. But why?
The reason lies in how THC is processed. When smoked, THC goes directly to the brain – quickly, but without any extra boost. With edibles, however, the THC takes a detour via the liver, where it is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC – a stronger variant that has a deeper effect on the body. This is why many people feel "physically stoned" or even mildly psychedelic after consuming edibles. Another point to consider: dosage. When smoking, you can stop after a few puffs.
Edibles are different. A cookie with 10 mg of THC? Swallowed down – no return ticket. The effects are delayed, but then hit with full force. That's why even experienced cannabis users underestimate the power of a seemingly harmless brownie. In short: Edibles hit harder because they are metabolized differently and are often consumed in higher doses. Our advice? Respect the little brownie! It may look cute, but it can be a real beast.
What are the advantages of edibles compared to smoking?
So why eat when you can smoke? Edibles actually have some tangible advantages that many cannabis users appreciate. Here's an overview of what edibles have to offer compared to smoking :
- Gentler on the lungs: No smoke, no scratchy throat, no coughing – edibles are easy on the lungs. A particular plus for regular cannabis users: no more morning smoker's cough.
- Discreet & odorless: No smoke, no weed smell, no lighter click. Want to eat a gummy bear? Looks like Haribo – perfect for university, family, or concerts. Your room won't smell like Bubatz afterwards.
- Delicious taste: Instead of burnt weed, there are brownies, gummies, cookies… Getting high and enjoying yourself at the same time? Win-win! Long-lasting effect: Perfect for long evenings or travel – one edible and you're good for hours. No ups and downs, just a smooth float.
- Easy dosing: Purchased edibles give you control – 5 mg? Half a biscuit. 10 mg? A whole biscuit. No guesswork like with a joint. No accessories needed: No grinder, no papers, no mess. Just unpack, bite in, and you're done. Beginner-friendly and stress-free.
As you can see, edibles have some clear advantages over smoking. Of course, that doesn't mean smoking is all bad – many people love the ritual of a joint and the quick effect. But it's definitely worth keeping the benefits of edibles in mind, especially if health or discretion is important to you (or you simply love sweets 😋).
Are there any disadvantages to consuming edibles?
Where there's light, there's also shadow – edibles clearly don't only have their downsides. 😉 Before you throw away all your rolling papers and start baking brownies, let's take an honest look at the disadvantages and challenges of edible consumption. Here are the potential downsides – don't worry, we'll spice them up with a bit of humor to make them easier to swallow:
- Delayed effects (waiting, waiting…): Edibles require patience. While your buddy is already laughing after the first joint, you're sitting there waiting. This can be frustrating – and leads to the classic trap: "Hmm, I don't feel anything, I'll have another!" 30 minutes later? WHAM! Double dose, too high, no turning back. Discipline is key!
- Difficult dosage & risk of overdose: Once you've had too much, there's no going back – you just have to ride it out. With smoking, you notice early on when you've had enough; with edibles, often only when it's too late. Too much THC? Racing heart, paranoia, a feeling of "melting in the couch." Homemade edibles? Even riskier, because you never really know how strong they are.
- Long-lasting effects – no quick comeback: Edibles have a long duration – great if you want to chill, bad if your mom suddenly calls or you have to leave. Once you're under the influence, there's no quick comedown. Peppercorns or CBD might help, but when in doubt, it's a matter of waiting and hoping. So plan ahead before you snack!
- Calories & Taste: Most edibles are sweet – bad for your waistline or if you're not a fan of sweets. Plus, some poorly made edibles can taste "green." And yes, hash brownies have calories – unlike a joint. But honestly, who cares when the munchies are about to kick in anyway?
It might sound like there are a lot of disadvantages, but don't let that put you off. With a little know-how (read: proper dosage, which we'll get to in a moment), you can easily manage most of these drawbacks. The important thing is to be aware that edibles are a different experience than smoking weed. Once you understand this and approach it with caution, you'll probably have a blast and enjoy the benefits. 😇 And hey, every long-time edible fan has at least one funny horror story about a "too much, help, I'm melting!" night – it's practically part of the experience, and you learn from it!
What types of edibles are available and which are the best for beginners?
The world of edibles is diverse and creative ! 🤩 Gone are the days when dry hash brownies were the only option. Nowadays, you can enjoy cannabis in almost every imaginable snack form. Let's take a look at the different types of edibles available – and which ones are particularly suitable for beginners:
- Brownies & Cookies: The classic. Moist, chocolatey, and packed with THC. Space cookies and brownies are a must-have in coffee shops. Many start with them because they seem harmless – which is often a mistake.
- Gummy bears and fruit gummies: THC gummies are popular because they offer a controlled dosage. Each piece contains a specific amount of THC, making them particularly suitable for beginners. They taste like regular candy, are convenient, and discreet.
- Chocolate & Candy: From chocolate bars to pralines – chocolate edibles usually taste better than conventional cookies and mask the typical cannabis taste. Lozenges have the advantage that the THC is absorbed through the oral mucosa, which can accelerate the effects.
- Drinks & Tinctures: THC is also found in sodas, teas, and even beer. Tinctures can be dropped directly under the tongue or mixed into a drink. The dosage is easier to control here, as you can sip slowly.
- Exotic & Savory: From THC honey to chips and pasta sauces – the selection is constantly growing. These variations are less common, but they show how versatile cannabis can be in food.
Which edibles are suitable for beginners? Gummies are ideal for newcomers because they are precisely dosed. You can start cautiously with half a gummy bear (approx. 2.5 mg THC). Brownies and cookies are also suitable, but caution is advised: a small bite is enough to begin with. Many underestimate the strength of a whole brownie. Important: Always check the dosage. Products from reputable sources guarantee consistent strength. High-dose edibles (e.g., 50 mg THC) are unsuitable for beginners. It's better to start small and increase gradually.
How do you dose edibles correctly?
Now we come to the crucial point : dosage. Properly dosing edibles is the most important skill for having a pleasant high and not accidentally being catapulted into insanity. Beginners especially wonder: How much should I take? And more experienced users like to brag: "Oh, I can handle a lot!" – only to then get burned. 😏 Here are a few practical dosage tips so you don't get carried away , but stay at just the right level:
-
Start low – really! 🍼
Whether you usually smoke a lot or not: When trying edibles for the first time, start with a small dose . For THC beginners , 2.5 to 5 mg of THC is recommended (that's really low, yes – and it's meant to be! ). Even if you're an experienced smoker, don't underestimate edibles and try maybe 5-10 mg first to see how it affects you. You can always increase the dose later. But if you take too much, there's no going back. So: It's best to start with baby steps. Many edible enthusiasts say: "Start low, go slow!" – that's the mantra. -
Wait patiently (at least 1-2 hours): ⏳
We can't say it often enough: Wait, wait, wait. Ideally, set a timer for two hours after taking it and don't take any more before then , even if you're getting impatient. The effects will definitely kick in—sometimes right when you think, "I'm giving up." Patience really is key. In the meantime, do something distracting: play a game, watch an episode of your show, go for a short walk. The main thing is not to be tempted to take more too soon. Every single edible mishap report starts with: "I took more because I thought it wasn't working..." Do better than that! 😅 -
Knowledge of product dosage: 🏷️
Read the packaging information for your edible, if available. It usually states exactly how much THC is in each piece or serving. For example: A bar of chocolate with 50 mg of THC, divided into 10 pieces = 5 mg per piece. Or a bag of gummy bears: 10 pieces with 10 mg each. Never confuse the total amount with the individual amount! Otherwise, someone might think, "Oh, 10 mg, that sounds okay," and eat the whole bag, even though the 10 mg per gummy was meant – and suddenly they've ingested 100 mg. 🤯 (Yes, these kinds of misunderstandings happen.) So look carefully, calculate it, and start with a known, small amount . If you have homemade edibles, it's more difficult – you'll have to start with a small amount, as you don't know the exact THC content. -
Increase slowly if needed: 📈
Let's say you started with a low dose and after two hours the high is still too weak. Okay, then you can try a little more next time (!). Important: Don't immediately take more, but rather increase the dose slightly on your next use . Say you had 5 mg and it wasn't enough – go for 7.5 or 10 mg next time. Step by step. This way you'll safely find your comfortable dose without having to go completely overboard. It's tempting to say, "Oh, half a brownie didn't do anything, next time I'll just eat two!" – don't do that, the consequences could be more severe than you expect. Increase moderately. -
Know your tolerance – but don't rely on it blindly: 🤔
Everyone's body reacts differently. If you're small and light, the same amount will have a stronger effect than on someone tall and heavy. How often you've smoked weed also plays a role: experienced users usually tolerate more than newcomers. However, caution is advised: tolerance for smoking isn't directly comparable to tolerance for edibles. Some daily joint smokers are surprised by how intensely they feel an edible. Others feel less because their bodies are already used to it. Therefore: know yourself, but test it out. If, after a few edible sessions, you notice that 10 mg only gives you a mild high, you can increase it. But don't push yourself unnecessarily. Even hardcore users should ask themselves if they really need 50+ mg – such monster doses are for absolute pros and special cases. For most people, a moderate amount is perfectly sufficient to get a nice high. -
Choose a suitable setting: 🛋️
Okay, this isn't so much about "dosage" as a general tip, but it's important: It's best to consume edibles in a relaxed, familiar environment , especially if you're still experimenting. Chill at home on the couch with good music or your best friends. Don't plan anything stressful around it. This way, you can fully enjoy the high and won't panic if it's stronger than expected. And as I said: no driving, no operating machinery (please, Captain Obvious sends his regards). Just stay relaxed. -
Avoid mixing with alcohol (if possible): 🍺❌
Yes, we know, beer and a brownie at the same time sounds like a fun night. But trust us, alcohol can make the edible experience unpredictable —often amplifying the effects or the mental confusion. Many who have mixed the two report pretty unpleasant vertigo and nausea. So, if you want a clean, predictable edible high, it's best to leave the alcohol out or keep it to a minimum. Your stomach and brain will thank you for having to focus on just one substance.
In short: Take it slow, pay close attention, and be patient . Then you'll really enjoy edibles and become more and more confident with them. Everyone makes mistakes, but with these tips, you'll already be a step ahead of many others. And if the edible wave unexpectedly becomes too much: Stay calm, take a deep breath, drink a large glass of water, and remind yourself that it will pass. No one stays high forever. 😉 If in doubt, grab a blanket, listen to your favorite chill music, and wait it out. So, now you're perfectly prepared for your edible adventure! Are you really keen to try it out ? Curiosity getting the better of you? Understandable – edibles open up a whole new world of cannabis consumption. If you're itching to get started: Check out Happyflower.io . There you'll find a whole selection of exciting edibles – from fruity space gummies to chocolatey hash brownies, they've got it all. Who knows, maybe your new favorite snack is waiting for you there. 😏 Ultimately, it's Team Edible or Team Smoking – why not both? Now that you know the differences, you can decide how you want to enjoy your next high , depending on your mood. Stay curious, experiment, and always have fun (responsibly, of course). With that in mind: Happy Snacking & Bubatzing – may your high be exactly how you like it!
https://happyflower.io
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