Dosing edibles without ruining your night.
Every budtender has heard the same story: “It wasn't working, so I took another one.” Here's how to never tell that story.
Why edibles hit different
When you eat THC, your liver converts it to 11-hydroxy-THC — a metabolite that's stronger and lasts longer than what you get from smoking. That's why 10 mg eaten can feel bigger than several puffs, and why the effect lasts 4–8 hours instead of 1–2.
The starting doses that actually work
- True beginner: 2.5 mg THC. Yes, half a standard gummy. You can be pleasantly surprised; you can't be un-high.
- Occasional user: 5 mg.
- Regular smoker, new to edibles: 5–10 mg. Smoking tolerance only partially transfers — this group most often overshoots.
- Experienced with edibles: you already know your number. Respect it on an empty stomach.
The golden rule: wait two hours
Onset is typically 30–120 minutes depending on metabolism and what you've eaten. The classic mistake happens at minute 45: "nothing's happening." Wait the full two hours before even considering more. Set a timer if you need to.
If you overdo it anyway
You're not in danger, even though it feels dramatic. Move somewhere calm, hydrate, eat something, and ride it out — it will fade. CBD can take the edge off. Don't drive, and don't panic-Google symptoms; that never helps.
Picking your first edible
Look for products with clear per-piece dosing (we like the 2.5 and 5 mg options from brands like Kanha and Wyld) rather than chocolate bars you have to break evenly. Ask us — recommending a first edible is half our job.
Questions? Come ask a budtender — 14903 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91405, open 7 days. First visit is 28% off.