The world of cannabis products has exploded in recent years, giving people all sorts of new ways to enjoy THC. Gone are the days when smoking was the only option—now we have THC gummies, brownies, chocolates, and even drinks. But if you’re wondering how THC-infused drinks stack up against traditional edibles like gummies or cookies, you’re not alone. There are some key differences between the two, and knowing these can help you decide which is best for you.
Let’s break it all down, starting with what each option really is.
What Are THC-Infused Drinks?
THC-infused drinks are just what they sound like: beverages infused with THC, the compound in cannabis that gets you high. From THC sodas and sparkling waters to teas and even coffees, these drinks have made it easy to sip your way into a mellow mood. They’ve become popular because they’re discreet, easy to dose, and you can enjoy them in the same way you’d enjoy any regular drink.
What makes THC drinks special is that the THC inside is usually made water-soluble. This means that it dissolves easily into the liquid, which helps your body absorb it faster than traditional edibles. This is why THC drinks can often hit you more quickly than, say, a brownie.
Traditional THC Edibles: The Classics
Now, let’s talk about the old-school option—traditional edibles. Whether it’s brownies, gummies, cookies, or chocolates, these edibles are made by mixing THC into butter, oils, or tinctures, which are then baked or mixed into the treat. Edibles are a staple in the cannabis world because they offer a longer-lasting and usually stronger high than other methods of consumption.
Edibles are also known for their precise dosing. Most come with clear labels showing exactly how much THC is in each serving, which makes them a favorite for those who like to have control over their intake. But if you’ve ever had a little too much of an edible, you know that they can sneak up on you.
Onset of Effects: Speed Matters
One of the biggest differences between THC-infused drinks and traditional edibles is how fast they kick in. If you’ve ever eaten a weed brownie and sat around wondering, “When is this going to start working?”, you know that edibles can take their time. Traditional edibles usually take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to start affecting you. That’s because they need to be fully digested before the THC enters your bloodstream.
THC-infused drinks, on the other hand, usually work faster. Because they’re absorbed through the stomach lining, most people start feeling the effects within 15 to 45 minutes. This makes drinks a great option if you don’t want to wait too long for the high to kick in.
How Long Do the Effects Last?
Now, let’s talk about how long the effects stick around. If you’re in it for the long haul, traditional edibles are the way to go. Once they kick in, the high from edibles can last 4 to 6 hours or even longer, depending on how much you consume and how your body processes it. This is one reason why edibles are often used for pain relief or sleep—when you want the effects to last.
THC drinks, on the other hand, tend to offer a shorter experience. While they hit you faster, their effects also wear off more quickly, typically lasting between 2 and 4 hours. This might be a plus for some users who want a more manageable, shorter high without committing to an all-day experience.
Metabolism: How Your Body Processes THC
Here’s another important factor—how your body processes the THC. With traditional edibles, the THC has to go through your liver, where it’s converted into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is known for producing a stronger, longer-lasting high, which is why edibles can sometimes feel more intense than smoking or vaping.
THC drinks work a bit differently. Since they’re made with water-soluble THC, your body absorbs them faster and skips part of the conversion process. This means the high is usually lighter and more mellow than what you’d get from a traditional edible.
Control Over Dosage
Another key difference between THC drinks and edibles is how much control you have over your dose. With edibles, it’s pretty straightforward—you eat one gummy or cookie, and you know exactly how much THC you’re getting. But it’s also easy to go overboard, especially if you’re impatient waiting for the effects to kick in. We’ve all heard those stories of someone eating another brownie because they thought the first one wasn’t working!
THC drinks give you a little more flexibility. You can sip slowly, controlling how much THC you consume over time. If you’re at a social event and just want to take the edge off without getting too high, you can pace yourself with a drink. This gradual approach can be appealing for those who are cautious with their THC intake.
Social Settings and Lifestyle
Speaking of social settings, THC drinks are an excellent choice for casual use. You can sip on them like any other beverage, making them perfect for parties or gatherings where you want to enjoy THC without the obviousness of eating a brownie or gummy. It’s a bit like having a glass of wine—it’s part of the social experience.
Edibles, while great for solo use or more relaxed environments, don’t always lend themselves to social settings in the same way. Plus, once you’ve eaten your dose, you’re committed to the ride, whether you want to be or not.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
It all comes down to what you’re looking for. If you want something quick and easy, with faster onset and shorter effects, THC drinks might be your best bet. They’re perfect for social situations, and the ability to sip gradually gives you more control over your high. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more intense, long-lasting experience, traditional edibles are the way to go. Just be patient, because they take time to work their magic.
At Blazed Bakery, we understand that everyone’s cannabis experience is different. That’s why we offer a range of THC-infused products, from edibles to drinks, so you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Whether you’re sipping on a THC drink or enjoying one of our classic edibles, we’ve got something to help you relax and enjoy your day.
