beginners guide to edibles: 7 Powerful Tips for a Safe Start
What You Need to Know About Edibles
Stepping into cannabis edibles can feel like finding a whole new dimension of plant enjoyment. If you’re curious about trying them, you’re not alone – edibles have become increasingly popular for those seeking a smoke-free experience with longer-lasting effects.
As someone who’s guided countless first-timers through their initial edible experiences, I want to share what you really need to know before taking that first bite. Here’s a straightforward overview that forms the foundation of our beginners guide to edibles:
| Edibles Basics | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Starting Dose | 2.5-5mg THC for first-timers |
| Onset Time | 30-90 minutes (wait at least 2 hours before taking more) |
| Duration | 4-8 hours (much longer than smoking) |
| Best Beginner Options | Gummies, mints, or low-dose chocolates |
| Key Safety Tip | Start low, go slow – you can always take more later |
What makes edibles so different from smoking? It’s all about the journey through your body. When you smoke cannabis, cannabinoids enter your bloodstream through your lungs almost immediately. With edibles, your digestive system processes everything first, sending THC to your liver where it transforms into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC – which happens to be significantly more potent than regular THC.
This digestive process explains why you might not feel anything for 30-90 minutes after eating that gummy, but it also explains why the effects can last 4-8 hours (sometimes even longer for newcomers). This delayed onset is precisely where many first-timers get into trouble.
I’ve seen it happen countless times at our dispensary – someone takes their first dose, gets impatient after 45 minutes, takes more, and then both doses hit them at once. That’s why our golden rule is always “start low, go slow.” Trust me, you can always enjoy more another time, but you can’t un-eat what you’ve already consumed.
I’m Jeremy Rivera, owner of Terp Bros dispensary in Astoria. Our team takes pride in walking newbies through their first edible experiences with care and patience. During our beginners guide to edibles consultations, we focus on helping you understand proper dosing and setting realistic expectations – because everyone’s body responds differently.
The beauty of edibles lies in their discretion and convenience. No smell, no smoke, no equipment needed – just a tasty treat that delivers consistent effects. Many of our customers appreciate how they can enjoy the benefits of cannabis without drawing attention or irritating their lungs. Plus, with NY-licensed products, you know exactly what you’re getting in each dose.
For those new to cannabis altogether, edibles can actually be an ideal entry point when approached with the right knowledge and caution. The predictable dosing and longer duration make them perfect for those seeking relief from pain, anxiety, or sleep issues – as long as you’ve planned your schedule accordingly!
Want to learn more about edibles? Check out these related resources:
– Are edibles illegal
– THC gummies
Ready to take that first bite? Patience is truly a virtue with edibles. Your body will thank you for starting with a modest 2.5-5mg dose and giving it the full 2 hours to work its magic. And if you have questions, we’re always here to help at Terp Bros – because your first edible experience should be enjoyable, not overwhelming.
Beginners Guide to Edibles: How Do They Work?
Ever wonder why that little gummy hits so differently than a puff from a vape? Let’s peek behind the curtain at what happens when you eat your cannabis instead of smoking it.
When you consume an edible, you’re sending it on a completely different journey through your body. Instead of the express route through your lungs straight to your bloodstream, edibles take the scenic path through your digestive system.
Your body breaks down that brownie or gummy in your stomach, then sends it through your intestines and—here’s the crucial part—through your liver. This liver pit-stop is what makes edibles feel so unique.
“When THC is processed through the liver, it transforms into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is significantly more potent and can cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively,” explains Dr. Ethan Russo, a neurologist and cannabis researcher. This metabolic detour is why edibles often feel stronger and last longer than smoking the same amount.
Understanding this difference is essential for any beginners guide to edibles. Your endocannabinoid system—the network of receptors throughout your body that interact with cannabis compounds—receives these molecules in a completely different way when they arrive via digestion.
The Science Behind 11-Hydroxy-THC – A Beginners Guide to Edibles Perspective
Your liver is the star of the show in the edibles experience. When you eat cannabis, liver enzymes (particularly one called CYP2CP) transform regular delta-9-THC into its more powerful cousin, 11-hydroxy-THC.
This transformed compound packs a punch—it’s estimated to be up to three times more potent than regular THC. That’s why the high from edibles often feels more intense and full-bodied compared to smoking.
As Lindsay Lebel, a cannabis educator, puts it: “The THC-dominant ones are going to bring the high and produce that euphoric feeling, but in a way that’s often more intense and full-bodied than smoking.”
This potency boost explains why proper dosing is absolutely critical for beginners. Even small amounts can produce significant effects once your liver gets involved in the process. For a deeper scientific understanding of how 11-hydroxy-THC works in the body, check out this research from the National Institutes of Health.
Fat-Soluble Delivery vs Inhalation
Another key piece of the puzzle: cannabinoids love fat, not water. This fat-solubility significantly affects how your body processes them.
When you eat an edible, the THC binds with fats and travels through your lymphatic system and liver. This creates a slower release but allows for higher absorption over time. When you smoke, THC enters your bloodstream directly through your lungs—fast but not as complete.
The numbers tell an interesting story:
– When you eat cannabis, only about 10-20% of the THC actually reaches your bloodstream
– When you smoke, approximately 50-60% of THC makes it into circulation
But here’s the twist—despite that lower percentage, the conversion to 11-hydroxy-THC means edibles can actually feel stronger. Even the type of fat used in your edible makes a difference. As Miguel Trinidad, a cannabis chef, explains: “If you’re using something like MCT oil or coconut oil, it absorbs much quicker than if you’re using an animal fat like butter or bacon fat.”
This is why that 10mg gummy might feel more intense than a joint with the same amount of THC—your liver is turning it into something more powerful.
Curious about the deeper science of cannabis? Check out our Cannabis 101 page where we break down the fascinating details of how this remarkable plant interacts with your body.
Most Common Starter Edibles & How to Choose
Walking into a dispensary for the first time can feel like entering a candy store – except everything is infused with cannabis! As part of our beginners guide to edibles, I want to help you steer these tasty options with confidence.
At Terp Bros, we’ve helped countless first-timers find their perfect introduction to edibles. The key is starting with products specifically designed for beginners – those with reliable, consistent dosing and predictable effects.
Gummies
If edibles had a popularity contest, gummies would win by a landslide. We often call them the “tiny baby boss of cannabis edibles” because they’re small but mighty!
Gummies have earned their top spot for good reason. They offer precise, consistent doses (you know exactly what you’re getting in each piece), and their onset is relatively predictable. Plus, they’re super discreet – no one will know your fruit chew contains cannabis unless you tell them. The sweet flavors do an excellent job masking that distinctive cannabis taste, making them approachable for newcomers.
Chocolates
There’s something deeply satisfying about chocolate edibles – maybe it’s because chocolate itself is already a treat we associate with pleasure. The natural fats in chocolate actually help your body absorb cannabinoids more effectively.
Dark chocolate varieties are particularly good at disguising the earthy cannabis flavor. Many of our customers find chocolate edibles create a more enjoyable, well-rounded experience compared to other forms. Just be careful around the summer months – chocolate melts!
Beverages
“Can I just drink my cannabis?” Absolutely! Cannabis-infused drinks are making a huge splash in the market, especially the newer “fast-acting” formulations. These clever products use nanotechnology to break down cannabinoids into tiny water-soluble particles.
The benefit? They can kick in within 15-30 minutes (compared to the usual hour or more) and typically last 2-3 hours instead of 6-8. This shorter experience window makes beverages a more manageable option for beginners who might be nervous about committing to a full-length edible journey.
Mints
Don’t underestimate these tiny powerhouses! Low-dose cannabis mints are perfect for microdosing throughout the day. They’re incredibly discreet – just pop one in your mouth like any regular mint.
Some mints are designed to be absorbed partially under the tongue (sublingually), which can provide faster effects than traditional edibles while still lasting longer than smoking. They’re ideal for social situations where you want just a gentle lift without going overboard.
Capsules
For the no-nonsense beginner who wants medicine without the candy experience, capsules are your best friend. They offer the most precise dosing without any taste considerations. Many medical users prefer capsules for their consistency and lack of added sugars or ingredients found in other edibles.
When choosing your first edible trip, consider what matters most to you. Are you looking for the lowest possible dose (aim for 2.5-5mg THC per piece)? Would you prefer a balanced experience with CBD to temper the THC effects? Do you have dietary restrictions that require vegan, gluten-free, or sugar-free options? How important is onset time – do you want traditional digestion or faster-acting options?
Browse our curated selection of beginner-friendly edibles at Shop Edibles to find your perfect match.
Reading Labels Like a Pro
Learning to read edible labels is like developing a superpower that keeps you safe. Here’s what to look for as part of your beginners guide to edibles education:
The THC mg per serving tells you how much THC is in each piece or serving – this is the most important number for beginners. Start with 2.5-5mg per serving and you’ll thank me later!
Check the total package mg to know how much THC is in the entire package. In New York, edibles are capped at 100mg per package, with each piece containing no more than 10mg.
The CBD:THC ratio indicates the balance between these cannabinoids. Higher CBD typically means a more gentle, less intoxicating experience.
Always check the batch number and testing information to confirm the product has been lab-tested for potency and safety. The expiration date matters too – edibles do lose potency over time.
Don’t skip the ingredients list, especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions. At Terp Bros, we ensure all our products are clearly labeled, and our staff is always ready to help you understand exactly what you’re purchasing.
Balanced vs THC-Only vs CBD-Only: A Beginners Guide to Edibles Decisions
One of the most important choices you’ll make as a beginner is deciding which cannabinoid profile fits your needs:
Balanced (1:1 THC:CBD) products contain equal amounts of THC and CBD, creating what many consider the perfect introduction to cannabis. The CBD helps buffer some of THC’s more intense effects, often resulting in a more gentle, clear-headed experience. As our cannabis educator Lindsay often says, “That’s a good starting dose where you can gauge how your body and mind feel without getting overwhelmed.”
THC-Dominant products primarily contain THC with little or no CBD. They produce stronger psychoactive effects and are generally better suited for those with some cannabis experience under their belt. These provide that classic “high” feeling but can be overwhelming for newcomers.
CBD-Only products contain CBD with minimal or no THC (less than 0.3%). They don’t produce a “high” but may offer relaxation and other therapeutic benefits. These are perfect if you’re interested in wellness benefits without any intoxication.
Many experienced users prefer full-spectrum or broad-spectrum products that contain multiple cannabinoids and terpenes working together. This “entourage effect” suggests that cannabis compounds work better as a team than solo performers.
Your first edible experience sets the tone for your relationship with cannabis. At Terp Bros, we’re committed to making sure that relationship starts on the right foot with the perfect product for your unique needs.
Dosing Demystified: Start Low, Go Slow
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of any beginners guide to edibles is understanding proper dosing. The mantra “start low, go slow” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s essential wisdom that can make the difference between a pleasant experience and an overwhelming one.
Here’s a breakdown of general dosing guidelines:
| Dose Level | THC Amount | Expected Effects | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microdose | 1-2.5mg | Subtle mood improvement, mild relaxation, minimal impairment | First-time users, daytime use |
| Beginner | 2.5-5mg | Noticeable euphoria, improved sensory perception, some impairment | New users with some cannabis experience |
| Moderate | 5-15mg | Strong euphoria, altered perception, significant impairment | Experienced users only |
| High | 15-30mg+ | Very strong effects, potential anxiety/paranoia, major impairment | Tolerance required, not for beginners |
The waiting game is where most newbies slip up. Unlike smoking, where effects hit within minutes, edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully kick in. Your body type, metabolism, and whether you’ve eaten recently all play a role in how quickly you’ll feel effects.
I’ve seen it countless times at Terp Bros – someone eats an edible, gets impatient after 30 minutes, and decides to take another. As my grandmother used to say, “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” With edibles, impatience leads to “stacking” doses, which can turn a pleasant evening into an overwhelming experience.
Always wait at least 2 hours before even thinking about taking more. And keep a water bottle handy – staying hydrated helps with dry mouth and can help moderate the intensity of your experience.
What 2.5 mg Feels Like – A Beginners Guide to Edibles Microdosing
For true beginners, starting with a microdose of 2.5mg THC is like dipping your toes in the water before diving in. At this gentle level, you might notice:
A subtle mood lift – a gentle warmth that feels like the first sip of tea on a cold morning. You’re not “high,” but the day seems a bit brighter.
Mild relaxation – muscles might feel a bit looser, and minor irritations don’t bother you quite as much.
Improved focus – some people actually find low doses help them zero in on creative projects or enjoy music more deeply.
Functional day – you’ll likely remain completely clear-headed and able to handle all your normal activities.
Maria, a regular at our Astoria dispensary, shared: “My first 2.5mg gummy was perfect. About an hour in, I felt this gentle calm wash over me, but I was still completely myself. I was able to enjoy dinner with friends without feeling weird or out of it. It gave me the confidence to explore cannabis without anxiety.”
Microdosing can be a sustainable approach for those seeking the benefits of cannabis without strong intoxication – many of our customers use this method long-term rather than increasing their dosage.
Help! I Took Too Much – Calm-Down Tactics
Even with careful planning, sometimes edibles hit harder than expected. If you find yourself uncomfortably high, remember these important points:
First and foremost, you will be okay. Unlike dangerous substances, cannabis doesn’t affect the part of your brain that controls breathing. The effects will pass, though they might take several hours.
Find a comfortable space and focus on your breathing. Anxiety can amplify the effects, so gentle reminders that this is temporary can help ground you. As we tell our Terp Bros customers – this feeling isn’t forever, even if it seems that way right now.
If you have some on hand, try CBD. It can help counteract the effects of too much THC. A CBD tincture under the tongue may reduce anxiety and other unwanted effects within 15-30 minutes.
Hydration is your friend. Sipping water and eating light snacks (crackers, fruit) can help ground you and potentially dilute the effects. Some people find that a bit of lemon juice or black pepper can help reduce the intensity of THC effects.
Distraction works wonders. Put on a familiar, comforting show or some gentle music. Simple activities like light stretching or even just focusing on the texture of a blanket can help redirect your mind.
Jason, a customer who visited our Queens location, shared: “I got impatient and took a second gummy after 45 minutes. When both hit at once, I felt overwhelmed. Thankfully, the budtender had advised me to have CBD on hand just in case, and taking some really helped bring me back to a comfortable level.”
The fundamental safety difference between cannabis and substances like opioids is that cannabis doesn’t suppress respiratory function. This safety profile is one reason many people are turning to cannabis as an alternative for pain management and relaxation. For more information on the differences between cannabis and opioid overdose risks, you can read this fact sheet from the World Health Organization. While you might feel uncomfortable if you take too much, the effects will pass with time and support.
Factors That Change Your High
Understanding that edibles affect everyone differently is a key part of any beginners guide to edibles. Think of it like this: your friend and you could take the exact same gummy, and one of you might be floating on cloud nine while the other barely feels a thing. Let’s explore why that happens.
Your metabolism is like your body’s personal timekeeper for edibles. If you’re blessed with a speedy metabolism, you might feel effects kick in faster, but they might not stick around as long. Meanwhile, your slow-metabolism friends might be waiting a while for liftoff, but once they’re there, they’re enjoying the ride much longer than you.
Body composition plays a significant role too. Since THC loves to bind with fat cells (they’re like best friends), your weight and body fat percentage influence how edibles affect you. Generally speaking, folks with higher body weight might need a slightly higher dose to feel the same effects as someone lighter.
“Had a big meal right before your edible? Get comfortable, because you might be waiting a while,” explains Dr. Ethan Russo. “When you take edibles on an empty stomach, effects typically come on faster and can hit harder. But eating something with healthy fats before consuming can actually help give you a more balanced experience.”
Your cannabis history matters enormously. First-timers are like lightweights at a party – a little goes a very long way. Meanwhile, regular cannabis users develop tolerance, meaning they need higher doses to achieve the same effects they once got from smaller amounts.
Something many people don’t consider is medication interactions. Certain medications use the same liver enzymes (CYP450) that process cannabis, potentially affecting how your body handles THC. This is why we always recommend checking with your healthcare provider if you’re taking other medications.
Your mindset and environment – what experts call “set and setting” – can dramatically shape your experience. Taking edibles when you’re already anxious or in an uncomfortable place can magnify those negative feelings. Conversely, being relaxed and comfortable often leads to a more pleasant journey.
One serious warning: mixing edibles with alcohol is playing with fire, especially for beginners. The combination can intensify both substances’ effects dramatically and significantly impair coordination and judgment. Research clearly shows that driving after combined use creates substantially higher accident risks than either substance alone. For more information on the risks of combining cannabis and alcohol, particularly when driving, check out this article from Psychology Today.
Smoking vs Eating vs Sublingual – Onset & Duration Breakdown
When people have a bad first experience with edibles, it’s usually because they didn’t understand the drastically different timeline compared to smoking. Here’s how different consumption methods compare:
| Method | Onset Time | Peak Effects | Total Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking/Vaping | 2-10 minutes | 15-30 minutes | 1-3 hours |
| Edibles (Digestive) | 30-120 minutes | 2-4 hours | 4-8+ hours |
| Sublingual (Under tongue) | 15-45 minutes | 1-2 hours | 3-6 hours |
| Fast-Acting Edibles | 15-45 minutes | 1-2 hours | 2-4 hours |
This is why we’re always telling new customers at Terp Bros: if you’ve got important obligations in the next 8 hours, maybe save that edible for another day. Nothing ruins a good experience like suddenly remembering you have a Zoom meeting with your boss in an hour!
Set & Setting: Crafting a Positive First Experience
The concept of “set and setting” isn’t just cannabis wisdom – it’s the foundation for having a great first experience with edibles.
Your set is your mindset: how you’re feeling mentally, what you’re expecting, and your intentions for the experience. Approaching edibles with curiosity and calm rather than anxiety makes a world of difference.
Your setting is your physical space and social environment. For first-timers, this matters tremendously.
“The same 5mg dose can feel totally different depending on whether you’re cozy at home watching your favorite show or feeling awkward at a party where you barely know anyone,” shares Jeremy, owner of Terp Bros. “We always recommend people create a little sanctuary for their first experience.”
For the best first-time experience, make your space comfortable and familiar – your home is perfect. Have a cannabis-experienced friend with you who can reassure you if needed. Clear your schedule completely – this isn’t the time to be checking work emails or making important decisions.
Create what we like to call “good vibes central”: comfortable seating, music you love, maybe some nature documentaries or comedies ready to go. Keep plenty of water and some of your favorite snacks nearby – hydration is crucial, and munching on delicious treats can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the experience.
Most importantly, approach with a positive, open mindset. You’ve created a safe environment, you’ve dosed appropriately, and now you can simply be present with whatever unfolds. Many of our customers at Terp Bros report that their most meaningful cannabis experiences happened when they were simply curious about where the journey might take them.
Safety, Storage & DIY Tips
When it comes to cannabis edibles, safety isn’t just about dosing—it’s about responsible handling and storage too. At Terp Bros, we believe that a comprehensive beginners guide to edibles must include these crucial aspects of cannabis consumption.
Child & Pet Safety
Let’s be honest—many edibles look absolutely delicious. Those gummies could easily be mistaken for regular candy, and that’s precisely what makes them potentially dangerous around children and pets.
“I once had a customer tell me their dog ate half a chocolate bar left on a coffee table,” shares Jeremy from Terp Bros. “They spent a terrifying night at the emergency vet. Thankfully, the pup was fine, but it was a $1,200 lesson in proper storage.”
To keep your household safe:
Keep all cannabis products in child-resistant containers—those extra seconds it takes to open them can make all the difference. Store edibles in locked cabinets or boxes, especially if you have little ones around. Never leave edibles unattended, particularly in common areas where curious hands might find them. Use clearly labeled, opaque containers so they don’t look appealing to children. And most importantly, have age-appropriate conversations with older children about medicine safety.
If the worst happens and a child or pet does consume cannabis products, don’t wait—immediately contact poison control at 1-800-222-1222 or head to the emergency room. Quick action is essential.
Legal Limits in New York
New York has thoughtfully designed its cannabis regulations with consumer safety in mind. As a licensed dispensary, we follow these guidelines to the letter:
Each edible serving is capped at 10mg of THC—perfect for newer users. Packages can contain a maximum of 100mg total, helping prevent accidental overconsumption. Every product must clearly display its THC content, so you know exactly what you’re getting. And of course, you must be 21 or older to purchase any cannabis products from licensed dispensaries like Terp Bros.
These limits aren’t just arbitrary rules—they’re designed to help newcomers have positive experiences while minimizing risks.
Home Infusion Basics Without Guesswork
Making your own edibles can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do you save money, but you gain complete control over ingredients and dosing. The process isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to detail.
First comes decarboxylation—basically, heating your cannabis at around 240°F for 40 minutes to activate the THC. Without this step, you’d just have expensive herb-flavored food with no effects.
Next is infusion, where you combine your activated cannabis with a fat like butter or coconut oil. These fats bind to the cannabinoids, creating a versatile cooking ingredient. Some people prefer coconut oil for its higher fat content and longer shelf life, while others stick with butter for its familiar taste in baked goods.
After infusion comes straining—removing all plant material for a smooth final product. A cheesecloth works perfectly for this, though a fine mesh strainer can do in a pinch.
The most critical step is calculating potency. Without lab testing, home calculations are estimates, but they’re better than flying blind. A simple formula is:
(Grams of cannabis × % THC × 1000mg) ÷ Number of servings = mg THC per serving
So if you use an eighth (3.5g) of 20% THC cannabis to make 24 cookies:
(3.5 × 0.20 × 1000) ÷ 24 = 29.16mg THC per cookie
That’s quite potent! For beginners, you’d want to use less cannabis or make more servings to achieve that ideal 2.5-5mg dose.
Keeping Edibles Fresh & Away From Little Hands
Proper storage extends shelf life and ensures your edibles remain both potent and safe. Think of cannabis products like fine herbs—exposure to light, air, and heat degrades their quality.
For short-term storage (1-2 weeks), a cool, dark place in airtight containers works well. If you’re keeping them for 2-4 weeks, refrigeration is your friend. And for long-term storage (several months), freezing preserves potency remarkably well.
“I portion my homemade brownies, wrap them individually, and freeze them,” shares Maria, a regular at Terp Bros. “Six months later, they’re still just as effective—and it prevents me from eating too many at once!”
Always label homemade edibles clearly with contents, estimated potency, date made, and a warning that they contain THC. This isn’t just for children’s safety—it’s also to prevent your future self from forgetting what’s what in your freezer.
One of our customers shared a brilliant solution: “I keep a separate section in my refrigerator with a lockbox for my edibles. It might seem excessive, but with young nieces and nephews visiting frequently, I can’t risk them finding something that looks like candy.”
For those diving into homemade edibles, start simple. A basic cannabutter recipe is far more forgiving than attempting cannabis-infused soufflé on your first try. With practice, you’ll develop a feel for the process and can experiment with more complex creations.
The goal of DIY edibles isn’t just to save money—it’s about crafting experiences custom precisely to your preferences and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edibles for Newbies
How long will an edible high actually last for first-timers?
First-time edible users are often surprised by just how long the effects stick around. Typically, you’ll feel the effects for 6-8 hours, with the most intense experience happening 2-4 hours after eating. But here’s the thing—if you’ve never used cannabis before, you might notice subtle effects lingering for up to 12 hours.
This extended duration is why we always tell our customers at Terp Bros to plan accordingly. Choose a day when you have nothing important scheduled afterward and can fully relax into the experience.
One of our regular customers shared her experience: “My first edible journey lasted way longer than I expected. I took a 5mg gummy around dinnertime and still felt slightly floaty when I woke up the next morning. It wasn’t uncomfortable—just something I wish someone had mentioned beforehand!”
What’s the safest way to try edibles for the first time?
When it comes to your first edible experience, safety is all about preparation and patience. Here’s our tried-and-true approach for beginners guide to edibles first-timers:
Start with just 2.5mg THC—ideally in a balanced product that contains equal parts CBD to soften the experience. After taking it, be patient and wait a full 2 hours before even thinking about having more. Choose a comfortable setting like your living room with a friend who has experience with cannabis.
Keep plenty of water and regular (non-cannabis) snacks within reach. Having some CBD tincture on hand is smart too—it can help take the edge off if things feel too intense. Many of our customers find it helpful to jot down notes about their experience: when they took it, when they first felt effects, and how they felt throughout.
“The biggest mistake I see with first-timers isn’t the amount they take—it’s getting impatient and taking more before the first dose has fully kicked in,” explains Dr. Russo, a leading cannabis researcher. “That patience piece is critical.”
Avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances during your first experience, and make sure your schedule is clear for at least 8-12 hours afterward.
Are there legal or health issues I should know about in New York?
New York has specific regulations around cannabis that every consumer should understand. First, the basics: you must be 21 or older to legally purchase or possess cannabis products. Driving while high is both illegal and dangerous—don’t do it. Public consumption follows similar rules to tobacco, and despite what you might have heard, crossing state lines with cannabis remains federally illegal, even between two legal states.
From a health perspective, it’s worth checking with your doctor before trying cannabis if you take medications, as there can be interactions. Those with heart conditions, mental health concerns, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should definitely consult healthcare providers first.
Regular heavy use can lead to tolerance over time, meaning you’ll need more to feel the same effects. And of course, responsible storage is crucial—all cannabis products should be kept safely away from children and pets.
At Terp Bros, responsible cannabis use is at the heart of what we do. Our team is always happy to address any questions about the legal or health aspects of cannabis—just ask!
For a look at our selection of NY-compliant edibles, check out our Edibles menu.
What’s the difference between edibles and tinctures?
Though both go in your mouth, edibles and tinctures take very different journeys through your body.
Edibles travel through your digestive system, where your liver transforms THC into 11-hydroxy-THC (that more potent compound we mentioned earlier). This digestive process means slower onset—typically 30 minutes to 2 hours—but the effects last much longer (4-8+ hours) and often feel more intense.
Tinctures, on the other hand, are usually placed under your tongue where the cannabinoids absorb directly into your bloodstream through the thin mucous membranes. This more direct route means faster onset (usually 15-45 minutes), shorter duration (3-6 hours), and more precise control over your dose.
Many of our first-time customers at Terp Bros actually prefer tinctures precisely because they offer this greater control—you can take a little, wait to see how you feel, and adjust accordingly.
How can I tell if I’m buying quality edibles?
Quality edibles aren’t just about what’s inside—they’re also about transparency and information. Look for products with clear, detailed labels that specify exact cannabinoid content. Reputable products will have lab test results available, either printed right on the packaging or accessible by request.
Good edibles come in proper childproof packaging that’s tamper-evident, with complete ingredient lists and batch numbers or expiration dates. And of course, they should always come from licensed manufacturers.
“We always encourage our customers to ask questions, really read those labels, and research brands before buying,” says our team at Terp Bros. “Quality and consistency make all the difference between a positive experience and a disappointing one.”
At our dispensary, we carefully vet every product to ensure it meets these quality standards and complies with all New York regulations.
Can I build tolerance to edibles?
Yes, your body will gradually build tolerance with regular cannabis use, including edibles. This means that over time, you might need higher doses to achieve the same effects you once felt with smaller amounts.
Tolerance builds particularly quickly with daily use. Many regular consumers take periodic “tolerance breaks” (or “T-breaks”) to reset their sensitivity. Interestingly, tolerance to edibles also affects your tolerance to other consumption methods like vaping or smoking.
Some customers find that rotating between different cannabinoid ratios (like switching between THC-dominant products and balanced THC:CBD products) helps manage tolerance build-up.
If you’re looking to maintain effectiveness at lower doses—which is both easier on your wallet and better for sustainable use—consider scheduling occasional breaks or practicing microdosing (using very small amounts consistently rather than larger amounts occasionally).
The information in this beginners guide to edibles is designed to help you steer your cannabis journey safely and enjoyably. At Terp Bros, we’re committed to being a trusted resource for our community in Astoria and throughout Queens. Stop by our dispensary to learn more about our products and get personalized recommendations from our knowledgeable team.
