THC gummies are soft, chewy candies made with active tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis oil as a main ingredient. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana that gives users a “high” feeling. The THC oil comes from either sativa, indica, or hybrid strains and is extracted and infused into gelatin, fruit pectin, or another substance during production. This allows the THC to bind to the gummy mixture.
THC gummies come in a huge variety of shapes, colors, flavors, and potencies. They are easily the most versatile forms of cannabis edibles. Gummy shapes often match their flavors and include worms, rings, bears, tropical fruits, berries, and more. You’ll find gourmet THC gummies infused with many flavors ranging from sweet standards like lemon, cherry, green apple, strawberry, and watermelon to savory options.
Comparing THC gummies to other edibles
Now that we know exactly what THC gummies are, how do they stack up against other types of weed edibles? Here’s a quick rundown of how key aspects like dosing, onset/duration, taste, and accessibility make gummies an edible favorite for many.
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Dosing
Getting the THC dose right is key to having a good edible experience. Too little THC leads to lackluster effects, while too much triggers unpleasant reactions like anxiety and paranoia. With thc gummies, getting the dose right is simple. As a commercially produced item, gummies allow for consistent THC distribution within a batch and precise dosing. Just cut or bite a gummy in half if you want to microdose.
Other homemade edibles like brownies, cookies, or candy can have inconsistent THC levels if the cannabis butter or oil isn’t mixed thoroughly enough. Unless the baker is extremely precise with measurements, potency can easily vary from bite to bite. For those looking to control the intensity of their high, gummies are a much safer choice.
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Onset and duration
Here’s where THC gummies shine above classic edibles. The onset, peak, and duration of gummy effects take place over 2-5 hours. Alternative homemade edibles are much less predictable. The effects of cannabis brownies, cookies, cakes, and drinkables happen suddenly and intensely after just 30 minutes or take hours to creep up before you even realize you’re very stoned. The unpredictability stems from variance in digestion and metabolization from person to person and day to day. Foods with higher fat content also intensify and accelerate THC effects. With THC gummies, you better enjoy the ride from onset through the peak to come down since it happens more gradually and consistently within your body.
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Taste
Let’s be honest – weed edibles aren’t always known for great flavor because cannabis itself has an acquired taste. THC oil especially has an earthy, botanical flavor profile that some find unpalatable. With gummies, the sweet flavors of the candy itself do an excellent job of masking undesirable cannabis flavors. Given the huge variety of gummy flavors available, it’s easy to find several taste-appealing options. Those who dislike chocolate, cookies, brownies, or other common edibles due to texture or taste often love gummies.
The consistent dosing and gradual onset of gummy effects also make them ideal for microdosing THC throughout the day for an alert and focused high. The portability factor only adds to the accessibility benefit of THC gummies for medical patients and recreational users alike. They allow you to medicate or celebrate discreetly on the go.