Get a Taste of Cannabis: A Guide to Gummies, Chocolates, and Edibles Galore

Edibles are a popular choice for cannabis enthusiasts due to their discreet, long-lasting, and enjoyable effects. Here, we’ll explore some of the most common types of edibles—like gummies and chocolates—alongside newer options like strain-specific treats and tincture syrups. Whether you’re browsing for recreational marijuana at Starbird or simply curious about edibles, our staff will be your trusted companions, guiding you through everything you need to know about these blissful bites.

How Do Edibles Get You High?

How exactly do edibles work in our bodies? When you eat an edible, it doesn’t hit as fast as smoking or vaping, but don’t let that fool you—its effects are known for being both potent and long-lasting. When you consume an edible, THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) is absorbed through your digestive system and processed by your liver, where it’s transformed into a powerful compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound is especially potent, often delivering a more intense experience than other forms of cannabis. The result is a gradual but strong effect that can last several hours, giving many people a feeling that is both powerful and relaxing.

How Are Edibles Made?

Edibles are typically made with cannabis distillate. Distillate is a highly purified form of THC that can be infused into various treats. Because distillate is typically made from many different strains of cannabis plants, gummies and other standard edibles aren’t usually strain-specific. This method of production allows for consistent effects and delicious flavors, ideal for people who look for a standard edible experience. Since many people do want a certain effect from their edibles, growers will often infuse their batches with CBD or other cannabinoids to simulate a certain experience. For example, the Cranberry Pomegranate gummies by Coast offer a mixture of 5 milligrams of CBD and CBN to induce a sleepy, calm effect. Be sure to consult with our budtenders and listen intently, as we do carry edible products with melatonin, caffeine and other natural additives that can greatly enhance and alter your edible experience. 

 Edibles from recreational dispensaries in Massachusetts have a standardized dose of 5mg THC per serving. Whether you’re new to edibles or a seasoned consumer, gummies made with distillate provide a reliable and delicious experience with plenty of options to choose from.

Cranberry Pomegranate gummies by Coast, with added CBD and CBN for a directed sedative effect.

Why Are Cannabis Chocolates So Popular?

Cannabis-infused chocolates are a popular edible because of their rich flavor and smooth texture, offering a luxurious experience. The fat content in chocolate also helps THC to be absorbed more effectively, which can lead to a stronger effect or easier metabolizing for many users. This makes chocolate an excellent base for cannabis, as the creamy consistency and satisfying flavor blend seamlessly with cannabis oil.

At Starbird, you’ll often find plenty of cannabis chocolates with a variety of flavors to choose from. We carry fun and unique options, like the Banana Pudding bar, as well as artisanal crafted RSO chocolate with strain specific benefits.

Atlantic Bliss chocolate bar by Say Ahh, a relaxing blend of RSO concentrate, CBD and dark chocolate

What If I Want a Sativa or Indica Edible?n

For those interested in a more tailored experience, strain-specific edibles are becoming increasingly popular. These edibles are crafted with full-spectrum cannabis resin or rosin, both of which preserve the unique terpenes and cannabinoids of specific cannabis strains. Unlike distillate, resin and rosin are flash frozen before extraction, capturing the "entourage effect," which is the combined effect of THC, CBD, and other natural compounds in the plant. This method allows users to experience the distinct flavors and effects associated with each strain—whether it’s an Indica for relaxation or a Sativa for an uplifting effect. These strain-specific edibles cater to enthusiasts looking for something beyond the basic THC experience, offering a more authentic representation of the plant.

How Do You Use Infused Syrup?

Cannabis tinctures offer another versatile way to consume THC. Made with cannabis extract, tinctures are usually in liquid form and can be taken sublingually or added as a syrup to food and beverages. Tinctures allow for higher dosing, and can be served in units up to 1000 milligrams. 

Syrup has become extremely popular, as it can be mixed into drinks, drizzled over desserts, or taken on their own for quick effects. This method is popular for its ease and variety, allowing users to infuse THC into their diet in creative ways. The staff at Starbird heavily recommends using a few drops of the Good Vibes syrup with your favorite soda over ice, for a refreshing, impactful and fast acting edible experience.

A guide to edible dosing. Bear in mind that edibles effect each person differently 

Why Don’t Edibles Work on Me?

If you’ve ever eaten a cannabis edible and felt little to no effect, you’re not alone. There are a few reasons why edibles might not work for everyone. First, individual metabolism plays a big role in how cannabis is processed; some people may metabolize THC more quickly or less effectively through the digestive system, limiting the impact of edibles. Additionally, certain enzymes in the liver (like CYP450) are responsible for processing THC, and variations in these enzymes from person to person can affect how strongly (or weakly) the THC is activated. Another possibility is low bioavailability; if your body doesn’t efficiently absorb cannabinoids from edibles, it might lead to a diminished effect. Many believe edibles to work similarly to alcohol, and expect strong effects on an empty stomach. It is actually best to consume edibles with a bit of fat in the stomach so the cannabinoids can properly break down, which is why chocolate and baked goods are great options. 

 Finally, it’s worth noting that for new users, effects can sometimes be subtle or build up over multiple uses. If edibles don’t seem to work for you, consider speaking to a budtender at our Salem dispensary who can recommend alternative options, like tinctures or inhaled products, which may deliver more reliable results.

What Are Fast-Acting Edibles?

Fast-acting edibles work quickly thanks to nano-emulsified THC particles, which are absorbed differently in the body. Traditional edibles are processed through the liver after passing through the stomach, leading to a delayed onset of 1-2 hours. Nano-emulsified edibles, however, use tiny THC particles that are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mouth and stomach lining, bypassing some of the liver’s breakdown process. This allows THC to reach the bloodstream faster, often within 15-30 minutes, making these edibles ideal for those seeking immediate effects. The greatest benefit is not having to time your dosing to align with your schedule. Rather than taking a sleep gummy an hour before bed to start the routine, you can use a fast acting option and have a rapid effect.

Are Cannabis Drinks Fast Acting? 

Yes! Cannabis-infused drinks offer a refreshing way to consume THC, and they often work similarly to nano-emulsified edibles. By using nano-emulsion technology, these beverages contain THC particles that are small enough for faster absorption through the mouth and stomach lining, leading to quicker effects—sometimes as soon as 15-30 minutes. Cannabis drinks are usually single serving edibles, meaning they will have 5mg per can at recreational dispensaries. They are ideal for those seeking a gentle, controlled approach to consumption or those who prefer to microdose. This makes cannabis drinks a great option for those who want a fast-acting, enjoyable alternative to traditional edibles.

Choosing the Right Edible for You

From classic gummies to luxurious chocolates, strain-specific options, and versatile tinctures, there’s an edible for every taste and preference. As always, be mindful of dosage when enjoying edibles, especially if you’re new to them, since they can have a delayed onset but long-lasting effects. We have options for edibles that are gluten free, vegan, and Non-GMO for those with intolerances or prefer health conscious products. If you have an allergy or dietary restriction, be sure to let our budtenders know so they can point you towards a safe option.  For those in Salem, MA, or exploring recreational cannabis, visit Starbird to find an option that fits your desired experience.

Fly high!