What to Know Before Trying Sativa Edibles: Effects, Benefits, and More

Before trying sativa edibles for the first time, you need to know the effects, benefits, and more. Learn what to know here.

Cannabis laws have changed dramatically over the last two decades. Almost half of all states, including New York, have legalized marijuana. Another 15 allow it for medical uses and/or have decriminalized possession.

Changes in laws also have sparked the proliferation of edible cannabis products. These are a great alternative to smoking, as they are easier to take, more discrete, and can provide unique health benefits. There are lots of different kinds though, which can make it difficult to choose the best one. 

This article covers everything you need to know before trying sativa edibles. It breaks down the most common effects and outlines the benefits sativa can yield. Keep reading to learn more. 

A Brief History of Cannabis and Edibles

Cannabis has played an important religious, social, medicinal, and agricultural role in many civilizations throughout history. Its agricultural uses date back tens of thousands of years.

While the variety of edibles has expanded in recent years to include gummies, lozenges, drinks, and more, eating cannabis is nothing new. Human beings have been doing it for at least 4,000 years. 

The earliest known written record of cannabis use is from a medical list compiled for the Chinese Emperor Shen Nung in 2727 BCE. There is evidence that the Ancient Greeks and Romans used it as well. Cannabis spread to the Middle East and then to North Africa over the centuries. 

In its hemp form, cannabis became a popular textile in Europe during the Middle Ages. It first came to the Western Hemisphere in the 16th century, when it was imported to Chile for use as a fiber. It was grown in colonial America and used mainly to make rope, clothing, and paper. 

Regulation of marijuana, or parts of the cannabis plant that contain THC, began in the early 20th century throughout the world. Since that time, many countries have legalized the medical and recreational uses of cannabis. 

Today, U.S. states vary on what level is permissible. These are based on myriad factors, including the intended use (medical versus recreational). Also, more than half of all states have decriminalized possession of marijuana, even if they do not permit sale for recreational use.

Sativa Basics

“Sativa” is a botanical term that refers to a specific type of cannabis plant. It is one of two main varieties–the other being indica–used to produce cannabis products. “Hybrid” refers to a mix of indica and sativa strains. 

Sativa plants are thin and tall. They are native to Africa and Central America, as well as Southeast and Western Asia.

Indica plants are shorter and stockier, with wide and broad leaves. They are native to Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. 

Effects of Sativa 

Most cannabis products contain some level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Some, such as cannabidiol (CBD), do not. THC is the psychoactive ingredient that produces a high. 

Both sativa and indica edibles contain THC. Sativa plants tend to have a greater concentration of the substance, but the main difference is how the distinct strains act in the body. 

In general, when consumed, sativa produces a more cerebral or “head” high. It can be energizing while simultaneously reducing anxiety. 

These are distinct from the effects of indica strains, which tend to produce more of a “body” high. It is more sedating and can bring about a sense of calm. 

It is also an ideal choice for reducing pain and nausea. Both sativa and indica strains can increase appetite. 

For this reason, sativa is recommended for daytime use. Indica is preferable for nighttime, including treating insomnia. 

Health Benefits of Cannabis

There are many health benefits to consuming cannabis in general. A few basic ones are improved mood, relaxation, and a heightened sense of well-being. 

Another major health benefit of using cannabis is its ability to bring relief from pain. This might be especially beneficial for people who suffer from conditions that cause chronic pain. Cannabis can be a great alternative to expensive, powerful medications that have dangerous side effects. 

Another plus is that it can have extensive anti-inflammatory effects. This can be especially impactful for someone with conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. Cannabis can also help reduce nausea, which makes it a go-to for people undergoing chemotherapy. 

Cannabis has been shown to prevent or lessen the symptoms of muscle spasms and epileptic seizures. There also is promising research regarding its role in staving off the effects of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. 

Benefits of Sativa

There are various benefits to taking sativa in particular. One is euphoria and enhanced mood. 

It can have an uplifting, energizing effect that is distinct from other strands, including indica. For this reason, many people find sativa useful in combatting anxiety and depression. 

Sativa also can promote sociability. It can promote creativity, mental stimulation, and focus. This makes it a valuable tool for many artists, writers, musicians, or anyone looking to boost imagination and inventiveness. 

Enhanced cognitive function can lead to great productivity. Taking sativa also can make you more attuned to your surroundings, including nature, art, music, taste, and aromas. 

Benefits of Sativa Edibles

Edibles have become a popular method of delivery for both medical and recreational cannabis alike. There are many benefits to this method of consuming sativa. Here are the main ones to consider.  

Respiratory Health

One of the biggest benefits of taking edibles (versus smoking) is that it is better for your lungs. Cannabis does not have many of the unnatural chemicals found in cigarettes, nor the addictive properties of tobacco.

However, combusting plant matter and inhaling the smoke can be tough on the throat and lungs. This can be particularly problematic for people with respiratory conditions like asthma. You do not experience these undesirable effects with edibles. 

Convenience

Another advantage of edibles is the ease of use. There is no learning curb associated with rolling joints or smoking through a pipe or bong. Anyone who knows how to chew can consume edibles. 

A related advantage is that edibles are more inconspicuous and better to transport than smoking or vaping products. That makes it easier to have them handy and use them in different locations. 

Precise Dosing

Another benefit of edibles is a more precise dosage. Smoking cannabis or even making homemade edibles can be a bit of a crapshoot when it comes to exact amounts of THC. 

Especially if you are buying from a reputable distributor, you can have the confidence that you are ingesting the exact amount you intend, and will have the same experience the next time. This also helps if you need to either increase or decrease the dosage. 

Better Results

A final benefit of edibles is that their effects last longer and can be more potent than smoking. That is because, when smoked, the THC almost instantaneously enters the bloodstream and goes quickly to the brain. 

An edible uses the digestive tract to metabolize the cannabis before it travels to the rest of the body. This can take anywhere from a half hour to an hour and a half. 

A related benefit of edibles is that they may be more tolerable in general than cannabis that is smoked or vaped. Again, if you stick to a moderate dose, the impacts on the mind and body should be less jarring than alternative methods of consumption. 

Health Risks of Sativa

Like any food or supplement, people taking sativa edibles should be aware of the risks. First, edibles come in various doses. A typical range is between 10 and 25 milligrams (mg) of THC, though you can find intense edibles that are upwards of 50 mg.

The main health risk of taking sativa is taking too much. Exceedingly high levels of THC will not only fail to produce the desired benefits listed above, but it can exacerbate anxiety or cause panic attacks in some people. 

As mentioned, the effects of edibles come on slower and last longer than smoking. Each person has a distinct tolerance and metabolism. 

One of the best things you can do is ease into sativa edibles. Especially if you have never used cannabis before, start with a dose of 3 to 5 milligrams, which will help gauge the effects with little risk.  Only take more (if needed) after waiting several hours after the original dose. 

Keep in mind that THC can interfere with the effects of other medications. And vice versa: some medications can intensify the impact of THC on the body. Consult your medical provider to ensure it is safe to consume cannabis along with other medications you may be taking. 

Find Sativa Edibles Near You

Now that you understand how sativa edibles work and the benefits they can bring, you can determine if they are right for you. Also, with so many different variations of sativa products, you are sure to find one that suits your personal preferences. 

Sacred Bloom offers only the highest quality recreational cannabis products. We have an extensive online inventory, as well as a brick-and-mortar shop serving Binghamton and the surrounding areas. Feel free to visit us or go online to set up a free cannabis consultation for assistance in choosing the best products for your lifestyle.