Ediblocked: Why edibles don’t work

By Tom Tripp

As someone who has spent a small fortune over the years on cannabis edibles, I know the frustration all too well. I had one particular attempt when we whipped up a batch of brownies with an entire ounce of the goods—while everyone around me enjoyed a blissful high, I was left feeling nothing, like a Goth in the rain. Over the years, I’ve experimented with store-bought gummies, oils, and even 1000mg chocolates, yet the effects elude me. I’ve tried doses ranging from 60mg to a staggering 1000mg, but no matter what I do, I’m left watching others enjoy what seems like one of the most delightful ways to get blazey. It’s a feeling of jealousy that lingers every time I see friends indulging in those delectable edibles. It’s only been recently after a conversation with a friend and social club owner in Tenerife did I find out that it may not be the edibles fault at all, and instead may lie in my genetics and how my body breaks down enzymes.

 And so, I’ve sought to uncover the reasons behind this elusive experience hoping to shed light on the intricate metabolic processes at play—perhaps providing some form of answer or solution.

ENZYME-Definition

The biological processes that occur within all living organisms are chemical reactions, and most are regulated by enzymes. Without enzymes, many of these reactions would not take place at a perceptible rate. Enzymes catalyse all aspects of cell metabolism. This includes the digestion of food, in which large nutrient molecules (such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats) are broken down into smaller molecules; the conservation and transformation of chemical energy; and the construction of cellular macromolecules from smaller precursors. Many inherited human diseases, such as albinism and phenylketonuria, result from a deficiency of a particular enzyme.-Britannica Website Quote.

The Role of Enzymes in Metabolism

When we consume cannabis, cannabinoids like THC and CBD undergo metabolic processing primarily in the liver. This complex process relies heavily on the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, which includes key players like CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4.

CYP2C9

CYP2C9 is crucial for breaking down both THC and CBD. Unfortunately, some individuals lack sufficient amounts of this enzyme, which can significantly hinder their ability to metabolize THC effectively. This means that while THC might be present in an edible, it may not get converted into the active form, leaving some of us feeling nothing at all. Reports suggest that around 20% of the population may face this issue due to genetic variations affecting enzyme activity. Additionally, if your body struggles to process THC or CBD due to CYP2C9 deficiencies, you may miss out on the joys and benefits typically offered by edibles.

CYP2C19 and CYP3A4

These enzymes also play roles in metabolizing cannabinoids, especially CBD. If your body doesn’t effectively process these enzymes, the therapeutic benefits of CBD edibles may also fall short, mirroring the challenges faced with THC.

More information is available at www.medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/cyp2c9

Why Edibles Suck for People Like Me

It’s frustrating to learn that genetics can play such a pivotal role in our cannabis experiences—thank you, Parentals for another gift that continues to give.

Additionally, individual differences in body chemistry, diet, and age can significantly influence how cannabinoids are processed.

Body chemistry plays a significant role in how cannabinoids are metabolized, with genetic variations affecting the activity of liver enzymes like CYP2C9, crucial for converting THC into its active form. Certain genetic structures may result in reduced levels of these enzymes, and health conditions such as liver disease, can further hinder cannabinoid processing.

Diet is another influential factor; since THC is fat-soluble, consuming edibles alongside healthy fats can enhance absorption, whereas a low-fat diet may reduce effectiveness. High-fibre diets can alter digestive transit times, affecting the onset and intensity of edible effects, and interactions with substances like grapefruit juice may inhibit enzyme activity, complicating metabolism.

Gut health is another critical factor. The gut microbiome comprises bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes that play crucial roles in digestion, metabolism, and even immune function. Recent research suggests that the composition of this microbial community can impact how cannabinoids like THC and CBD are metabolized, potentially affecting the overall experience with edibles. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut bacteria, has been linked to various health issues, including gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic syndrome. Such imbalances can hinder the absorption of cannabinoids, making it difficult for some individuals to experience the desired effects of edibles. On the flip side, a healthy gut may improve cannabinoid bioavailability, enhancing the overall experience.

Age also impacts cannabinoid processing, as metabolic rates typically decline over time. Older adults may experience slower processing, leading to prolonged effects or heightened sensitivity to THC and CBD. Changes in body composition, including increased fat mass and decreased muscle mass, can influence how cannabinoids are distributed and stored. Additionally, cognitive changes associated with aging might alter the perception of cannabis effects, resulting in varying experiences among different age groups.

Together, these factors underscore the complexity of cannabinoid metabolism and highlight why some users struggle to experience the full effects of edibles.

Enhancing Edible Effectiveness: What I’ve Learned

If you find yourself in the same boat as I am, there are several strategies you might consider to potentially enhance your experience with edibles:

1. Experiment with Different Forms of THC: Some users have found success with specific products, such as distillates or isolates, which may be more effective than traditional edibles. Trying various formulations could help you discover what works best for your body. Sublingual tends to be a popular choice, as does vaping and the ole’ classic-Combustion.
2. Adjust Your Dosage: Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it can help you identify your optimal level for feeling effects. It’s all about listening to your body and being patient with the process. Many stories start with people eating too much and freaking out, so make sure you dose and pace yourself correctly.
3. Consume Edibles with Food: Eating a small meal before taking edibles can help improve THC absorption. Having some fats in your meal can enhance THC absorption since THC is fat-soluble.
4. Combine Cannabinoids: Using products that combine THC with CBD may yield better effects, as some users report that this combination produces a more balanced response. This is debated amongst experts when considering the effects of CBD and THC together and whether they counter each other.
5. Sublingual Products: As mentioned earlier, sublingual oils and tinctures bypass the digestive system and may provide a faster onset of effects.

Something else of note is the ability to consume gummies and edibles not through stomach and liver breakdown but instead by holding under the tongue until dissolved. This essentially causes a sublingual breakdown instead of enzyme breakdown further through the digestion process.

6. Hydration and Diet: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall metabolism, which might help with THC processing.
7. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you’re uncertain about how to proceed or have specific health concerns, speaking with a knowledgeable healthcare provider or a cannabis specialist can provide personalized advice.

Trial, Error, and Gruber

I’ve tried almost every suggestion in the book: increasing my dose, eating before and after consumption, and even trying different edible formats. Still, no luck. But I’m not giving up just yet. There’s hope in other methods, like using THC distillates or experimenting with different cannabinoid blends.

Research into the complexities of cannabis metabolism is still in its early stages. Dr. Staci Gruber and her team at McLean Hospital’s Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) program are working to uncover more about how cannabis affects the body, including the role of enzymes like CYP2C9. For more in-depth information on cannabis metabolism, Dr. Gruber’s research, and the role of the CYP2C9 enzyme, check out the MIND program at McLean Hospital. Journalists like Amanda Chicago Lewis have also written extensively on these topics, offering further insights into the science behind edibles and why they don’t work for everyone. As we learn more about the endocannabinoid system, new solutions may arise for those of us who are left scratching our heads after another disappointing edible.

According to Dr. Gruber, a renowned researcher in cannabis science, part of the issue lies in the way our bodies metabolize THC, the compound responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive effects. Gruber, who leads the Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) program at McLean Hospital, points out that the enzyme CYP2C9 helps break down THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, the more potent form that gives users that “high” feeling. As Gruber puts it, “We’re only just now starting to understand the cannabinoid system. And it’s already clear that it’s not just about what and how much you’re using — it’s about how you’re wired.”

Dr. Gruber and her team continue to research the cannabis plant and its effects on the human body, and I’m hopeful that as we learn more, solutions will come to light. Until then, I’m sticking with vaping and sublingual oils for more immediate and reliable effects. As for edibles, let’s just say I’ll keep my money in my pocket until I find a product that works. On that note, recent research is focusing on novel formulations that improve the bioavailability of cannabinoids.

For instance, nanoemulsion technology is gaining attention for its ability to create smaller particle sizes that can be more easily absorbed in the digestive system. By increasing the surface area of cannabinoids, these products may lead to faster onset and more pronounced effects.

Moreover, companies are experimenting with different types of emulsifiers and carriers, such as liposomes or micelles, to protect cannabinoids from degradation during digestion and enhance their absorption into the bloodstream.

Edibles with Enhanced Therapeutic Effects

Another exciting development is the introduction of functional edibles—products that combine cannabinoids with other beneficial ingredients, such as adaptogens or probiotics, to enhance the overall health benefits. These innovations not only aim to improve the psychoactive experience but also focus on promoting wellness and balance in users’ lives.

As the cannabis industry continues to innovate, consumers might soon find a wider range of options designed specifically for individuals who have historically struggled to experience the effects of edibles. These advancements offer hope for those of us feeling left out of the edible enjoyment party.

If you’re in the same boat, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone. The cannabis industry is still in its infancy when it comes to understanding the complexities of the endocannabinoid system. In the meantime, consider experimenting with different consumption methods or consulting a cannabis-friendly healthcare professional to get tailored advice.

CONCLUSION

With all this being said, If edibles do work for you, you’re in the fantastic majority and can sleep easy knowing you’ve got an extra slot in your belt to be able to get baked as a cake. It is worth mentioning that edibles are a lot stronger than other conventional methods, so please take care. You can always take more, but you can’t take less.

Navigating the world of cannabis edibles can be a perplexing journey, especially for those experiencing ‘ediblocked’ sensations—where the body simply doesn’t respond to edibles as expected. By understanding the role of enzymes like CYP2C9 in cannabinoid metabolism and exploring various consumption methods, you can work toward finding the right approach for your cannabis experience. If you’re still searching for that elusive high, remember to stay patient and keep experimenting.

 For more in-depth information on cannabis metabolism and consumption methods, check out resources from Leafie, The High Committee, High Wife, High Times, and Weed World. With a bit of patience and experimentation, you might just discover the method that finally clicks for you.

Time for a coffee and a brownie.

How do edibles affect you? Love them? Hate them? Don’t know? Have you got any top tips you think we should know?

 Let us know at tom@hazeydays.co.uk or by finding us on social media at HazeydaysUK on Instagram

SPECIAL THANKS to Georgie at Buena Vida Social Club who gave me the seeds to sow this information plant. If it wasn’t for her and her superior knowledge, I would have continued to think my tolerance was above amazing.