Since the state of Washington legalized recreational and medicinal cannabis sales, purchase, and possession by anyone 21 and older, the sale of edibles has boomed. Though there are some fairly strict regulations on it, and it is still illegal at a federal level, Washington doctors are permitted to prescribe cannabis use, as it is a legit therapeutic treatment. More patients who use cannabis prefer it in an edible form—not just because there is no smoke or they want to be more discreet, but because the effects are different. Cannabis-infused products tend to be more potent, so more caution is needed when using it. If you’re in Washington and have been thinking about whether medical cannabis or edibles might work out for you, it’s helpful to know more about it.

West Seattle marijuana use has skyrocketed along with the popularity of edibles. Some of the most popular forms of edibles include, chocolates, gummy bears, cooking oils and  beverages.

For those of you unaware here is the difference between smoking cannabis and consuming edibles.

What to Know

Edible cannabis is legally available through licensed retailers or those who comply with Washington’s laws regarding license, production, packaging, and sale of the product. It’s still against the law to drive under the influence if you have more than 5 nanograms of active THC per milliliter of blood, and you can’t cross state lines with it or use it in view of the public, or you may have to pay fines or risk some jail time. Also, only adults age 21 and older can purchase and possess marijuana—up to 16 ounces of marijuana-infused edibles in solid form.

The Benefits of Edible Cannibis

Medical cannabis has helped ease chronic pain for centuries, which is why Washington and more states are increasingly in favor of legalizing sale or prescription of it. There are some conditions where it can be somewhat dangerous, but doctors can help you to know about it more so you can choose if it’s right for you.

Medible users often prefer it over smoking cannabis for multiple reasons that include:

• No smoke or smoky scent
• The taste
• It can be used more discreetly

Medible Safety

Sometimes children and pets might not know the difference between a yummy treat or a medible, so it’s best to observe some basic safety tips so that neither your children nor your pets overdose or get really sick.

• Keep all edibles in original packaging and make sure when you purchase it that it is clearly labeled as a cannabis product
• Store it in a child-resistant container
• Keep it in a locked cabinet built by a licensed contractor

Washington has changed the rules on packaging to help consumers with children not mistake it for regular candy, and to make the dosage clearer to adults, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re interested in medibles, ask your doctor and diligently research everything you need to know.