If you’re looking to try edibles to help with anxiety, this guide will give you everything you need to know beforehand.
When we talk about edibles, we’re referring to cannabis-infused food products designed for ingestion. Instead of inhaling cannabis compounds, you eat them, and your body processes them through your digestive system.
Why Choose Edibles Over Smoking for Anxiety?
| Aspect | Edibles | Smoking/Vaping |
|---|---|---|
| Onset Time | 45 minutes to 2 hours (can be up to 4 hours for full effect) | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Peak Effects | 2 to 4 hours after consumption | 15 to 30 minutes after consumption |
| Total Duration | 6 to 12 hours (sometimes up to 24 hours for residual effects) | 2 to 4 hours |
| Metabolism | Processed by liver into 11-hydroxy-THC | Absorbed directly into bloodstream via lungs |
| Potency | Often perceived as more intense | Generally less intense, but immediate |
| Control | Precise dosing, but delayed feedback | Easier to titrate, immediate feedback |
Many people find that edibles offer have advantages over smoking or vaping to relieve anxiety
- Smoke-Free Alternative: Edibles provide a completely smoke-free experience. This means no lung irritation, no respiratory issues associated with combustion, and no unpleasant smoke smell. It’s a healthier choice for your lungs and overall respiratory health.
- Precise Dosage Control: Unlike smoking, where it’s hard to measure exactly how much THC or CBD you’re consuming, edibles come with clearly labeled cannabinoid concentrations. This allows for much more precise dosage control, which is essential for managing anxiety effectively and avoiding overconsumption. You know exactly what you’re getting in each gummy or chocolate piece.
- Longer Duration of Effects: Due to the liver’s metabolic process, the effects of edibles kick in slower but last significantly longer than those from smoking. While smoking might offer relief for 2-4 hours, edibles can provide sustained effects for 6-8 hours, and sometimes even up to 12 hours or more, depending on the dosage and individual metabolism. This longer duration can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic anxiety throughout the day or ensuring a full night’s sleep.
- Discretion and Convenience: Edibles are incredibly discreet. A gummy or a piece of chocolate looks just like any other candy or snack. This makes them easy to consume in public or at home without drawing attention, offering privacy that smoking simply can’t. Plus, they’re simple to carry and don’t require any accessories like lighters or rolling papers.
- Gentler Onset (if used correctly): While the delayed onset can be a challenge for new users, it also means a smoother, more gradual experience. Instead of an immediate rush, the effects of edibles build slowly, which can be less jarring for individuals prone to anxiety. This allows for a gentle transition into a state of calm.
Find Anxiety-Friendly Edibles at Stoops NYC
At Stoops NYC in Flatiron, we carry edibles for customers looking for gentler, more balanced effects. We can help you find something that takes the edge off without feeling overwhelming.
Our budtenders talk to customers every day who are dealing with stress, racing thoughts, trouble winding down, and social anxiety. We understand the nuances of how different products can feel, and we’ve guided countless people toward options that support calm, clarity, and comfort.
If you’re in the Flatiron area, you can browse our menu and order online for quick pickup or delivery, or stop in and speak with a budtender who can walk you through the best products for anxiety relief.
We’ll help you find something steady, soothing, and supportive—so you can get back to feeling like yourself again.
Choosing the Right Product: The Best Types of Edibles
The most popular edibles are gummies. They’re convenient, come in a rainbow of flavors and shapes, and make dosing incredibly easy.
Just like regular candy, our gummies are discreet and simple to enjoy.
If you’re a chocolate lover, you’re in luck! Chocolates—rich bars, decadent truffles, or chocolate-covered treats—blend the classic comfort of cacao with the calming benefits of cannabinoids. And for that nostalgic feeling, classic cookies, brownies, and baked goods offer a familiar and comforting way to get your dose.
Looking for something different?
Cannabis Drinks are a refreshing alternative, from sparkling waters to soothing teas. They can sometimes even kick in a little faster than solid edibles, thanks to how liquids are absorbed.
For those who prefer no taste and super precise dosing, capsules & tablets are fantastic. They offer the most consistent dosage control, perfect for a no-fuss routine. And for microdosing throughout the day, discreet mints and lozenges are a great choice, dissolving quickly and subtly.
Beyond just the delicious form, choosing the right edible for anxiety really comes down to understanding what’s inside: the cannabinoid profiles and the magical terpenes.
What are the Best Edibles for Anxiety?
When you’re choosing edibles for anxiety, it’s about more than just picking your favorite flavor. It’s about understanding how different compounds in the cannabis plant can work with your body to bring you peace.
CBD-Forward Options
For many, especially if you’re new to cannabis or find yourself sensitive to THC, CBD-dominant products are a great starting point. CBD won’t make you feel “high,” but it’s widely celebrated for its ability to bring a sense of calm and ease anxiety.
It works with your body’s own system to soothe without the intoxication. You’ll want to look for edibles with high CBD and very little (less than 0.3%) or no THC. At Stoops NYC, we have a great selection of CBD products perfect for non-intoxicating relief.
Here are the best CBD gummies available now in NYC
Balanced THC:CBD Ratios
Sometimes, the sweet spot for anxiety relief comes from a blend of both CBD and THC. Many people find that balanced THC:CBD ratios, like 1:1, are incredibly effective.
Here, CBD can gently soften any potential anxiety-inducing effects of THC, while still allowing you to feel the therapeutic benefits that a touch of THC can offer. It’s a harmonious partnership called the “entourage effect.”
For anxiety, leaning into this entourage effect with a balanced 1:1 THC:CBD ratio is often a game-changer.
Beyond THC and CBD, there are other cannabinoids that help with anxiety:
- CBG (Cannabigerol): Sometimes called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG won’t make you high. It’s being studied for its potential to reduce inflammation, protect your brain, and yes, even help with anxiety. Many find products with CBG contribute to a wonderfully “peaceful, easy feeling.”
- CBN (Cannabinol): This cannabinoid is only mildly psychoactive and is quite famous for its relaxing, sleep-inducing qualities. If your anxiety often keeps you awake or restless, edibles containing CBN could be particularly helpful for a good night’s rest.
Terpenes for Anxiety
And then there are terpenes! These are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its unique scent and flavor, but they also contribute to its effects.
Certain terpenes are like nature’s calming agents:
- Linalool: Imagine the soothing scent of lavender – that’s linalool! It’s known for promoting relaxation and easing stress.
- Myrcene: Found in juicy mangoes, myrcene is famous for its sedative qualities and can help your muscles relax.
- Beta-Caryophyllene: This terpene, also found in black pepper, is special because it can interact directly with your body’s receptors, potentially easing inflammation and anxiety without any psychoactive effects.
When you’re browsing, take a peek at the product description. Look for details on cannabinoid ratios and terpene profiles. This will help you find an edible that’s perfectly suited to melt away your anxiety.
Dosing Edibles for Anxiety
Getting the dosage right is super important. It’s the key to having a good experience and finding the calm you’re looking for.
Edibles work differently than smoking, so finding your perfect amount needs a careful, patient approach.
Try starting with a small amount and wait to see how you feel before taking any more.
For most beginners, we suggest microdosing for managing anxiety. It means taking a really small dose around 2.5mg, that doesn’t make you feel “high.” Instead, it just offers gentle relief.
Many people find microdosing helps them stay calm and focused all day without feeling sleepy or out of it. It’s all about finding that subtle peace without feeling overwhelmed.
What’s the right dose for you?
- Your metabolism plays a big role. Some people process edibles quickly, others slowly.
- Your tolerance matters too. If you use cannabis often, you might need a bit more than someone new to it.
- Your body weight and chemistry can also change how edibles affect you.
- Even if you have an empty or full stomach can make a difference. Taking edibles on an empty stomach might make them kick in faster and feel stronger. It’s usually a good idea to eat a light snack before.
Why Too Much THC Can Make Anxiety Worse
While many people use it to calm anxiety, taking too much can make anxiety worse. This is called the biphasic effect of THC. Think of it like this: the right amount helps, but a lot can backfire.
Consuming too much THC can lead to really uncomfortable feelings like heightened anxiety, paranoia, and even panic attacks.
A 2017 study on THC dosage and anxiety actually showed this clearly. They found that 7.5mg of THC helped reduce bad feelings, but 12.5mg actually increased anxiety and distress.
Cannabis products today are much stronger than they used to be, so it’s easier than ever to accidentally take a dose that’s too high.
If you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed after an edible, the feeling will pass. Try to stay calm, find a quiet spot, remind yourself that you are safe, and maybe try some deep breathing. But the very best way to handle this is to prevent it by being super careful with your dose.
Finding Calm Responsibly
Ready to take the next step towards a more relaxed you?
Stop by Stoops NYC in Manhattan’s Flatiron District or shop for cannabis edibles through our online menu. We’re excited to help you find your calm, responsibly.
We’re about empowering our community with the knowledge to make confident, responsible choices. Our team is always ready to chat, answer your questions, and help you browse our selection.
We want to make sure you find the perfect edible that fits seamlessly into your life and brings you the calm you deserve, all from a legal, regulated dispensary right here in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions about Using Edibles for Anxiety
Q: Are edibles legal in New York?
Yes. Adult-use cannabis (including edibles) is legal statewide for adults 21+. Always buy from a licensed dispensary like Stoops NYC for tested, compliant products.
Q: How long do edibles take to start working?
Usually 30 minutes-2 hours for initial effects, with peak relief around the 4-hour mark.
Q: Can edibles cause increased anxiety?
High THC doses can backfire due to cannabis biphasic nature. Start low, go slow, or choose CBD-rich or balanced (1:1) edibles to minimize risk.
Q: CBD vs. THC edibles: which is better for anxiety?
CBD offers calm with zero intoxication. THC can deepen relaxation but may impair and, in excess, heighten anxiety. Many people prefer balanced THC : CBD ratios for synergy and smoother effects.