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CBD Edibles: Popular Edible CBD Products in Japan
While CBD products have been gaining popularity recently, you might be familiar with “CBD oil,” “CBD gummies”, and “CBD vape” among others. But did you know there’s a category called “CBD Edibles/Edible CBD“?
“Edible” means ‘eatable‘ or ‘suitable for eating‘, and there’s growing interested in Japan lately for these easily consumable CBD products.
Let’s take a closer look at CBD Edibles, covering aspects from “What are edibles?” to “What exactly is CBD?” including usage, safety, and product types.
Table of contents
What are CBD Edibles?
Let’s start with the basic information about edible CBD products. For beginners, CBD edibles are a popular and easy way to consume CBD. But what exactly is CBD? It’s a cannabinoid derived from cannabis, along with THC and CBN.
Hearing “cannabis” might raise concerns about legality. However, among cannabinoids, there are legal components like CBD. Cannabis contains approximately 120 types of cannabinoids, with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) being the main ones.
THC, which has psychoactive effects, is illegal in Japan and is the component found in prohibited marijuana. Conversely, CBD, which is legal, does not have psychoactive effects and is known for its pain relief and relaxation properties.
Another main component, CBN (Cannabinol), derived from oxidizing THC, is also recognized. Extracted from THC, CBN does not have addictive properties, and hence there are no current regulations against it, making it a legal component as well.
There’s also CBG (Cannabigerol), expected to offer relaxation effects similar to CBD, and sometimes considered to offer a deeper sense of relaxation.
What is “Edible”?
“Edible” in English means ‘eatable’ or ‘fit for eating.’ However, internationally, the term also refers to cannabis-infused food products, a usage that is becoming more recognized in Japan.
While its popularity is unquestionable overseas, edibles are not particularly new. Throughout history, cannabis has been incorporated into diets in various regions. Today, with advanced processing technology, an endless variety of cannabis-infused products like cakes, muffins, gummies, oils, chocolates, and sodas are available.
Safety and Legal Status of CBD Edibles
In Japan, edibles containing psychoactive THC are prohibited. However, the CBD edibles discussed here are legal and safe.
The component CBD (Cannabidiol) in these products is considered to have no psychoactive or addictive effects, thus their use is legal in Japan.
Under the Cannabis Control Law (Law No. 124 of 1948),
“The term ‘cannabis’ refers to the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa L.) and its products, excluding mature stalks and their products (excluding resin), as well as seeds and their products.”
Therefore, products using CBD are not illegal.
Of course, even if labeled as a CBD edible, it is important to carefully check the detailed components used.
Types and Characteristics of Edible CBD Products
When you think of edible CBD, products like cookies and chocolates might immediately come to mind. However, the current market also includes gummies, butters, and even edibles for pets.
It can be somewhat challenging to consume CBD oil while out and about, and for those who have never smoked or used vaping products, CBD liquids might be a bit intimidating. In such situations, CBD edibles offer a convenient alternative, allowing you to consume CBD with the ease of snacking.
Several types of easily consumable edible CBD products are available:
CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are among the most prominent in the CBD edibles category, with a wide variety of products available.
There are also CBD gummies that contain other nutritional ingredients, making them popular as functional gummies for different times of the day, such as morning gummies or night gummies.
CBD Chocolate
While not as commonly known as CBD gummies, CBD chocolates are edibles made by infusing CBD into chocolate.
The primary ingredient in chocolate, cacao, contains polyphenols, which have effects like preventing arteriosclerosis, anti-aging, and lowering blood pressure.
For those concerned about health and diet, it’s advisable to choose dark chocolate, which contains fewer additives and is richer in polyphenols, over white or milk chocolate.
CBD Cookies
CBD cookies are a type of edible where CBD is infused into regular cookies. There are various types of CBD cookies available, including plain cookies made with flour, eggs, and sugar, those containing chocolate chips, and others mixed with nuts or dried fruits.
Additionally, there are vegan CBD cookies and gluten-free options made with rice flour or almond powder, catering to those with allergies or vegan preferences.
As the taste and ingredients of the products vary, you can find CBD cookies that suit your personal preferences.
CBD Muffins
CBD muffins are perfect for a breakfast that kickstarts your day. They are made by mixing usual baking ingredients like flour with CBD.
Similar to CBD cookies, CBD muffins come in various types, including chocolate-flavored, nutty, or containing dried fruits. They are popular for their moist and fluffy texture, making them ideal for busy mornings or as a fulfilling snack.
Vegan options for CBD muffins are also available, using ingredients like soy milk and plant-based oils.
CBD Brownies
Among the most popular baked CBD edibles overseas are CBD brownies, known for their rich and moist chocolate texture.
There are vegan and gluten-free versions of CBD brownies, which include nutritious ingredients like avocado, rice flour, and dates. HealthyTOKYO’s Super Brownie, for instance, includes our high-quality CBD.
CBD Energy Bars
CBD energy bars are perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or to replenish energy during exercise. An energy bar is a nutrition-rich bar made by mixing and solidifying nuts, fruits, and oils, thus popular for quickly satisfying energy needs.
As they are primarily made from plant-based nuts and fruits, they are often vegan and gluten-free.
As a vegan food that combines the benefits of high-quality CBD and great taste, CBD energy bars are a notable edible product.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CBD Edibles
CBD edibles, with their various types of products and appetizing appearances, are indeed very attractive. But what are the specific advantages and disadvantages of these edible CBD products compared to other CBD forms?
Advantages of Edibles
- Discreet Consumption: The first major advantage of CBD edibles is the ability to consume them without drawing attention from those around you. Unlike other forms of CBD, such as oils and liquids, which might require a more conspicuous method of consumption, CBD edibles can be taken in a way similar to eating regular snacks or sweets. This allows you to enjoy CBD without worrying about the surrounding environment.
- Ease of Consumption and Enjoyable Taste for Beginners: For those new to CBD, consuming CBD oil directly or using CBD wax and liquids with vaping devices might be challenging. Edibles, however, incorporate CBD into food products, allowing beginners to enjoy their intake as part of regular meals or snacks, making it a more familiar and enjoyable experience.
Disadvantages of Edibles
- Delayed Onset of Expected Effects: The time it takes for the effects to manifest is relatively quicker when consuming CBD oil or liquids. However, CBD edibles require digestion in the stomach, leading to a longer time for the CBD to be absorbed and for its effects to become apparent. It is often stated that it might take approximately 1 to 2 hours to experience the effects of CBD edibles.
- Risk of Overconsumption: Due to their resemblance to regular food items and snacks, there’s a risk of unintentionally consuming more than the recommended dosage of CBD edibles. It’s important to be mindful of the quantity consumed and to ensure that they are kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
How to Consume Edible CBD
While CBD products such as CBD oil and CBD liquid have specific ingestion and usage instructions, there is no specific way to consume CBD edibles.
They are to be consumed in the same way as any other food or beverage.
Of course, each edible is different in terms of shelf life and storage methods, so be sure to check the product’s warning label in advance.
Points to Note When Using CBD Edibles
Purchase from Trustworthy Manufacturers and Sellers
There are many companies selling CBD products nowadays, but it is important to buy from sellers who ensure the safety of the raw materials.
Reliable manufacturing companies strictly adhere to all the legal requirements of Japan in the processes of importing raw materials, production, and testing.
Additionally, for the commercial import of CBD products, approval from the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare is required. This requirement is also stated on the official website of the Narcotics Control Department of the Regional Bureau of Health and Welfare. It reads,
“Before importing such products, it is necessary to verify their appropriateness with the Narcotics Control Department.”
Furthermore, when purchasing, make sure to choose sellers who can provide a “Certificate of Analysis (COA)“, a crucial document proving adherence to product specifications. This certificate includes information such as the concentration of cannabinoids, including CBD, in the product.
Choose Other CBD Products if You Want to Enjoy the Original Taste of CBD
Edible CBD, often rich in flavors from non-CBD ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, and cocoa, may not be suitable for those who want to enjoy the original taste of CBD.
For such individuals, CBD liquids (Vape) or CBD oils, which allow for the enjoyment of the pure taste of CBD, are recommended.
Incorporating CBD into Daily Life with CBD Edibles
CBD edibles are an easy and safe way to start for those thinking, “I want to try CBD, but don’t know where to start.” Why not enjoy them as a snack or for an energy boost in the morning?
HealthyTOKYO offers a wide range of CBD edibles, including popular CBD gummies, cookies, chocolates, brownies, and cakes. Enjoy them at HealthyTOKYO stores in Tokyo and Hokkaido or order easily from home via online shopping.
Please enjoy it in a way that suits your lifestyle.
Try our popular CBD Edible products
FAQ
Q: What does eating CBD do for you?
A: Consuming CBD through edibles offers various potential benefits, although individual experiences can vary. Some of the common effects include relaxation, reduced anxiety, and pain relief. Edibles can also help improve sleep quality and promote a sense of calm and well-being. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, meaning it won’t make you feel ‘high.’ The onset of effects from edibles is slower compared to other forms like oils or vaping, as the CBD needs to be digested and metabolized before it enters the bloodstream.
Q: How many CBD edibles can I eat?
A: The appropriate amount of CBD edibles to consume depends on factors like your body weight, metabolism, the specific effects you’re looking for, and the concentration of CBD in the edible. Generally, it’s recommended to start with a low dose, such as a small piece of a CBD-infused cookie or a single gummy, and wait to see how it affects you. This could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Based on the initial experience, you can adjust the dosage accordingly. Always follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Q: Is CBD oil considered an edible?
A: CBD oil itself is not typically classified as an edible because it’s often consumed sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption into the bloodstream. However, CBD oil can be used as an ingredient in edibles. For instance, it can be incorporated into recipes for baked goods, gummies, or chocolates. When used this way, the CBD oil becomes part of an edible, but the oil alone is not generally categorized as an edible product.