Cannabis edibles offer a discreet, flavorful, and long-lasting way to enjoy the plant — no smoke required. Whether you’re new to cannabis entirely or simply looking to explore a new consumption method, edibles can be a highly approachable and enjoyable option — when taken thoughtfully.

At Charlie Fox, we curate more than products — we curate experiences. Our gourmet edibles are selected for quality, consistency, and elegance, and our team is here to ensure your first time feels as elevated as it should.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before trying edibles for the first time — from how they work to how to dose them, what to expect, and what to avoid.

What Are Cannabis Edibles?

Cannabis edibles are food or drink products infused with cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Unlike smoking or vaping, where effects begin within minutes, edibles are processed through your digestive system, resulting in a delayed onset and a longer-lasting, full-body experience.

At Charlie Fox, we carry a curated collection of state-compliant edibles, including:

Gourmet chocolates
Fruit-forward gummies
Microdosed mints
Sparkling beverages
Infused syrups and tinctures

Each product is clearly labeled, lab-tested, and produced by trusted New York cannabis brands.

How Edibles Work

When you consume an edible, the THC is absorbed through your digestive tract and metabolized by your liver. This process converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC — a compound known to produce longer-lasting and potentially more intense effects than inhaled cannabis.

What to Expect

Onset time: 30 to 90 minutes (sometimes longer)
Peak effects: Around 2 to 4 hours after consumption
Duration: Typically 4 to 8 hours

Because effects are delayed, patience is essential. Taking more too soon is the most common mistake first-timers make.

Start Low and Go Slow

When it comes to edibles, less is more — especially when you’re new. It’s better to enjoy a gentle, uplifting experience than to feel overwhelmed by too high of a dose.

Charlie Fox’s recommended starting dose: 2.5mg to 5mg of THC

Many of our first-time-friendly edibles are pre-dosed for this reason:

Chocolate bars segmented into 5mg pieces
Gummies with 2.5mg or 5mg per piece
Beverages with a cap or serving line for 5mg portions

Pro tip: Start with one serving, wait at least 90 minutes, and assess how you feel. You can always take more next time — but you can’t un-eat an edible.

Choosing the Right Product

The best edible for you depends on what you’re looking for — relaxation, focus, creativity, or mood enhancement. Here’s a quick breakdown of popular formats:

Gummies

Discreet, portable, and easy to dose
Available in a variety of flavors and effects
Perfect for first-timers

Chocolates

Rich, indulgent, and beautifully crafted
Often higher in THC per square — portion carefully
Ideal for a slow, sensory-forward experience

Beverages

Fast-acting and refreshing
Great for social settings or casual evenings
Available in sparkling and still varieties

Tinctures

Taken under the tongue or added to food/drinks
Easy to microdose (1mg–2mg increments)
Popular for wellness routines and flexible effects

Still unsure? Ask our staff in-store or use the filters on our online edible collection to match your mood.

Set and Setting Matter

Your environment can shape your experience. Choose a calm, comfortable space — ideally your home or a familiar setting. Clear your schedule, silence your phone, and surround yourself with people you trust or enjoy spending time with.

Make It a Moment

Play your favorite music
Prepare snacks and a non-alcoholic drink
Dress comfortably
Have a book, journal, or creative activity on hand

Avoid Mixing with Alcohol

Cannabis and alcohol don’t always mix well — especially for first-timers. Stick to water, herbal teas, or infused beverages to stay in control of your experience.

What If I Take Too Much?

If the effects feel stronger than expected, don’t panic — it’s temporary.

What to Do:

Find a quiet space to sit or lie down
Sip water and breathe deeply
Put on music or a calming show
Try chewing black peppercorns or lemon zest (some users say it helps)
Most importantly, remind yourself that it will pass

Top Picks for First-Timers

Here are some Charlie Fox favorites perfect for your first edible experience:

Gummies with 2.5mg–5mg THC per piece
Balanced 1:1 CBD:THC edibles for a mellow effect
Sparkling cannabis beverages with 5mg THC per serving
Mini chocolate pieces for microdosing indulgence

All are available in-store or via same-day delivery across Manhattan.

Final Thoughts

Trying edibles for the first time should be exciting, thoughtful, and rewarding. With the right product, setting, and guidance, cannabis can enhance your lifestyle in subtle yet powerful ways.

At Charlie Fox, we’re here to make that journey stylish and seamless — whether you’re shopping in Times Square or having your favorites delivered to your door.