When it comes to consuming cannabis, there’s no shortage of methods to choose from. Among these, edibles have gained significant popularity due to their discreet nature and long-lasting effects. However, a common query that often arises among both novices and seasoned users is – how long do edibles last? This comprehensive guide aims to demystify this aspect, exploring the shelf life of edibles, the duration of their effects, and various factors influencing these timelines.
Understanding Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles refer to food items infused with cannabinoids, the active compounds found in cannabis. These edibles offer an alternative, more discreet, and convenient way to consume cannabis. Available in various forms like gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and beverages, edibles are preferred for their potent and prolonged effects. However, as they undergo digestion, there’s a delayed onset, typically between 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion, peaking around 3 to 4 hours.
Distinguishing between Marijuana and Hemp Edibles
Cannabis edibles can be derived from either marijuana or hemp plants. While they hail from the same plant family, Cannabis Sativa, their THC content differs significantly. THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the ‘high’. Marijuana plants contain high THC levels, whereas hemp plants maintain less than 0.3% THC. Edibles derived from marijuana are rich in THC, whereas hemp-derived edibles are abundant in CBD, another beneficial cannabinoid.
Decoding Medical Marijuana Edibles
Medical marijuana edibles are specially formulated for patients seeking therapeutic benefits from cannabis. These edibles are typically prescribed for conditions like chronic pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. However, the availability of these edibles is restricted to certain states where medical marijuana is legalized.
Onset of Effects: How Long Does It Take for Edibles to Kick In?
The onset of effects from edibles can vary between 30 minutes to 2 hours. Unlike smoking or vaping, which delivers immediate effects, edibles have to travel through the digestive system, leading to a delayed onset. However, this also means they offer a longer duration of effects, ranging from 4 to 12 hours.
How Long Do Edibles Last in Your System?
The effects of edibles can linger in your system long after the high has subsided. As your body processes the cannabinoids, metabolites are formed that can stay in your body for several weeks. These compounds are detectable in drug tests. Regular users might need to abstain for at least a month before a drug test to ensure they pass.
Factors Influencing the Duration of Cannabis Effects
The duration of effects from edibles can be influenced by multiple factors. These include dosage, metabolism, tolerance level, type of edible, and contents of the user’s stomach. Higher dosage, slower metabolism, higher tolerance, edibles with high fat content, and consuming edibles on a full stomach can all lead to longer-lasting effects.
Can You Expedite the Sobering Up Process?
If you’ve consumed more edibles than you can handle, there’s no quick fix to sober up. While staying hydrated, light exercise, and consuming certain foods can help alleviate discomfort, the best course of action is to ride it out.
The Science Behind Consuming Edibles
When you consume edibles, the THC undergoes a process called first-pass metabolism. This process involves the digestive system and the liver breaking down the THC before it enters the bloodstream. This results in a more potent form of THC, known as 11-hydroxy-THC, which provides a stronger and longer-lasting high than smoking.
Why Do Edibles Make You Feel Higher Compared to Smoking?
Edibles tend to produce a stronger high compared to smoking. This is primarily because of the potent form of THC (11-hydroxy-THC) produced during digestion. Moreover, the high from edibles lasts longer as the THC is released slowly over time.
Is Smoking or Vaping THC Better Than Consuming Edibles?
Choosing between smoking, vaping, and consuming edibles is highly subjective and depends on the individual’s preferences. While smoking and vaping offer quicker effects, edibles provide a longer-lasting high. However, edibles are a safer option as they don’t pose the same health risks associated with smoking and vaping.
Do THC Edibles Show Up on Drug Tests?
Yes, THC edibles will show up on drug tests. Standard urine tests look for the metabolites formed when your body processes THC. These metabolites can remain in your body for weeks, making it possible to fail a drug test even if you haven’t consumed edibles recently.
Conclusion: The Duration Mystery Solved
In conclusion, the duration of effects from edibles depends on various factors like dosage, metabolism, and tolerance. While they take longer to kick in compared to smoking or vaping, the effects last much longer, providing a sustained high. However, caution is advised while consuming edibles, especially for first-time users. Start with a low dose and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the effects. And remember, if you have a drug test coming up, it’s best to avoid THC altogether.
Enjoy your edibles responsibly and savor the long-lasting effects they provide. Happy munching!