Whether you light it or bite it, cannabis is about to take you on a journey. But here’s the twist, the path you choose changes everything about how long it lasts. One of the most common debates in the cannabis world is whether smoking or ingesting cannabis gives a better experience. In this blog, we are going to break it down and give you a clear answer, focusing on different factors that influence duration.
Cannabis is one of the most widely consumed substances, and mainly, people want its effects to last as long as possible. So, which method really delivers more? Let’s find out.
How Cannabis Works in Your Body?
Cannabis has been used for both medicinal and recreational purposes for decades, especially in the United States. Different cannabinoids of the cannabis plant can be used for various purposes, like mood relaxation, mood enhancement, and refreshment.
After consuming cannabis, the active compounds enter the bloodstream and subsequently affect the brain. This is how you experience relaxation and refreshment. The initial experience of cannabis consumption is more relaxed, and then eventually it kicks in more strongly.
The Science Behind Absorption
Smoking and eating edibles are both distinct ways to take cannabis, and your body processes them in completely different ways.
1. Smoking:
Smoking means the inhalation of cannabis, and it is the most traditional way to consume it. The cannabis plant contains over 500 chemical substances. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive component, and CBD (cannabidiol) is the non-psychoactive component. Other notable components include CBN, CBG, THCA, CBC, etc. In 2021, it was reported that 36.4 million people in the United States alone smoked cannabis. When smoked, the effects can be felt almost instantly.
2. Edibles:
Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabis. Consuming cannabis through edibles is a newer and more enjoyable approach for many. Some people consider edibles a safer way to consume cannabis. Cannabis components like CBD can help improve sleep, while THC may help manage anxiety. A 2019 study showed that CBD helped 72% of people with insomnia sleep better.
Which Method Lasts Longer?
With the absorption process clear, we can now compare how long the effects from smoking and edibles last.
1. Smoking Cannabis Flower
When you smoke cannabis, it enters your bloodstream through your lungs. That's why a person can feel its effects almost instantly. It typically takes 5 to 10 minutes for cannabis to kick in, with peak effects occurring after 15-30 minutes of smoking. The effects from smoking usually last between 1 and 3 hours, making it ideal for quick and instant relief.
2. Edible Cannabis Products
When you consume cannabis edibles such as gummies, chocolates, brownies, or other infused foods, they get ingested, travel through the digestive system, and are processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This process takes more time, which is why the onset is slower, usually between 30 and 90 minutes, with peak effects occurring after 2 to 3 hours of ingesting the edible. However, the effects last much longer, typically between 6 and 12 hours.
Why Do Edibles Last Longer?
The cannabinoids in edibles usually take longer to be digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Edibles last longer because of the way the liver processes them. When we consume cannabinoids, our liver converts them into more potent metabolites. For example, when THC or CBC is ingested, the liver transforms them into compounds that can be up to 5 times stronger.
The digestion process of edibles involves several stages: ingestion, digestion, first-pass metabolism, distribution, and effects. During the first-pass stage, the liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is a metabolite known for its stronger and longer-lasting effects.
Dosage and Your Body
How long edibles last isn't just about the chemistry. In this process, your body also plays a big role. Your weight, metabolism, speed, and tolerance level all matter in this regard.
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Fast metabolism
Faster metabolism speeds up the process and tends to feel the effects sooner.
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Slower metabolism
Longer onset but with longer-lasting effects.
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Empty stomach
Faster onset, but it can feel very intense. Meal timing matters because taking cannabinoids after meals gives you an intense experience.
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Full stomach
Slower onset but more gradual experience.
Dosage is another key factor. A 5mg edible can give you little relaxation, but a 20mg treat can produce stronger effects. That's why dosage matters. Overconsumption and underconsumption can ruin the whole experience.
Pros and Cons of Smoking and Edibles
Both smoking and edibles have their own advantages and drawbacks, no matter which one you choose.
(I) Smoking
Smoking is the traditional method of consumption, often chosen for its quick effects.
Pros:
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Rapid Onset
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Easier to manage the dosage
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Higher bioavailability
Cons:
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Shorter Duration
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Harsh on the lungs
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Smell that lingers
(II) Edibles
Edibles offer several health benefits and can be an enjoyable way to consume them.
Pros:
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Better for patients who have respiratory problems
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Variety of options
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Longer-lasting effects
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Discreet consumption
Cons:
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Slower onset
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Easy to overconsume
Choosing the right method for you
When it comes to both methods, the pros and cons should be kept in mind.
Edibles are an excellent choice for people looking for longer-lasting effects. They also come in various forms, from fruity gummies to decadent chocolates, making them versatile options for different tastes and occasions. They don't smell and are good for people with respiratory issues. It is also better for your health than smoking.
Smoking is the old traditional method. If you want fast-controlled effects, smoking might be your go-to. But for long-lasting, discreet effects without lung irritation, edibles are an excellent choice.
Key Takeaways
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When it comes to cannabis consumption, both edibles and smoking offer distinct experiences. The choice largely depends on the type of effect you desire.
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Smoking provides nearly immediate effects, making it ideal for quick relief. However, the impact tends to be short-lived.
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Edibles take longer to kick in because of the way they are digested. Once they hit, they last longer.
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Factors such as your metabolism, tolerance, and weight all play a role in how long the effects last with each method.
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Dosage is also crucial. It's better to start with a low amount and go slow to avoid overdoing it, especially with edibles.
The better choice isn't universal. Whether you prefer sparking up a pre-roll or unwrapping a gummy, make your choice based on your passion, your body, and your comfort level. And if you're curious, explore options from Siesta G’s collection to find what works best for you.
