Today, almost any food or drink can be infused with cannabis, and edibles make for a creative, sometimes potent, and tasty way of enjoying the plant. And since edibles are digested, they are known to produce harder-hitting and longer-lasting effects compared to other methods of delivery and dosing. But how long do edible effects truly last?
What are cannabis edibles?
Cannabis edibles are foods and beverages infused with cannabis, ranging from gummies and chocolates to cookies and sodas. These products contain cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which are the active compounds found in cannabis. When consumed, these cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, producing various effects.
Factors influencing the duration and strength of an edible high
The duration and strength of edible effects can vary depending on several factors:
1. Dosage
The amount of THC or CBD in an edible plays a significant role in determining its potency and duration of effects. Higher doses are likely to result in stronger and longer-lasting highs, while lower doses may produce milder effects that wear off more quickly.
2. Metabolism
Each person's metabolism is unique, and this can affect how long it takes for the body to process and eliminate the cannabinoids from an edible. Individuals with faster metabolisms may experience shorter durations of effects, while those with slower metabolisms may feel the effects for a longer period.
3. Tolerance
Regular cannabis consumers may develop a tolerance to the effects of edibles over time. This means that they may require higher doses to achieve the same level of high and that the effects may not last as long as they did initially. Conversely, individuals with little to no tolerance may experience more intense and longer-lasting effects.
4. Body composition
The composition of an individual's body, including factors such as weight and body fat percentage, can influence the duration and intensity of edible effects. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is fat-soluble, meaning it can be stored in fat cells. Individuals with higher body fat percentages may experience longer-lasting effects as THC is released more slowly into the bloodstream.
5. Consumption habits
The way an edible is consumed can also impact the duration of its effects. Eating an edible on an empty stomach may lead to faster absorption and quicker onset of effects, while consuming it with a meal may slow down the absorption process, resulting in a delayed onset and potentially longer-lasting effects.
Edibles offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the effects of cannabis.
The duration and strength of these effects can vary depending on factors such as dosage, metabolism, tolerance, body composition, and consumption habits. It's important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to fully kick in before consuming more, as edibles can take longer to take effect compared to other methods of cannabis consumption. Remember to always consume responsibly and be aware of the potential for stronger and longer-lasting effects when enjoying cannabis-infused edibles.
