When it comes to cannabis, many people think that it’s no big deal to consume on a regular basis. Aside from the psychoactive effects of the THC in the plant, it doesn’t always process out of the body right away. Add to that the differences between how smoked cannabis is processed and how edibles are processed in the body and it gets a little more complicated.
Over the years, edibles have become more popular because they can be consumed more conveniently than their smoked counterparts. However, due to drug testing and needing to drive safely, many are left wondering how long the effects of the drug will last. Let’s explore a little about edibles and how long they remain in your system.
The Basics of Edibles
Edibles are a form of cannabis that is infused into beverages and food. They are a different way to consume the drug outside of vaping or smoking marijuana. People can buy cannabis infused gummy candies, chocolates, drinks, and even the notorious brownie. The major distinction between this form of cannabis and others is that it has to go through your digestive system, including your liver, first. Other forms put it directly into the bloodstream.
How Long Does THC From Edibles Stay in Your System?
If you’re left wondering how long does an edible stay in your system or more importantly, how long does the THC from the edible stay in your system, the short answer is that it can vary. This question is crucial for those who may face drug tests, such as employees or athletes subject to regular screenings. While the effects of edibles may last less than a day, THC can linger in your system for days or even weeks. Plus, some tests can detect the presence of cannabis for up to 90 days.
How Long Do the Effects of Edibles Last?
The length of the high varies from person to person, but in general, it does last longer than the effects of smoking or vaping marijuana. Once the cannabinoids hit your bloodstream, the effects can sometimes last only 4 hours, while others may experience a high that lasts 12 hours. It’s noted that the peak of the high usually occurs 2-4 hours after you’ve eaten the edible.
Several factors influence the duration of the edible high. This includes the dosage, your tolerance, how clean your liver is, and your metabolism. People who are new to edibles or have a low tolerance may experience a more intense and extended high compared to regular users.
Conclusion – How long does an edible stay in your system?
Many people want to know how long edibles last in their system, and it really varies from person to person. Some people mistakenly think that once their high wears off, they are cleared, but the truth is that THC can linger in the body for much longer. And whether it can be detected or not will depend on the kind of test performed to look for it. Add to that differences in dosage, how often someone uses drugs, metabolism, and even body fat percentage, and the answer to the question becomes even more vague. For people who need cannabis for medical reasons, it’s best to use caution, and maybe even look for alternatives if your safety or job would be at risk if you consumed edibles regularly.