If you’re new to cannabis edibles, one of the most common questions is: how long do edibles take to kick in?
Unlike smoking or vaping cannabis, where effects may be noticed relatively quickly, edibles need to be digested and processed by the body. This means they generally take longer to produce noticeable effects.
For many people, cannabis edibles may begin to take effect within 30 minutes to 2 hours, although it can sometimes take longer. Because everyone responds differently, understanding how edibles work can help you make more informed choices.
How Long Do Edibles Take to Work?
There isn’t one exact amount of time that applies to everyone.
The onset of effects from an edible can depend on several factors, including the product, the amount consumed, your metabolism, whether you’ve eaten recently and your individual response to cannabis.
This is one reason it’s important not to assume an edible isn’t working simply because you don’t feel anything right away.
Consuming additional cannabis before the first serving has taken effect can result in consuming more THC than intended.
Why Do Edibles Take Longer Than Smoking or Vaping?
The difference largely comes down to how cannabis enters your body.
When cannabis is inhaled through smoking or vaping, cannabinoids are absorbed through the lungs.
Traditional edibles, on the other hand, are generally processed through the digestive system before cannabinoids enter the bloodstream. THC is also metabolized by the liver, which contributes to the different onset and duration associated with edible cannabis.
That’s why the experience from an edible can be quite different from smoking or vaping, even when both products contain THC.
What Can Affect How Quickly an Edible Kicks In?
Several things can influence the onset time.
The type of edible: Chocolates, gummies, beverages and other edible products may be formulated differently.
Your metabolism: People process food and cannabinoids at different rates.
Food intake: Whether you’ve recently eaten can affect digestion and absorption.
THC content: Always check the product label so you know how much THC is contained in the product and serving.
Individual tolerance: A person’s previous experience and individual response to cannabis can also influence their experience.
Because there are so many variables, someone else’s experience with a particular edible won’t necessarily be the same as yours.
How Long Can Cannabis Edibles Last?
The effects of edibles generally last longer than inhaled cannabis.
Effects may last several hours, and in some cases residual effects can continue longer depending on the amount consumed and the individual.
This longer duration is another reason to plan ahead when consuming edibles and avoid driving or operating machinery while impaired.
Start Low and Go Slow
One of the most important things to remember with cannabis edibles is start low and go slow.
Read the package carefully and pay attention to the amount of THC per serving and per package.
If you’re inexperienced with edibles, don’t rush to consume more simply because you haven’t noticed an effect yet. Give the product adequate time to take effect before considering additional cannabis.
What About Cannabis Beverages?
Cannabis beverages are also consumed rather than inhaled, but some products use different formulations that may affect how cannabinoids are absorbed.
Always check the individual product information and packaging rather than assuming every edible or beverage will have the same onset time.
Choosing Cannabis Edibles
Edibles are available in many forms, including gummies, chocolates, chews and other products.
When comparing options, look beyond flavour and consider the THC and CBD content, serving size and product format.
At Wychwood Cannabis, our team can help you understand the information on cannabis packaging and compare the different edible products available at our Toronto dispensary.
Explore Edibles at Wychwood Cannabis
If you’re shopping for cannabis edibles in Toronto, visit Wychwood Cannabis in Toronto’s Wychwood neighbourhood near St. Clair West.