Edibles are becoming one of the most popular ways to enjoy the wonderful benefits of cannabis. For those who are newer to the cannabis world, it’s a great place to start if you are still unsure about smoking, or if are in a situation where you are unable to smoke and need a different outlet. Edibles are relatively cost-effective and the best part about them is that you can make them yourself, so you can create them based on your personal preferences.

Edibles can be made into literally any type of food, candy, or drink possible. The most popular types of edibles are typically gummies of any flavor, brownies or cookies, and rice krispie treats. Edibles are among one of the tastiest ways to enjoy cannabis, but is the high you experience from taking edibles different than smoking weed? And if so, you might be wondering, what are those differences?

This article seeks to help you better understand how edibles work while also answering the question, how long do edibles last? Whether you take edibles on a regular basis or if you are new and are looking to find your method of intaking cannabis, this article is for you. It’s important to be educated about what method you are choosing to use so that you’re prepared for the effects and potential side effects.

How Long Does It Take For You To Feel The Effects From An Edible?

There are various factors that can attribute to how long it takes before an edible will start to take effect. On average, it takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour for an edible to fully kick in. One of the major factors attributing to the length of time would be the amount of THC, or other active ingredients, in the edible. Edibles with larger amounts of THC will produce stronger highs with the effects coming on much faster than those with low doses.

Another major factor is where the edible get broken down in the body. Different types of edibles are broken down and absorbed in different places and that affects the speed at which you will begin to notice the effects. For example, gum or lollipops will kick in faster because they are absorbed by swallowing, which means you are absorbing the THC through the mucous membrane of your mouth. This is also known as sublingual absorption.

If you pop some gummies, brownies, or cookies, or even a rice krispie treat, it will take a little longer before you will begin to notice the effects because they are broken down by your digestive system. After the edible is broken down, the active ingredients enter the bloodstream and travel to the liver where they are metabolized. Lastly, the metabolized active ingredients are then sent back into the bloodstream and enter the brain (this is when you notice the effects).

Now, these are two major factors that attribute to how long it will take for an edible to take an effect; however, there are a few other factors that can contribute including sex, diet, metabolism, tolerance, and weight.

So, How Long Do Edibles Last?

This varies depending on the amount of THC present in the edible you take, but edibles last significantly longer than smoking cannabis. On average, edibles can last anywhere from 6-8 hours; however, depending on how strong the dose is, you might find yourself still high the next day, so pace yourself and know your limits. If you consume an edible that gets broken down in the bloodstream, your peak blood levels are at their highest approximately three hours after consumption and will be the strongest.

But, it should be noted that edibles are very unpredictable and it can be very challenging to determine exactly how long an edible will last. There are various factors that can weigh in and affect how long an edible will last, so take it slow. Make sure you have plenty of time set aside to relax and ride out the high. Edibles are pretty strong, so you want to ensure you have taken care of everything you need to prior to taking the edible.

What Is The Proper Amount To Consume?

When it comes to the proper amount to take with edibles, it varies depending on the person and their level of tolerance. The best tip out there is to take it slow and start with a low dose and build up. Edibles are slow-acting, so you want to wait until you feel the effects from the first edible before popping another one to avoid getting too high.

Check the packaging before you consume the edible, it is important to know how much THC the edible contains for a single serving. For example, if you purchase some edible gummies make sure you check and see if the milligram amount listed is per individual piece or for the package as a whole. For example, if the package says 100 milligrams for 10 pieces, each individual piece would be 10 milligrams. Read carefully, know your tolerance, and start at a smaller dose and build until you feel the optimal effects.

What Are The Benefits Of Edibles?

So, what’s all the buzz with edibles? Why are they so popular? Well, one of the major reasons people enjoy edibles over traditional methods of smoking is to remove any risks to your respiratory system. Since edibles do not burn marijuana, there are no harmful carcinogens and there is no smoke, so your lungs are safe.

Edibles also last much longer than smoking so they are very common among medicinal users or those who are looking for a cost-effective, yet efficient means for ingesting cannabis. Another perk is that there is no smell. Since there is no smoke you are also not required to go outside or find a quiet, low-key place to smoke. On that same note, edibles are very discreet and it can very almost impossible to distinguish an edible brownie from a regular brownie.

Are There Side Effects Associated With Edibles?

There are not a lot of potential side effects of edibles. The largest risk comes from ingesting too much THC, too fast, in which case you will probably get too high and might start to feel a little overwhelmed. This is why it is highly recommended to go slow so you can experience an enjoyable high, not one where it feels like you are trying to fend for your sanity.

Other common side effects are:

• • • Extreme sleepiness or drowsiness
    • Anxiety or stress
    • Increased agitation
    • Paranoia
    • Nausea and vomiting

If you follow the basic tips and make sure to listen to your body–keeping in mind your tolerance level–you will have pleasant and positive experiences with edibles. Take the time to find the proper dose for you and choose the right type of edible that works for you! Next time you’re looking to pop an edible, kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride.