Edibles have become a popular choice for many cannabis enthusiasts, offering a tasty and often more discreet alternative to smoking or vaping. But if you’re new to edibles, you might wonder, “How long does it take for edibles to kick in?” In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know about the onset time of edibles and how to manage your experience effectively.
Understanding Edible Onset Time
So, what exactly happens when you consume an edible? Your stomach and liver break down THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis before it enters the bloodstream. Because of the digestive process, the onset of an edible’s effects varies widely between individuals. Generally, edible users claim it can take 30 minutes to two hours to notice the impacts. But, this timeline can differ based on a variety of factors.
Factors That Affect How Long Edibles Take to Kick In
Metabolism
Metabolism speed plays a significant role in edible consumption. Someone with a fast metabolism might process edibles more quickly, which leads to prompt effects. However, someone with a slow metabolism might need more time to experience results.
Dosage and Potency
The dosage of the edible and its potency also play an essential role in onset time. Higher doses of THC may take longer to feel as your body processes the compound, and high-potency edibles can have more intense results once they take effect.
Types of Edibles
Different types of edibles can also influence how quickly someone feels its effects. For instance, someone who consumes gummies might be impacted differently than someone who opts for beverages or baked goods. Generally, since THC binds well to fats, edibles with high-fat content—like chocolates—can lead to quicker absorption.
Tolerance Levels
Those who regularly consume cannabis may develop a tolerance to THC, which impacts how quickly edibles perform. However, someone who is new to cannabis might experience results rather quickly.
Empty vs. Full Stomach
If you indulge in edibles on an empty stomach, the effects might hit sooner than those who use them after a heavy meal. That’s because food in your stomach can slow the digestive process and delay THC’s effects.
What to Expect When Consuming Edibles
Edible users report that the initial effects can be subtle, often starting with a mild sense of relaxation or euphoria. The peak effects usually occur about two to three hours after ingestion and can last anywhere from five to six hours, depending on all the aforementioned factors.
How to Manage Your Edible Experience
Start Low and Go Slow
For those new to edibles, start with a low dose. Many experts recommend five to ten mg of THC to start. You may be tempted to take more if you don’t feel immediate effects, but patience is key; wait at least two hours before consuming more.
What to Do if You’ve Taken Too Much
If you’re feeling overwhelmed after consuming edibles, try to stay calm—and remember that the effects will pass with time. Drinking water, eating food, and finding a comfortable, relaxing spot can be helpful. CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, might also help mitigate the effects of too much THC.
FAQs About Edibles and Onset Time
- Can I speed up the onset time of edibles? Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to speed up the onset time.
- Why do edibles affect me differently than my friends? Individual differences in metabolism, tolerance, and even genetics can affect how edibles impact you compared to others.
- What’s the difference between edible and smoking onset times? Smoking cannabis usually produces effects almost immediately, as THC is absorbed directly into your bloodstream through your lungs. In contrast, your stomach and liver need to digest edibles first, delaying their effects.
Learn More About Edibles at Reverie 73
Knowing how long edibles take to kick in and what factors affect this timing can help you better manage your experience and prevent overconsumption. Always consider your body chemistry and start with a low dose to determine what works best for you.
For more tips on edible consumption and to explore a variety of cannabis products, check out Reverie 73.