The Science Behind Edibles

For as long as cannabis consumption has been around, Edibles have always been a popular method to enjoy the substance. Edibles provide a discreet and convenient way to experience cannabis effects through products such as brownies, gummies, cereal treats, and chocolates. However, one factor always surprises people – the lengthy amount of time it takes for edibles to kick in.

Other routes of administration like smoking and vaping provide almost instantaneous effects. Edibles, on the other hand, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours to begin working. So, what’s the hold-up? Today, the edible experts at Leafy8 will be answering just that. Explore the science behind edibles and learn how they break down in the body below.

The Digestion Process

Edibles take longer to take effect than smoking or vaping because our bodies must digest them first. After being chewed and swallowed, they’re then processed by the stomach, liver, and eventually the kidneys.

The active ingredients (THC, Delta-8, etc.) are usually mixed with a fatty substance such as oil or butter when the edible is made and depending on the product, may contain wheat, eggs, sugar, or gelatin as well. These inert ingredients must be processed first before the cannabinoids within can do their work.

Let’s discuss the three basic stages of digestion:

Ingestion: First, when we consume an edible product, our mouths break food down into smaller bits. The enzymes in our saliva also take part in the first stage of digestion. The edible is then broken down again in the stomach. The active compounds in these edibles, such as THC and CBD, are released during this process.
Absorption: The cannabinoids are absorbed through the walls of your intestines and enter the bloodstream. While this sounds straightforward, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Having food in our stomachs as well as metabolism are some major factors that can affect this process.
Transportation: Once the active ingredients enter the bloodstream, they travel to the liver. Here, they will undergo first-pass metabolism. While in the liver, the THC in the edible converts into a more potent compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound is responsible for a number of the unique feelings edibles are known for.

Everyone’s Metabolism is Different

As we mentioned before, metabolism speed is one of the reasons there can be a delay in effects. Everyone’s metabolism is different. On top of metabolism, other factors can affect the absorption speed of edibles. Age, weight, and overall health also play a role.

Also, having an empty stomach is beneficial and can reduce the amount of time it takes for an edible to begin working. Some may feel the effects within 30 minutes, while others may have to wait up to 2 hours to feel anything.

Edible Dosage & Tolerance

This graph depicts dosage recommendations based on tolerance levels. The information presented is generalized, as everybody is different and will process cannabinoids differently. We advise everyone to do their own research before consuming any hemp/cannabis product.

Not only do our bodies play a factor, but so does the dosage of the edible product. Those consuming a low-dose edible may not feel the effects as strongly or as quickly as someone who took a higher-dose edible.

The actual size of the edible can also play a part, as it takes longer for our bodies to break down a giant cookie versus a small gummy. Edibles come in many potencies, so before purchasing, it’s always a good practice to be aware of the dosage and how it will affect you.

Tolerance is another factor. Some of us either have a high natural tolerance to edibles or have consumed these products for a lengthy amount of time. These people usually require a higher dosage to feel the same subjective effects compared to someone who is just starting out or has taken a long break from consuming cannabis/hemp-derived products.

Typically, we recommend most people start between 10-20mg of Delta-9 THC and work their way up from there. Those with a higher tolerance may require 50-100mg or more. However, since edibles last longer than smoking/vaping, it’s important not to overdo it and bite off more than you can chew. After all, edibles last significantly longer than other methods of consumption – less can be more in the right scenario.

Avoid Re-Dosing (Be Patient!)

When using any cannabis/hemp product, especially edibles, it’s crucial to be patient and wait for the effects to take hold before taking more. Since edibles take significantly longer to start working, it’s easy for people to over-consume. Taking too much can lead to an unpleasant experience lasting several hours.

While it’s impossible to take a lethal amount of THC, that doesn’t mean we should throw caution to the wind. Re-dosing within the first hour after taking an edible is reckless and we don’t recommend it.

Many users have reported the first edible taking hold within just a few minutes after eating the second one. What happens next is that the effects from each stack are on top of each other, resulting in a more powerful experience than anticipated. Instead, we suggest starting at a lower dose, waiting at least two hours, and then making an educated decision on whether to take more.

Edibles in Summary

Due to their discreet nature and long-lasting effects, edibles have always appealed to cannabis/hemp users. They don’t produce an odor and can come in many interesting shapes, sizes, and flavors.

Their prolific use in the medicinal cannabis space is for a reason as well: it’s very easy to maintain a consistent dosage with properly formulated edibles. However, their delayed onset is a fundamental characteristic and cannot be ignored.

Understanding why edibles take time to metabolize in the body can help us make informed decisions. Educating yourself and taking an appropriate amount is the best way to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Always be patient when consuming edibles, and approach them mindfully.

For those who are interested in edibles but don’t want to wait 1-2 hours for effects, Leafy8 has created an edible that can take effect within 15-30 minutes. Our 100mg Delta-9 THC Liquid Gummy is a dispensary-grade gummy shot that is metabolized significantly faster, being a liquid.

Unlike traditional solid edibles, liquids are readily taken in by the body and don’t require as much processing for the active ingredients to be released. We advise approaching it with the same degree of caution and mindfulness as any other edible and waiting 1-2 hours before re-dosing. Having food in the stomach can still slow down the process, after all!

Explore All Liquid Gummy Shots

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