Marijuana edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis products. Unlike smoking, edibles offer a discrete and more potent option for users. However, with legalization and decriminalization of marijuana in many states, drug testing has become more common, leaving many users wondering how long edibles can stay in their system.
The length of marijuana edibles stay in your system can vary depending on various factors, such as the product’s potency, dosage, and the individual’s metabolism. THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can be detected in the body for up to 30 days after consuming edibles. However, the edibles’ effects may only last a few hours. The amount of THC that remains in the body after consumption can be influenced by factors such as body fat percentage, frequency of use, and the amount consumed. It’s important to note that THC can be detected in drug tests, including urine, blood, and hair tests, even after the effects of the edibles have worn off. It’s important to be aware of the laws regarding marijuana use and drug testing in your area and to use caution when consuming edibles to avoid taking too much and experiencing uncomfortable side effects.
The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on several factors such as potency of the product, metabolism, and body weight. This article will explore the science behind marijuana edibles, describe how they interact with the body, and explain how long you can expect them to stay in your system.
What are Marijuana Edibles?
Marijuana edibles are food products infused with cannabis, usually in the form of THC or CBD. The most common edibles are brownies, gummies, and chocolates. Edibles are popular for medical marijuana patients who want to consume cannabis without smoking or vaping. Edibles are also popular with recreational users because they offer a more potent, longer-lasting high than smoking or vaping.
The active ingredient in marijuana that produces a high is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). When you consume marijuana edibles, THC is absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system. The liver metabolizes THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent than THC and produces a longer-lasting high. This is why edibles are more potent and have a longer-lasting effect than smoking or vaping.
How Do Marijuana Edibles Work?
The effects of marijuana edibles take longer to set in than smoking or vaping because the THC must first be absorbed through the digestive system. When you smoke or vape, THC is absorbed through the lungs and goes directly into the bloodstream, producing a faster onset of effects. With edibles, the onset of effects can take 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the product’s potency and your metabolism.
Once the THC is absorbed, it binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many bodily functions, including appetite, mood, and pain. THC binds to these receptors, producing a high, and affecting these functions.
The effects of edibles can last longer than smoking or vaping, with some users feeling high for up to eight hours. This is because the liver metabolizes THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and has a longer-lasting effect.
Factors Affecting How Long Marijuana Edibles Stay in Your System
The duration of marijuana edibles in your system depends on several factors, including the product’s potency, your metabolism, and your body weight.
Potency: The potency of the product you consume significantly affects how long it stays in your system. A product with a high concentration of THC will take longer to leave your system than a lower concentration.
Metabolism: Your metabolism also influences how long edibles stay in your system. People with a faster metabolism will process the THC more quickly, leaving their system faster than people with a slower metabolism.
Body Weight: Your body weight also affects how long edibles stay in your system. THC is fat-soluble, which means it is stored in fat cells. People with more body fat will store THC for longer and take longer to leave their system.
Frequency of Use: If you are a frequent user of marijuana edibles, it will take longer for the THC to leave your system. Frequent use can result in THC building up in your fat cells, making it harder for your body to eliminate it.
Detection Windows for Marijuana Edibles
Drug tests can detect the presence of THC in your system, but the detection window varies depending on the type of test.
Urine Test: Urine tests are the most common type of drug test and can detect THC in your system for up to 30 days. However, the detection window for infrequent users is much shorter, usually around three to five days.
Blood Test: Blood tests can detect THC in your system for up to 72 hours after use.
Saliva Test: Saliva tests are less common but can detect THC in your system for up to 72 hours after use.
Hair Test: Hair tests are the most sensitive and can detect THC in your system for up to 90 days after use.
Methods for Testing for Marijuana Edibles
Drug tests can detect the presence of THC in your system, but they cannot differentiate between edibles and other forms of marijuana use. Testing for edibles is challenging because the THC is metabolized differently than smoking or vaping.
One way to test for edibles is to look for the presence of 11-hydroxy-THC in the blood. However, this is not a common practice; most drug tests only look for THC.
Tips for Avoiding Detection
If you are subject to drug testing, there are several tips you can follow to avoid detection.
- Stop using marijuana edibles at least four weeks before the test. This will give your body enough time to eliminate the THC fully.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush THC out of your system.
- Avoid fatty foods, as THC is fat-soluble and can be stored in fat cells.
- Exercise regularly to help burn fat cells, which can help eliminate THC from your system.
Risks of Consuming Marijuana Edibles
While marijuana edibles are generally safe, some risks are associated with their use.
- Overdose: Because edibles take longer to take effect, users may consume too much, leading to an overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
- Accidental Ingestion: Edibles can look like regular food products, making them easy to ingest accidentally, especially for children.
- Inconsistent Dosing: Because edibles are made by hand, dosing can be inconsistent, leading to unpredictable effects.
How to Detox from Marijuana Edibles
If you need to detox from marijuana edibles, there are several tips you can follow to speed up the process.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush THC out of your system.
- Exercise regularly to help burn fat cells, which can help eliminate THC from your system.
- Eat a healthy diet to help support your body’s natural detoxification processes.
- Consider using a detox kit or supplement to help speed up the process.
Conclusion
Marijuana edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis, but their effects can last longer than smoking or vaping. The duration of edibles in your system depends on several factors, including potency, metabolism, and body weight. Drug tests can detect the presence of THC, but the detection window varies depending on the type of test. If you are subject to drug testing, there are several tips you can follow to avoid detection.
While edibles are generally safe, some risks are associated with their use, including overdose and accidental ingestion. If you need to detox from marijuana edibles, there are several tips you can follow to speed up the process.
Overall, edibles can be a safe and enjoyable way to consume cannabis, but it’s important to understand how they interact with your body and take steps to consume them responsibly.
