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Cannabis edibles have become one of the most popular ways to enjoy the benefits of cannabis. They’re discreet, long-lasting, and often delicious. But one of the most common questions beginners (and even seasoned users) have is:
“When will this kick in?”
Understanding how long edibles take to work — and how to time your dose properly — is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. In this blog, we’ll explain edible onset times, the factors that affect them, and tips for dosing responsibly.
Why Edibles Take Longer to Kick In
Unlike smoking or vaping cannabis, where cannabinoids like THC and CBD enter your bloodstream through your lungs almost instantly, edibles have to go through your digestive system first.
Here’s what happens when you eat an edible:
- It passes through your stomach and into the intestines.
- THC and other cannabinoids are absorbed into your bloodstream via the intestines.
- Your liver metabolizes THC into a stronger form (11-hydroxy-THC), which is more potent and longer-lasting.
- You feel the effects.
This process takes more time — but it also creates a longer, more intense high.
Typical Edible Onset Times
On average, you can expect edibles to start working within:
- 30 minutes to 2 hours: Most people start feeling effects in this window.
Some factors may delay onset up to 3 hours in certain individuals.
- Peak effects are usually felt around 2–4 hours after consuming.
Duration: The effects of edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with some lingering effects up to 12 hours depending on your dose and metabolism.
Factors That Affect Onset Time
Not everyone metabolizes edibles at the same rate. Some key factors include:
Empty or full stomach: Eating edibles on an empty stomach can lead to faster (and sometimes more intense) onset, while eating after a meal may delay it slightly.
Metabolism: People with faster metabolisms may feel effects sooner.
Body weight & composition: Fat stores can influence how THC is absorbed and released.
Dose & potency: Higher doses may kick in faster and last longer.
Type of edible: Gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and beverages all have slightly different absorption rates.
Tips for Timing Your Dose Correctly
Start low and go slow: If you’re new to edibles, start with a low dose (e.g., 2.5–5 mg THC) and wait at least 2 hours before deciding to take more.
- Plan ahead: If you want to feel effects by a certain time, take your edible about 1–2 hours before that.
Be patient: Don’t make the classic mistake of thinking “nothing’s happening” and eating more too soon — this can lead to overdoing it.
- Stay hydrated and comfortable: Make sure you’re in a safe, relaxing environment and drink water throughout the experience.
What If I Took Too Much?
If you accidentally consumed too much and feel uncomfortable:
Stay calm and remember it will pass.
- Find a quiet place to rest.
Drink water and eat a light snack.
- Try some black pepper or lemon, which some people find helps lessen the intensity.
Distract yourself with calming activities like music or deep breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Edibles usually take between 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working, depending on your metabolism and whether you ate beforehand.
Because THC is processed by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent compound, making the effects stronger and longer-lasting.
Not really — the best you can do is take it on an empty stomach, but always prioritize safety and avoid overconsuming.
The effects can last 4–8 hours, with some lingering effects up to 12 hours in higher doses.
You may feel uncomfortably high, anxious, or nauseous. Stay calm, hydrate, and rest — the effects will wear off with time.
