
Cannabis Edibles vs Smoking
Why Do Cannabis Edibles Hit Harder Than Smoking?
If you’ve ever indulged in cannabis edibles, you may have noticed that the high feels much more intense and lasts significantly longer than when you smoke or vape. Many users are caught off guard by the powerful effects of edibles, leading to stories of accidentally consuming too much and experiencing overwhelming highs. But why does this happen? Let’s break down the science behind Cannabis Edibles vs Smoking.
The Difference in Absorption
When you smoke or vape cannabis, the active compounds—mainly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—enter your bloodstream almost instantly through the lungs. This allows for a rapid onset of effects, usually within minutes. However, the body processes THC differently when it is ingested in edible form.
When you eat cannabis-infused foods, the THC must first pass through your digestive system and liver before it enters your bloodstream. This process takes much longer—anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours—before you start feeling the effects. This delayed onset often leads people to consume more, thinking the edibles aren’t working yet, which can result in an unexpectedly strong high later.
The Role of 11-Hydroxy-THC
One of the biggest reasons edibles feel more intense is because of how the liver metabolises THC. When THC is consumed via smoking, it remains as Delta-9-THC, which binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain to produce psychoactive effects. However, when THC is ingested, it is converted by the liver into 11-Hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting compound that crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently. This results in a much stronger and more prolonged high than what is typically experienced from smoking.
Longer-Lasting Effects
Smoking cannabis typically produces effects that last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the strain and dosage. In contrast, edibles can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, sometimes even longer for those with lower tolerance levels. This extended duration can be great for medical users seeking long-lasting relief, but it can also be overwhelming for recreational users who are not prepared for the intensity.
Dosing Challenges
Another reason edibles hit harder is that it’s much easier to over-consume without realising it. When smoking, you can take a puff and wait a few minutes to gauge how you feel before deciding to smoke more. With edibles, the delayed onset means that people often assume they didn’t take enough and end up consuming a higher dose than intended. This can lead to experiences of extreme drowsiness, paranoia, or even nausea—symptoms often associated with edible overdoses.
Dosing Challenges
Another reason edibles hit harder is that it’s much easier to over-consume without realising it. When smoking, you can take a puff and wait a few minutes to gauge how you feel before deciding to smoke more. With edibles, the delayed onset means that people often assume they didn’t take enough and end up consuming a higher dose than intended. This can lead to experiences of extreme drowsiness, paranoia, or even nausea—symptoms often associated with edible overdoses.
Tips for a Better Edible Experience
If you’re new to edibles or have had an overwhelming experience in the past, here are some tips to ensure a smoother ride:
- Start low, go slow: A standard dose of THC in an edible is around 5-10mg for beginners. Start with a small amount and wait at least 2 hours before considering taking more.
- Be patient: Don’t fall into the trap of thinking it’s not working just because you don’t feel the effects immediately.
- Stay hydrated and have snacks ready: Sometimes, having non-infused food in your stomach can help balance out the effects of THC.
- Know your environment: Consume in a comfortable, familiar setting where you feel safe and relaxed.
Have CBD on hand: CBD can counteract some of THC’s intense psychoactive effects if you find yourself feeling too high.
Final Thoughts
The reason cannabis edibles hit harder than smoking comes down to how THC is processed in the body. The conversion to 11-Hydroxy-THC, the delayed onset, and the longer-lasting effects all contribute to the more intense high that edibles provide. Understanding this difference can help users make more informed choices and have more enjoyable cannabis experiences.
So next time you reach for an edible, remember: patience is key! Enjoy responsibly, and happy munching.