Cannabis Decarboxylation: What Is It, How It Works, Why It’s Important
July 13, 2023
When you first get into cannabis, you might think that people smoke flower because it’s convenient, and it’s their preferred way of consuming marijuana. While those things aren’t necessarily untrue, there’s actually a reason cannabis needs to be heated, or decarboxylated. In this entry to our cannabis glossary, we’re going to talk about decarboxylation and why it’s a necessary part of enjoying your marijuana.
What is Cannabis Decarboxylation?
Cannabis decarboxylation is the process where we heat cannabis to activate the compounds within the trichomes. When marijuana grows, it contains things like THCA and CBDA—the precursors to THC and CBD. In order for those compounds to turn into our favorite cannabinoids, the plant material has to be heated.
The scientific process is a little more detailed, but in layman’s terms, it goes like this—THCA has a little ring called a carboxyl in it. Heat pops that ring right off of THCA, or decarboxylates it. Once THCA is decarboxylated, it becomes THC, and now, you can get intoxicated when you consume it. Fortunately, the process happens within a snap of your fingers—heat applies to the plant material, the THCA turns to THC, you inhale, and you can start feeling the effects.
How Does Decarboxylation Work?
There are three things that can cause decarboxylation: heat, time, and oxygen. Heat can come in different forms. It can be light peeking through a window shining on your container of marijuana, or it can be the heat you apply when you vape or smoke your marijuana.
Time and oxygen, however, are inevitable. Once your marijuana is decarboxylated, it starts to degrade, and the THC will turn into CBN. This is why marijuana that you’ve had for the last year is not going to be as potent as marijuana you just purchased from your favorite dispensary. This is also why no matter how tight your container is, there will still be oxygen in it every time you open it which will start the slow process of decarbing your marijuana.
Why is Cannabis Decarboxylation Important?
Cannabis decarboxylation is important because without decarbing your marijuana, you won’t be able to feel the effects you likely purchased it for. It makes it easier for your body to absorb the cannabinoids, and as such, you’ll be able to feel those intoxicating effects. Another advantage of decarboxylating your marijuana is that it can reduce the moisture, and by proxy bacteria, in your cannabis.
Decarboxylation Temperature Guide
In general, you’re going to want to heat your marijuana between 200 and 245℉. The important thing to remember is that the higher the temperature, the more likely you are to destroy your terpenes, so if you’re interested in keeping those flavorful little compounds around, you’re going to want to start with lower temperatures and work up. For cannabis products like edibles, about 220℉ for up to 40 minutes is going to keep your terpenes intact while also activating your cannabinoids.
Whatever you do, don’t go over 300℉. It’s not only going to ruin your terpenes, but it will start burning off cannabinoids too, and then you won’t be able to feel the effects of your cannabis.
How to Decarboxylate Cannabis
While you already know you can decarb your marijuana via smoking and vaping, you can also decarb it in preparation for tinctures, edibles, oils, and more. These are three safe ways to decarb marijuana:
Decarb in the Oven
Set your oven to about 240℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Grind your cannabis into loose chunks (not finely ground pieces) and dump them out on the paper. Put your tray in the oven for up to 40 minutes, checking periodically. Once finished, let your cannabis cool before adding it to any recipes.
Decarb in a Sous Vide
Far more discreet than the oven, the sous vide method of decarbing is easy and requires minimal tools. You need a sealable bag, a pot of water, and a stovetop. Set your sous vide to about 230℉ and put your cooker into the pot of water. This method should take about 90 minutes, and it shouldn’t make your whole house smell like marijuana.
Decarb in a Crockpot
If you love tinctures and cannaoil, this is a great method to decarb your marijuana. Put your carrier oil, be it coconut, olive, or something else, into the crockpot with your flower. Let it cook on high for about an hour, and then turn the temp down to low for three hours. When finished, strain the plant material out and bottle up your infused oil.
Answering FAQs About Decarboxylation
To become a decarboxylation master, you’re going to want to know the answers to these questions:
Can I decarb marijuana in the microwave?
Technically, yes, but we don’t recommend it. It is really, really difficult to control the temperature of a microwave, which makes it incredibly easy to destroy instead of decarboxylate your cannabis. You should always opt for the low, slow method of decarbing, and microwaves just aren’t the right tool for that method.
Do you have to decarboxylate cannabis to make cannabutter?
Yes, that’s the best way to ensure your infused butter is activated. Otherwise, there’s a good chance you’re not going to feel any effects from your cannabutter.
Do I need to decarboxylate edibles bought at a dispensary?
No. When you purchase edibles from a dispensary, the work is already done for you. You can enjoy your edibles right out of the package.
Decarboxylating Cannabis
Ready to try decarboxylating your cannabis at home? Our budtenders are waiting to help you shop for your favorite flower so you can bring it home and get started. Prefer to purchase your cannabis products already decarbed? Find a dispensary near you and head over. We have plenty of products in stock to suit your needs—without any effort on your part required.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Related posts
Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or a newbie, you’ve likely heard of CBD—a popular non-psychoactive cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits. But what about CBG? As it gains more attention, it’s important to understand the differences between CBG vs CBD when choosing your cannabis products. In this guide, we’ll explore their unique characteristics and benefits, and how to decide which is right for you.
Introduction to Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the compounds in the cannabis plant that interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. While THC is the most well-known for its psychoactive nature, non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and CBG also play vital roles. Though they won’t intoxicate you, both may offer therapeutic benefits.1
What Is CBG, the Mother of Cannabinoids?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often called “the mother cannabinoid” because it acts as a precursor to others like THC and CBD. Without CBG, many other cannabinoids wouldn’t exist.2
However, it’s less abundant in mature cannabis plants since most CBG is converted into other cannabinoids as the plant grows, making it harder to extract in large quantities. For example, CBG turns into CBDA (cannabidiol acid) and then into CBD, the active form.3 Chemically, CBG interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system. This is what gives CBG its distinct therapeutic potential.4
What Is CBD, the Popular Cannabinoid?
CBD (cannabidiol) has been studied extensively and is now a key player in wellness and medical circles. Found abundantly in both hemp and cannabis, CBD’s non-psychoactive nature makes it a popular choice for those seeking potential benefits without the high associated with THC.5 While CBD and THC share the same molecular structure, CBD has a hydroxyl group instead of a cyclic ring, preventing it from binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the same way, which keeps it non-intoxicating.6
Research into CBD began in the 20th century, and its popularity increased because of its potential to relieve anxiety and reduce seizures. Today, CBD is widely available in oils, capsules, edibles, and skin care products, thanks to its well-established market and legal status, making it much more accessible than CBG.7
Key Differences Between CBG and CBD
While CBD vs CBG share some similarities, they differ in their chemical structure and how they interact with the body.
Chemical Structure
One of the biggest differences between CBG and CBD is their molecular structure. CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, while CBD has a more indirect effect on the endocannabinoid system.8
Effects on the Endocannabinoid System
CBG interacts directly with cannabinoid receptors, potentially addressing conditions related to the nervous system, such as depression and anxiety. CBD, meanwhile, is praised for modulating the body’s response to stress and inflammation without binding directly to these receptors.10
Potential Therapeutic Benefits
CBD and CBG sound the same, but they have very different (potential) therapeutic benefits.
Potential Benefits of CBG
CBG has shown promise in addressing a range of health issues, including:
- Nervous system support: CBG may help relieve anxiety and depression.11
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Research suggests that CBG may reduce inflammation.12
- Cancer treatment potential: Early studies have explored the cannabinoid’s role in decreasing cancer cell growth.13
- Antibacterial properties: CBG may be effective against bacterial infections.14
Known Benefits of CBD
CBD is widely recognized and has a well-documented track record, offering potential benefits that may include:
- Anxiety and stress relief: CBD is widely used to help manage stress and anxiety.
- Pain management: The cannabinoid is popular for addressing chronic pain.
- Epilepsy treatment: CBD is a well-known treatment for seizure disorders.
- Inflammation reduction: Like CBG, CBD is also praised for its anti-inflammatory effects.15
Consumption Methods
CBD and CBG can be consumed in various ways. CBG is often found in oils, isolates, or full-spectrum products that combine multiple cannabinoids for a more holistic effect.16 CBD is available in isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum oils, edibles, topicals, and more.17 Proper dosing is important for both cannabinoids to ensure you use them safely and effectively. If you are unsure about the dosing, consult with your favorite budtender.
Combining CBG and CBD
There’s a growing interest in the potential synergistic effects of CBG and CBD when they are used together. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products, which may contain both cannabinoids and others, can benefit you because they activate the entourage effect—the idea that cannabinoids work better together than on their own.18 When considering CBD vs CBG products, look for full-spectrum options that include a range of cannabinoids for a more comprehensive experience.
FAQs About CBG
Curious about CBG and CBD and how one cannabinoid stacks up against the other? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you better understand CBG and CBD. Or ask your budtender the next time you visit a LivWell dispensary.
What’s the main difference between CBG and CBD?
The main difference between CBG and CBD is that CBG interacts more directly with the cannabinoid receptors in your body, while CBD has a more indirect effect.
Can I take CBG and CBD together?
You can consume CBG and CBD separately or together. When combined, they trigger the entourage effect, meaning you experience enhanced effects compared to using an individual cannabinoid.
Which is better for sleep: CBG or CBD?
CBD and CBG may help you sleep better, but these two cannabinoids work in different ways. CBG is potentially more suited for addressing some underlying issues, like anxiety or pain, that are keeping you awake, while CBD helps promote relaxation and sleep.
How do I choose between CBG and CBD products for my needs?
It depends on your needs. It’s best to ask a budtender at your favorite dispensary for personalized recommendations and then decide whether CBD, CBG, or full-spectrum products are the best for you.
Are CBG and CBD psychoactive like THC?
CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, so they don’t cause intoxicating effects.
Choosing Between CBG and CBD
While CBD has long been a popular choice, CBG is quickly becoming a promising option for those seeking additional benefits. Both cannabinoids have their strengths, from CBD’s well-documented effects on anxiety and pain relief to CBG’s potential in neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory treatments. As more research continues to shed light on these cannabinoids, experimenting with different cannabis products could help you experience the best of both worlds. Be sure to ask your budtender for advice when you shop cannabis products and choose between CBG and CBD.
Sources:
1. “Is CBG the Next CBD? Here’s What You Should Know,” Real Simple, December 30, 2022, https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/cbd-versus-cbg
2. “What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)? Benefits, Uses, Dosages,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-cbg-cannabigerol-medicinal-benefits-use
3. “Pharmacological Aspects and Biological Effects of Cannabigerol and Its Synthetic Derivatives,” National Library of Medicine, November 8, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9666035/
4. “Cannabigerol: a biometric overview and review of research on an important phytocannabinoid,” Springer Link, January 24, 2022, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-021-09794-w
5. “What are the benefits of CBD - and is it safe to use?” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
6. “Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Action of Cannabidiol,” National Library of Medicine, August 9, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10458707/
7. “ Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t,” Harvard Health Publishing, April 4, 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
8. “Cannabinoids in the landscape of cancer,” ResearchGate, September 2021, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353259624_Cannabinoids_in_the_landscape_of_cancer
9. “Cannabigerol Action at Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptors and at CB1–CB2 Heteroreceptor Complexes,” National Library of Medicine, June 21, 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6021502/
10. “What is the endocannabinoid system and how does cannabis affect it?” GoodRx, October 24, 2023, https://www.goodrx.com/classes/cannabinoids/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system
11. “Is CBG the Next CBD?” Psychology Today, August 1, 2024, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/balanced/202408/is-cbg-the-next-cbd
12. “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cannabigerol in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Cultures Are Partly Mediated by TRPA1,” MDPI, January 3, 2023, https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/1/855
13. “Cannabigerol Is a Potential Therapeutic Agent in a Novel Combined Therapy for Glioblastoma,” National Library of Medicine, February 5, 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7914500/#:~:text=CBG%20was%20reported%20to%20reduce,reviewed%20by%20Ligresti%20et%20al
14. “Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study,” National Library of Medicine, August 6, 2008, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681481/
15. “Therapeutic benefits of CBD,” MedicalNewsToday, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cgb-vs-cbd#cbd-benefits
16. “What is CBG (cannabigerol) & what does this cannabinoid do?” Leafly, September 14, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-cbg-cannabinoid
17. “Meet CBG, the New Cannabinoid on the Block,” Healthline, February 28, 2020, https://www.healthline.com/health/cbg-oil#choosing-a-product
18. “Could the Combination of Two Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Counteract Neuroinflammation? Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Associated with Cannabigerol,” National Library of Medicine, November 18, 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6915685/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.
Cannabis concentrates are very popular for their potency, flavor, and versatility, and live resin and distillate are among the most common types of concentrates. But which one should you choose? It’s important to understand their unique characteristics and how they’re made when choosing the right product for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between live resin vs distillate, from their extraction methods to how they impact your cannabis experience.
What Is Live Resin?
Live resin is a cannabis concentrate known for preserving the plant’s full range of cannabinoids and terpenes. This concentrate is made by using cannabis that is freshly-frozen immediately after harvest, which helps the concentrate keep all the plant’s natural flavors and aromas. With a complex terpene profile, you get a more authentic and flavorful cannabis experience compared to traditional methods.1
What Is Distillate?
Distillate is a purified cannabis concentrate that isolates specific cannabinoids, typically THC or CBD. Since the distillation process removes terpenes and other compounds, the result is almost flavorless and odorless. Its purity and versatility make it ideal for use in vape cartridges, edibles, and other cannabis products, allowing for precise dosing without affecting the flavor.2
Key Differences Between Live Resin and Distillate
Distillate and live resin are sought-after cannabis concentrates, but they are different. Here’s how:
Extraction Process
The primary difference between live resin and distillate is in their extraction methods:
- Live resin is made using solvent-based extraction to preserve the natural terpene, flavonoid, and cannabinoid profile of the cannabis plant.
- Distillate is made using a multistep refinement process to keep the desired cannabinoids while removing all others. This process involves heating the cannabis material to separate the cannabinoids, resulting in a high-purity product.3
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles
Live resin is a full-spectrum extract, preserving all the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, which boosts the entourage effect—a synergy of compounds that enhances the effects you may potentially feel. Distillate, by contrast, isolates specific cannabinoids like THC or CBD, creating a highly potent but simpler product that lacks the nuanced effects of live resin's full-spectrum profile.4
Flavor and Aroma
Live resin retains terpenes and flavonoids, delivering a rich flavor that mirrors the plant’s natural essence. This makes it ideal for those seeking an authentic taste. THC distillate, by contrast, is nearly flavorless, offering a neutral experience even when terpenes are reintroduced.5
Potency and Effects
Distillate is highly potent, often exceeding 90% THC or CBD purity, allowing for precise dosing.6 In contrast, live resin offers a more balanced, full-spectrum experience, combining cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance the entourage effect.7 While live resin may have lower THC content, its effects are often more nuanced than those of distillate.
Cost Comparison
Live resin is pricier due to its complex extraction process involving fresh-frozen cannabis. Distillate, by contrast, costs less to produce as it isolates cannabinoids, making it more versatile and cost-effective.
Product Versatility
Live resin is typically consumed via dabbing or vaporizing to preserve its terpene-rich profile. It’s less commonly used in edibles or tinctures because its potent flavor may overpower the dish. However, distillate is highly versatile and can be found in various products, including edibles, tinctures, and vape cartridges. Because it lacks flavor and aroma, you can easily add distillate to desserts, savory foods, and beverages without altering the taste.8
Storage and Shelf Life
Carefully store your live resin in a cool, dark place to preserve its delicate terpenes and prevent degradation. Distillate is more stable with a longer shelf life, as its purity and lack of plant compounds make it less prone to deterioration. You can store distillate for extended periods without worrying about it losing potency.
Distillate vs Live Resin Carts & Edibles: Popular Consumption Methods
Both live resin and distillate carts are popular, but there are other ways that they’re used:
Live Resin vs. Distillate Edibles
Distillate is more commonly used in edibles because its lack of flavor makes it easier to incorporate into a wide range of products. Live resin, with its strong terpene profile, can be overpowering in edibles but is still used in some high-end products for a more natural cannabis experience.
Distillate vs. Live Resin Cartridges
When it comes to vape cartridges, both distillate and live resin carts are popular. Live resin cartridges offer a more flavorful experience thanks to the preserved terpenes, while distillate cartridges provide a more neutral option with higher THC content.
Distillate vs. Live Resin Infusions
Distillate can be used to infuse a variety of products, from edibles to flower. Live resin is often used in dabs but can also be added to joints or blunts for an enhanced experience.
Answering FAQs About Live Resin vs. Distillate
It can be overwhelming to choose between live resin and distillate. While you can ask your favorite budtender for help, why wait? Here are the most frequently asked questions about these two popular cannabis concentrates:
Which is more potent, live resin or distillate?
Distillate typically has a higher THC percentage, but live resin offers the entourage effect, which can enhance the overall experience.
Why does live resin often cost more than distillate?
Live resin is more expensive because of the complexity of its extraction process and the use of the whole cannabis plant.
Can live resin and distillate be used in the same ways?
Distillate vs live resin can be used in vapes, edibles, and infusions. Live resin is better for dabbing, while distillate is more versatile.
How is the entourage effect different between live resin and distillate?
Live resin preserves all cannabinoids and terpenes, and this maximizes the entourage effect. THC distillate isolates individual cannabinoids and offers a more limited experience.
Live Resin vs Distillate: Which is Right for You?
So, is live resin better than distillate? Ultimately, your preferences will dictate whether live resin or distillate is best. Live resin might be the better option if you’re after a full-spectrum experience with rich flavor and enhanced effects. If potency and versatility are your priority, distillate’s high purity and flexibility make it an excellent choice for many uses. And remember to consult with your local budtender for personalized recommendations.
Sources:
1. “What Is Live Resin? Benefits, How to Use It, and More,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-live-resin
2. “THC distillate 101: What is it and how do you consume it?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/distillate
3. “THC distillate: What Is It and How to Dose It” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/thc-distillate
4. “Distillate,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/distillate
5. “What is live resin?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/live-resin
6. “THC Distillate: What Is It and How to Use It,” Veriheal, May 14, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/what-is-thc-distillate/
7. “Mechanisms of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis,” National Library of Medicine, November 30, 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8803256/
8. “What’s the Difference Between Live Resin and Distillate?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/live-resin-vs-distillate
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Our budtenders get this question all the time: how long does it take for edibles to kick in? For most people, edibles can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to start working. Unlike smoking, where the effects are almost immediate, edibles take longer because the THC has to be digested and processed by your body.
If you’re new to consuming cannabis edibles, this delay can sometimes be confusing or frustrating. However, understanding how edibles work can help you manage your expectations and get the most out of the experience. In this guide, you’ll learn all about edibles, how they work, what’s the onset time, and more.
How Do Edibles Work?
The way cannabis edibles work is quite different from smoking. When you consume an edible, it passes through the gastrointestinal tract and is absorbed into the bloodstream. From there, it travels to the liver, where it’s metabolized into 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinol (11-hydroxy-THC or 11-OH-THC), which interacts with the endocannabinoid system and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. This form of THC is not only more potent but also appears in higher concentrations in the bloodstream compared to smoking, which explains why edibles can feel stronger and last longer.1
When you smoke or vape cannabis, it enters the lungs and is absorbed directly into your bloodstream, leading to near-immediate effects. This difference in how the body processes edibles vs smoking explains why edibles take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping cannabis.2
Why Do Edibles Take Longer to Feel Than Smoking?
The delay in feeling the effects of edibles compared to smoking cannabis comes down to the digestion process. When you smoke or vape THC products, it quickly enters your bloodstream through the lungs, leading to almost immediate effects. On the other hand, edibles require THC to pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver, resulting in a slower onset.3 This is why some people feel the effects of edibles 30 to 90 minutes after consumption.4 So it’s important to be patient, especially if you’re new to edibles, as it’s easy to take too much if the effects haven’t kicked in right away.
How Long Does It Take for Edibles to Work?
In general, edibles take between 30 to 90 minutes to work, but several factors can influence how quickly you feel the effects. The maximum effect usually hits around two to three hours after consumption, and the overall duration of the high can last several hours.5 Your experience depends on a variety of factors, including the dosage, your stomach contents, and your cannabis tolerance.6
Dosage
The dosage of an edible plays a significant role in how quickly it takes effect. A higher dose may kick in faster, but if you’re a beginner when it comes to consuming cannabis, it’s best to start with a microdose (2.5-5 milligrams or less) and work your way up. This helps you gauge how your body reacts without overdoing it and ensures you have a positive experience.7
Stomach Contents
What you’ve eaten before consuming edibles can also impact how quickly the cannabis takes effect.8 Eating a meal before having an edible can delay the onset, while high-fat foods can enhance the effects by helping your body absorb the THC more efficiently.9 If you’re aiming for a fast-acting experience, it’s best to avoid large meals right before your edible.
Tolerance
Your cannabis tolerance plays a role in how fast edibles kick in. Regular cannabis enthusiasts may have a higher tolerance, which can delay or reduce the intensity of the effects. This happens because the CB1 receptors in your brain become less sensitive to THC over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Your personal biology and metabolism also affect how quickly edibles work and how long they last.10
How Long Do the Effects of Edibles Last?
Once edibles kick in, the effects can last anywhere from 4-12 hours, which is much longer than the effects of smoking cannabis. This longer duration is one of the main reasons many people prefer edibles over smoking. The exact length of time the effect lasts depends on your dose and tolerance. If you take a higher dose, you can expect the effects to last longer. For those with lower tolerances, even a small amount of THC can result in long-lasting effects.11
Tips for Taking Edibles for the First Time
If you’re new to edibles, it’s crucial to approach them with care and patience. Here are a few tips to ensure you have a positive experience:
Start Low
If it’s your first time trying edibles, start with a microdose of roughly 2.5-5 milligrams of THC until you know how your body reacts. Low-dose edibles like mints or drops are a great starting point. The effects can take time to set in, but starting low helps prevent you from having an overwhelming experience.12
Be Patient
Edibles can take up to 90 minutes to start working. So resist the urge to take more if you don’t feel the effects right away. Patience is key to consuming edibles safely, especially for cannabis newbies.13
Pick the Right Setting
When consuming edibles for the first time, make sure you’re in a comfortable, familiar environment. The right setting can help ease any anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable.
FAQs About Edibles
Trying cannabis edibles for the first time or need a refresher on how they work? We’ve got you covered! Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about edibles:
Can I eat raw marijuana?
While you can eat raw marijuana, it won’t produce any psychoactive effects unless it’s been decarboxylated (heated) to activate the THC.
How long do tinctures take to work?
Tinctures typically work faster than edibles if you consume them sublingually (place the drops under your tongue) as they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. You may feel the effects in 15-30 minutes, compared to 30-90 minutes for edibles.
Does it take two hours to feel edibles?
It can take up to 90 minutes for edibles to kick in, but the exact time depends on various factors like dosage and your metabolism. So wait at least 90 minutes before you take more.
Choosing Edibles for You
When it comes to choosing edibles, the key is to find products that match your preferences and tolerance level. Whether you prefer fast-acting edibles, low-dose products, or specific flavors, there’s something out there for every cannabis enthusiast. Remember to start low, be patient, and enjoy the experience. And chat with your favorite LivWell budtender if you have any edible questions.
Sources:
1. “Tasty THC: Promises and Challenges of Cannabis Edibles,” National Library of Medicine, January 24, 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5260817/
2. “Edibles 101: How to consume edibles, benefits, effects, & more,” Leafly, February 4, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles
3. “How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects of Cannabis?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-high
4. “Why Do Edibles Give You A Different High Than Smoking?” Vice, February 9, 2018, https://www.vice.com/en/article/edible-high-vs-smoke-high/
5. “Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids,” National Library of Medicine, 2003, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12648025/
6. “How Long Do Edibles Take to Kick In?” Healthline, February 7, 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-do-edibles-take-to-kick-in#onset-time
7. “How long do edibles take to kick in?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/how-long-do-edibles-take-to-kick-in
8. “How Food Intake Impacts Cannabis Consumption and Effects,” Veriheal, November 24, 2020, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/how-food-intake-impacts-cannabis-consumption-and-effects/
9. “Human Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Orally Administered Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Capsules Are Altered by Fed Versus Fasted Conditions and Sex Differences,” National Library of Medicine, December 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6922062/
10. “THC tolerance: what is it and why does it happen?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/cannabis-and-your-body/thc-tolerance
11. “How long will a weed high last?” Leafly, September 23, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/how-long-will-a-weed-high-last
12. “Edible dosing for beginners: with dosage chart by milligrams,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/edible-dosing
13. “What are cannabis edibles and how do you consume them?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/edibles
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
