introduction

Edibles, or cannabis products that can be eaten, have a completely different effect than smoking or vaping. While inhaling allows THC to enter the bloodstream directly through the lungs, edibles must first pass through the digestive tract. This results in a slower, but often significantly more intense, effect. Many people underestimate this – and are surprised when the high hits with full force.

Absorption pathways in the body

The route via the gastrointestinal tract

After consuming an edible, the THC, along with fats or sugars, enters the small intestine. There it is absorbed through the intestinal lining and transported to the liver – and that's precisely where the crucial process happens.

First-pass metabolism in the liver

In the liver, THC is converted to 11-hydroxy-THC – a more active compound that is often significantly stronger and more readily reaches the brain. This explains the deeper, longer-lasting effects of edibles compared to smoking.

Onset of action, duration of action & reduction

While the effects of smoking are noticeable within minutes, with edibles it takes an average of 30–120 minutes . The full effect builds up over 2–4 hours and can last up to 12 hours in total.

• Stomach contents: It works faster on an empty stomach; a full stomach delays its effect.
• Metabolism: Individually very different – ​​therefore the intensity varies.
• Fat content: Fat can improve the absorption of fat-soluble cannabinoids.

Tip: Patience is key – adding more too soon is the most common reason for “catching too much”.

Influence of cannabinoids & terpenes

Cannabinoids

• THC (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol): Mainly responsible for the psychoactive effect.
• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating, can calm and reduce peaks.
• CBN, CBG, CBC: Can subtly influence the overall profile.

Terpenes

• Myrcene: rather “heavy” and relaxing.
• Lemons: rather light, mood-lifting.
• Linalool: calming, "lavender-like".
• Caryophyllene: grounding, body-focused.

This interplay is often called the entourage effect : It is not just THC alone, but the overall profile that causes the effect.

Edibles vs. Smoking vs. Vaping

Practical tips for safe consumption

1. Start slowly: 2–5 mg THC (especially for beginners).
2. Wait: At least 2 hours before adding more.
3. Fat helps: A small snack containing fat can stabilize absorption.
4. CBD as a buffer: Can mitigate an excessively strong high.
5. If it's too much: rest, water, reduce stimuli – it will pass.

Conclusion

Edibles don't work "like a joint you can eat," but rather like a separate mode of effect: slow, long, and often more intense. The key is the liver's conversion of edibles to 11-hydroxy-THC. Those who respect this can enjoy edibles in a controlled manner – without unpleasant surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)