Understanding How Edibles Work: Why Do They Feel Different?

Tasty, discreet, easy to dose — edibles are a favorite for a reason. But it’s not as simple as grabbing a gummy out of the container and trying it. Edibles work differently than joints or vapes, changing how you approach your session. How much should you take? What does it feel like? How long will it last? We break down the most common FAQs around edibles so you can consume them with confidence.

Why do edibles feel so strong?

For many people, edibles can be intense. The short answer for why edibles feel so strong is because of how long the high lasts and a chemical called 11-hydroxy-THC.

After eating (or drinking) an edible, it starts to break down in your stomach. Once it moves into your small intestines, the cannabinoids are absorbed into your bloodstream — just like any other product you eat or drink.

Before it’s sent to the rest of your body (and makes you feel high), the edibles have to pass through your liver. Something special happens here. In your liver, the THC in edibles is converted into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC, which can be up to twice as strong as THC. So, a 5 mg edible can hit like 10 mg, 10 mg can feel like 20 mg, and so on.

Additionally, 11-hydroxy-THC lasts longer in your body than regular THC, which is why an edible high lasts longer. You can expect the edible experience to last a few hours longer than inhaling with a joint or a vape cartridge.

What if I can’t feel the edibles?

There are a few reasons you may not be able to feel the edibles.

1. You didn’t take enough. Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique and edibles are processed very differently than smoking. If you took 2.5 mg or 5 mg and don’t feel anything, you may need more. Take it slow and use your judgment before having another edible.
2. There’s not enough food in your body. Cannabinoids like THC are fat-loving molecules, and eating an edible on an empty stomach can affect how it absorbs. Eat something hearty before taking an edible, preferably with some fat like oil or butter. Or, snack on something with a little fat, like chocolate or nuts, with the edible.
3. You’re not waiting long enough. Because edibles are processed through the digestive system, it can take up to 2 hours to begin to feel the effects. If you don’t feel anything after 30 or 60 minutes, don’t panic, and definitely don’t take more. Wait.
4. You’re ediblocked. There’s a lot we’re still learning about the endocannabinoid system but one thing is becoming clear: some people don’t react to edibles at all. It’s unclear how many people don’t feel edibles, but you’re not alone if you don’t.

Can I be sensitive to edibles?

Yes, you can be sensitive to edibles.

There is a lot of variability in how people react to cannabis. It can depend on your gender, weight, diet, tolerance, and your unique endocannabinoid system. Women can be particularly sensitive to 11-hydroxy-THC.

While some people are “ediblocked,” others are sensitive to even the smallest amount of edibles. Since 11-hydroxy-THC can be twice as strong as regular THC, some people experience intense effects on edibles not seen through other consumption methods.

If you’re not sure if you’re sensitive to edibles, follow the golden rule of cannabis consumption: start low and go slow. Start with a small amount, even as low as 1 mg or 2.5 mg, and wait to see how you feel before making any decisions.

Edibles vs. Smoking

Is smoking or edibles better for your cannabis routine? That depends on you: your preference for consuming, your goals for cannabis consumption, and your lifestyle.

While this is a personal decision at the end of the day — after all, you know your body best — this chart can help you visualize the main differences.

Do fast-acting edibles work differently than regular edibles?

Yes and no. Fast-acting edibles have a few key differences from regular edibles, but your body processes them the same way.

Fast-acting edibles are named such because they promise to deliver the effects of the THC in a much shorter time frame. They do this through the science of nano-emulsion.

Without going back to chemistry class, fast-acting edibles have nano-emulsified THC, which is a fancy way of saying the THC molecules are significantly smaller after they’ve gone through this process. Smaller molecules are more easily broken down and absorbed by your body, which leads to a faster onset time.

How quickly do edibles work?

Traditional edibles take some time to work; between 60 and 120 minutes is the usual window of onset. However, edibles may take up to 3 hours to work while fast-acting edibles may start working within 10 minutes.

How long do edibles last?

An edible high lasts much longer than smoking or vaping does.

You can expect to start feeling the effects within an hour or two of taking the edible, with the “peak” high between hours two and four. The high usually begins to fade after four hours, but you may feel lingering effects (or still high, depending on the dose) for six to 12 hours.

Tips for a comfortable edibles experience

Edibles can be intimidating for new consumers because no one wants to feel an out-of-control high. To achieve success with edibles, follow these best practices.

1. Start low. If you’ve never tried edibles before or you’re trying a new kind, start with a low dose. Remember – you can always eat another edible later if you don’t feel your desired effects, but you shouldn’t take another one right away.
2. Go slow. Give the edible ample time to work. If you have a traditional edible, wait a full three hours before taking another one. If you’re eating a fast-acting edible, give it at least 30 minutes before reaching for one more.
3. Have a meal. Edibles work best with food in your stomach. Eat before you take an edible (or with one, if you have a beverage) to ensure the cannabinoids are absorbed into your body efficiently.
4. Stay hydrated. Cannabis can enhance the effects of dehydration, like cottonmouth. Be sure you’re hydrated when taking the edible and stay hydrated during the experience.
5. Get comfortable. Enjoy your edibles in a place and with people where you feel most at ease. A familiar environment and good vibes go a long way in making for a good experience.
6. Store them properly. When you’re not eating an edible, keep them stored somewhere safe, away from curious hands (or paws) in a temperature-controlled place. Keep them away from heat, light, and humidity. You can even invest in a lock box for your stash.

Eat edibles with confidence

Interested in trying edibles, but not sure where to start? Our budtenders are here to help. Boone Town Provisions has a wide selection of edibles with different dosages, flavors, cannabinoid combinations, and food types. Whether you want to sip on a summer beverage or enjoy a sweet treat, you’ll find your next favorite edible here.