How Long Do Edibles Stay in Your System?
Quick Answer
Cannabis edibles typically produce noticeable effects for 6–8 hours, sometimes longer at higher doses. While effects wear off the same day, THC metabolites can remain detectable for days to weeks. Occasional users may clear THC in a few days, while regular or heavy users can test positive for 30 days or more.
Whether you’re planning around work, concerned about a drug test, or simply curious, understanding how long edibles stay in your system is important.
The answer isn’t simple — but this guide explains it in clear, practical terms.
The Quick Answer
Effects: Typically 6–8 hours, and sometimes up to 12 hours depending on dose and sensitivity.
Detection in your system: THC from edibles may be detectable for:
- Occasional users: 1–3 days
- Moderate users: 5–7 days
- Regular users: 10–15 days
- Heavy daily users: 30+ days
Key factors: Frequency of use, metabolism, body fat, hydration, and dose all influence detection time.
How Your Body Processes Edibles
Edibles are processed very differently from smoking or vaping. This explains both the delayed onset and extended duration.
Step 1: Digestion (30–90 minutes)
- Edible enters the digestive system
- Broken down like normal food
- THC or CBD absorbed through the intestines
Step 2: Liver Metabolism (1–2 hours)
- THC travels to the liver
- Converted into 11-hydroxy-THC
- This metabolite is 2–3× more potent
- Explains why edibles feel stronger and last longer
Step 3: Peak Effects (2–4 hours)
- Peak blood concentration
- Strongest effects felt
- Plateau lasts 1–2 hours
Step 4: Elimination (6–8+ hours)
- Metabolites stored in fat cells
- Slow release via urine and stool
- Effects fade gradually
Step 5: Complete Clearance (Days to Weeks)
- THC-COOH remains in fat tissue
- Released slowly over time
- Detection windows vary widely
Related: Complete Edibles Timeline
Detection Times by Test Type
Urine Tests (Most Common)
Detects: THC-COOH (inactive metabolite)
| Usage Pattern | Typical Detection Window |
|---|---|
| One-time use | 1–3 days |
| Occasional (1–2×/week) | 3–7 days |
| Moderate (3–4×/week) | 10–15 days |
| Heavy daily use | 30–45 days |
| Very heavy use | 60–90+ days |
Cutoff levels: Most labs use 50 ng/mL (confirmation may go to 15 ng/mL).
Blood Tests
- Single use: 3–4 hours
- Regular use: 1–2 days
- Heavy use: Up to 7 days
Saliva Tests
- Occasional: 1–3 days
- Regular: 1–7 days
- Heavy: Up to 29 days
Hair Follicle Tests
- Detection window up to 90 days
- THC appears after ~5–7 days
- Rare in routine workplace testing
What Affects How Long Edibles Stay in Your System?
- Frequency of use: biggest factor
- Body fat: THC is fat-soluble
- Metabolism & age: faster clears sooner
- Dose & potency: higher lasts longer
- Hydration & diet: supportive, not magic
Can You Clear THC Faster?
What Helps
- Stopping use
- Exercise (pause 24–48h before testing)
- Hydration
- High-fibre diet
What Doesn’t
- Detox drinks
- Niacin
- Same-day cleanses
The Bottom Line
- Effects last hours
- Detection lasts days to weeks
- Frequency is the dominant factor
- Abstinence is the only guarantee
Educational only. Not medical or legal advice. Drug testing outcomes vary.
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