Understanding Edibles: How They Work, How Long They Last, and What to Expect
Cannabis edibles are a big win for both new & old users due to their sneaky use, long-lasting, & mix of tastes & shapes. But if you've asked why a Cannabis edible takes a while to work — or why it hits you harder than smoke — you're not by your own.
At District Flower Express, your go-to DC shop, we think know-how is as key as good items. That's why we made this key guide to help you get how Cannabis edibles work, how long they last, & what to look for when you eat them.
Shop in-store or on our Online cannabis shop; this guide will get you set for the Cannabis edible ride from start to end.
What Are Cannabis Edibles?
Cannabis edibles are food or drink with treats, most of the time THC or CBD. Types of these are:
- Gummies
- Bake stuff like bread & brown things
- Choc
- Drinks
- Mints or throat pills
- Pills or strips that melt
Unlike smoke or vape, which send stuff to the blood through the lungs, Cannabis edibles go through your gut & liver. This makes the feel real diff from smoke — in start time & power.
How Do Cannabis Edibles Work?
When you have a Cannabis edible, it moves from your gut to your blood. Here's what goes on:
Gut: Any food, the Cannabis edible breaks up in the gut.
Liver Work: The THC gets a lot of work in the liver. It turns into a thing named 11-hydroxy-THC, real strong & lasts long.
Blood Move: Then in your blood, 11-hydroxy-THC goes to your brain, making for a strong & long buzz.
This is why Cannabis edibles take more time to start, but can hit a lot harder than other ways to have pot.
How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Take to Start?
Wait for Cannabis edibles. Most folks will feel it in 30 to 90 minutes, but it can differ due to:
- Your body work rate
- If you just ate
- The kind of Cannabis edible
- How much can you take
If Cannabis edibles are new to you, start with a bit (like 2.5mg to 5mg of THC). Wait two hours to see if more is needed.
Some users think "it's not working" & take more — to then feel way too much later. Start slow & give time for your body to react.
How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Last?
A big difference between Cannabis edibles & smoke is how long the effects lasts. While smoke or vape lasts 2–3 hours, Cannabis edibles can go from 4 to 8 hours, or more with a big dose.
Here's the main bits:
- Start: 30–90 mins
- Strongest feel: 2–4 hours after
- Whole ride: 4–8 hours (or more with a lot)
Due to this long time, Cannabis edibles are a pick for pain fix, sleep help, or a long, fun time.
What Kind of High To Look For?
The high from an edible is not the same as what you get from smoke or vape. Here's what folks often say:
It hits your body deep or all over.
It makes your senses sharp.
It can make you feel happier or laugh.
It can mess with your mind a bit.
It helps with pain or worry for a long time.
Yet, too much can cause bad things such as:
Fear or bad thoughts.
A need to sleep.
Dry mouth or red eyes.
A sick feeling.
This is why it helps to know your dose & buy from a good source, like District Flower Express, a top Washington DC dispensary.
Picking the Right Dose
With edibles, more is not always good. Weed hits each one of us in its own way. Here are some tips to use:
2.5 mg THC: Very light, good for new users.
5 mg THC: Basic start dose, light joy.
10 mg THC: Medium, ok for those who have used it more.
20+ mg THC: High, steer clear if new.
Read the label, & never go past what you can take, more so with home-made ones where the strength can vary.
Our staff at District Flower Express can help pick the best edible for you, in-store or on our website.
Tips for a Safe & Fun Time
Eat First: Don't use edibles on an empty gut.
Drink Up: Keep water or juice close.
Wait It Out: Wait at least 2 hours before more.
Pick a Good Spot: Use edibles in a safe, cozy place, especially the first time.
Check Your Day: Don't plan to drive or do big tasks for hours after.
If too much is taken, keep cool. Lay down, breathe slow, & try to rest. It will pass.
Final Thoughts
Edibles give a rare & strong hit, but they need some care & wait time. Know how they work & start light. This lets you enjoy their strong, long-lasting vibe with no woes.
At District Flower Express, we aim to be your DC go-to for good products & true info. Whether you're new to edibles or want new things, we've got you. Come by, shop web, or call for top-notch Weed stores DC & edibles you can trust.
Ready to dive into edibles?
Call now or check out our menu online, or visit our DC store in person!
