Edibles often feel stronger than smoking or vaping cannabis due to the way our bodies process THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. When you smoke or vape, THC enters your bloodstream through the lungs and reaches your brain quickly, leading to a relatively fast onset of effects. This method allows for a more immediate experience, but it also means that the effects may not last as long.
In contrast, when you consume edibles, THC is metabolized differently. After ingestion, it travels through your digestive system and is processed by the liver. During this process, THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that is known to produce more intense effects compared to regular THC. This conversion results in a more potent experience that can feel stronger and last longer than smoking or vaping.
The onset time for edibles can vary significantly from person to person but generally takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. This delayed onset can sometimes lead individuals to consume more than intended before feeling any effects, which contributes to the perception of edibles being stronger.
Additionally, the duration of effects from edibles tends to be longer-lasting compared to inhalation methods. While smoking or vaping might provide relief or euphoria for a couple of hours, edibles can extend these sensations for several hours due to their prolonged release into the bloodstream.
Another factor contributing to the perceived strength of edibles is dosage control. With smoking or vaping, it’s easier for users to gauge their intake by taking smaller puffs and stopping when they reach their desired effect. Edibles often come in pre-measured doses that might not align with an individual’s tolerance level.
Understanding these differences helps explain why many people find edibles stronger than other consumption methods. It’s important for users new to edibles or those with lower tolerance levels to start with small amounts and give themselves ample time before considering additional consumption.
