How do CBD edibles work?

By Jeff Eckenrode, COO

CBD Cannabis — Photo credit: Elsa Olofsson

Quick Answer: CBD edibles work by metabolizing cannabinoids through the liver, converting some THC into Delta-11 THC — a more potent, longer-lasting compound. Effects last 6–9 hours and vary by CBD-to-THC ratio. High CBD = minimal high; high THC = relaxation; equal ratios = sleep support. The entourage effect shapes your overall experience!

When we eat, smoke or vaporize marijuana, our bodies take in hundreds of botanical compounds that are found naturally in cannabis plants.

Each of the chemically-unique cannabis molecules that arrive in our bloodstream can produce unique effects and benefits.

And their effects can change based on the presence of other compounds.

CBD Cannabis Edibles — Photo credit: Jan Zwarthoed

This is what cannabis researchers commonly call “the entourage effect”: a term first coined by Dr. Ethan Russo, a Washington-based neurologist and pharmacologist.

And surprisingly enough, the entourage effect has a huge impact on how we experience cannabis edibles.

But how does it work?

What types of marijuana edibles are best for getting better sleep, or enjoying a day in the sun?

If you’re curious about CBD edibles and the variety of effects and benefits they have, then you’re in the right place!

We’re going to take a close look at how CBD edibles work to help you determine which types may be right for you.

What’s considered a CBD edible, anyway?

As the name suggests, a cannabis product that you ingest which contains any amount of CBD can be considered a CBD edible.

And how it affects your body depends greatly on how much CBD is in it, as well as what other major and minor cannabinoids, like THC, are present.

CBD and THC Edibles can provide stronger, longer-lasting effects than cannabis products that we smoke or vaporize. Cannabis edibles can create a high that lasts from 6 to 9 hours, depending on the potency of the edible and your individual tolerance.

But why is that?

THC can (and often does) change into a different form of THC (or “metabolite”) known as Delta-11 THC.

When ingested, both THC and CBD travel through our gastrointestinal tract.

The THC and CBD contained within a marijuana edible is metabolized in the liver before it’s absorbed into your bloodstream.

When this happens, small amounts of THC change into Delta-11 THC, which is an entirely different, longer-lasting, and more powerful compound.

The result? You experience a longer-lasting and more potent high! Which is perfect for people looking for long-lasting effects from the cannabis they consume.

CBD Cannabis effects — Photo credit: Tengyart

Why do CBD edibles have different effects?

Oddly enough, CBD in edibles—or any cannabis product for that matter—behaves a lot like your mood.

It might change depending on your environment and who or what is in it.

Ask yourself: How do you behave when you’re alone?

How may that be different than when you are at a party with strangers? Or hanging out with your very best friend?

For most people, their mood and personality change depending on who else is around them.

This is very similar to how the entourage effect works: your cannabis experience will differ depending on which cannabinoids or flavor molecules (called “terpenes) are present or absent in the cannabis you consume.

The amount of CBD relative to other cannabinoids, like THC, is often referred to as a “CBD ratio”.

How do I know which CBD ratio is right for me?

CBD, just like THC, can have different effects at different dosages.

For example, low doses of THC can treat anxiety. But higher doses may prompt it.

Similarly, CBD can have energizing effects in low doses, but sedative effects in higher doses.

So when it comes to finding the right CBD edible for you, we are best off focusing our attention on two cannabinoids: THC and CBD.

Although the answer to “which CBD Edible is right for me?” is dependent on many different variables, there are a few general rules you can follow.

Looking for little-to-no psychoactive effects from your CBD edible?

Then look for edibles with low THC contents and high CBD contents.

These edibles are a terrific option for new cannabis users or individuals with relatively low cannabis tolerance.

Looking to get high, but not too high?

Then set your sights on finding an edible with high THC and low CBD.

These products are often best for relaxation or nighttime use, in part because they are psychoactive but contain low amounts of CBD, which works to dampen THC’s intoxicating effects.

Looking for a great night’s rest?

Then edibles with equal amounts of THC and CBD are likely the best fit for you.

They are both psychoactive and sedative. Best of all, the CBD contained in your edibles can increase the amount of time THC spends in the body, helping you get to sleep and stay asleep for hours.

Did we answer all of your CBD questions?

Or are you looking for a recommendation from one of our world-class budtenders?

Then stop by our store in Redmond!

Or if you’re in a rush visit our online store to view our current inventory.

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FAQ How Do CBD Edibles Work?

Why do CBD edibles feel stronger and last longer than smoking cannabis?

When you eat a cannabis edible, the THC and CBD travel through your digestive system and get metabolized in the liver before entering your bloodstream. During this process, some THC converts into Delta-11 THC — a more potent and longer-lasting compound than regular THC. This is why edibles can produce effects that last anywhere from 6 to 9 hours, compared to the 1–3 hours you'd typically get from smoking or vaping.

What is the entourage effect and how does it affect CBD edibles?

The entourage effect — a term coined by neurologist Dr. Ethan Russo — describes how cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis work together to influence your overall experience. Just like your mood changes depending on who you're around, CBD behaves differently depending on what other compounds are present. A CBD edible with some THC will feel very different from one with CBD alone — the ratio of compounds shapes everything from potency to duration to overall effect.

What CBD-to-THC ratio is best for someone who doesn't want to get high?

Look for edibles with high CBD and very low THC content. These are ideal for newer cannabis consumers or anyone with a low tolerance who wants the calming, wellness-focused benefits of CBD without psychoactive effects. The higher the CBD relative to THC, the more the psychoactive experience is dampened — CBD actually works to counteract some of THC's intoxicating properties.

What's the best CBD edible ratio for sleep?

Equal parts THC and CBD are generally considered the sweet spot for sleep support! The THC delivers sedative, relaxing effects while the CBD extends how long THC stays in your body — helping you not just fall asleep but stay asleep. If you're looking for a genuinely restful night, a balanced 1:1 CBD-to-THC edible taken an hour or so before bed is a great place to start.

Can CBD edibles cause anxiety?

It depends on the dose and the CBD-to-THC ratio. Low doses of THC can actually help ease anxiety, but higher doses may trigger it in some people. CBD on its own tends to have calming, anxiety-reducing properties. If you're concerned about anxiety from edibles, choose a product with higher CBD and lower THC, start with a small dose, and give yourself plenty of time in a comfortable, relaxed setting before assessing the effects.

How long should I wait after eating a CBD edible before taking more?

At least one to two hours — and when in doubt, wait longer! Because edibles are processed through the digestive system before the effects kick in, it's easy to assume they aren't working and take more too soon. The onset time varies depending on your metabolism, body weight, and whether you've eaten recently. Patience is genuinely the most important skill when it comes to edibles — the effects will arrive!

Want to learn more about CBD edibles and dosing?

Then check out our collection of related posts here!