Edibles Deep Dive: Understanding Onset Time, Metabolism & Dosing
By Jeff Eckenrode
Image credit: Kyaw Tun
Quick Answer: Cannabis edibles take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping because they are processed through the digestive system and metabolized by the liver. This slower onset also means longer-lasting effects and a different experience overall. Dosing edibles safely—especially for beginners—comes down to starting low, going slow, and understanding how your body processes THC.
For most people, edibles can take a while to kick in.
Initial effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to arrive.
And peak effects can take between 2 to 4 hours.
In total, a full edible experience may last 6 to 8 hours or longer, depending on dose, metabolism, and tolerance.
But why is that?
Why do edibles take so long to kick in? How can I dose edibles safely? And what should I know before I take my first bite?
Image credit: Margo Amala
Why do edibles take so long?
Several factors influence onset time:
Whether you’ve eaten recently
Your metabolism and body chemistry
The type of edible (gummy, baked good, beverage)
THC dose and formulation
Because the effects aren’t immediate, edibles require patience. Taking more too soon is one of the most common mistakes new consumers make.
Image credit: WYLD
Why Do Edibles Take Longer Than Smoking or Vaping?
The difference comes down to how THC enters the bloodstream.
When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC is absorbed through the lungs and enters the bloodstream almost immediately. Effects are often felt within minutes.
Edibles work differently:
THC is absorbed through the digestive system
It travels to the liver
The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that is often more potent and longer-lasting
This converted THC then enters the bloodstream
This process takes time, which explains both the delayed onset and the stronger, longer-lasting effects many people associate with edibles.
Image credit: Alex Gorey
How Are Edibles Processed by the Body?
Once consumed, an edible must be digested before THC can be absorbed. This means:
Slower onset compared to inhalation
More variability from person to person
Effects that build gradually rather than all at once
Because of liver metabolism, edibles can feel more intense—even at lower doses—especially for people who are new to cannabis or sensitive to THC.
Image credit: Journeyman
How Do I Dose Edibles Safely?
Safe dosing is all about control and patience, particularly for beginners.
General Edible Dosing Guidelines:
Beginner: 2.5–5 mg THC
Moderate: 5–10 mg THC
Experienced: 10 mg+ THC (with caution)
Washington State limits solid edibles to 10 mg THC per serving, which helps support safer consumption.
Best Practices for Safe Edible Use:
Start with one low-dose serving
Wait at least 2 hours before considering more
Avoid mixing edibles with alcohol
Consume in a comfortable, familiar setting
Read labels carefully and understand serving sizes
If effects feel stronger than expected, stay calm, hydrate, rest, and remember that the experience will pass.
Where Can I find cannabis edibles?
Whether you’re shopping online or in Redmond, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it. That includes a huge range of liquid and solid edibles!
Click on our online menu link below to see our current availability.
Want to learn more?
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