How Long Can an Edible Last? Timing and Tips You Need to Know

Psilocybin and cannabis-infused edibles have become a popular choice for both recreational psychonauts and medical cannabis users. Unlike consuming raw mushrooms or smoking cannabis, edibles offer a tasty and discrete method of consumption. However, one question that lingers for both newcomers and seasoned users alike is: How long do edibles actually last?

In this article, we explain the science behind edible products, the factors that influence their duration, and practical tips to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a recreational user or considering edibles for medical purposes, understanding how long the effects of edibles last is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Understanding the Onset of Effects

The onset of effects refers to the time it takes for the psychoactive effects of a substance, such as THC edibles, to be felt after consumption. For example, when it comes to edible cannabis products, the onset differs significantly from smoking marijuana due to the way the active ingredient, delta-9 THC, is processed in the body.

After the consumption of edibles, the absorption of psychoactive molecules happens in the digestive system to then be metabolized by the liver. During this process, a compound that is even more potent is developed, producing strong psychoactive effects.

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Onset Times by Product Type

Traditional Edibles (e.g., brownies, chocolate, gummy bears)

• Onset Time: Typically 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption.

The variation in onset time depends on factors such as individual metabolism, the presence of inflammatory ingredients, and overall digestive health. Solid edibles like brownies or gummies take longer to digest, delaying the absorption of the active ingredients, including delta-9 THC or psilocybin.

Cannabis-Infused Beverages

• Onset Time: Effects can start within 15 to 45 minutes after consumption.

Liquids are absorbed more rapidly through the stomach lining compared to solid food products, leading to quicker psychoactive effects. Cannabis beverages can also include emulsified cannabinoids, which enhance bioavailability and speed up the process.

Psilocybin Edibles

• Onset Time: Typically 20 minutes to 1 hour after consumption.

Psilocybin is converted to psilocin, the active compound responsible for the psychoactive effects, during digestion. Teas and other liquid forms of psilocybin edibles have faster absorption rates, similar to cannabis beverages. Solid forms, like chocolates and gummies, take longer to digest, especially when consumed with other food.

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Why the Delay?

The delayed onset times of edibles are attributed to the digestive process, which involves breaking down the food products before the active cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Factors Influencing Onset Across All Edibles

• Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolisms experience quicker onset times, while those with slower metabolisms may have delayed effects.
• Digestive Health: Conditions affecting digestion, such as inflammation or enzyme deficiencies, can alter how quickly active compounds like THC or psilocybin are processed.
• Type of Product: Beverages tend to have shorter onset times due to rapid stomach absorption, while traditional edibles take longer as they pass through the digestive system.
• Food Intake: Consuming edibles on an empty stomach can speed up absorption, while a full meal can delay onset.

The Importance of Waiting Between Doses

It’s critical to wait at least 2 hours between consumption of edibles before considering an additional dose. This is particularly important because the slower onset can lead users to mistakenly believe the dose of edibles is insufficient, increasing the risk of unpleasant side effects such as:

• Acute side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or nausea.
• Over-intense experiences for habitual users or those with lower tolerances.

Understanding onset times helps users make informed decisions, avoid negative effects, and enjoy an optimal experience. Improper dosing, such as consuming more edibles within an hour of ingestion, can lead to acute effects and a prolonged, uncomfortable high that can impact cognitive function and lead to a bad trip.

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How Long Do the Effects Edibles Last?

The duration of effects from edibles, whether marijuana or psilocybin-based, is significantly longer than that of smoking or vaping due to the way the psychoactive ingredients are absorbed and metabolized in the body. Here’s a breakdown of the duration for both cannabis and psilocybin edibles:

Marijuana Edibles

The effects of marijuana edibles are driven primarily by THC levels, individual tolerance levels, and the user’s metabolism.

• Peak Effects: Occur approximately 3-4 hours after ingestion.
• Prolonged Effects: Last between 4-12 hours, depending on the dosage and the user’s metabolism rate.
• Residual Effects: Light drowsiness or muted effects can linger for 24-48 hours, particularly in users with slower metabolisms.

Psilocybin Edibles

Unlike THC, psilocybin edibles do not linger in the body for extended periods, but their effects are more profound and can last several hours. A faster metabolism rate can reduce the duration, while slower metabolisms extend the time window of effects.

• Peak Effects: Felt approximately 1-2 hours after ingestion and last for 3-4 hours.
• Prolonged Effects: The overall experience can last up to 6-8 hours, with residual effects like mild euphoria or introspection persisting for up to 24 hours.

Key Differences Between Marijuana and Psilocybin Edibles

• Duration of Effects: Marijuana edibles generally last longer, with noticeable effects for 4-12 hours, while psilocybin effects are more concentrated within a 6-8 hour timeframe.
• Residual Effects: THC edibles can leave residual effects like fatigue for 24-48 hours, while psilocybin edibles often leave users feeling reflective or slightly euphoric for a shorter period of time.
• Psychoactive Intensity: Psilocybin effects are often more introspective and hallucinogenic, while THC effects focus on relaxation, euphoria, and appetite stimulation.

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Practical Considerations for Safe Use

• Start with a Single Dose: Whether consuming marijuana or psilocybin edibles, begin with a low dose to gauge your tolerance.
• Monitor Your Environment: Use edibles in a safe, familiar setting to minimize potential risks like anxiety.
• Understand Your Body: Factors like individual metabolism, tolerance, and activity levels can significantly influence your experience.

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