How long do cannabis edibles last in the body? What are the best dosing options for CBD and THC edibles? As more people turn to cannabis-based products to help with therapeutic and recreational needs, understanding the differences between CBD and THC edible dosage is crucial.

Like other cannabis products, edibles have become increasingly popular. Edibles come in various forms, including baked goods, candies, and beverages; they are also available in tinctures or as capsules.

This article answers the most commonly asked questions about THC and CBD dosage for edibles:

We also provide a THC mg dosage chart to help you determine the right amount for your individual needs. And, for those interested, we’ve included our top 7 recommended CBD and THC gummies.

Here’s a glimpse of the products we’ll discuss later in this article.

Top 7 CBD and THC Gummies to Try

  1. Best Overall Gummies: BATCH Recreation THC Gummies
  2. Best Runner-Up: Otter Space Delta 8 THC Gummies
  3. Best Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies: FOCL Full-Spectrum Gummies
  4. Best Edibles for Microdosing: Wild Theory Strata Gummies
  5. Best Broad Spectrum CBD Gummies: Joy Organics
  6. Best Value for Money: Charlotte’s Web
  7. Best CBD Gummy for Sleep: Evn CBD Gummies

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid—a compound found in the cannabis plant. According to research, there are over 100 cannabinoids in the cannabis genus, but CBD and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) are the two most abundant well-researched cannabinoids.

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the most abundant and well-known cannabinoid. This is the compound found in cannabis plants that is responsible for the “high” or feeling of euphoria.  It binds to cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, producing effects on the brain and body.

THC is found in both hemp and marijuana varieties of cannabis but is more concentrated in marijuana. THC products are only federally legal if they are derived from hemp. All THC products in our list are federally legal. 

friends in hemp field

CBD and THC in Edibles

Cannabis edibles are products that contain cannabinoids in the form of an ingestible food item. They are a great way to consume cannabis because they typically have a longer-lasting effect than other forms of consumption, such as smoking or vaping. 

The two most common cannabinoids found in edibles are CBD and THC. However, various other cannabinoids can be found in edibles, such as  Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabinol (CBN), and  Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV). 

These different cannabinoids offer unique benefits and can help people experience a more balanced edible experience.

As mentioned earlier, edibles are available in various forms, including: 

  • Baked goods (e.g., brownies, cookies) 
  • Beverages 
  • Capsules 
  • Chocolates 
  • Gummies 
  • Hard candies 
  • Tinctures  

The effects of edibles depend on the type and amount of cannabinoids you consume. For instance:

  •  If you consume a THC-based edible, it may produce a high 
  • If you consume CBD edibles, their effects will be more subtle. CBD edibles without THC won’t produce a high
  • Some cannabis edibles have CBD and THC. These may produce a high, depending on how much THC they have

The effects of edibles also depend on the individual’s tolerance and metabolism. Generally speaking, edibles take longer to kick in than other forms of cannabis because they must be digested and absorbed by the body before they can start working. We’ll discuss this more in the next section. 

Cannabis edibles can provide a range of effects depending on the type and dose. Depending on the product, edibles provide a feeling of overall relaxation and calming effects. Some people may experience a feeling of euphoria or mild lethargy, while others may enjoy its anti-anxiety and stress-relieving capabilities. 

Other potential effects of CBD and THC edibles include the following: 

While edibles can be a great way to enjoy cannabis, it’s important to be mindful of the potential side effects. Overconsumption of edibles can lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as dizziness, confusion, paranoia, and even hallucinations. 

In extreme cases, it can lead to severe anxiety or panic attacks.We have a few tips for managing your dose to avoid these side effects, but before we get into that, let’s talk about how long edibles take to kick in.

How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Take To Kick In?

On average, it takes between 30 to 90 minutes for edibles to take effect. This range can vary depending on individual factors such as:

  • metabolism
  • tolerance level 
  • Weight
  • Gender
  • type and amount of cannabinoids consumed (CBD, THC, HHC, etc). 

Most edibles will reach their peak effects around 2 to 4 hours after consumption.

How you consume CBD or THC affects how long they take to kick in. For instance, edibles that are swallowed whole (e.g., gummies) take longer to kick in than oils that are absorbed under your tongue (e.g., tinctures).

person holding CBD Oil dropper photo

This is because edibles that are swallowed must pass through the digestive tract before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and reach the brain. Meanwhile, oils absorbed under your tongue can pass through the mucous membranes, which speeds up the onset of effects.

How Long Do Edibles Last?

The effects of edibles can last anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on the individual. Some people may experience longer-lasting effects that can last up to 12 hours.

It’s essential to remember that the effects of edibles may linger for longer than 12 hours, so it’s best to wait until all the effects have worn off before consuming another dose.

Tips for Managing Your Dose

Since edibles can take longer to kick in and the effects can last longer than other forms of cannabis, it’s important to be mindful of your dose. Here are a few tips for managing your dose: 

1. Start With a Low Dose

Most edibles come in standard doses ranging from 5 to 10 milligrams of THC, so it’s best to start with a low dose and work your way up. According to some experts, the ideal dose for a first-time user is between 2.5 and 5 milligrams of THC. 

Make sure you check labels to determine how CBD or THC each gummy contains!

2. Eat Before Consuming

One of the best ways to prepare for your edible experience is to eat a meal before consuming your edibles. This helps to slow down the digestion process, which can help to reduce the intensity of the effects. 

Eating an edible on an empty stomach can cause the effects to kick in faster, which might lead to an overwhelming feeling. 

3. Be Patient

Most people over consume edibles because they don’t feel the effects immediately. You may feel tempted to take more before feeling the effects, but this can lead to an uncomfortable experience. 

As mentioned earlier, it can take up to 90 minutes for the effects of an edible to kick in. Be patient and wait at least 2 hours before deciding if you need to take more. 

4. Have Someone Monitor You

If you’re a first-time user, having a sober companion or someone experienced with edibles can help to ensure you have a positive experience.

person holding gummy and container

What is the Ideal Dosage for CBD and THC Edibles?

To help determine the ideal dose for edibles infused with cannabis, understanding your THC tolerance level is crucial. Most edibles in the market contain between 5 to 10 milligrams of THC. It’s best to start with a low dose and work your way up.

Here’s a basic guide to help you determine your ideal dose:

  • Beginners: The dosage for beginners is between 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC. The lower dose can help you gauge the effects of THC and how it affects your body.
  • Moderate Users: If you’ve been using edibles for a while, the ideal dosage is between 2.5 to 5 milligrams of THC. This dose will likely provide a relaxing and manageable high lasting up to 8 hours.
  • Experienced Users: For experienced users, dosages between 5 to 10 milligrams of THC are normal

As a rule of thumb, starting with a lower dose is always the safest approach. And if you’re unsure about your tolerance level, it’s best to start with a 1 – 2.5 milligram dose and work your way up.

THC MG Dosage Chart

The table below provides a general guide for the suggested dosage of THC mg for various types of users. It is important to remember that everyone’s body processes cannabis differently and that individual reactions to different doses should be monitored.

 

Type of User

Suggested Dosage of THC mg

What to Expect

Duration

First Time User 1 – 2.5 mg THC
  • Mild effects
2 – 4 hours
Regular User 2.5 – 5 mg THC
  • Medium effects
  • Euphoria
  • Might induce drowsiness
4 – 8 hours
Experienced User 5 – 10 mg THC
  • Strong effects
  • Strong euphoria
  • Might induce lethargy and increase appetite
6 – 10 hours
Extremely Experienced User 10 mg THC
  • Highly potent
  • Extreme effects
  • Might induce lethargy and increase appetite
6 – 12 hours

Edible dosing chart

Note: This dosage chart is for reference only and should not be taken as medical advice.

Remember, the key to enjoying cannabis safely is to start low and slow. It’s best to begin with the lowest dose possible and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved. Additionally, always check the amounts of THC in your edibles to ensure that you’re taking the appropriate amount for your tolerance.

THC and CBD Gummy Dosage: Our Recommended Top 7 Gummies

As hinted earlier in our introduction, we’ll be featuring 7 of our top recommended gummies for edibles. Each of these gummies will have different amounts of THC and CBD, so it’s important to pay attention to the dosage.

1. Best Overall Gummies: BATCH Recreation THC Gummies

BATCH Recreation THC Gummy 3 e1670958736866

Key Features:

  • 5 mg THC
  • 25 mg full-spectrum CBD oil
  • 30 gummies per container
  • Blueberry flavor
  • 30-day satisfaction guarantee
  • Third-party tested
  • Non-GMO

These THC gummies from BATCH are our top pick for the best overall for their delicious natural flavor and perfect balance of 5mg THC per gummy. With a carefully crafted blend of 25mg of full-spectrum CBD oil and 5 mg of THC, these blueberry cubes are sure to boost satisfaction with any activity.

When we tried them out, we found that the effects lasted several hours and were quite enjoyable. Our reviewer noted that the effects were mild yet uplifting, providing a pleasant sense of relaxation and well-being. 

We recommend this product for those looking for a fun, recreational experience with a balanced dose of THC and CBD. We would not recommend this product to those looking for a heavy-hitting THC experience.

Why We Love It:
  • Delicious natural blueberry flavor.
  • Perfect balance of 5mg THC and 25mg CBD.
  • Long-lasting effects.
  • Fun recreational experience with a mild to moderately high.
  • Perfect for first-time users or those looking for a balanced dose of THC and CBD.
  • Great for Microdosing THC
What to Keep in Mind:
  • Not suitable for those looking for a strong THC experience.
  • Recommended to start with half a gummy and increase the dose if needed.
  • Wait 45 minutes for effects to take place before increasing the dose.

2. Best Runner-Up: Otter Space Delta 8 THC Gummies

otterspace d8 sour watermelon gummies 1 e1670958686611

Key Features:

  • 25 mg Delta 8 THC
  • 30 gummies per container
  • Gluten-Free
  • Vegan
  • Non-GMO
  • Natural watermelon flavor
  • Third-party tested
  • Naturally hemp derived

For those wondering what Delta 8 THC is, it’s a milder and less potent version of THC that has been gaining popularity lately. Many users describe it as providing a more clear-headed and uplifting experience than regular THC. And that’s exactly what you get with these delicious Watermelon Gummies from Otter Space.

We all know that watermelons are a summer treat, so why not enjoy it in gummy form? These juicy cubes deliver an amazingly long-lasting high with 25 milligrams of Delta 8 THC. Our reviewer found that the effects were felt almost instantly and lasted about 8-10 hours. Additionally, the taste was quite pleasant, with no aftertaste.

Our tester found these gummies to be a great way to relax after a long day without getting too overwhelmed. The natural watermelon flavor was a great bonus, making them the perfect snack for a summer day. We strongly recommend these gummies to anyone looking for a mild yet enjoyable high.

Why We Love It:
  • Vegan, Gluten-free, and Non-GMO
  • Naturally hemp-derived Delta 8 THC
  • Pesticide-free and third-party tested
  • Long-lasting effects with just the right amount of THC
  • Delicious natural watermelon flavor
What to Keep in Mind:
  • The effects of Delta 8 THC are not as strong as regular THC.
  • Spit the gummies in half to start for a gentler experience.
  • Effects can take up to one hour before taking full effect.
  • May cause drowsiness, so not suitable for driving or using heavy machinery. 
  • Not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.
  • Seek medical advice before using.
  • Do not use if you are currently taking any medications. 
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.

3. Best Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies: FOCL Full-Spectrum Gummies

FOCL Full Spec Gummies 2 e1670958638898

Key Features:

  • 25 mg Full-Spectrum CBD per gummy
  • 30 vegan gummies per container
  • Organically-grown hemp extract
  • Third-party tested
  • 3 delicious flavors – sour watermelon, tropical punch, and mandarin orange
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free

FOCL’s full-spectrum gummies are formulated with all-natural ingredients, including organically grown hemp extract and natural flavors. According to the company, they source only the highest quality hemp from federally-registered hemp farms in the U.S.

The dosing is perfect for relaxation with 25 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD per gummy. Because these are full-spectrum, the effects will be stronger than those from an isolate formula, but will not produce a high.

After testing, we found these to be a great choice for daily use, especially for those looking for mild relaxation without the effect of THC. With 30 gummies per container, FOCL’s full-spectrum CBD gummies are an excellent deal. And with three delicious flavors, you’ll never get bored!

Why We Love It:
  • Organically-grown hemp extract
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan
  • Third-party tested for safety and purity
  • Mild to moderate effects with 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD per gummy
  • Tested for heavy metals, solvents, and pesticides
  • Delicious natural flavors
What to Keep in Mind:
  • Full-spectrum CBD products contain only trace amounts of THC
  • Take 1 to 2 gummies daily and 1 to 2 before bedtime.
  • Chew the gummies slowly for the best result.
  • Effects may take up to one hour before taking full effect.

4. Best Edibles for Microdosers: Wild Theory Strata Gummies

Wild Theory CBDTHC gummies 2 e1670958601934

Key Features:

  • 25 mg of Full-Spectrum CBD and 2.5 mg of THC per gummy
  • Available in 3 different sizes – 30, 60, and 120 gummies per container
  • Organically-grown hemp extract
  • Comes in 3 delicious flavors – strawberry, mango, and cherry lime
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan

Some users find regular THC edibles too strong, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and uncomfortable. This is where the microdosing experience comes in.

By consuming smaller doses with a lower THC concentration, users can still enjoy the relaxation and medicinal benefits of cannabis without feeling overwhelmed or impaired.

These gummies are made with organic ingredients and are available in three delicious flavors – strawberry, cherry lime, and mango. Each gummy is infused with 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD and 2.5mg of THC, allowing users to customize their dosage as needed. These gummies provide users with a pleasant and tasty experience and offer a synergistic effect that can help relieve occasional pain and stress. 

Why We Love It:
  • Convenient, low-dose cannabis experience
  • Balanced effects for beginners and experienced users alike
  • Organically-grown hemp extract
What to Keep in Mind:
  • Take 1 gummy at a time to determine individual tolerance
  • Do not take on an empty stomach
  • Wait for at least an hour for effects to take full effect
  • Keep out of reach of children 
  • If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with a doctor before use
  • Do not operate heavy machinery while using this product.

5. Best Value for Money: Joy Organics

Joy Organics Gummies e1670958550220

Key Features: 

  • Broad spectrum hemp extract, containing no THC
  • 30 servings per container 
  • 90 day money back guarantee
  • 18-month shelf life
  • Third party lab tested
  • Available in strawberry lemonade and green apple flavors
  • Vegan and gluten-free
  • Available in two concentrations – 10mg and 25 mg of broad-spectrum CBD

Joy Organics have one of the best broad-spectrum CBD gummies on the market. Their Organic CBD Gummies are made with a broad-spectrum hemp extract and contain zero THC, making them ideal for those who want to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC. 

These gummies are available in two concentrations – 10mg and 25mg of broad-spectrum CBD. Each serving contains no corn syrup or artificial sweeteners and comes in two delicious flavors – strawberry lemonade and green apple.

Our experts noted that the 25 mg of broad-spectrum CBD per serving was a great way to get all the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids, including terpenes and flavonoids, without any of the mind-altering effects of THC. Plus, Joy Organics offers a 90-day money-back guarantee, making it easier for users to try out their products. 

Why We Love It:
  • Zero THC for people who can’t consume any THC
  • 18 months shelf life 
  • 90 day money-back guarantee 
  • Two concentrations of 10mg and 25mg of broad-spectrum CBD
  • Delicious flavors of strawberry lemonade and green apple
What to Keep in Mind: 
  • First time users should start with half a gummy a day for one week
  • The recommended dose for adults is one gummy daily 
  • Do not take more than four gummies in a single day
  • Chew the gummies thoroughly before swallowing
  • The effects of the gummies may take up to two hours to take effect

6. Best Value for Money: Charlotte’s Web

charlottes web gummies 2 e1670958499866

Key Features: 

  • 60 gummies per container
  • Full-spectrum hemp extract
  • 25mg of CBD per serving
  • Formulated for daily use
  • USA-grown hemp
  • Raspberry lime flavor

Charlotte’s Web Daily Wellness Gummies are an excellent choice for those looking for the best value-for-money CBD gummies. Each serving contains 25mg of full-spectrum hemp extract, giving users the benefits of the entourage effect without any THC. 

Many users find that Charlotte’s Web gummies are perfect for daily use, since they provide a convenient and low-dose cannabis experience. After taking the gummies, users report feeling calm and relaxed while also enjoying improved sleep quality and mood. 

The gummies are flavored with natural juices and come in a delicious raspberry lime flavor. Our team found that the flavor was subtle enough to mask the taste of the hemp extract, making these gummies easy and enjoyable to consume.

Charlotte’s Web gummies are also made with USA-grown hemp and processed using an eco-friendly CO2 extraction process, ensuring that their products are as pure and natural as possible.

Why We Love It: 
  • 25mg of full-spectrum hemp extract per serving
  • 60 gummies per container
  • Extracted with an eco-friendly CO2 process
  • Delicious raspberry lime flavor 
What to Keep in Mind: 
  • Beginners should start with one gummy a day
  • For best results, the recommended dose is two gummies daily 
  • Keep the gummies at room temperature 
  • Use as part of your daily wellness routine 
  • Wait at least two hours after taking the gummies before increasing your dose

7. Best CBD Gummy for Sleep: Evn CBD Gummies

EVN gummies 3 e1670958454160

Key Features: 

  • 20 gummies per serving
  • 200 mg of Broad Spectrum CBD 
  • Gluten-free, non-GMO, and organically sourced hemp 
  • Lab tested for purity, safety, and potency
  • Contains no gluten, wheat, peanuts, dairy, or eggs 
  • 30 day money-back guarantee

Last on our list of the best CBD gummies are CBD Sour + CBD Original Gummy Bears from Evn CBD. These gummies are the perfect way to get a good night’s sleep before tackling the day ahead. The combination of CBD and sour flavors makes them a tasty snack, sure to please anyone’s palate.

Most people we spoke to reported improved sleep quality after taking these gummies. Additionally, customers have noted that the gummies had no unpleasant aftertaste and did not leave them feeling jittery.

The dose of 200 mg of Broad Spectrum CBD in each package is enough to give you a balanced dose and help you relax. Furthermore, the gummies are lab tested for purity, safety, and potency. And with a 30-day money back guarantee, you can purchase with confidence knowing that if you’re not satisfied, you can return the product for a full refund.

Why We Love It: 
  • 200 mg of Broad Spectrum CBD per package 
  • Lab tested for purity, safety, and potency
  • No unpleasant aftertaste 
  • 30 day money back guarantee
  • 0% THC
  • Organically sourced hemp
  • Non-GMO
What to Keep in Mind: 
  • Take 2-3 gummies per day for best results
  • Begin with a low dose and increase gradually over time 
  • Not suitable for children
  • Not recommended to pregnant or nursing women

How Many CBD Gummies Should I Eat?

Since different gummies have different amounts of CBD and THC, the number of gummies you should take varies. It is best to gauge dosages by the number of milligrams are consuming. 

Assuming 25mg of CBD or 5mg of THC per gummy it’s recommended to start with 0.5 – 2 gummies per day and increase the dose gradually over time. It’s important to read the labels of the product you’re using and follow the recommended dosage. 

To ensure safety, talk to your doctor before taking any CBD products. It’s important to buy your gummies from a trusted source and make sure they are lab tested for purity and safety.

How to Recover From Edibles

If you or someone you know has accidentally consumed too much of an edible, it’s important to respond promptly and appropriately. Here are some steps to take if you or someone you know has over consumed an edible:

  • Stay calm and try to remain relaxed: It’s important to remain calm and not panic if you or someone you know has overconsumed an edible. Overconsumption of edibles can cause anxiety and panic, but it is not life-threatening.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated: Overconsumption of edibles can cause dry mouth and make you feel dehydrated, so it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This can help alleviate some of the unpleasant side effects of overconsumption.
  • Avoid caffeine and other stimulants: Caffeine and other stimulants can exacerbate the effects of overconsumption, so it’s best to avoid them until the effects have worn off completely.
  • Eat something light and easy to digest: Eating something light and easy to digest, such as a piece of fruit or a small snack, can help alleviate some of the effects of overconsumption. Avoid heavy or greasy foods, as they can make the effects worse.
  • Wait it out: Overconsumption of edibles can be unpleasant, but it will typically pass within a few hours. It’s important to be patient and wait it out, as the effects will eventually wear off.
  • Get professional help if necessary: In some cases, it may be necessary to get medical attention or seek professional help if the effects of overconsumption are severe. If the person experiencing the effects is having difficulty breathing, experiencing an extreme panic attack, or does not seem to be able to relax, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Too much of anything can be bad. That is why it is important to be aware of the recommended dosage of any product you consume, including CBD gummies. It is also important to purchase your products from a trusted source and make sure they are lab tested for purity and safety. All products on our list meet these criteria.

Final Word: How Long Does an Edible Stay In Your System?

 

Daily Usage Moderate Usage (2-3 times per week) Heavy Long-Term Usage
How Long Will THC Stay In Your System? 1 Week 1-2 Weeks 1-2 Months

FAQs

How Long Do Gummy Edibles Last Until They Expire?

Gummy edibles typically have a shelf life of 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dry place. However, the exact expiration date will depend on the specific product and its ingredients. It is recommended to check the expiration date on the packaging and consume the gummies before that date for optimal potency and flavor.

What Happens if You Take a 50 MG Edible?

If you take a 50 mg edible, you may experience a mild to moderate psychoactive effect depending on your tolerance to cannabis. This could include feelings of relaxation, increased sensory perception, and altered time perception.

Some people may also experience impaired coordination and memory, dry mouth, and increased heart rate. It is important to remember that the effects of cannabis edibles can take longer to onset and last longer than smoking or vaping marijuana, so it is important to start with a low dose and wait at least an hour before consuming more.

Do Edibles Lose Potency?

Yes, edibles can lose potency over time. The potency of edibles depends on several factors, including the quality and freshness of the hemp used to make them, the storage conditions, and the length of time they are stored.

In general, edibles will maintain their potency for up to 6 months if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. After that, the potency will start to decrease and the effects of the edibles may become less pronounced. It is important to check the expiration date on edibles and to properly store them to ensure they maintain their potency.

How Much of an Edible Should You Take the First Time?

It is recommended to start with a small amount of an edible and wait at least an hour before consuming more, as the effects can take time to fully manifest. It is also important to note that individual tolerance levels can vary, so it is best to consult the packaging or a healthcare provider for specific dosage recommendations.

I Accidentally Ate 50 MG of Edibles, What Should I Do?

If you accidentally ate 50 mg of edibles, it is important to remain calm and seek medical attention if necessary. The effects of edibles can be delayed and may not be felt immediately, so it is important to wait and monitor your symptoms.

Here are some steps to take if you accidentally ate 50 mg of edibles:

  1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This can help flush any THC (the active ingredient in marijuana) out of your system.
  2. Avoid consuming alcohol or other drugs, as this can increase the effects of the edibles.
  3. Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. Symptoms of marijuana overdose can include anxiety, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and loss of coordination.
  4. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, call 911 or seek emergency medical care.
  5. Try to relax and take deep breaths to calm yourself.
  6. If you are feeling anxious or paranoid, try to find a safe and quiet space to sit or lie down.
  7. Wait for the effects of the edibles to wear off, which can take several hours.
  8. Consider seeking support from a trusted friend or family member during this time.

It is important to remember that THC can affect everyone differently, so it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

 

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