Edibles in Austin
Edible marijuana has become increasingly popular here in Austin. People who have used drugs or smoked marijuana before believe there are benefits of “not smoking.” Or those who have never tried drugs see gummies or brownies as less intimidating. Either way, they give it a try. Many people see edibles as a harmless, smokeless option, but some realities should be considered.
First, unlike smoking, the effects of edible marijuana can take much longer to kick in and can last for several hours. It can also be difficult to determine the appropriate dosage, which can lead to overconsumption and potentially dangerous side effects.
As well, edible marijuana can stay in your system for more extended periods of time, which can have implications for those who may be subject to drug testing. The answer to “How long do edibles stay in your system?” is not exactly straightforward.
What Are Edibles?
Marijuana stays in your system for a relatively significant length of time, but what about edibles? Edibles are a common term for food items infused with marijuana, generally using THC oil. Some evidence suggests that people have been eating marijuana as far back as 1000 BC. But does it stay in your system longer than smoked marijuana?
How Your Body Metabolizes Edibles
Edibles are not the same as eating raw cannabis, as raw marijuana has to go through decarboxylation to provide the user with the high. This process is done by heating the plant, which is why marijuana is usually smoked. However, when raw cannabis is cooked in oil, the oil is infused with decarboxylated marijuana; this creates the properties that make a person “high.”
Edibles are metabolized in the liver, where the THC is placed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain. The liver converts the THC into a much more potent chemical, which is why edible highs are much more intense than a high from smoking. An edible high will begin anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption and can last up to 12 hours (with some minor residual effects continuing to occur up to 24 hours later).
The peak high hits around the 4-hour mark in many cases, but this can vary based on a person’s height, weight, and metabolism.s
Evidence suggests that regular use of edible marijuana leads to a substance use disorder and could require a drug rehab. Individuals need to be aware of the risks and reach out to a qualified marijuana rehab if they suspect addiction. In addition to marijuana use disorder, marijuana has been shown to affect certain mental health disorders negatively. The psychoactive compound in marijuana can disrupt the brain’s natural balance of chemicals and neurotransmitters, leading to altered perceptions and thoughts. Schizophrenia (or any psychosis), depression, and anxiety can all be made worse with regular marijuana use.
Types of Edibles
Edibles are often used in baked goods, like cookies or brownies. They’ll appear in branded packaging that looks very similar to candy brands like Nerds, Sour Patch Kids, Warheads, Airheads, and more. However, in recent years, edibles often come in multiple gummy varieties.
Average Detection Time
When it comes to drug tests, detection times can come from a range based on factors like dosage and consistency of use. Marijuana edibles, like smoking THC, can be detected in saliva, blood, urine, and hair. The reports on this vary, but as a general guide:
How long do edibles stay in your system?
- Urine: three to seven days
- Blood: three hours to two days
- Saliva: one to three days
- Hair: 30 to 90 days
Edible Marijuana Addiction
Again, it is important to remember that edibles can become addictive. Marijuana addiction impacts the person’s life as well as those close to them. When someone is constantly high, they are a shell of themselves. Addiction of this kind is a form of escape that feels fine because it is becoming legal in many places. But that doesn’t change the fact that the root issues of addiction are still in play. Marijuana can quickly become the priority for a heavy user—family, friends, hobbies, school, work, ambition … real life; these things fade away.
Edible Addiction Help in Austin
If you or a loved one is struggling with a marijuana use disorder, we are here to help you find the tools for recovery. Heartwood Recovery rehab in Austin is dedicated to helping men overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery. With evidence-based treatment approaches and a supportive community, Heartwood offers individualized treatment plans to address each person’s unique needs.
Through cognitive-behavioral addiction treatment therapy, group addiction therapy, 12 Step Immersion in Austin, and more men can gain the tools necessary to find lasting recovery. Additionally, Heartwood provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to connect with others who are also on the path to recovery, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Don’t wait to seek help for a marijuana addiction — reach out to Heartwood Recovery today to start your journey towards lasting recovery.
