How Long Do CBD Edibles Last?

CBD edibles typically last between 6 to 8 hours: with effects kicking in within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption, effects beginning to wear off in the first 4-6 hours and effects completely wearing off in the last 6-8 hours. The range depends on factors like dosage, metabolism, and individual biochemistry.

CBD, or cannabidiol, has surged in popularity over the past few years. As people look for natural alternatives for reducing stress, improving sleep, and managing other conditions, CBD edibles have become a popular option.

Consumers want to know how long CBD edibles last to effectively manage their dosage and plan their daily activities around the expected effects.

Understanding the duration of action helps ensure they experience the desired benefits without unexpected interruptions or side effects. So... how long do CBD edibles last?

This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about the duration of effects from CBD edibles, including factors that influence their longevity, types of edibles, and tips for optimizing your experience.

Understanding CBD Edibles

CBD edibles are food products infused with cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants.

Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce a high, making it a preferred choice for those seeking therapeutic benefits without the mind-altering effects.

Edibles come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, cookies, and beverages, making them a discreet and tasty way to consume CBD.

The Journey of CBD Edibles Through Your Body

To understand how long CBD edibles last, it's essential to know the journey they take through your body:

1. Consumption: When you eat a CBD edible, it first travels to your stomach.
2. Digestion: The edible is broken down by stomach acids and enzymes.
3. Absorption: The CBD is absorbed through the stomach lining and into the bloodstream.
4. Liver Processing: Before reaching the bloodstream, CBD passes through the liver, where it is metabolized. This process, known as the first-pass effect, can reduce the concentration of CBD.
5. Systemic Circulation: After liver processing, the remaining CBD enters the bloodstream and begins to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), producing its effects.

How Long Do CBD Edibles Take to Kick In?

CBD edibles generally take longer to kick in compared to other forms of CBD, such as oils or vapes. This delay is due to the digestion and absorption process. On average, you can expect to feel the effects of CBD edibles within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. The onset time can vary based on several factors, including your metabolism, body weight, and whether you've eaten other foods.

Duration of Effects: When They Start to Subside

The effects of CBD edibles can last significantly longer than other forms of CBD. Typically, the duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, with effects starting to wear off in the first 4-6 hours. This prolonged duration makes edibles an excellent choice for those seeking long-lasting relief from symptoms.

Duration of Effects: When They Fully Wear Off

The effects of CBD edibles will fully wear off in the last 6-8 hours, although, some users have reported sustained effects up until 12 hours. This usually happens in rare cases and has to do with variable factors influencing the duration. 

Factors Influencing the Duration of CBD Edibles

Several factors can influence how long the effects of CBD edibles last. Understanding these can help you better predict and manage your CBD experience:

1. Dosage: The amount of CBD in the edible plays a crucial role. Higher doses generally result in longer-lasting effects. Beginners should start with a low dose (10-20 mg) and gradually increase until they find their optimal dose.
2. Metabolism: Your metabolism affects how quickly your body processes and eliminates CBD. People with faster metabolisms may experience shorter durations, while those with slower metabolisms may find the effects lasting longer.
3. Body Weight and Composition: Heavier individuals or those with higher body fat percentages may require larger doses of CBD to achieve the same effects as lighter individuals. Body composition can also affect how long the effects last.
4. Tolerance: Regular users of CBD may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can also influence how long the effects last.
5. Food Intake: Consuming CBD edibles on an empty stomach can lead to faster onset and shorter duration of effects. Conversely, eating them with a meal, particularly one high in fat, can slow absorption and prolong the effects.
6. Individual Biochemistry: Everyone's body is unique, and individual variations in the endocannabinoid system can influence how long CBD effects last.

Types of CBD Edibles and Their Durations

Different types of CBD edibles can have varying onset times and durations. Here are some common types and what to expect:

1. CBD Gummies: Gummies are one of the most popular forms of edibles. They typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, with effects lasting 4 to 8 hours. Sunday Scaries CBD gummies kick in faster (20-30 mins) and last longer (~8 hours) due to the increased bioavailability in our proprietary, full-spectrum 696B CBD oil. The effects of extra strength CBD gummies last even even longer due to the increase in mg dosing: 25mg per gummy. 
2. CBD Chocolates: Similar to gummies, chocolates have a similar onset time and duration. The presence of fats in chocolate may slightly prolong the effects.
3. CBD Beverages: Drinks infused with CBD may be absorbed more quickly than solid edibles, potentially leading to faster onset times (15-45 minutes). However, the duration of effects is usually similar, lasting 4 to 8 hours.
4. CBD Capsules: While not a traditional edible, capsules follow a similar digestive path. They take about 1-2 hours to kick in and can last up to 8 hours.
5. CBD Baked Goods: Cookies, brownies, and other baked goods take about 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working, with effects lasting 4 to 8 hours. The high-fat content in these products can help extend the duration of effects.
6. CBD Candy: CBD candy typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours, similar to other CBD edibles. However, the exact duration can vary depending on whether the candy is chewed or allowed to dissolve slowly. Chewing CBD candy can lead to a quicker onset and shorter duration, while allowing it to dissolve might prolong the effects slightly compared to other types of CBD edibles.

Tips for Optimizing Your CBD Edible Experience

To get the most out of your CBD edibles, consider these tips:

1. Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a low dose, between 10-20 mg, especially if you are new to CBD. Gradually increase the dose until you find the right balance for your needs.
2. Be Patient: Since edibles take longer to kick in, resist the urge to take more if you don't feel the effects immediately. Wait at least 2 hours before considering an additional dose.
3. Track Your Usage: Keep a journal to record your doses, onset times, and duration of effects. This can help you identify patterns and adjust your consumption accordingly.
4. Consider Timing: Plan your CBD edible consumption based on when you need relief. For example, if you need help sleeping, take your edible 1-2 hours before bedtime. You can also consider a CBD sleep oil which is faster acting (20-30 minutes) since it absorbs directly into the mucous membrane of your mouth lining when consumed sublingually. 
5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help mitigate any potential side effects, such as dry mouth, and ensure a smoother experience.

The Synergistic Power of CBD Edibles and Mindfulness Practices

One unique aspect of CBD edibles that often goes unnoticed is their potential to enhance mindfulness practices.

As the calming effects of CBD set in, engaging in activities like meditation for sleep & anxiety, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can amplify the benefits. CBD is also being used for dealing with the mental turmoil that occurs when suffering from the sunday scaries, sunday blues, hangxiety, hangover depression and post-concert depression. Mindfulness practices enhance the CBD's efficacy and extend the positive effects when dealing with these modern life stressors. 

The prolonged release of CBD from edibles can create a sustained period of relaxation, allowing you to deepen your mindfulness practice and achieve a state of tranquility more easily.

This combination not only helps manage stress and anxiety more effectively but also promotes a holistic approach to wellness that integrates both body and mind.

By aligning your CBD consumption with mindful practices, you can create a more profound and lasting impact on your overall well-being.

8 Ways To Help CBD Edibles Wear Off More Quickly: 

We made a list for you to help decrease the amount of time CBD edibles will last in case you aren't liking the effects: 

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush CBD out of your system.

2. Consume Fatty Foods: Eating foods high in fat can help metabolize CBD more quickly.

3. Exercise: Physical activity can boost your metabolism and help your body process CBD faster.

4. Take a Nap: Resting can help your body naturally process and diminish the effects of CBD.

5. Use Citrus Fruits: Consuming citrus fruits like oranges or lemons may help counteract the effects.

6. Relaxing Activities: Engaging in calming activities like yoga or meditation can help you feel more comfortable as the effects wear off.

7. Black Pepper: Chewing on black peppercorns or smelling them can sometimes help reduce the intensity of CBD effects.

8. Wait it Out: The effects of CBD will naturally diminish over time, so being patient is often the best approach. 

Potential Side Effects

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects, particularly at higher doses. Common side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Changes in appetite
• Diarrhea

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, consider lowering your dose or discontinuing use.

It's also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Conclusion

CBD edibles offer a convenient, discreet, and tasty way to consume cannabidiol. Understanding how long the effects last and the factors that influence this duration can help you make informed decisions and optimize your CBD experience.

Remember, individual experiences with CBD can vary, so it's essential to find what works best for you through careful experimentation and observation.

If you want to enhance the effects of CBD edibles, try engaging in mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation or journaling after consumption.

If you want to speed up how long it takes for CBD edibles to wear off, try exercising, taking a nap, or some of the other tips in the list above. 

With the right approach, CBD edibles can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine, providing long-lasting relief and support for a variety of needs.