Ever taken a puff or popped an edible and wondered, “When am I going to feel this?” You’re not alone.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned consumer, knowing how long it will take for the effects to kick in and what factors influence that timing can make a big difference in managing your high.
Onset time varies depending on the cannabis product you choose, and this guide will walk you through what to expect from each of them so you can be better prepared during your next sesh.
What is onset time and when will you feel THC effects?
The phrase “onset time” refers to how long it takes for you to feel the effects of a cannabis product you’ve consumed. Onset time varies depending on the type of cannabis product you choose; some take effect almost instantaneously, while others take a while to kick in.
This variability is influenced by several other factors as well, including your tolerance, metabolism, and the method of consumption you choose.
Understanding onset times helps set expectations around when to expect to feel the effects, how intense they might be, and how to better control your experience.
For first-time users especially, knowing what to expect from your chosen cannabis product can help you consume at the right time and avoid overconsumption.
Onset times by consumption method and product type
The onset of a cannabis product’s effects can vary by consumption method as well as product type.
Keep in mind that your own body chemistry, metabolism, and tolerance will still play a part in how quickly you feel the effects.
Here’s a general breakdown of the onset times you can typically expect from cannabis product types and consumption methods.
Smoking
Smoking cannabis flower is one of the fastest ways to feel the effects of cannabis. Most consumers experience a noticeable difference in how their body or mind feels within just a few puffs.
- Expected onset: 1 to 10 minutes
- How it works: Smoking delivers Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis,) directly into your bloodstream via the lungs, allowing it to take effect almost immediately after consumption.
- Tip: Start with a puff or two and wait a few minutes to gauge the effects before consuming more. This helps avoid overconsumption, especially for new or low tolerance consumers.
Vaping
Like smoking, the effects of vaping have a near-instantaneous impact on the body.
Vaping uses heat to release the cannabinoids from cannabis without combustion, meaning there’s no smoke — just vapor. As a result, it’s generally considered a smoother experience compared to smoking, though the onset time is still nearly instantaneous.
- Expected onset: 1 to 10 minutes
- How it works: Vaping delivers cannabinoids directly into the lungs, where they are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, producing effects almost immediately after consumption.
- Tip: Although vaping is smoother on the lungs, it can still produce potent effects. Start slow and be mindful of how much you inhale.
Tinctures
Tinctures, consumed sublingually (under your tongue), allow faster absorption into the bloodstream. Tinctures tend to have a slightly longer onset time compared to smoking or vaping, but they often provide longer-lasting effects as well.
- Expected onset: 15 to 30 minutes for sublingual use; 30 to 60 minutes for topical use
- How it works: When taken sublingually, the cannabinoids in a tincture are absorbed through the mucous membranes in your mouth. Tinctures are also ingested when swallowed, combining relatively fast-acting effects (though not as quick as smoking or vaping,) with long-lasting effects.
- Tip: If using tinctures for general effects, sublingual use is the fastest option. If you’re using them for localized relief (e.g., muscle pain), topical application is ideal.
Edibles
Edibles are known for their delayed onset of effects. Although edibles can take longer to show their effects, the high tends to be more intense and longer-lasting.
- Expected onset: 1 to 23 hours
- How it works: When you consume an edible, it has to pass through the digestive system before it can enter your bloodstream and take effect. This delayed absorption results in a much slower onset of effects. However, as edibles are digested over time they deliver a consistent release of cannabinoids, leading to a longer duration of effects as well.
- Tip: Start with a small amount (typically 5 to 10 mg THC) and wait at least two hours before taking more. Overconsumption is a common mistake with edibles because the effects don’t kick in immediately — always wait to see how an edible affects you before consuming more.
Factors that influence THC onset time
In addition to consumption methods, several personal factors can impact how quickly you feel the effects of cannabis:
- Metabolism: People with faster metabolisms may feel the effects more quickly, while those with slower metabolisms may experience a delayed onset.
- Tolerance: Experienced consumers with a higher tolerance may experience a slower or less intense onset, while new or occasional consumers tend to feel the effects faster and more intensely.
- Body weight and composition: Cannabis is stored in fat cells, so individuals with higher body fat may experience a delayed onset as THC takes longer to be absorbed. Lighter individuals may feel the effects sooner.
- Food intake: If you’ve eaten recently, the onset of effects may take longer, especially for edibles. Food may slow the absorption of cannabis products, while consuming on an empty stomach may speed up the process.
For more information on why cannabis effects everyone differently, check out our guide on the varied ways consumers experience cannabis.
The “Creeper Effect”
Keep in mind that some cannabis consumers experience what’s known as the “creeper effect,” where it takes up to 20 minutes for them to notice any difference when smoking.
As a first-time consumer, starting slow and tracking your experience to find your ‘ideal’ dosage is essential.
Why onset times vary: New vs. experienced consumers
Every consumer is unique, so the information above should be referenced as general guidelines only. Below are some tips to help you consume with your individual experience in mind.
For new consumers
- Start slow and be patient: Begin with a small dose such as 2.5mg of THC and wait for the effects to kick in before considering more. Since onset times can vary, give yourself more time than you think you need to gauge how your body responds.
- Track your experience: Keep a record of how long it takes for you to feel the effects and how intense they are. This will help you adjust your dosage for future sessions.
For more experienced consumers
- Adjust based on your needs: If you’re looking for a quick effect, methods like smoking or vaping are ideal. For longer-lasting effects, consider tinctures or edibles. Stay mindful of your environment.
- Stay mindful of your environment: Be aware of the potential for delayed onset, especially with edibles or tinctures. If you need to be alert or functional (e.g., for work or driving), consider methods with quicker onset times.
Find your ideal THC onset time with Blue Oak
Understanding the onset times of cannabis is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. For those seeking high-quality products and expert advice on cannabis consumption, Blue Oak Dispensary offers a wide selection of premium cannabis products, from fast-acting flower and vapes to slow-release edibles and tinctures.
