How Long Do THC Edibles Stay in Your System?

Eating a THC edible affects your body differently than other methods like smoking, This can affect both your experiences as well as how long THC can be detected in your body. Knowing how THC affects your body can aid in smart decision making, especially if you have a chance of having to get a drug test.

How Your Body Processes Edibles

THC that you inhale goes into your bloodstream via your lungs. Comparatively, edibles work differently. They have to go through your digestive system first. The THC in your body will then convert to a stronger, more effective chemical called 11-hydroxy-THC in your liver. This is the reason why having edibles can have even greater effects than smoking. This chemical is fat-soluble, meaning it can be stored in your body’s fat cells.

Factors That Influence Detection Time

Several key factors determine how long THC from edibles will stay in your system. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Frequency of Use: Chronic or frequent users will have THC accumulate in their fat tissues, leading to a much longer detection window compared to an occasional user.
Dosage: A higher dose of THC will naturally take longer for your body to process and eliminate.
Metabolism: Individuals with a faster metabolism will process and excrete THC more quickly. Body fat percentage also plays a role; since THC is stored in fat, a higher body fat percentage can lead to longer retention times.

Detection Windows for Drug Tests

The type of test being administered is the most critical factor in whether THC will be detected.
Urine: This is the most common testing method. For a single use, THC may be detectable for up to 3 days. For moderate users (several times per week), it can be 5-7 days. For daily users, it can be 30 days or more.
Blood: THC is detectable in the blood for a much shorter time, typically only 1-2 days after a single use. However, for heavy users, it can be detected for up to 25 days.
Saliva: Saliva tests usually detect recent use. THC can be found in oral fluid for 1-3 days for occasional users and up to 29 days for chronic, heavy users.
Hair: Hair follicle tests have the longest detection window, capable of showing THC use for up to 90 days.