How long do CBD edibles take to kick in?

What are CBD edibles? 

The term ‘CBD edibles’ refers to any food item that has been infused with cannabidiol (CBD) which is a naturally occurring cannabinoid produced by the cannabis sativa L. Edible CBD products can range from gummies, chocolate, cookies,soft drinks, tea or coffee and are legally sold over-the-counter or sourced online in the UK thanks to changes in regulations regarding the sale and consumption of CBD products in 2019. CBD products sold over the counter must contain no more than 1mg of controlled cannabinoids such as THC per container.

The science behind CBD edibles

Unlike THC, which is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in the plant, CBD is a non-intoxicating compound and does not cause a ‘euphoric’ feeling.

Inside the body there is a large regulatory system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that plays a vital role in maintaining overall balance and homeostasis. It is made up of receptors, enzymes and endocannabinoids (cannabinoids naturally produced by our bodies) that work together to regulate psychological and physiological functions such as mood, pain, sensation, appetite, sleep, inflammation and immune response.

Cannabinoids like CBD interact with the ECS and modulate its functions. CBD has shown a weak affinity to CB1 and CB2, which are receptors in the ECS. Instead of binding to them directly like THC, CBD works by enhancing the effects of the body’s own endocannabinoids.

How long do CBD edibles take to kick in?

When CBD is consumed in edible form, it must first pass through the digestive system before it enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain. 

To answer how long CBD takes to work, we must take into account various factors, such as the method used in taking CBD. It can take longer to feel effects from consuming a CBD gummy compared to other methods such as vaporisation or CBD oil. 

Vaporisation has the fastest absorption rate and quickest onset of effects. Sublingual CBD oil application (putting drops under the tongue and allowing them to absorb) is also a popular method and has faster absorption rates than edibles. Both are able to enter the bloodstream without going through the digestive system and bypassing the liver. CBD gummies are a type of edible, so they usually take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. 

The absorption process for CBD edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, and the timing depends on a number of factors, including:

• Your metabolism

• Your weight and body composition

• The type of food you eat with the edibles (fatty foods can slow down digestion)

• How much food you have eaten that day

• The strength of the CBD contained within the edible

• Your general health and any pre-existing conditions

While it may take CBD edibles longer to kick in compared to other methods, they can also have longer-lasting effects.

On top of this, there is the ‘first pass’ effect. When CBD (and other substances) are consumed orally they pass through the liver before entering the bloodstream, enzymes in the liver break down and metabolise some of the CBD before it can enter circulation. This means that not all of the CBD you eat will actually reach your ECS and potentially reduce overall effects.

How long do the effects of CBD edibles last?

While CBD edibles do not provide the fastest onset of effects and a certain percentage of CBD is broken down before it can reach the bloodstream, they can provide longer-lasting effects. This varies somewhat depending on the individual factors listed above and the strength of the edibles. 

Typically, the effects of CBD edibles are noticeable for anywhere between three and five hours after they are first felt, and traces of CBD in the body can be found for days, sometimes even weeks depending on various factors.

Side effects and who should avoid CBD

CBD has been shown to have a favourable safety profile and is one of the reasons why CBD has been approved for sale without a prescription in the UK. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that

"CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential."

However, as with any medication or supplement, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of when taking CBD edibles. These include:

• Dry mouth (cottonmouth)

• Light-headedness or dizziness

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)

• Fatigue or drowsiness

• Nausea or upset stomach

• Diarrhoea 

Those under 18, breastfeeding, pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid CBD altogether, as well as anyone taking medication as CBD can interact with certain medications and you should consult your doctor before introducing CBD into your treatment plan.

What size dose should I take?

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises that you should not take more than 10mg of CBD a day.

The general advice for people who are starting out on any form of CBD product is to go low and slow.

Most products do come with dosage recommendations and experts often suggest increasing the dosage slowly until the desired effect is reached.

This process is known as titration, and allows you to gradually adjust the dosage based on how your body responds, seeking advice from a doctor is also beneficial.

Conclusion

The rise of CBD as a health and wellness supplement has only risen over the last several years, and with good reason.

This powerful compound derived from the cannabis plant has shown potential in helping to manage a variety of medical conditions.

If you are looking to add CBD to your diet, you might want to consider joining a medical cannabis clinic like Releaf.

Unlike over-the-counter CBD products, a treatment plan with Releaf means you have a specialist doctor to oversee your entire medical cannabis journey and ensure dosages are tailored to you. 

Prescribed CBD products can also include higher levels of THC and other types of cannabinoids that CBD alone may not provide.

To find out if you are eligible, try our free medical cannabis eligibility checker, it takes less than 30 seconds to fill in.

If you pass the eligibility checker, you can book an appointment with one of our specialist doctors who will be able to go over your medical history and determine if medical cannabis can be a treatment option for you.

If accepted, your clinician will begin your treatment plan and your prescription can be delivered directly to your door, regular reviews with your clinician ensures your treatment plan meets your needs.

Frequently asked questions about CBD

How do you know if CBD has kicked in?

CBD does not produce a ‘euphoric’ feeling like THC, some people say they feel calmer.

Do you feel a buzz from CBD?

CBD is non-intoxicating so patients will not feel a ‘buzz,’ THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid which can produce a ‘euphoric’ feeling.

Is a 10mg CBD gummy strong?

The FSA recommends no more than 10mg of CBD per day, if a gummy has 10mg of CBD, you should only take one.

Do CBD edibles work faster on an empty stomach? 

CBD edibles do not work faster on an empty stomach, it creates low absorption rates and shorter duration of effects compared to when taking it with food.