How Long Do the Effects of Delta 9 Last?
Delta 9 THC, the most prominent cannabinoid in hemp plants, has taken the limelight because of its potential benefits. As many individuals are exploring its effects, one common question is, “How long do the effects of Delta 9 last?”
We prepared this blog to help you understand the duration of Delta 9 effects. Here, we will provide you with the factors that influence its potency. We also included the typical timeframe for the mentioned effects and when they can subside.
It is our belief that by understanding these things, you can better plan your consumption and optimize your Delta 9 experience.
Duration of Delta 9 Effects
The duration and onset of Delta 9 effects typically depend on how it is ingested. Today, one will learn of Different Delta 9 THC delivery methods to experience its potential therapeutic benefits. We briefly discuss them below:
Vaped or Smoked Cannabis (Delta 9 THC)
Onset: 5 to 15 minutes
Duration: Probably up to 5 hours
Smoked cannabis or vaped Delta 9 THC is one of the fastest ways to experience Delta 9 effects. These may last typically within 5 to 15 minutes. Once inhaled, the cannabinoid goes directly into the bloodstream through the lungs.
Methods include:
Delta 9 THC Edibles (Delta 9 THC Gummies)
Onset: Estimated to be 45 minutes to 1 hour
Duration: This feature varies per user. However, it is often longer than smoked cannabis or hemp products.
Consuming Delta 9 THC in edible form (e.g., gummies for sleep) requires the cannabinoid to pass through the digestive system, where it undergoes first-pass liver metabolism.
Consuming edible is a hemp or cannabis use that leads to a longer process. As a result, users may experience a longer onset of effects. It could range from 45 minutes to one hour.
Several factors may influence this timing, such as body weight, metabolism, the strength of the gummy, and recent food intake.
Delta 9 THC Oils
Onset: 5 to 10 minutes
Duration: Peak effects may become evident at 30 to 45 minutes
When placed under the tongue, hemp and cannabis users swiftly experience the effects of Delta 9 THC from oils and tinctures.
If you are wondering why, here is how it happens: Our tongue comprises mucosal membranes. They connect directly to the body’s circulatory system. When you place Delta 9 THC through these membranes, it bypasses the digestive system and liver.
Research and personal accounts conclude that the effects of Delta 9 THC oils and tinctures could typically manifest within 5 to 10 minutes and can peak after 30 to 45 minutes.
Delta 9 THC Capsules
Onset: 30 to 90 minutes
Duration: 6 to 12 hours
Encapsulated Delta 9 THC provides a controlled dose. Many cannabis users prefer this kind of feature. According to testimonials, users should take Delta 9 THC capsules 30 minutes before meals for optimal digestion and absorption.
The onset of effects can range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on individual metabolism. THC capsules offer long-lasting effects, often 6 to 12 hours, making them suitable for long-term symptom relief.
Factors Influencing Delta 9 THC Effects
Delta 9 THC’s effects differ among individuals. Several factors help determine the duration of these effects for each person. Below is a concise overview of these considerations:
Age
As we age, our metabolic rate slows. This change can affect how quickly THC is processed or eliminated from the body.
As such, older individuals might experience a prolonged duration of Delta 9 THC effects. Their bodies need more time to metabolize and clear the psychoactive cannabinoid.
This factor also influences sensitivity to THC brought about by hemp or cannabis use. Those who are greatly advanced in age may have heightened sensitivity, resulting in more pronounced psychoactive effects and even psychological dependence even at lower doses of Delta 9 THC.
Studies also suggest that age-related conditions and medications may interact with Delta 9 THC effects. Consequently, our older friends have an increased risk of experiencing Delta 9 THC’s adverse effects during their hemp or cannabis use. There are certain cardiovascular and neurological conditions common among the elderly may enhance the effects of Delta 9 THC.
Weight
Delta 9 THC is lipophilic, which means it is stored in fat cells. This means that weightier cannabis users with higher body fat percentages can experience prolonged Delta 9 THC effects. Health experts explain that the psychoactive cannabinoid within the body is gradually released from fat stores.
Body weight also affects the appropriate Delta 9 THC dosage regardless of the type of cannabis products one is consuming. Heavier individuals could require higher doses of Delta 9 THC to achieve the desired effects. On the other hand, lighter individuals might experience stronger effects from smaller amounts.
Lastly, people with larger body mass can result in a greater volume of distribution. This situation may potentially dilute the concentration of Delta 9 THC in the bloodstream, leading to milder initial effects.
Metabolism
Metabolism plays a crucial role in how quickly Delta 9 THC becomes processed and disposed of from the body. Generally, a faster metabolism leads to quicker onset but shorter duration of Delta 9 THC effects and vice versa.
Variations in liver enzyme activity play a role in metabolism. Some cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP2C9 and CYP34A) can influence how the human body processes Delta 9 THC. People possessing higher enzyme activity may metabolize THC more quickly, reducing its duration of action.
Tolerance
Frequent users of Delta 9 THC can lead to the development of tolerance toward the cannabinoid. This means that higher doses are needed to experience desired effects. The downregulation of cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system explains why this is so.
For such reason, experts suggest tolerance breaks. These may begin with a low dose to periods of abstinence, which may help reset the body’s Delta 9 THC sensitivity. Some individuals naturally develop tolerance more quickly than others, depending on genetic factors and frequency of use.
Diet
Aside from the consumption methods available, the presence of food also influences the duration of Delta 9 THC effects. Eating Delta 9 THC edibles on an empty stomach leads to quicker and more intense effects.
On the other hand, consuming these hemp or cannabis products with food may slow down absorption. However, it may also enhance the overall bioavailability of THC. This is particularly true if you consume fatty foods.
As you ingest Delta 9 THC, it undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver. Afterward, it is converted to 11-hydroxy-THC, which is a more potent THC metabolite. The efficiency of cannabis potency and the mentioned process are influenced by diet and digestive health.
Delta 9 THC and the Human Central Nervous System (CNS)
Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol, one of the major cannabinoids in both hemp and cannabis plants, demonstrates a complex and multifaceted relationship with the central nervous system.
Mechanism of Action
Delta 9 THC exerts its effects through the human endocannabinoid system. The latter is a recently discovered body system that consists of endogenous cannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Cannabinoid Receptors
There are two main receptors in the ECS: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are commonly found in the CNS. Studies suggest they relate to cognition, memory, pain, and motor coordination.
Delta 9 THC potentially binds to CB1 receptors. The said interaction mediates most of the cannabinoid’s psychoactive effects.
CB2 receptors are located in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells. These innate receptors are more involved in the body’s immune response and inflammation modulation.
Endocannabinoids
The human body has natural cannabinoids that bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. They regulate specific bodily functions. Two of these cannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
Enzymes
The enzymes FAAH and MAGL are believed to break down endocannabinoids following their activity.
Effects on the Central Nervous System
Delta 9 THC affects the central nervous system in the following manner:
Psychoactive Effects
When Delta 9 THC activates the CB1 receptors in the brain’s reward pathways, it may lead to increased dopamine release. This explains why medical and recreational cannabis can offer feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
Motor Control and Coordination
Delta 9 THC interaction with CB1 receptors located in the cerebellum may affect one’s motor condition. For this reason, occasional cannabis users are advised not to drive or operate skill-related tasks.
Neuroprotection
Some randomized clinical trials about Delta 9 THC suggest that Delta 9 THC may protect brain cells because it has properties that fight against damage to the brain. In other research, Delta 9 THC shows promise in reducing harmful overactivity in the brain.
Pain Modulation
Because Delta 9 THC can modulate pain signaling pathways, it may offer pain relief to the human body. This is one of the reasons why Delta 9 THC is being studied for its potential medical use.
Potential Medical Benefits of Delta 9 THC
Pain Relief
Cannabis use (including Delta 9 THC) may help people manage their recurring pain perception. This is true for patients who have developed tolerance to other pain medications.
Cognitive Enhancement
Delta 9 THC has been linked to improving a person’s cognitive faculties. This effect could greatly help people in need of creativity and problem-solving skills.
Inflammation Reduction
Delta 9 THC is also believed to help minimize inflammation, which can offer relief to individuals experiencing muscle and joint pains.
Sleep Aid
Many are into hemp and cannabis use because Delta 9 THC helps with quality sleep. People struggling with sleeplessness could benefit from such an effect.
Stress Relief
Because Delta 9 THC can produce calming effects, it could help people who are always stressed after facing a demanding day.
Delta 9 THC Legal Status
The legal status of Delta 9 THC (the primary psychoactive component in hemp and cannabis plants) is quite complex. In fact, its legality could vary between federal law and several state laws.
At the federal level, Delta 9 THC obtained from the cannabis sativa plant (aka hemp) with less than 0.3% is treated to be federally legal. However, if the percentage goes up, the product may be deemed illegal. This is because the product may be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance.
Now, as you visit the different states, you’ll discover that Delta 9 THC’s legal status is treated differently. In some territories, cannabis products are legal for both medical and recreational purposes. In the mentioned regions, purchasing Delta 9 THC items over the counter is allowed as long as they comply with established state regulations. However, in other states, Delta 9 THC remains illegal even if it is used for medical purposes.
Delta 9 THC Possible Adverse Effects
Delta 9 THC can lead to certain side effects if consumed irresponsibly.
Short-Term Effects
Long-Term Effects