How long does a weed high last? This is a question that every cannabis user has asked at one point or another. While it’s nowhere near an exact science, there are some main factors that can affect how long a high will last.

You may already have an idea of how long an edible high lasts, but you’re curious about where smoking and vaping fall on the spectrum. Here are some of the main things that can affect how long a weed high lasts when you smoke, vape, or dab cannabis.

7 Key Factors Affecting How Long Weed High Lasts

1. Active cannabinoids

From non-psychoactive CBD (cannabidiol) to intoxicating Delta-9 THC (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol), the effects of cannabis — and how long they last — can vary based on the type of cannabinoids you’re ingesting. The more psychoactive cannabinoids your weed contains, the more potent it will be and the longer the high may last.

2. Method of consumption

From smoking to vaping to dabbing, different methods of consumption are known to have different strengths. Smoking from a joint, bong, or bowl may lead to less potent effects than a more concentrated vape, while THC concentrates like dab badder or classic hash will typically be the most potent and lead to more powerful, long-lasting highs.

While smoking and vaping offer quick onset and shorter-lasting effects, edibles provide a different experience. Edibles take longer to kick in, usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours, and their effects can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours or more. This is due to the way THC is metabolized by the liver, converting it into a more potent form, which results in a more prolonged and intense high compared to smoking or vaping.

3. THC levels

While the method of consumption is important when it comes to smoking cannabis, so is the THC content. You may not know the exact mg of THC in a vape or flower like you would with edible gummies or brownies, but you should have an idea of the percentage of THC in any given product and how potent or concentrated it is. This will affect how hard the vape or flower hits, as well as how long the high may last.

4. Quantity inhaled

Of course, equally important to the THC content of your cannabis is how much you actually ingest. The more flower, vape, or dabs you smoke, the larger the amount of cannabis you’re consuming becomes — and the stronger your cannabis high will be. This is why new cannabis users are always suggested to start with one or two small puffs of a product and wait to see how they feel.

5. Your metabolism

Marijuana use impacts everybody differently and can even affect the same individual differently over time. Whether it’s your first time using cannabis or you’re a regular user, it’s essential to understand how cannabis interacts with your unique metabolism and digestive system, so you can dose products in a way that creates your desired high — from how strong it feels, to how long it lasts.

The general rule of thumb is that higher doses of THC take longer to metabolize than low doses, so always start low and slow to avoid any unwanted side effects of marijuana. From various health effects like a sped-up heart rate or temporary memory impairment to less serious sensations like red eyes or munchies, different cannabis products feel different for everyone.

Staying hydrated and eating before or after consuming cannabis can significantly impact your experience. Eating a balanced meal before consumption can help moderate the intensity of the high and prevent discomfort.

Hydration is crucial, as it can alleviate common side effects like dry mouth and dizziness. Consuming cannabis on an empty stomach may lead to a stronger and sometimes overwhelming high, so it's generally recommended to have a light snack beforehand.

6. Your Level of Cannabis Use

Another significant factor that impacts how long a weed high lasts is your level and frequency of cannabis use. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned user can make a substantial difference in the duration and intensity of your high.

• First-time users:

  For those who are new to cannabis, the high can often be more intense and longer-lasting due to a lack of tolerance. First-time users might experience prolonged effects because their bodies are not yet accustomed to processing THC.

• Occasional users:

  People who use cannabis occasionally may find that their high lasts longer compared to regular users, but not as long as first-time users. Their bodies have developed some tolerance, but not enough to significantly diminish the effects.

• Regular users:

  Regular cannabis users typically have higher tolerance levels, which means that their highs might not last as long. Over time, the body becomes more efficient at processing and metabolizing THC, leading to shorter high durations. Regular users might need to consume larger quantities to achieve the desired effects.

7. Product Storage

Proper storage of cannabis products is essential to maintain their potency and quality. Store your cannabis in a cool, dark place, preferably in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air, light, and moisture.

These factors can degrade THC and other cannabinoids, reducing the product's effectiveness over time. For long-term storage, consider using glass jars with airtight seals and keeping them in a dark cupboard or drawer.

Tolerance Breaks for Stronger Effects

Regular cannabis users often find that over time, they need higher doses to achieve the same high. Taking a tolerance break can reset your body’s response to THC, allowing you to experience stronger effects after the break. A tolerance break, lasting from a few days to a few weeks, can help lower your tolerance, making smaller doses more effective and potentially extending the duration of the high.

Find Your Perfect High

If you’re looking to experiment with smoking or vaping, you’ve come to the right place. Mood is an online dispensary delivering high-quality, 100% legal cannabis to your doorstep. Explore our selection of flower, vapes, and concentrates today.