Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that affects the mind and body. It can be used both recreationally and medicinally. A typical high caused by smoking marijuana lasts approximately two hours; its duration may increase when taken orally through edibles or another method; additionally, this will depend on both strain type and method of consumption.
An individual’s tolerance level to THC, the psychoactive chemical found in cannabis, also plays a crucial role in how long its effects will remain effective. Regular users tend to develop higher THC tolerance than first-time users; prolonged marijuana use may even result in negative side effects like dry mouth and anxiety.
How long a marijuana high will last depends on both its method and amount consumed. Typically, the more THC consumed increases its duration. Inhaling cannabis through a joint or pipe generally has the quickest onset time; peak effects typically hit within 10 minutes and slowly fade 1 – 3 hours later.
Consuming marijuana through a concentrate or vaporizer will have slower-acting effects due to cannabinoids passing through your digestive system first and reaching your bloodstream; thus taking 30 to 2 hours before they manifest as effects in your system.
Smoking marijuana immediately releases cannabinoids into their lungs and begins interacting with endocannabinoid receptors in both brain and body – this happens for those who consume flower, kief, hash or concentrates – usually providing fast and potency effects of smoking.
Edibles take longer to work, yet can last as long as 24 hours, because THC must pass through the digestive tract before entering your bloodstream and acting upon endocannabinoid receptors.
If you are new to smoking marijuana or seeking to prolong its effects, increasing THC concentration in your strain of choice or switching to edibles may help extend its effects. When increasing THC dosage incrementally be mindful not to overdo it as this could cause serious health risks. Overdoing marijuana can have uncomfortable and even dangerous side effects. Drowsiness, dizziness, loss of coordination and gaps in memory are just some of the side effects. Some users may even experience psychosis or hallucinations upon overindulgence. To mitigate these symptoms, it’s essential to eat before getting high and have water handy to avoid dehydration and munchies. Furthermore, having someone you trust with you if you choose to get high can provide added safety and support if something goes wrong on the trip. If something does go wrong on a trip it is important to inform a medical provider immediately so they can assist with finding appropriate treatments – depending on its severity may even require entering drug treatment programs.