How Long Does a Cannabis High Last?

Cannabis has been a part of human culture for centuries, and its use has evolved from traditional rituals to modern-day recreational and medicinal applications. In Canada, the legalization of cannabis has not only changed the legal landscape but also expanded the conversation around responsible use and the understanding of its effects on the human body. 

This blog aims to unravel the complexities of cannabis effects, focusing on the experience it offers, the factors that influence its impact, and the various methods of consumption.

The Cannabis Experience: What to Expect

When we talk about a “cannabis high,” we’re referring to the psychoactive effects induced by the compounds present in the cannabis plant. The experience can vary widely from person to person, influenced by the strain, the THC content, and the individual’s physiology. Here’s what you need to know:

Grasping the Cannabis High

THC, the primary active ingredient, engages with the body’s cannabinoid system to elicit a range of responses. Typical reactions during a high may include:

• Euphoria: Many report a sense of well-being or happiness.
• Relaxation: A common effect is feeling more relaxed or stress-free.
• Altered Perception: Senses might be heightened, and time may seem to slow down.
• Increased Appetite: Often referred to as “the munchies,” many feel hungrier when high.
• Creativity Boost: Some experience a surge in creativity and free-flowing thoughts.

These effects tend to appear swiftly, particularly with smoking or vaping, peaking within a few hours. Edibles, however, introduce THC through the digestive tract, leading to a slower onset and prolonged duration.

New Users: Expectations vs. Reality

If you’re new to cannabis, it’s vital to align your expectations with reality. Here’s a brief rundown:

Expectation: Immediate and Strong Effects

Reality: The onset and intensity of a cannabis high can vary. Smoking or vaping can lead to a rapid onset of effects, while edibles take longer to kick in. The THC content and your body weight are just a few of the various factors that affect the experience.

Expectation: One Size Fits All

Reality: Cannabis affects everyone differently. Several factors affect the consumption method, such as the TCH concentration and even the strain of the cannabis plant.

Expectation: No Side Effects

Reality: While many enjoy the effects of cannabis, some may experience adverse effects. It’s possible to feel anxious, have a dry mouth, or experience dizziness, especially with high THC concentrate products.

Expectation: Consistent Experience

Reality: Even for seasoned users, consuming more cannabis doesn’t always mean a more potent high. Potential cannabis synergy, where different cannabinoids and terpenes interact, can alter the effects.

Expectation: Edibles are the Same as Smoking

Reality: Edible cannabis is processed differently in the body, often resulting in a more intense and longer-lasting high. It’s advisable to start with a low dose and wait a few hours to fully understand how it affects you.

Expectation: Cannabis is Only for Getting High

Reality: Many use cannabis for its therapeutic properties, such as pain relief and sedative effects. The psychoactive effects are just one aspect of what the cannabis plant has to offer.

Managing THC: Controlling Your High

Should the THC effects prove too intense, you can take steps to lessen them:

• Cooling Down: A cold shower or bath might help in reducing the high’s strength.
• Staying Hydrated and Rested: Drinking fluids and rest can ease the high fading process.
• Conscious Use: Keep an eye on your THC intake. With edibles, it’s best to start small and be patient.

What is Cannabis High?

The high from cannabis is a shift in your state of mind that happens after you use it. You might feel a mix of mental and physical changes, from a rush of joy and calm to sharper senses and a bigger appetite. How strong these effects are can depend on how much THC you take in, how you use the cannabis, and personal things like your size and how used to THC you are.

How Does THC Get You High?

As you take in cannabis, THC travels into your blood and then to your brain’s endocannabinoid system. This system has receptors that help control different parts of your body. THC sticks to these receptors, especially the CB1 type found in your brain and nerves. This is what sets off the high.

The high can hit you fast or slow, and it all comes down to how you use the cannabis:

• Inhaling Cannabis: Smoking or vaping gets THC into your blood through your lungs fast, usually bringing on effects in minutes.
• Eating Cannabis: Edibles make THC go through your stomach first, so it takes longer, usually one to three hours, for the high to start.
• Strong THC Products: Items with a lot of THC can give you a stronger and longer high.

The Feel of Different Cannabis Types

Cannabis types, or strains, have their own mix of chemicals that can change the high you feel. This mix might strengthen some effects, like easing pain, making you sleepy, or giving you a more intense high.

• Indica Strains: These are often for chilling out and sleep, and many pick them for nighttime.
• Sativa Strains: These can lift your mood and energy, so they’re good for daytime.
• Hybrid Strains: These have a bit of both Indica and Sativa, offering a middle ground between calming and energizing.

Types of Cannabis Products and Their Effects

Cannabis enthusiasts have a plethora of options when it comes to consuming their favored herb. Each method of consumption comes with its own set of effects, onset times, and durations influenced by THC content, body weight, individual tolerance, and various other factors.

Cannabis Flowers

The most traditional method, smoking cannabis flowers, involves inhaling the smoke from the burned buds of the cannabis plant. This method is renowned for its:

• Quick Onset: The effects of smoking are almost immediate, typically peaking within minutes.
• Ease of Use: It requires minimal preparation and equipment.
• Social Ritual: Often enjoyed in a group setting, enhancing the communal aspect of cannabis use.

However, smoking cannabis can introduce combustion byproducts and may affect respiratory health. It’s also harder to gauge how much THC you’re consuming, which can lead to a more unpredictable high.

Cannabis Vapes

Vaping has emerged as a popular alternative to smoking, offering a less harsh experience by heating cannabis to release its active compounds without combustion. Its benefits include:

• Controlled Dosage: Vape devices can often control heat settings, affecting THC delivery.
• Rapid Onset: Like smoking, vaping provides quick effects with a slightly cleaner taste and experience.
• Discretion: Vape pens offer a more discreet way to consume cannabis, with less odor and visible smoke.

Vaping cannabis can deliver a high THC concentration, potentially leading to a more intense high. It’s essential to consider the potential cannabis synergy when vaping, as the combination of THC with other cannabinoids and terpenes can enhance the effects.

Cannabis Edibles

Edibles offer a smoke-free alternative to consuming cannabis, with effects that are markedly different from inhalation methods. Key points about edibles include:

• Longer Duration: The effects of edibles can last several hours, peaking at one to three hours post-consumption.
• Measured Dosing: Edibles often come with specified amounts of THC, making it easier to consume a low dose, especially for those with lower THC tolerance.
• Delayed Onset: The THC in edibles is metabolized by the digestive system, leading to a slower onset of effects.

When consuming edibles, it’s crucial to start with a small amount and wait to understand how they affect you, as the delayed onset can lead to overconsumption and adverse effects.

Cannabis Topicals

Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils applied directly to the skin for localized relief. They are characterized by:

• Non-Psychoactive Effects: Topicals typically do not produce a cannabis high, as THC is not absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Targeted Relief: They are used for specific areas, relieving pain and reducing inflammation.
• Ease of Use: Topicals can be applied as needed without any psychoactive effects, making them suitable for use at any time of day.

Topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin but do not enter the bloodstream, making them an ideal choice for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high.

How Each Product Type Influences the Duration of a High

The duration of a cannabis high is not only a matter of personal experience but also a result of the consumption method chosen. Here’s how each type can affect the length of the high:

• Flowers and Concentrates: The effects from smoking or vaping tend to onset rapidly but also dissipate quicker, usually within a few hours.
• Edibles: Due to the THC being processed by the liver into a more potent form, the high from edibles can last much longer, often several hours, with a more gradual decline.
• Topicals: While topicals do not produce a high, their therapeutic effects can last for hours after application, providing prolonged relief.

Factors That Affect the Cannabis Experience

The cannabis experience is subjective and can be influenced by a myriad of factors, such as:

• THC Percentages: Higher concentrations can lead to more intense effects.
• Body Weight: This may affect the amount of cannabis needed to achieve the desired effects.
• Consumption Method: The method used can determine both the onset and duration of the high.
• THC Tolerance: Regular users may find they require more cannabis to reach the same level of high as newcomers.

Where to Buy Premium Cannabis in Canada

When it comes to purchasing premium cannabis, the Canadian market offers a plethora of options. However, not all sources are created equal. High-quality cannabis should provide a clear, clean high and be free of any harmful additives or contaminants. It should come from producers who are transparent about their cultivation and processing methods. For those who prioritize excellence, Aristocraft provides a direct link to some of the finest cannabis offerings in the country.

Guide on Sourcing High-Quality Cannabis

Before diving into where to find the best cannabis, it’s crucial to understand what sets high-quality cannabis apart. Here are some key factors to consider:

• THC and CBD Percentages: The potency of cannabis is often measured by its THC content. Premium products will have precise THC percentages listed, allowing you to gauge the strength and potential effects of the cannabis high.
• Cannabinoid Profile: Beyond THC, high-quality cannabis will have a diverse profile of cannabinoids, contributing to the potential cannabis synergy that enhances therapeutic effects like pain relief and sedation.
• Terpene Content: The aromatic compounds in cannabis, known as terpenes, play a significant role in the plant’s effects. Premium cannabis should have a rich terpene profile, which can also influence the overall experience.
• Cultivation Practices: Look for cannabis that is grown organically, without the use of pesticides or harmful chemicals. This ensures that the final product is as natural as possible.
• Lab Testing: Reputable retailers will provide lab testing results to confirm the cannabis is free from contaminants and accurately labeled for THC and CBD content.

Aristocraft’s Premium Cannabis Offerings

For those ready to explore the upper echelons of cannabis products, Aristocraft offers a curated selection of premium cannabis. Whether you’re interested in smoking cannabis, vaping, or trying out cannabis edibles, Aristocraft ensures that you’re consuming safe, potent, and effective products. Aristocraft is also a great place if you are looking to buy premium concentrates in Canada.

The Best Premium Products You Can Buy In Canada

When it comes to indulging in the cannabis experience, the caliber of the product is crucial. Premium cannabis not only ensures a delightful and clean high but also minimizes the risk of encountering adverse effects. AristoCraft stands as a beacon for those seeking top-tier cannabis products, with a commitment to excellence evident in every flower and concentrate they offer.

Aristocraft’s Premium Cannabis Flower

The cannabis flower is the heart of the cannabis plant, and smoking it is one of the most traditional ways to experience the psychoactive effects of THC. Aristocraft’s selection of premium cannabis flowers is a testament to their dedication to quality. Here’s what makes their flowers stand out:

• Potent THC Content: Each strain is carefully cultivated to ensure high THC percentages, providing a robust and satisfying high.
• Cannabinoid Synergy: The potential cannabis synergy in these flowers means that you’re not just getting THC; you’re getting a full spectrum of cannabinoids working together to enhance the effects.
• Aromatic Terpenes: With a rich terpene profile, these flowers offer more than just a high; they provide a sensory experience that is both nuanced and delightful.
• Organic Cultivation: Grown with the utmost care, these flowers are free from harmful pesticides, ensuring that you’re consuming cannabis that’s as pure as it is potent.
• Lab Tested: Transparency is key, and AristoCraft provides detailed lab results to confirm that you’re getting exactly what you expect in terms of THC content and purity.

Aristocraft’s Premium Cannabis Concentrates

For those who prefer a more concentrated form of cannabis, Aristocraft’s premium cannabis concentrates offer a powerful alternative to traditional flowers. Here’s why you might consider their concentrates:

• High THC Concentrate: These concentrates pack a punch with high THC levels for a more intense and rapid onset of effects.
• Diverse Consumption Methods: Whether you’re into dabbing, vaping, or adding them to your edibles, these concentrates are versatile and potent.
• Controlled Dosing: With concentrates, it’s easier to control how much THC you’re consuming, allowing for a more tailored cannabis experience.
• Purity and Quality: AristoCraft ensures that its concentrates are processed with the highest standards, producing a pure, high-quality product.

When Too Much Is Too Much: Managing an Overwhelming High

At times, even when you’re careful, you might encounter a cannabis high that feels overpowering. This could be due to various reasons, like taking in more THC than your body can handle, not gauging the strength of edibles correctly, or having a lower tolerance for THC. If this happens, here’s how to cope: 

• Stay Hydrated: Keep water close by. It can lessen some unwanted effects of an intense high.
• Find a Comfortable Space: Settle into a safe spot. A peaceful setting can help you regain a sense of control.
• Focus on Breathing: Take deep breaths. Slow, deep breaths can ease anxiety and discomfort.
• Distract Yourself: Do something light that you like. It could be watching a show or listening to calm music to help shift your focus.
• Cold Bath or Shower: If you’re up for it, the chill of a bath or shower can refresh you and lessen the intense feelings.
• Sleep It Off: Rest can be the best fix. Sleeping lets the high pass, and you’ll likely wake up feeling better.
• CBD to the Rescue: CBD might help balance out THC’s potent effects. Taking CBD could make a high less intense.
• Lemon Peel Trick: Biting into a lemon peel with limonene might ease some effects of THC.
• Black Pepper: Sniffing or chewing peppercorns could help with cannabis-related anxiety.
• Stay Grounded: Remember, a high is temporary and usually fades in a few hours.
• Avoid More Cannabis: Don’t take more cannabis to try to lessen the high. It can make things worse.

Conclusion

Navigating the diverse world of cannabis, from occasional users to enthusiasts, is a unique experience for everyone. The way you enjoy cannabis, through smoking, vaping, or savoring edibles, is highly individual and influenced by many factors. A cannabis high varies greatly, offering a range of experiences that can be customized to suit your likes and needs.Considering the different aspects that shape your cannabis experience—from the amount of THC and how you take it to your body weight and metabolism—shows that being informed is crucial. With this knowledge, you can make sure your cannabis use is enjoyable, safe, and just right for you. Whether you’re after the full effect of a cannabis high or the gentler touch of a small dose, the way you use cannabis is as vital as the product you choose. So, why not visit Aristocraft, where high quality meets expert craft, and find the ideal cannabis product for your journey?

Frequently Asked Questions