Do Edibles Have THC or CBD?
Summarize
It depends on the CBD spectrum in the edible. Full spectrum CBD edibles have CBD plus THC (no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight). Broad-spectrum CBD edibles contain CBD with THC non-detectable on the COA. An isolate CBD edible only has CBD.
Edibles with THC
THC edibles are consumable products that are made with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) extract from marijuana plants. THC is a psychoactive compound, and in most states, edibles with THC derived from non-hemp cannabis plants can only be purchased through a state-licensed dispensary.
Uses and Effects
THC is processed in the liver and is converted to active metabolites (11-hydroxy-THC) that can cross the blood-brain barrier. The metabolites are responsible for the psychoactive effects. THC binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. The strong binding to CB1 receptors is responsible for most of the THC effects experienced.
Researchers have found that THC may produce a variety of effects, such as relaxation, euphoric feelings, and drowsiness. The effects of THC edibles last longer than the effects of THC taken through oils, because the cannabinoids go through first-pass metabolism in the liver before reaching the bloodstream.
It may take 30 minutes to two hours for the effects to be felt if the food item undergoes the digestion process. Some edibles enable THC to enter the bloodstream through the mouth’s membranes. The effects are felt sooner but will not last as long.
Edibles with CBD
CBD edibles are food products made with a CBD (cannabidiol) extract. СBD is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. However, the cannabis plants used for CBD extracts are specially cultivated to limit the amount of THC.
THC extracts typically come from high-THC cannabis, though some are hemp-derived depending on state law. Federally lawful CBD extracts come from hemp that meets the 2018 Farm Bill’s ≤0.3% THC (dry-weight) limit. CBD is non-intoxicating.
Uses and Effects
Global researchers are conducting extensive research involving CBD because of its potential to produce wellness effects. It is now believed that CBD does not bind directly to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Instead, it influences their actions, like increasing the release of serotonin. CBD may improve sleep quality by reducing sleep disturbances and discomfort, and promoting relaxation and calm.
Edibles with CBD and THC
Edibles with CBD and THC are legal food items when the cannabinoids are extracted from the hemp plant. Any THC amount in a CBD product is less than the 0.3% allowed by federal law. There are three spectrums of CBD. The spectrum indicates whether there is a measurable amount of THC in the CBD edible.
• Full spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD has CBD, THC, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and all the other hemp plant compounds.
• Broad spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum CBD is a hemp plant extract that goes through an additional processing step to remove THC. All the other hemp plant compounds are retained. Broad spectrum CBD edibles are THC-free or have only a trace of THC. The law allows a trace of a compound in a product that claims to be free of it.
• Isolate CBD
Isolate CBD is only CBD. Isolate edibles have only CBD and no other hemp plant extract compounds.
Researchers are studying a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. The theory is that consuming a combination of compounds creates a synergistic effect, resulting in an improved overall effect.
Common Edible Types
There is a growing product line of CBD edibles as producers develop new ways to incorporate CBD and other hemp plant compounds into flavorful foods. CBD gummies, baked goods, mints, lozenges, candies, lollipops, honey, and snacks are the most common. Products intended to melt in the mouth (mints, lozenges, some lollipops) can allow some cannabinoids to absorb through oral membranes, leading to a faster onset than swallowed edibles.
Edible Dosing Guide
There is no universal edible dosage guide because numerous factors are involved. The following points are worth considering.
1. Expect a delayed onset
CBD edibles go through the digestive system, so your metabolic rate influences when you will feel the effects.
2. Account for fat solubility
Body weight is a factor because CBD is fat-soluble. This means CBD may be stored in fat cells for slow release. Since the effects take longer to be experienced, it is advised not to take more CBD as soon as you feel the effects. You need to give your body time to process the full amount of the CBD in your system. The onset of the edible effects is typically between 30 minutes and 2 hours, with peak concentration in the bloodstream between 2.5 and 5 hours.
3. Adjust potency
The product potency refers to the concentration of CBD in each serving. A beginner should start with a low-potency CBD edible and assess the effects for a few days. If you need more potent effects, consider taking a higher-potency edible for a few days. Depending on the edible, the potency ranges from 10 mg to 200 mg per serving.
4. Recognize lower bioavailability
The product bioavailability refers to the amount of CBD that your body absorbs. The bioavailability of CBD edibles is lower than that of oils and tinctures when the edible goes through the digestive system rather than being absorbed through the mouth’s membranes. However, the effects may last longer because absorption is slower.
The exception is that any edible allowed to melt in the mouth, such as a lollipop or mint, will similarly deliver CBD to the oil. Cannabidiol can enter the bloodstream through the membranes of the mouth. This increases the CBD bioavailability.
Ranking Bioavailability of Different CBD Products
The approximate bioavailability of orally consumed CBD that goes through the digestion process is 6%. Up to 75% of the substance is lost during processing in the liver. This process directly influences the CBD dosage you will require to experience the desired effects. The effects may last approximately six to eight hours.
| Product type | Consumption method | Onset | Duration | Approx. CBD bioavailability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBD edibles | Sublingual, oral | 1–2 hrs | 4–12 hrs | 10–20% (oral) |
| CBD oils | Sublingual, oral | 10–45 min | 3–8 hrs | 13–19% (sublingual) |
| CBD topicals | Topical | 5–30 min | 3–8 hrs | 2–45% (topical) |
5. Manage frequency
How often you consume CBD edibles may also impact the ideal dosage amount. CBD can build up in tissues for slow release because, as mentioned, it is fat-soluble. The more frequently you take a CBD dose, the more likely it is that doses will accumulate. Also influencing the build-up is the potency of each CBD serving.
6. Factor in the spectrum and THC
The spectrum also influences the optimal dosage. Full spectrum edibles contain some THC since a whole hemp plant extract is used. CBD is believed to potentially inhibit some of the psychoactive effects of THC through its antagonist interaction with the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. These are the receptors that enable THC’s psychoactivity.
7. Consider the entourage effect
Another way the CBD spectrum influences dosing is through the entourage effect. This is a scientific theory being researched, suggesting that full spectrum and broad spectrum products deliver a synergistic effect. The many compounds in the hemp plant include cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, essential oils, vitamins and more. The entourage effect refers to a set of compounds producing a greater effect through their interactions than would do so working alone. You could try CBD edibles with full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate CBD to compare effects.
The best practice is to start with a low-potency edible, such as 10 mg of CBD. Follow the suggested dosage on the label. A quality edible accurately states the cannabinoid content.
Side Effects
CBD is considered safe. According to anecdotal evidence, it may cause mild side effects, including dry mouth, drowsiness, reduced appetite, and diarrhea. Potential side effects of consuming 0.3% THC in edibles and gummies are also mild. They include digestive issues, changes in blood pressure and heart rate, dry mouth, and increased appetite. There is not much research on consuming 0.3% THC because this is a non-psychoactive amount.
However, both CBD and THC may interact with some medications. It is important to talk to your doctor before consuming a CBD edible.
Drug Testing Considerations
There is a chance that a CBD edible with THC could show up on a drug test. The most significant risk is with full spectrum CBD edibles. Drug tests screen for THC metabolites. Also, consuming a full spectrum CBD product repeatedly may lead to a buildup of THC in your body’s tissues.
Remember, intoxication potential is determined by the milligrams of THC per serving, not the 0.3% hemp definition, so a legally compliant full spectrum CBD edibles can still feel strong for some users.
If concerned about passing a drug test, choose edibles with isolate CBD. Also, always review the Certificate of Analysis (COA), which will show the THC content in the product.
Sources
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