Understanding how the body processes THC can provide valuable insight into the duration of its effects and how long it stays in the system. While the metabolic process of THC is unique, each type of THC product has a different metabolic process. Edibles, topicals, tinctures, and extracts are among the most popular types of THC products that have varying effects. So, how does THC metabolize based on the type of product? Let’s take a closer look!
What Does Metabolism Mean?
Metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy. This energy powers cells in our bodies that are responsible for many vital functions, including breathing, circulation, and digestion.
The rate of metabolism varies from person to person, and it is influenced by various factors, including age, gender, body composition, physical activity level, diet, genetics, and hormonal balance. For example, people with a high muscle mass tend to have a faster metabolism because muscles require more energy than fat tissue.
The process of metabolism also plays a crucial role in the body's ability to detoxify and eliminate waste products. In fact, our metabolism is responsible for how the body experiences the effects of THC and then excretes THC metabolites out of the body.
How Does THC Metabolize?
THC is metabolized in the liver by various enzymes of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) complex. When cannabis is consumed, THC enters the bloodstream and is delivered to the liver, where it undergoes a process called first-pass metabolism.
During this process, THC is broken down into several metabolites, including 11-hydroxy-THC and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THC-COOH), which are then eliminated from the body through urine or feces.
On average, the half-life of THC in the body is believed to be around 1-2 days for occasional users, meaning that after this time, half of the THC has been metabolized and eliminated from the body. For frequent users, the half-life of THC may be longer, ranging from 5 to 13 days, depending on frequency and duration of use.
The rate of THC metabolism varies from person to person, depending on the biological factors we discussed earlier. However, there are other considerations in the mix due to the introduction of cannabis. The strain’s potency, how much THC was consumed, and how it was consumed can all play a role in how THC is metabolized.
How Is Edible THC Metabolized?
Edibles are a common way to consume cannabis, as many provide a precise serving of THC. THC chocolates, drinks, and mints are some of the most popular types of edibles.
When edible THC is consumed, it travels first to the stomach, where it is mixed with digestive juices, including enzymes and acids. Once the edible is broken down, the THC is absorbed through the small intestine and transported to the liver.
Liver enzymes containing a cytochrome P450 (CYP) complex metabolize THC into a stronger form known as 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is then absorbed and travels to the brain, where it binds to CB1 receptors to induce the psychoactive effects associated with THC consumption.
The process of metabolizing edible THC is different from other forms of THC consumption. It can take anywhere from a half hour to two hours to feel the effects, which can last over six hours.
It is important to note that while consuming edibles may be a discreet and convenient way to consume THC, the delayed onset and prolonged effects can lead to unintentional overconsumption and potential adverse effects. Understanding how our bodies metabolize edible THC can help individuals make informed decisions about their consumption and avoid potential risks.
How Are THC Tinctures Metabolized?
THC tinctures are absorbed in the mouth, making for quick-acting effects. Since they are not digested or metabolized by the liver, tinctures have a more direct route into the body than other forms of THC consumption, such as edibles.
Once THC tinctures are absorbed, they are transported to the liver, where they undergo the same metabolism by enzymes that happens with edibles.
How Is THC in Extracts and Marijuana Smoke Metabolized?
When THC in vapor and smoke is inhaled, it bypasses the first-pass metabolism process that occurs when THC is ingested via edibles. Instead, it is rapidly absorbed by the lungs, promoting effects almost instantaneously. From there, it travels to the brain and other organs, where it exerts its effects.
Once THC enters the bloodstream, it is metabolized in the liver by enzymes of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) complex, just like edibles and tinctures. However, because vaporized or smoked THC is rapidly absorbed, it can result in a quicker onset of effects and a shorter duration than other forms of consumption.
It's worth noting that while vaporizing or smoking THC can be an effective and fast way to consume it, the inhalation of smoke or vapor can pose risks to lung health. Additionally, the rapid onset and shorter duration of effects can make it easier to overconsume THC, which can lead to unwanted side effects. Understanding how our bodies metabolize THC in vapor and smoke can help individuals make informed decisions about their consumption and avoid potential risks.
How Are THC Topicals Metabolized?
THC topicals are applied directly to the skin and are not typically absorbed in significant amounts. Therefore, THC topicals are not metabolized in the same way as other forms of THC consumption such as edibles, tinctures, vapor, or smoke.
Instead, the active components in THC topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors located throughout the skin, muscles, and joints. The compounds in THC topicals may promote relaxation without producing the psychoactive effects associated with THC consumption.
While THC topicals are not typically metabolized in the same way as other forms of THC consumption, they can be tested for the presence of THC and its metabolites, which can potentially lead to a positive drug test. However, the likelihood of testing positive depends on various factors such as the amount of THC in the topical, frequency and duration of use and individual differences in metabolism.
How Is THC Excreted from the Body?
THC is extensively metabolized by the body, and as a result, only negligible amounts of THC are excreted from the body unchanged. Instead, THC is broken down into different metabolites by enzymes in the liver and then eliminated from the body through fecal and urinary excretion over time.
THC is first metabolized into a more potent form known as 11-hydroxy-THC, which is then further metabolized into several other metabolites such as THC-COOH. They are stored in fat cells and gradually eliminated from the body through urine and feces over time. These metabolites are commonly what’s detected when performing THC drug tests.
How Much THC Does Reggie Have and Will I Metabolize It Faster?
Some people might try to use lower-quality marijuana, like “Reggie,” in hopes of reducing detectable THC limits. The term “Reggie” originated in the United States and is often used to refer to cannabis that is grown and sold informally, without any regulation or quality control standards.
The exact characteristics of Reggie can vary widely, as it is typically sourced from multiple growers and distributors, each with their own methods and standards. Generally, Reggie is thought to be less potent than other strains and varieties of marijuana, with lower levels of THC and other cannabinoids. This can result in less intense psychoactive effects and a milder overall experience.
The rate at which the body metabolizes marijuana, whether it is "Reggie" or high-quality marijuana, depends on several factors, such as the amount of THC consumed, method of consumption, individual differences in metabolism, age, weight, and frequency of use.
While the potency of "Reggie" may be lower than other strains, it still contains THC; therefore, the body will metabolize it in a similar way as high-quality marijuana. However, because "Reggie" is generally less potent and contains lower levels of THC, the effects may not last as long as high-quality cannabis and may be eliminated from the body more quickly.
While "Reggie" may be less expensive and more widely available than other types of cannabis, it is important to note that it may also contain impurities or contaminants, such as mold or pesticides, that can be harmful if ingested. Additionally, because "Reggie" is often sourced from unregulated growers and distributors, there is no way to ensure that it is free from harmful chemicals or additives.
It's important to note that consuming any form of cannabis should be done responsibly and with caution, regardless of its quality or potency. If you choose to consume cannabis, it's important to obtain it from a reputable source and follow safe consumption practices to avoid potential harm or adverse effects.
THC Metabolization and Safe Marijuana Use
When it comes to consuming marijuana, it's important to understand how it is metabolized by the body. THC in vapor and smoke is rapidly absorbed by the lungs and absorbed within seconds. Meanwhile THC in edibles is absorbed hours after consumption, leading to long-lasting effects. Lastly, THC topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors located throughout the skin, muscles, and joints.How Is THC Metabolized?
Once THC enters the bloodstream, it is metabolized in the liver by enzymes of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) complex. From there, THC leaves the body, either through urine or feces. Remember, many factors influence how fast we metabolize THC, including our genetics and biological factors, plus how much THC you consumed and the method in which you consumed it.
Please make sure to consume marijuana responsibly by obtaining it from a reputable source and following safe consumption practices to avoid potential harm or adverse effects.
Hannah Smith is Joy Organics Director of Communications. She is driven by her passion for providing clear and accessible wellness and CBD education. In 2015, she received her BA in Media, Culture and the Arts from The King’s College in New York City and before Joy Organics, worked as writer and photographer in the Middle East and North Africa. Her work has been featured on Forbes, Vice, Vox, Denver Post, and the Coloradoan.
