When you think of edibles, brownies or cookies probably come to mind. And for good reason. Baked goods are one of the most classic and enjoyable ways to consume cannabis. But the way THC works in a brownie isn’t the same as when you smoke a joint. The experience is different, the effects hit in a totally different way, and if you’re not prepared, the high can feel a lot stronger than expected.
So what exactly happens when THC is baked into your favorite treat? Let’s break it down.
What Happens to THC When It’s Baked?
Raw cannabis doesn’t actually get you high. It contains a compound called THCA, which has to be activated through heat in a process called decarboxylation. That’s why we bake cannabis or infuse it into oils and butters. When THC is properly activated and baked into something like a brownie or cookie, it becomes psychoactive and ready for your body to absorb.
Infusing THC into fats like butter or coconut oil allows it to blend into recipes and be evenly distributed. That means every bite has a consistent dose, assuming the mixing was done right.
Digestion and Absorption Process
Unlike smoking, where THC goes straight into your bloodstream through your lungs, edibles take the scenic route. After you eat that cannabis cookie, it travels through your stomach and into your liver. That’s where the magic (and science) really happens.
The liver converts THC into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This version of THC is more potent and has a longer-lasting effect. That’s one reason edibles feel so different from smoking. The high is often stronger, more full-body, and can last for hours.
Typical Onset Time and Duration
One of the biggest differences with edibles is how long they take to kick in. While smoking can hit you in minutes, a baked good might take 30 minutes to two hours to start working. It depends on your metabolism, what you’ve eaten that day, and your body chemistry.
The effects can last four to eight hours, sometimes longer. So if you’re new to edibles, don’t eat more just because you don’t feel it right away. That’s the classic mistake. Be patient, and wait before considering a second serving.
Effects on the Mind and Body
THC edibles tend to offer a more intense body high. You might feel relaxed, euphoric, or deeply mellow. Some people get giggly, others get sleepy, and some just melt into the couch and vibe out.
Mentally, edibles can offer a dreamy, floaty feeling, but they can also cause anxiety or paranoia in high doses, especially if you’re not used to them. Start small, stay hydrated, and try to be in a calm environment your first time. A comfortable couch, a good playlist, and a trusted friend nearby make all the difference.
Variables That Affect Individual Experience
Everyone reacts to edibles differently. Your weight, metabolism, tolerance, and what you’ve eaten that day all play a part. Some folks feel the effects after 30 minutes. Others take closer to two hours. It’s also possible that your experience today might not be exactly the same tomorrow.
The strain used in the edible can matter too. A sativa-dominant edible might feel more uplifting, while an indica-heavy one could be more relaxing. Terpenes and cannabinoids, which contribute to the overall effect, also vary between products.
Conclusion
THC in baked goods creates a slower, longer, and often more powerful experience than other methods of cannabis use. It’s a different kind of ride. For new users, the best advice is to start low and go slow. Give your body time to adjust, and don’t be surprised if it sneaks up on you.
If you’re curious to try cannabis-infused baked goods that are thoughtfully dosed and seriously delicious, we recommend checking out what we’re cooking at Blazed Bakery. We craft each treat with care, flavor, and just the right amount of kick, so you can enjoy the experience without the guesswork.
