Cannabis has come a long way from just rolling a joint. These days, there are more ways to enjoy it than ever before. But one of the biggest splits is still between smoking and eating it. While both methods deliver THC into your system, they do it in very different ways, and those differences can seriously affect your experience.
So if you’re wondering why an edible feels so different from a puff off a joint, here’s what’s really going on behind the scenes.
How the Body Processes THC: Inhalation vs. Digestion
When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC travels from your lungs into your bloodstream almost instantly. It bypasses your digestive system and hits your brain within minutes. That’s why people often feel the effects fast—sometimes within seconds—and why it’s easier to control how high you get by taking small hits and waiting.
Eating cannabis is a different story. When you eat a brownie or a cookie infused with THC, it has to travel through your digestive system first. After it’s broken down in your stomach, the THC gets sent to your liver, which converts it into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. This version is stronger and longer-lasting, which explains why edibles feel different and stick around longer.
Onset Time and Duration
This difference in digestion means edibles don’t hit you right away. You might wait 30 minutes to 2 hours before feeling anything. That can be tricky for new users, who often assume the edible isn’t working and eat more too soon. Then it all hits at once, which can be overwhelming.
Smoking, on the other hand, hits almost instantly. You’ll usually feel something within five to fifteen minutes, and the high lasts a couple of hours. With edibles, the high can last four to eight hours, and in some cases even longer depending on the dose and your body.
Intensity and Type of High
The kind of high you get from smoking is often described as lighter, more social, and easier to manage. You can take a hit, see how you feel, and either stop or keep going. It’s easier to dial in a mild buzz or just enjoy the experience without committing to a long ride.
Edibles are more of a commitment. Because of the way THC is processed in your liver, the high can feel deeper and more intense. Many people report a more physical, full-body experience with edibles—sometimes referred to as being “couch-locked.” Others experience vivid mental effects, a dreamy state, or a stronger sense of introspection.
For some, this is exactly what they’re looking for. For others, especially those new to edibles, it can feel like too much. That’s why starting with a low dose and giving yourself time is key.
Dosing and Control
When it comes to control, smoking has the edge. You can take a little at a time and stop when you’ve had enough. With edibles, you need to decide your dose before you start eating. Once it’s in your system, there’s no turning back—you just have to ride it out.
That’s why it’s so important to know what’s in your edible and how much THC it contains. A standard dose is often considered to be 5 or 10 milligrams of THC, but for new users, even that can be a lot. Starting with 2.5 to 5 milligrams is usually a safer bet.
Health Considerations
Some people prefer edibles because they don’t involve smoking, which avoids the risks associated with inhaling smoke or vapor. This makes edibles a more appealing option for people with asthma, respiratory issues, or those just looking for a smoke-free experience.
Smoking is still favored by many for its quick effect and ritualistic feel, but it does come with some concerns. Inhaling any kind of smoke—yes, even cannabis—can irritate the lungs and throat over time. For folks who enjoy cannabis regularly, switching between methods might be a good way to give your lungs a break.
Conclusion
The biggest takeaway here is that smoking and eating cannabis offer completely different experiences. One isn’t better than the other—it just depends on what you’re looking for. If you want quick effects and easy control, smoking or vaping might be your best bet. If you’re after a longer-lasting, body-heavy high, edibles could be perfect.
Either way, it’s all about knowing your limits and finding what works for you.
If you’re interested in exploring the world of THC-infused baked goods and want something that’s delicious, consistent, and crafted with care, we suggest checking out Blazed Bakery. Our edible creations are made with precise dosing, quality ingredients, and flavors you’ll actually crave—no guesswork, just good vibes.
