What Happens to Cannabis in Your Body?

Ever wonder why that one edible hit you like a freight train while your friend barely felt a thing? Or why a single puff can send you into an existential crisis about whether fish get thirsty? 

Well, you can thank your body’s metabolism for that wild ride. 

And that’s exactly what we’re going to get into in this guide. Learn how your body processes cannabinoids — so you can finally understand why that one joint turned your chill night into a not-so-funny sequel to Harold and Kumar. 

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

Before we dive into how cannabis interacts with your body, you first need to meet your internal cannabis-like system — the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Yes, your body already produces its own cannabinoids!

This system revolves around two key components: endocannabinoids, which are natural compounds your body makes, and cannabinoid receptors — CB1 and CB2 — that interact with them. 

These receptors are scattered throughout the body and play a huge role in functions such as metabolism, stress response, pain regulation, appetite, and even the release of serotonin and dopamine.

Scientists call the ECS one of the most critical modulatory systems in the human body because it controls nearly all neurotransmitter activity. Neurotransmitters are the little chemical messengers that neurons (brain cells) use to communicate with each other.

Here’s how it works: One neuron (the presynaptic neuron) sends out neurotransmitters across the synapse — the tiny gap between neurons. The receiving neuron (the postsynaptic neuron) processes that information and responds accordingly. 

But communication isn’t just a one-way street. If the postsynaptic neuron decides enough is enough, it sends a message back to the presynaptic neuron, telling it to stop releasing neurotransmitters. 

This “stop” signal is delivered through endocannabinoids, which latch onto CB1 receptors to regulate the flow.

While CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain, CB2 receptors are spread throughout the body and are heavily involved in the immune system. The brain has over 85 billion neurons connected through a mind-blowing 100 trillion pathways, making this system complex but essential for keeping everything balanced.

What are Cannabinoids Present in Cannabis?

Your body isn’t the only source of cannabinoids — nature’s got its own supply, too. Through a fascinating coincidence of evolution, the cannabis plant produces cannabinoids that closely resemble the ones your body naturally creates.

So far, scientists have identified over 140 cannabinoids in cannabis, but the two big players are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the one responsible for getting you high, while CBD skips the psychoactive effects and focuses on therapeutic benefits.

Beyond these two, researchers have found more than 80 other cannabinoids that can influence your mood, motor skills, appetite, and pain response. Some trigger the infamous munchies, others might slow your reflexes, and some even help with inflammation.

And get this — cannabis isn’t the only plant with cannabinoids. There are around 500 cannabinoids found in nature across different species! But because the ones in cannabis mimic your body’s endocannabinoids so well, they can easily bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, directly influencing how you feel and function.

How Does Your Body Metabolize Cannabinoids?

Ever wondered what happens inside your body after you take a hit or munch on an edible? The journey from consumption to that signature cannabis high is a fascinating biological process. Let’s break it down.

How Cannabis Enters Your System

When you smoke or vape cannabis, the cannabinoids — especially THC — are absorbed through the alveoli in your lungs. These tiny air sacs have a rich blood supply, allowing THC to quickly enter your bloodstream. 

Within minutes, THC is circulating throughout your body, reaching your brain and binding to cannabinoid receptors, producing that familiar high. This rapid onset is why smoking is the preferred method for users looking for immediate effects.

However, consuming cannabis as an edible works very differently. Instead of being absorbed directly into the bloodstream, THC must first pass through your digestive system. 

Once in your stomach, it is broken down and absorbed into the liver, where enzymes metabolize it into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting compound. This conversion process makes edibles significantly stronger than smoking or vaping, often leading to deeper, more full-bodied effects.

Because digestion takes time, edibles don’t hit instantly. Depending on factors like metabolism, stomach contents, and dosage, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to kick in. 

This delayed onset often catches new users off guard, leading to the classic mistake of consuming more before the first dose fully kicks in — only to be hit with an overwhelming high later.

Additionally, the duration of effects differs between methods. While smoking or vaping typically provides a high lasting 1 to 3 hours, edibles can keep you elevated for 6 to 8 hours or even longer, depending on dosage. The extended experience is why edibles are often preferred for sleep, pain relief, and long-lasting relaxation.

Beyond inhalation and edibles, other methods like sublingual tinctures and transdermal patches offer alternative absorption routes, each with its own onset time and intensity. 

Sublinguals, for example, bypass digestion and enter the bloodstream quickly through the mucous membranes under the tongue, providing effects within 15 to 30 minutes.

What THC Does to Your Brain

Once THC makes its way to your brain, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to cannabinoid receptors. Since it’s not one of your body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids, it disrupts normal communication between neurons.

Think of your brain as a giant network of electrical wires, with neurons passing signals to each other. Normally, this system works in a controlled, efficient manner. But when THC arrives, it’s like someone cranking up the volume on a speaker — some neurons fire more than usual, while others stop altogether.

That’s why your perception shifts. Suddenly, your thoughts are racing, your arm might feel heavier than usual, and colors seem a little more vivid.

Some effects — like feeling more creative or giggly — happen because THC takes neurons off their usual "default mode network." This is similar to how psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin mushrooms work, altering perception and cognition.

However, the effects of THC aren't just limited to perception. It also influences neurotransmitters like dopamine, the "feel-good" chemical associated with pleasure and motivation. 

This is why cannabis can improve music, food, or even mundane activities, making them feel more enjoyable and immersive.

But there's a flip side. In some cases, overstimulation of certain brain regions can lead to anxiety or paranoia, especially in high doses. This happens because THC can increase activity in the amygdala — the part of the brain responsible for processing fear. 

If you've ever had a moment where your heart races and every little sound feels amplified after consuming cannabis, that's THC at work on this part of your brain. More on a bad trip below. 

Dopamine vs. Anandamide 

For a long time, scientists thought THC got you high by flooding your brain with dopamine — the neurotransmitter that makes you feel pleasure and motivation. But recent research suggests it’s actually anandamide, also known as the "bliss molecule," that plays the bigger role.

Anandamide naturally interacts with your brain’s cannabinoid receptors, influencing memory, motivation, mood, and even pain perception. 

Since THC closely resembles anandamide’s chemical structure, it binds to the same receptors but lingers much longer. That extended interaction leads to more dopamine release than usual, which explains why cannabis highs feel so euphoric.

If anandamide stuck around as long as THC does, we'd probably be in a state of perpetual bliss. Not that we’d complain, right?

The Entourage Effect

Cannabis isn’t just about THC. The plant contains over 140 cannabinoids, including CBD, CBN, CBG, and CBC, as well as hundreds of terpenes and other compounds. Together, they create what’s known as the "entourage effect."

This term, coined by researchers Raphael Mechoulam and Shimon Ben-Shabat in 1999, suggests that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to amplify and fine-tune cannabis’ effects.

For example, a 2010 study on cancer patients found that those who took a THC/CBD blend experienced greater pain relief than those who took pure THC. This suggests that cannabinoids work better together than in isolation. That’s why many users prefer full-spectrum cannabis products over pure THC extracts.

However, research on the entourage effect is still limited. Scientists are still trying to determine exactly which compounds influence the high and how they interact with each other.

The Role of Terpenes

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds responsible for cannabis’ distinct scents — whether it's citrusy, piney, or skunky. But they do more than just add fragrance.

Studies suggest that terpenes might influence how THC interacts with your brain’s receptors. Some may give better relaxation, while others could boost focus or energy. While terpenes won’t get you high on their own, they can modify the effects of cannabinoids, making the overall experience smoother and more nuanced.

So, the next time you light up or take an edible, remember — it’s not just THC doing all the work. It’s a whole team of cannabinoids and terpenes shaping your high, making cannabis one of the most complex and fascinating plants in the world.

How Does Cannabis Affect You?

For millions of people, lighting up a joint and kicking back is the ultimate way to unwind. We’re one of them. Whether you're watching a comedy, listening to music, or just vibing with your thoughts, cannabis has a way of making the moment feel just right.

But what does being high actually feel like? That’s a tricky one. Everyone experiences cannabis differently based on their body chemistry, mood, and the strain they’re using. However, most highs share a few common sensations:

• A euphoric, almost floaty feeling
• An uncontrollable urge to smile or laugh
• Deeper awareness of your thoughts and surroundings
• A sense of relaxation, like your muscles just melted into your couch
• A weird relationship with time — sometimes it slows down, sometimes it speeds up
• Intensified senses — music sounds richer, colors look deeper, and food? Don’t even get us started!
• Sudden mood shifts, whether it’s a burst of excitement or a wave of tranquility
• A little bit of clumsiness, thanks to impaired motor skills
• Short-term memory getting a bit foggy — forgetting what you were saying mid-sentence is pretty normal
• The infamous munchies — everything in your fridge suddenly seems like a five-star meal

Of course, how intense these effects feel depends on a bunch of factors, from the strain to how much you consume. And while most people experience a fun, pleasant high, some might feel a little anxious or paranoid, especially with higher doses.

How Long Does a Cannabis High Last?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this because everyone processes THC differently. Your high could last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on a few key factors. Here are some of them.

1. The Type of Strain

Not all cannabis strains are created equal. Some pack a serious punch with over 25% THC, leading to a much stronger and longer-lasting high. Others, with lower THC levels, will give you a more mellow buzz that fades quickly.

2. Your Body’s Metabolism & Tolerance

Your body’s metabolism plays a big role in how long your high lasts. If you have a fast metabolism, your system processes THC quickly, meaning the effects won’t stick around for long. 

Tolerance is another big factor. Just like alcohol, the more frequently you consume cannabis, the more your body adapts to it. Someone with a high tolerance might find their high fades faster and feels weaker compared to a first-time user.

3. How You Consume It

As mentioned earlier, the way you take cannabis has a huge impact on how long you stay high.

• Smoking or vaping: 

You’ll feel the effects within minutes, and they usually last between 1 to 3 hours. The high hits fast because THC is absorbed quickly into your bloodstream through the lungs.

• Edibles:

These take much longer to kick in — sometimes up to an hour or two — but the high can last six hours or more. That’s because THC has to be metabolized by your liver first, converting into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is much more potent than the THC you inhale.

4. Mixing Cannabis with Alcohol or Caffeine

If you’ve ever smoked while drinking, you might have noticed your high lasts longer — or even feels stronger. That’s because alcohol slows down your body’s ability to break down THC, keeping it in your system for a longer time.

Caffeine, on the other hand, is a little trickier. While it won’t necessarily extend your high, it can mess with your brain’s receptors, potentially changing how THC affects you. Some people feel more alert and focused when combining the two, while others feel more jittery.

At the end of the day, your high is a mix of science, personal chemistry, and the choices you make. Whether you’re after a quick buzz or a long-lasting trip, knowing these factors can help you control the experience — and make the most of it.

Can You Improve Your High?

Imagine spending a good chunk of money on cannabis only to feel... meh. If your high isn’t hitting the way you expected, don’t worry — you can get the most out of the experience in a few simple ways.

1. Go for High-THC Strains

The easiest way to level up your high? Choose a strain packed with THC and terpenes. THC is the compound responsible for getting you stoned, and terpenes enhance its effects through the entourage effect. 

Look for strains with high THC percentages and terpenes like myrcene, limonene, or caryophyllene for a stronger buzz.

2. Mix Cannabis with Other Herbs

Pairing cannabis with the right herbs can enhance your high by complementing THC’s effects. Herbs like mugwort (artemisia vulgaris), lavender, and damiana contain terpenes that interact with cannabis to improve relaxation, euphoria, and mental clarity.

3. Eat Ripe Mangoes

Mangoes are loaded with myrcene, a terpene also found in cannabis that helps THC cross the blood-brain barrier more efficiently. This means a stronger and potentially longer-lasting high — plus, they taste great. Who doesn’t like mangoes, anyway?

4. Snack on Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains anandamide, often called the "bliss molecule," which interacts with the same receptors as THC. Eating a piece before smoking can elevate your mood and intensify the high.

5. Load Up on Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, eggs, avocados, walnuts, and chia seeds) help optimize THC synthesis in your body and activate CB1 receptors. This can slightly sedate you while making the high better, making for a smoother, more enjoyable ride.

But Be Careful of Bad Trips

For most people, cannabis is a fun, relaxing experience. But every now and then, even experienced users can have a bad trip. It’s rare, but when it happens, it can be unsettling.

A bad trip usually occurs when:

• You consume too much THC
• You’re already feeling anxious or stressed before smoking
• You’re using a low-quality or poorly grown strain
• Your body isn’t used to the effects

Since cannabis amplifies emotions, a bad trip can make negative thoughts spiral, leading to paranoia, anxiety, or even fear. Common symptoms of a bad trip include:

• Intense anxiety or paranoia
• Rapid breathing
• Restlessness or agitation
• Hallucinations
• Pale or clammy skin
• Trembling or sweating
• Nausea or an upset stomach

A bad trip may feel overwhelming, but it’s temporary. The key is to remind yourself that it will end once the THC wears off. To ease the experience, try these tricks:

• Find a calm, quiet space
• Focus on your breathing
• Drink water or eat something light
• Distract yourself with music, TV, or talking to a friend

Tips for First-Time Cannabis Users

If you're trying cannabis for the first time, don’t let the fear of a bad trip hold you back. It’s rare as long as you approach it wisely. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Start Low, Go Slow: Choose a strain with low THC to avoid an overwhelming high.
• Be Patient with Edibles: They take longer to kick in, but the high will be much stronger — so resist the urge to take more too soon.
• Stay in a Safe Space: Your home is the best place to try cannabis for the first time, without stress or distractions. 
• Hydrate: Dry mouth is real, so keep water nearby.
• Don’t Smoke on an Empty Stomach: Eating beforehand helps prevent dizziness or nausea.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Mixing substances can increase unpredictability, so keep it simple and stick to one thing.
• Have a Trusted Friend Around: A buddy can help you feel more relaxed and talk you through any nerves.

Done right, your first cannabis experience can be fun, relaxing, and memorable. Just take it easy and enjoy the ride!

Summary: What Happens to Cannabis in Your Body?

Cannabis is one of the most fascinating substances on the planet, interacting with your body in ways that science is still trying to fully understand. Whether it’s binding to your CB1 receptors, influencing neurotransmitters, or working with terpenes for a more nuanced effect, cannabis is far more than just THC and CBD.

From how you consume it to the strain you choose, every little factor changes the experience. One puff could make you feel relaxed, while another might send you down a rabbit hole of overthinking your entire life. 

And let’s not forget that edibles have a sneaky way of turning your night into an unexpected adventure.

But understanding how cannabis works in your body isn’t just about getting high — it’s about making informed choices. Knowing how tolerance, metabolism, and the entourage effect come into play can help you control the experience rather than letting it control you.

At the end of the day, whether you're a casual user or a seasoned connoisseur, cannabis is all about balance. Too much can be overwhelming, too little might not do the trick, but finding that sweet spot? That’s where the magic happens.