Edibles have become a popular way to consume THC, offering a smoke-free, long-lasting high. However, not everyone experiences the same effects, and some people feel little to nothing at all. This can be frustrating, especially for those expecting a strong and euphoric high.
If you’ve ever eaten an edible and wondered, Why isn’t this working?, you’re not alone. The answer lies in the complex process of digestion, metabolism, and individual body chemistry. This article explores the science behind edibles, why they don’t work for everyone, and what you can do if you’re one of the unlucky few who don’t feel the effects.
How Edibles Work: The Science Behind THC Absorption
Before we get into why edibles don’t work for some people, it’s important to understand how they are processed by the body.
1. THC in Edibles vs. Inhaled THC
When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) enters the bloodstream almost immediately through the lungs. This results in a fast-acting high that peaks within 30-60 minutes and lasts a few hours.
Edibles, however, take a very different path:
- THC is absorbed through the digestive system.
- The liver metabolizes THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting compound.
- This metabolite crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently, leading to a stronger and more prolonged high.
This process explains why edibles typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in and why the effects can last 6-12 hours.
2. The Role of the Liver: First-Pass Metabolism
One of the main reasons why edibles don’t work for everyone is first-pass metabolism. This refers to how the liver processes substances before they enter the bloodstream.
For some people, their liver enzymes break down THC too efficiently, eliminating much of it before it has a chance to take effect. Others might not convert THC into 11-hydroxy-THC efficiently, leading to weaker effects.
This variation is largely due to genetics, diet, and overall liver function.
Why Edibles Don’t Work for Everyone
Now that we’ve covered the basics of how edibles work, let’s explore the reasons why some people don’t feel the effects at all.
1. Fast Metabolism & High Liver Enzyme Activity
Some people have naturally fast metabolisms, which means their body processes food and substances at an accelerated rate. If your liver enzymes break down THC too quickly, you might not get enough 11-hydroxy-THC into your system before it’s eliminated.
Factors that contribute to a fast metabolism include:
- Genetics
- High levels of physical activity
- Certain medications that upregulate liver enzymes
2. Poor Fat Absorption
THC is fat-soluble, meaning it binds to fat molecules in order to be absorbed into the bloodstream. If you have a diet low in fat or conditions that affect fat absorption (such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease), your body may not absorb THC effectively.
Ways to improve absorption:
- Eat an edible with a fatty meal (avocados, nuts, cheese, etc.)
- Choose edibles that are made with lipids (butter, coconut oil, MCT oil)
3. Differences in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in how THC interacts with the body. Some people have fewer or less sensitive CB1 receptors (the receptors THC binds to in the brain), which can result in weaker effects.
Factors affecting the ECS:
- Genetics
- Chronic cannabis use (tolerance buildup)
- Individual differences in cannabinoid receptor density
If your ECS is naturally less responsive, you may need higher doses or alternative consumption methods to feel the effects.
4. The Edible Might Not Contain the Right Type of THC
Not all edibles contain active THC. Some contain THCA, the raw, non-psychoactive form of THC that needs to be decarboxylated (heated) to become active. If an edible is not properly prepared or stored, it may not contain enough active THC to have an effect.
Additionally, some products labeled as “THC edibles” might contain hemp-derived Delta-8-THC instead of Delta-9-THC. Delta-8 is less potent and may not produce strong effects in all individuals.
5. Stomach Acidity & Enzyme Breakdown
Your stomach acid and digestive enzymes can also impact how THC is absorbed. Some people naturally have more acidic stomachs, which might degrade THC before it reaches the bloodstream. Others might have digestive issues that prevent proper absorption.
Possible solutions:
- Try sublingual or fast-acting edibles (tinctures, lozenges, or nano-emulsified THC)
- Eat a small meal beforehand to regulate stomach acid levels
6. High Tolerance from Smoking or Vaping
If you regularly smoke or vape cannabis, your tolerance might be too high for edibles to have a noticeable effect. This is because frequent THC exposure can desensitize CB1 receptors over time.
If you have a high tolerance:
- Try taking a tolerance break for a few days to reset your receptors
- Increase your edible dose gradually (start with 10-15mg and go up)
7. Incorrect Dosing or Inconsistent Products
Not all edibles are created equal. Homemade edibles, in particular, can have inconsistent dosing, leading to unpredictable results. Some store-bought edibles may also be mislabeled or improperly infused.
If you’re not feeling the effects, consider trying a different brand or product with verified lab testing for accurate dosing.
What to Do If Edibles Don’t Work for You
If you’ve tried edibles and they don’t seem to work, don’t give up just yet. Here are some strategies to improve your experience:
1. Experiment with Different Types of Edibles
- Nano-emulsified THC: These are designed for faster absorption and bypass some of the digestive barriers.
- Tinctures or oils: These can be held under the tongue for sublingual absorption, avoiding the digestive system.
- Fat-rich edibles: Chocolate, peanut butter, or coconut oil-based edibles may be better absorbed.
2. Increase Your Dose (Cautiously)
If you normally take 10mg and feel nothing, try 15-20mg next time. However, increase your dose gradually to avoid overconsumption.
3. Try Eating Edibles with a Fatty Meal
Consuming edibles with foods rich in healthy fats can enhance absorption.
4. Take a Tolerance Break
If you use cannabis frequently, take a few days to a week off to reset your endocannabinoid system.
5. Consider Alternative Consumption Methods
If edibles don’t work for you, try:
- Sublingual cannabis (tinctures, lozenges, sprays)
- Inhalation (vaping, smoking, or dry herb vaporization)
- THC-infused beverages, which sometimes use nano-emulsified THC for better absorption
Conclusion: Why Some People Just Don’t Feel Edibles
If edibles don’t work for you, it’s likely due to metabolism, genetics, liver function, or digestion issues. Fortunately, there are ways to improve absorption, from choosing different products to adjusting your diet.
If all else fails, alternative consumption methods like tinctures, vaping, or THC beverages might be better suited for your body’s chemistry. The key is experimentation—finding the right product, dose, and method that works for you.
Final Thought:
Edibles can be a game-changer for many, offering a discreet and long-lasting high. But if they don’t work for you, don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the benefits of THC!