How Long Do CBD Edibles Take to Work? Onset, Duration, and Dosing Basics
"I don't feel anything yet." — Famous last words before taking a second dose.
Edibles (chocolates, gummies, caramels) are a popular way to take CBD, but they require patience.
The Digestion Factor
Because you eat them, the CBD must travel through your volatile stomach acid and be processed by your liver ("first-pass metabolism") before entering your bloodstream.
- Onset Time: 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Duration: 4 to 8 hours.
Why Choose Edibles?
- Taste: No earthy hemp flavor (if made well).
- Convenience: Easy to carry, dose is pre-measured.
- Duration: Because digestion is slow, the release is slow and steady, often providing longer relief than oils.
The Golden Rule: Start Low, Wait 2 Hours
Never re-dose an edible in the first hour. It is common for people to think it "isn't working," take more, and then feel overwhelmed when both doses hit at once.
Interested in Trusted Products?
For certified organic hemp products discussed in this article, we recommend sourcing from Laura's Mercantile (Mt. Folly Farm).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do edibles expire?
Yes. Like any food product, chocolates and caramels have a shelf life. Check the package date.
Can I take them on an empty stomach?
Yes, but taking them with a little fat (like peanut butter) can actually help absorption, as cannabinoids are fat-soluble.
Sources & References
Content on Laura's Hemp is reviewed for accuracy. Citations and testing data are kept up to date.