Medical Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only. We do not offer medical advice for using cannabis for health or weight loss. Always talk to a healthcare provider before making choices related to your health or cannabis use.
What Is Cannabis and Why Does It Stay in the Blood?
Many people use cannabis for different reasons. It is a plant and it is also known as marijuana. Some people use it for relaxation or pain relief while others use it for medical reasons. The main chemical in cannabis that affects the brain is called THC.
When someone uses cannabis THC it enters the bloodstream and moves to the brain and other parts of the body and then the person starts feeling high. However, depending on a number of variables THC can remain in the blood for hours or even days after the effects get off.
How Does THC Get Into the Blood?
THC can enter the blood in a few different ways:
1. Smoking or Vaping
THC enters into your bloodstream through your lungs when you smoke or vape cannabis.This happens very fast within seconds to a few minutes.
2. Eating Edibles
When you eat cannabis like in brownies or gummies, it first goes into the stomach and liver before reaching the blood. This process takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, the body experiences the effects for a long period of time.
3. Topicals
Cannabis lotions or creams are applied on the skin and usually don’t let THC enter the blood. They work locally to give relief to muscles or joints. However, transdermal patches can release THC slowly into the bloodstream and may last up to 12 hours.
3. It Can Change Different Eating Habits
Cannabis capsules are taken like regular pills. They pass through the stomach and liver before entering the blood. Their effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start and can last 6 to 8 hours, offering a more steady experience.
5. Dabbing
Dabbing involves heating and inhaling strong cannabis extracts like wax or oil. THC enters the blood quickly through the lungs. The effects start within seconds and are stronger but last about 1 to 3 hours.
Why Are Blood Tests Used to Detect Cannabis?
Blood tests are commonly used for:
- Roadside checks for driving under the influence
- Workplace drug testing especially in jobs involving safety
- Medical procedures or emergency rooms
- Legal cases or investigations
In these situations, the test shows if someone may still be affected by cannabis use.
How Long Does THC Stay in the Blood?
It depends on how much time you use cannabis, the method, your body type, and how much dosage you take, it all affects THC remaining in the blood.
Let’s look at the different types of users.
First Time or Occasional Users
- If you only used cannabis only one time or very rarely, THC may stay in your blood for about 3 to 12 hours.
- In most cases, your blood gets clear after 24 hours from TCH.
Moderate Users
- THC can be in your blood for 1 to 2 days, if you use cannabis a few times a week.
- It could also depend on the strength of the cannabis and your body metabolism.
Heavy or Daily Users
- If you use cannabis every day or in large amounts, THC can stay in your blood for up to 7 days, and sometimes even longer.
- In some cases traces of THC are found in blood for up to 30 days, but this is rare and usually happens when you use it for a longer period of time.
What Affects How Long THC Stays in the Blood?
Every person is different, and there are many factors that can affect how long THC remains in your blood. These include:
1. How Often You Use Cannabis
- If you use it daily your body will take longer to remove THC.
- Occasional users usually clear it faster.
2. Method of Use
- Smoking or vaping leads to fast and strong THC levels.
- Edibles take longer to digest but can stay in the system longer.
3. Amount Used
- The more cannabis you consume the longer it takes to leave your body.
4. Your Body Type
- THC is stored in fat cells. People with more body fat may keep THC in their bodies longer.
5. Your Metabolism
- A faster metabolism helps remove THC quickly.
- A slower metabolism may hold it longer in your system.
6. Hydration and Activity Levels
- Exercise and drinking a lot of water may help a little, but they alone can’t get rid from THC entirely or quickly.
Can You Speed Up THC Removal from Blood?
Many people look for quick ways to pass a drug test. But most detox methods or drinks do not properly work for this, especially for blood tests.
Here are some facts:
- Drinking a lot of water can help a little but doesn’t guarantee faster clearance.
- Exercise may help reduce fat where THC is stored, but it won’t remove it quickly from your blood.
- Detox drinks or pills are not backed by science.
The only safe and sure way to clear THC from your blood is to stop using cannabis and let your body remove it naturally over time.
Is There a Safe Time Frame to Avoid Testing Positive?
While no one can guarantee a safe time frame these are some general guidelines:
- If you use for one time then wait at least 24 hours
- If you are using weekly use then wait at least 3 to 5 days
- If you use daily then it may require 7 to 30 days of no use to fully clear
If you have an important drug test coming up the best option is to abstain from cannabis and allow your body enough time to cleanse itself.
What If You Test Positive?
Testing positive for THC in your blood may lead to different outcomes depending on the situation. Here’s what you should know:
- Workplace tests: Some companies have strict drug policies. Even legal use may not be allowed in certain jobs.
- Legal cases: A positive blood test might be used in court for driving or other incidents.
- Medical use: If cannabis is prescribed by a doctor and allowed by law in your area make sure to provide proper documents before testing.
Always understand your local laws and your employer policies before using cannabis.
Final Thoughts
It depends on your body type and how much cannabis you use, THC can remain in your blood for a few hours to several days. Usually, blood tests look for recent use. It’s best to stop using and consult a doctor if you have a drug test or health issue. This is not medical advice, it is just a learning guide.
