title: "Edibles 101: Dosing, Onset & How to Avoid a Bad High" date: "2025-09-12" excerpt: "A simple guide to edible cannabis: how many milligrams to start with, how long it takes to kick in, how long it lasts, and what to do if you take too much." author: "Buzz Cannabis" coverImage: "/images/blog/edibles-hero.jpg"
Edibles 101: Dosing, Onset & How to Avoid a Bad High
Edible cannabis hits differently. It can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start, up to 4 hours to feel full effects, and can last 8–12 hours with lighter residual effects into the next day. That delay is why people sometimes overdo it—so we’ll show you exactly how to start low, go slow, and have a better time.
What’s a “standard” edible serving?
In California, edibles are capped at 10 mg THC per serving and 100 mg THC per package, with multi-serving packages scored or portioned so a single 10 mg serving is obvious. Many new consumers are more comfortable below that, like 2.5–5 mg.
Quick take: Labels vary; always read the total mg THC per serving and per package before you eat.
How long do edibles take to kick in?
Because edibles are digested and processed by your liver before THC reaches the bloodstream, onset is slower than smoking or vaping. Expect 30–120 minutes for first effects, up to 4 hours for peak, and 8–12 hours of noticeable effects for many people.
How much should I take?
If you’re new or returning after a break:
- Start with 2.5–5 mg THC, especially if you’re sensitive to THC.
- Wait at least 2 hours before deciding to take more.
- Keep notes on how many mg you took, how long it took to feel, and how you felt.
These “low-and-slow” rules reduce the risk of stacking doses before the first one peaks.
Why do edibles feel stronger?
The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite associated with a longer and sometimes stronger effect profile. That’s why the same milligrams can feel different eaten vs. inhaled.
Safety: storage and kids
Edibles often look like snacks. Store them locked and out of sight in child-resistant containers. If a child might have consumed an edible, call Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222, your local health department, or 911 for emergencies.
What if I took too much?
- Don’t panic — effects wear off with time.
- Hydrate, breathe, and find a calm place.
- Avoid taking more and avoid mixing with alcohol.
- If you’re very uncomfortable, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or seek medical care.
Edibles timing & feel (at a glance)
| Step | What to expect |
|---|---|
| 0–30 min | Usually nothing yet — wait. |
| 30–120 min | First effects show up. |
| 2–4 hours | Peak effects; don’t add more unless planned splits. |
| 4–12 hours | Effects slowly taper; plan your day/evening. |
Timing varies with dose, metabolism, stomach contents, and tolerance.
FAQ
How long do edibles last?
Commonly 8–12 hours (with a longer tail for some). Plan your day and don’t drive.
What’s a first-time dose?
Try 2.5–5 mg THC; assess after 2 hours. Experienced consumers often use 5–10 mg per serving, but tolerance varies.
Why didn’t I feel anything for an hour, then everything at once?
Edibles have a slow onset; THC is absorbed after digestion and liver metabolism, so the “wave” can feel sudden. Avoid redosing too early.
What should I check on the label?
Confirm mg THC per serving and per package (e.g., CA: 10 mg/serving, 100 mg/package).
Is higher THC always better?
Not necessarily. Many people prefer a comfortable dose with a terpene profile they enjoy. Start low and adjust.
Bottom line
If you want a smoother edible experience: start with 2.5–5 mg, wait 2 hours, and plan for 8–12 hours of effects. Lock products away from kids, and call 1-800-222-1222 if you need help.