How Long Does Cannabis Stay in the Body?

Did you know that THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the effects felt when it’s used, is also the compound measured in drug tests? It’s fat-soluble, meaning it accumulates in fatty tissue. Unlike alcohol, which is eliminated quickly, cannabis is released gradually into the body. The result? Cannabis can still be detected long after the effects have worn off!

The duration of cannabis detection

The length of time cannabis can be detected in the body depends on the type of test used:

• Urine: 3 to 30 days (sometimes longer in chronic users)
• Blood: a few hours to 2 days
• Saliva: 1 to 3 days
• Hair: up to 90 days

Please note! However, the length of time cannabis remains detectable varies from person to person.

What factors influence how long cannabis can be detected in the body?

Medical or regular use prolongs the presence of cannabis in the body, whereas occasional use causes it to disappear more quickly. Several other factors can influence the presence of cannabis in the body:

• Metabolism: Some people naturally metabolize substances faster than others.
• Age, weight, and health: Body fat percentage, hydration levels, and physical activity influence the process.
• Method of consumption: Inhaling cannabis (smoking or vaping) produces rapid effects but clears from the system more quickly, whereas ingestion (oil, capsules, edibles) results in longer detection times.
• Dosage and concentration: The more THC a product contains, the longer it will remain in the body.

Warning! CBD is not detected by standard tests.

The length of time cannabis remains detectable in the body varies from person to person. However, even if there are traces of cannabis in your system, that doesn’t mean you’re still feeling its effects!

Psst! Since cannabis doesn’t affect everyone the same way, it’s essential to opt for a personalized medical cannabis treatment plan and to schedule regular follow-ups with the professionals at the SCM Clinic. For recreational use, it’s also strongly recommended to try the desired cannabis product gradually to ensure safe use.

How can you eliminate traces of cannabis from your body?

Fact or fiction: Drinking lots of water, exercising, and sweating can “flush” your system faster to eliminate all traces of cannabis. This claim is false: there is no magic method for eliminating all cannabis from the body! Only time allows the body to metabolize it.

Medical cannabis as an alternative treatment

Cannabis isn’t just used for recreational purposes. It can also be a therapeutic solution for many health conditions. To learn more, contact the healthcare professionals at SCM Clinic!