Cannabis Metabolism: Explained
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Time: 4 min
Introduction
Cannabis metabolism is crucial for recreational and medicinal users alike. This process dictates how our bodies process cannabinoids like THC and CBD. We'll explore cannabis's journey through the body, from consumption to excretion, including how genetic differences affect your metabolism.
Table of Content
Introduction How Your Body Processes Cannabis: A Deep Dive into Cannabis Metabolism The First Stop: Absorption Distribution: Where Cannabinoids Travel Metabolic Breakdown: The Liver's Role Excretion: How Your Body Eliminates Cannabis Why Everyone is Different: The Influence of Genetics and Cannabis Metabolism Conclusion FAQs About Cannabis Metabolism
How Your Body Processes Cannabis: A Deep Dive into Cannabis Metabolism
Cannabis metabolism refers to the chemical transformations within the body after cannabis consumption. This involves enzymes and pathways that break down cannabinoids into smaller molecules called cannabinoid metabolites.
The First Stop: Absorption
Consumption method impacts cannabis absorption. Smoking or vaping allows THC to quickly enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Peak levels are reached within minutes, with a bioavailability of 10% to 35%.
Ingesting edibles causes slower absorption. THC passes through the digestive system and liver, undergoing first-pass metabolism. This transforms THC into THC metabolites before reaching the bloodstream.
Ingested Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) bioavailability is only about 4-12%. Oral consumption can produce more intense, longer-lasting effects. Which also ask for a responsible use. When ingesting edibles, make sure to be patient with dosage. Start low, and remember that you can always take more, but you cannot take back what you have eaten.
Distribution: Where Cannabinoids Travel
THC and CBD spread rapidly through the body via the bloodstream. These fat-soluble cannabinoids accumulate in adipose tissue.
THC crosses the blood-brain barrier, producing psychoactive effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) can enter the brain but doesn’t bind to CB1 receptors like THC. This lack of binding is why CBD products lack THC's psychoactive qualities. And instead provide many benefits, such as:
- Reduces Inflammation – CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with pain and soreness.
- Eases Anxiety and Stress – It may promote a sense of calm and help manage anxiety and stress.
- Supports Better Sleep – CBD can improve sleep quality for some people, especially when used to relax before bedtime.
- Alleviates Pain – Many use CBD for pain relief, including muscle aches and joint pain.
- Protects Nerve Health – CBD has neuroprotective properties, which could benefit brain and nerve health over time.
Metabolic Breakdown: The Liver's Role
The liver breaks down cannabis using enzymes, especially CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 from the hepatic CYP family. THC is transformed into over 80 metabolites, including psychoactive 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC).
11-OH-THC is then converted into non-psychoactive 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THC-COOH). CBD is metabolized by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 into 7-OH-CBD, then CBD-COOH, and its glucuronide.
Studies show that CBD and its metabolites interact with drug-metabolizing enzymes. This creates the potential for drug-drug interactions with certain medications.
Excretion: How Your Body Eliminates Cannabis
Metabolized THC exits mainly through feces, with some in urine. THC-COOH lingers longer in the body than parent cannabinoids. CBD follows a similar excretion pattern, primarily in feces and slightly in urine.
Research indicates about 65% of THC is eliminated via feces and 20% via urine after oral consumption.
Why Everyone is Different: The Influence of Genetics and Cannabis Metabolism
Cannabis metabolism varies due to individual genetics. Enzyme efficiency affects how individuals experience cannabis. For instance, a higher THC dose may produce paranoia in some due to increased 11-OH-THC production.
Some other THC side-effects may be:
- Dry Mouth (Cottonmouth) – A feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat.
- Increased Heart Rate – THC can cause a temporary increase in heart rate.
- Impaired Memory and Focus – Short-term memory and concentration can be affected.
- Drowsiness or Fatigue – It may make some users feel tired or sleepy.
- Anxiety or Paranoia – In higher doses, THC can lead to feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially in sensitive users.
A CYP2C9 gene variation can create "slow THC metabolizers." Studies show genetic links to some negative cannabis effects. Slow metabolizers may experience stronger effects due to higher THC blood levels. This impacts the duration and intensity of THC's effects, whether they are positive or negative.
In Other Words: When you consume cannabis, how it’s processed depends a lot on the method. Smoking or vaping allows THC to enter your bloodstream quickly, while edibles take longer since they’re absorbed through the digestive system and liver. Once in your system, THC and CBD spread through your body, with THC crossing into the brain to produce a high. The liver breaks these compounds down, and most are eventually excreted through feces and urine. Genetics also play a role, meaning everyone’s experience with cannabis can be a bit different.
Conclusion
Cannabis metabolism is a complex process affected by administration methods, genetics, and liver function. It influences how the major cannabinoids THC and CBD are processed.
From consumption to excretion, various pathways and enzymes dictate the journey of these compounds. Understanding this enhances one’s relationship with cannabis.
It also enables smarter use as consumers seek cannabis with cannabinoids for medicinal purposes. Further research on cannabis-drug interactions is crucial in this developing area of wellness.
"Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live."
FAQs About Cannabis Metabolism
How does the body process cannabis?
When you consume cannabis, your body breaks it down through a process called metabolism. If you smoke or vape, cannabis goes directly into your bloodstream, giving you faster effects. If you eat it (like in edibles), it passes through your liver, where it’s broken down slowly, which is why the effects take longer but can last for hours.
Why do some people feel the effects of cannabis more strongly than others?
Everyone’s body processes cannabis a bit differently due to factors like genetics, metabolism speed, and body fat. Some people break down THC quickly and may feel effects more intensely, while others process it slower and have milder effects. This is why the same dose can feel different for different people.
How long does cannabis stay in the body?
It varies, but generally, cannabis can stay in your system from a few days to several weeks, depending on how often you use it and the method of consumption. For occasional users, it may clear out in a few days, while regular users might have traces for weeks.
Author: Jans Beloglazovs
Emerging from Europe's strict cannabis landscape, Jan has become a known figure in the European cannabis industry through vast experience in cannabusiness and a keen understanding of the shifting trends in Europe. Co-founding the Nine Realms cannabis brand, he leverages his expertise to advocate for progressive cannabis policies and educate a broad audience.
