Understanding Edibles and THC Metabolism
When you consume a cannabis edible, the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) travels through your digestive system to the liver before entering the bloodstream [1.6.2]. In the liver, THC is converted into a more potent and longer-lasting compound called 11-hydroxy-THC [1.2.8, 1.3.6]. This metabolic process is why edibles have a delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) but produce a more intense and prolonged high compared to smoking, where THC is absorbed rapidly through the lungs [1.2.2, 1.3.4]. Because it's processed differently and is fat-soluble, THC from edibles is stored in the body's fat cells and released slowly over time, extending its detection window [1.6.2, 1.3.6]. A 100 mg dose is considered very strong and is recommended only for experienced users with a high tolerance [1.2.5]. For most, a standard dose is between 5 and 10 mg.
Factors Influencing THC Detection Time
The exact time a 100 mg edible stays in your system is not universal. Several individual factors play a crucial role:
- Frequency of Use: Chronic or frequent users will have THC detectable for a much longer period than occasional users. This is because THC accumulates in fat cells with repeated use [1.6.2]. For a single use, THC clears relatively quickly, but for a daily user, it could take 30 days or more to leave the system [1.2.7, 1.3.6].
- Metabolism: Individuals with a faster metabolic rate will process and eliminate THC more quickly [1.6.2]. Age, genetics, and physical activity level all influence your metabolic rate [1.6.4].
- Body Fat (BMI): Since THC is lipophilic (fat-soluble), it is stored in fat cells. People with a higher percentage of body fat may retain THC metabolites for longer periods as they are released slowly back into the bloodstream [1.6.5].
- Dosage: A 100 mg dose is substantial. Higher doses of THC take longer for the body to break down and eliminate compared to smaller doses [1.6.2].
- Hydration and Diet: While not a way to 'flush' your system quickly, overall hydration and a healthy diet can support your body's natural metabolic processes [1.6.5].
Detection Windows by Test Type
The type of drug test administered is the most significant factor in determining if THC from a 100 mg edible will be detected. Because edibles are metabolized into longer-lasting compounds, they can have extended detection windows compared to smoked cannabis in some tests [1.2.4].
Comparison of Drug Test Detection Times for Edibles
| Test Type | Typical Detection Window for Edibles | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urine | 3 to 30+ days | This is the most common testing method. For an infrequent user, it may be 3-7 days, but for a chronic user, it can be 30 days or more [1.3.2, 1.3.6]. |
| Blood | 3 to 4 days | Blood tests have a shorter window than urine tests. They are often used to determine recent use or current impairment [1.2.2, 1.4.3]. |
| Saliva | 1 to 3 days | THC can be detected in oral fluid for a few days after consumption. This method is also often used to detect recent use [1.5.3, 1.5.5]. |
| Hair | Up to 90 days | Hair follicle tests have the longest detection window, as traces of THC are stored in the hair shaft as it grows [1.2.1, 1.5.4]. |
A Note on High-Dose Edibles
Given that 100 mg is a very high dose, an individual should expect to be at the longer end of these estimated detection windows, especially for urine tests. For someone who does not use cannabis regularly, taking a single 100 mg edible could still result in a positive urine test for over a week [1.4.9]. For a regular user, this window extends significantly, potentially beyond 30 days.
Conclusion
How long a 100 mg edible will stay in your system depends heavily on your personal physiology and habits. The potent dose means THC and its metabolites will be present in significant amounts, leading to longer detection times across all test types. For an infrequent user, THC could be detectable in urine for over a week, while for a frequent user, it could be a month or longer. The longest detection window is with a hair test, which can show use for up to 90 days. Due to the number of variables, it is impossible to give a precise timeline for any single individual.
For more information on drug testing, you can visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
