The cannabis plant naturally produces tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC-A), the raw building block that transforms into intoxicating THC. This conversion from acid to neutral form requires heat or UV light in a process called decarboxylation the removal of a carbon dioxide molecule. Smoking and vaping provide instant decarboxylation, delivering active THC for rapid effects. Other methods, like consuming raw flowers preserve THC-A allowing absorption without intoxication. Understanding this key process explains why heating and ingestion methods dramatically impact cannabis drug delivery and duration.

THC-A and THC duration compared 

Smoked or vaporized THC enters the bloodstream quickly, crossing the blood-brain barrier to trigger CB1 receptors and alter perception. Effects manifest within seconds, peak rapidly, and diminish over 2 to 3 hours. 

1. Conversely, ingested THC absorbed through digestion elicits a delayed response. Effects manifest around 60 to 90 minutes post-ingestion, but last longer, typically 4 to 8 hours with a prolonged taper. THC undergoes extensive first-pass liver metabolism when eaten, converting to longer-lasting byproducts. 
2. Less is known about ingesting non-decarboxylated THC-A from raw cannabis, but the duration likely falls between smoking and digesting psychoactive THC. Since metabolism differs, effects won’t directly equate, but several factors influence THC-A activation similar to traditional edibles.

Ingestion method matters

Eating raw cannabis containing THC-A means oral absorption through the gut, inconsistent decarboxylation rates via stomach acids, along protracted liver metabolism. This makes predicting onset and duration tricky. Effects depend heavily on personal biochemistry and consumption details. Small studies reveal that THC-A appears in the blood within minutes of ingestion via mouth sprays and tinctures. However, absorption remains lower without decarboxylation. Effects manifest sooner than traditional edibles but tape off over longer, erratic timeframes. Peak blood levels occur 30 to 120 minutes post-ingestion. The cookies thca likely elicits noticeable effects between 30 to 90 minutes once ingested or sublingually absorbed, tapering substantially after 4 to 6 hours. However, metabolism varies between individuals, and assay methods need improvement. More human studies measuring pharmacokinetics are vital to clarify models.

Key factors that impact THC-A activation and duration 

Several key variables beyond ingestion routes complicate predicting THC-A duration:

• Decarboxylation levels – Any heating triggers some spontaneous conversion to THC, accelerating effects. Elevated temperatures degrade THC-A rapidly.
• Enteric coating – Protective barriers may help bypass stomach acid decarboxylation, but likely extend duration.
• Diet – Fats and oils help absorb cannabinoids, while empty stomachs hasten uptake. But high-fat diets also increase first-pass liver metabolism.
• Tolerance – Frequent consumers require higher dosing to achieve effects, while sensitivities vary between individuals. 
• Enzyme expression – Genetic traits influence liver enzymes that break down cannabinoids, impacting duration.
• Microbiome health – Gut flora diversity aids digestion and absorption of many compounds. Probiotics may boost outcomes. 

Without human trials, these variables cloud formal guidance. However, patterns do emerge anecdotally. On average, ingesting small THC-A doses elicits subtle effects within 30 to 60 minutes. Peak levels manifest around two hours post-ingestion, tapering after 4 to 5 hours. Consuming edibles with some fat helps absorption. Those desiring extended relief dose higher amounts. However, delaying uptake with protective coatings avoids intense psychoactivity. Due to metabolism variance, starting low is advisable until you learn your limits.