How Long Does CBD Stay in Your System?
We get this question a lot. Here is what affects how long CBD stays in your body.
Reviewed by Jessica Flowers, Certified Clinical Herbalist
How long does CBD stay in your system? Like many things, there isn’t one simple answer, because so many factors play a part. Let’s explore them, starting with how CBD works.
How does CBD work?
Humans have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of cannabinoid receptors, signaling molecules and enzymes found in the brain and throughout the body. Researchers are studying its role in many processes, including mood, stress, appetite and sleep. CBD and other compounds from hemp interact with this system. To learn more, read our guide, What Is CBD?
How does the form of CBD affect absorption?
The way you take CBD affects how it’s absorbed and how long it stays in your system. When you swallow CBD, your digestive system breaks it down first, so it takes longer to absorb. When you hold CBD oil under your tongue, some of it is absorbed directly, so it acts more quickly. CBD comes in many forms:
- Tinctures. An oil taken under the tongue or swallowed.
- Topicals. Balms, oils and lotions applied to the skin.
- Softgels and capsules.
- Edibles.
- Inhalants.
How long does it take to notice?
It varies with your size, the form you use and more. In general, a tincture held under the tongue is absorbed fairly quickly, often within about 15 minutes, while softgels and capsules can take one to two hours.
What is CBD’s half-life?
A half-life is the time it takes for the amount of a substance in your body to drop by half. Research suggests CBD’s half-life varies widely with how it’s taken and how often: from a few hours after a single low serving, to roughly two to five days for people who take CBD by mouth every day over a long period. Many factors play a part, including:
- Serving size.
- How often you take it.
- The form you use.
- Your body and metabolism.
- Whether you have eaten.
- Your age.
- Any medications you take.
Will CBD show up on a drug test?
Most drug tests look for THC, not CBD. Hemp products contain only trace amounts of THC, but those traces can build up over time, so it’s possible to test positive, especially with whole plant products like ours. If you’re drug tested for work or sport, talk with your employer or a medical professional before use. Learn more in our FAQ.
In summary
There isn’t a single answer to how long CBD stays in your system, because it depends on so many variables. There’s still a lot to learn about CBD, and experiences vary from person to person, which is why we always suggest starting low, going slow and paying attention to how you feel.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
