Whether you’re preparing for a drug test, detoxing, or just curious, one of the most common cannabis-related questions is: How long does THC stay in your body? The answer depends on several factors, including how often you use cannabis, your metabolism, and the type of test being used.
In this guide, we’ll break down how THC is processed by your body, how long it stays in your system, and what you can do to potentially speed up the process.
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What Is THC and How Does Your Body Process It?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the “high.” Once you consume THC — whether through smoking, vaping, or edibles — your body breaks it down into metabolites, primarily THC-COOH, which are stored in your fat cells. These metabolites are what drug tests typically detect.
How Long Does THC Stay in Your System?
The duration THC stays in your body varies depending on the type of drug test and your individual factors. Here’s a general breakdown:
Urine Test (Most Common)
- Occasional Users (1-2x a week): 3 to 7 days
- Moderate Users (3-4x a week): 7 to 21 days
- Heavy Users (daily): 30+ days
Blood Test
- Occasional Use: 1 to 3 days
- Heavy Use: Up to 7 days
Saliva Test
- Occasional Use: 1 to 3 days
- Frequent Use: Up to 7 days
Hair Follicle Test
- All Users: Up to 90 days
Factors That Affect How Long THC Stays in Your Body
Frequency of Use
The more often you use THC, the longer it takes to fully clear from your system.
Body Fat Percentage
THC is fat-soluble. People with higher body fat may retain it metabolites longer.
Metabolism
A faster metabolism can help your body break down and eliminate it more quickly.
Hydration & Activity Level
Staying hydrated and exercising regularly may slightly speed up it elimination, but results vary.
Consumption Method
- Edibles often take longer to leave your system compared to smoking or vaping.
- Vapes/Smokes are usually metabolized quicker.
Can You Speed Up THC Detox?
There’s no guaranteed way to instantly flush THC from your body, but some strategies may help:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Exercise to burn fat.
- Eat a balanced diet to support metabolism.
- Avoid further cannabis use.
Be cautious of detox products that claim to “clean” your system in 24 hours — many of these are unreliable.
Why Does THC Stay in the Body So Long?
Unlike alcohol, which is water-soluble and exits the body quickly, THC binds to fat cells. This makes it harder for your body to eliminate fully, especially if you’re a frequent user.
Final Thoughts: How Long Does it Stay in Your Body?
THC can remain in your system anywhere from a few days to 90 days, depending on your usage habits, body composition, and the type of drug test. For occasional users, THC typically clears within a week, but heavy users may require a month or more.
