Understanding Edibles
In recent years, edibles have become a popular alternative to smoking marijuana. Edibles are food products that contain THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. They can come in the form of brownies, gummies, chocolates, and more. Edibles have a delayed onset and can take up to 2 hours to take effect. The effects can last up to 8 hours, making them a favorite among those who want a longer-lasting high.
How Edibles Work in the Body
When edibles are ingested, they travel through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream. The liver metabolizes THC into a more potent compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound is responsible for the intense and long-lasting effects of edibles.
The Science of Hair Follicle Testing
Hair follicle testing is a common method used to detect drug use. It involves collecting a hair sample from the individual and analyzing it for drug metabolites. Hair follicle testing can detect drug use for up to 90 days, making it one of the most effective methods of drug testing.
Hair follicle tests are highly accurate and can detect even small amounts of drugs in the system. The test works by detecting drug metabolites that are deposited in the hair follicle shafts. These metabolites are then trapped in the growing hair and can be detected through analysis.
How Hair Follicle Testing Works
The process of hair follicle testing is straightforward. First, a sample of hair is collected from the individual. The sample is typically taken from the head, but it can also be taken from other parts of the body. The hair is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
At the laboratory, the hair is washed to remove any external contaminants. The hair is then cut into small sections and analyzed for drug metabolites. The results of the test can take several days to come back.
Will Edibles Show Up in a Hair Follicle Test?
The short answer is yes, edibles can show up in a hair follicle test. This is because the liver metabolizes THC into a more potent compound that is detectable in the hair follicle shafts. This means that even if you consume edibles weeks before the test, the drug can still be detected in the hair.
It’s important to note that hair follicle tests are incredibly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of drugs. This means that consuming even small amounts of edibles can result in a positive test result.
Factors that Affect Hair Follicle Test Results
Several factors can affect the results of a hair follicle test. These include:
- Hair color and type – Darker hair tends to trap more drug metabolites than lighter hair. Coarse hair can also trap more metabolites than fine hair.
- Amount and frequency of drug use – The more drug that is consumed, and the more frequently it is consumed, the more metabolites will be trapped in the hair follicles.
- Length of hair – Longer hair provides a longer detection window than shorter hair. Hair grows at a rate of approximately 1/2 inch per month, so a 1.5-inch hair sample can detect drug use up to 3 months prior.
Conclusion
In conclusion, edibles can show up in a hair follicle test. The liver metabolizes THC into a more potent compound that is detectable in the hair follicle shafts. Hair follicle tests are incredibly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of drugs, so consuming edibles can result in a positive test result.
It’s essential to understand the factors that can affect the results of a hair follicle test. Hair color and type, the amount and frequency of drug use, and the length of hair can all impact the detection window of the test. If you are concerned about passing a drug test, it’s important to abstain from drug use for several months before the test.
