11-Hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), usually referred to as 11-hydroxy-THC, is the main active metabolite of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is formed in the body after decarboxylated cannabis is consumed. 11-hydroxy-THC does not naturally exist in the cannabis plant but is formed within the human body after ingestion of THC.

There are many different and interesting ways to consume cannabis, and yet the most potent way is edibles. Although the psychoactive highs associated with edibles take much longer to kick in, they are also longer in duration and hits harder than if the cannabis was smoked. It seems that the THC effect should be the same no matter how it is taken, right? Well, the orally ingested THC takes a different path through the body and becomes a more potent psychoactive molecule.

Why are edibles so potent?

When THC is ingested, the molecule travels down a different pathway as opposed to when cannabis is smoked or vaped. Orally, it passes through the digestive tract where the THC is absorbed and makes directed to the liver. It is here in the liver where the molecule is metabolized into its derivative, 11-hydroxy-THC. After passing through the blood-brain barrier it produces a much stronger psychoactive effect than THC itself.

It is known that 11-hydroxy-THC has more profound effects over THC. Studies were conducted comparing 11-hydroxy-THC to THC. It was noted that when equal doses of each were administered, the 11-hydroxy-THC caused a noticeable potent high.

What are the benefits of 11-Hydroxy-THC?

The powerful THC metabolite that is produced (11-hydroxy-THC) in the body when edibles are orally ingested have numerous benefits: Cannabis users enjoy the powerful, long-lasting effects that can offer more intense and prolonged high than merely smoking flowers of the same strain. 11-hydroxy-THC effects can last anywhere from 6-8 hours and can offer relief when it comes to chronic pain and sleeping issues.

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