Smoking/vaping: The onset of effects is rapid, within minutes, due to the direct absorption of cannabinoids into the bloodstream through the lungs. Bioavailability is 30% to 50%.
Edibles: Due to metabolism in the digestive system, edibles result in delayed onset, typically 30 minutes to 2 hours. The liver metabolizes the psychoactive unit into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent. Bioavailability is about 4% to 12%.
Sublingual Tinctures: Allow cannabinoids to be absorbed through the mucous membranes beneath the tongue, leading to a faster onset than edibles but slower than smoking. Bioavailability can range from 10% to 20%.