Unlike urine or blood, hair follicles can trap residual traces of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, from edibles for a much longer duration. Here's a breakdown of how long edibles can stay in your hair:
* **Up to 90 days:** This is the generally accepted maximum detection window for THC in hair after consuming edibles.
* **Factors affecting detection:** Several factors can influence how long THC metabolites show up in a hair drug test, including:
* **Frequency of use:** More frequent use of edibles can lead to higher concentrations of THC metabolites in hair, potentially extending the detection window.
* **Dosage:** The amount of THC consumed in the edibles can also affect how long it stays detectable in hair. Higher THC content might result in a longer detection window.
* **Metabolism:** Individual variations in metabolism can influence how quickly THC is processed and eliminated from the body. Someone with a slower metabolism might have a longer detection window.
* **Hair test limitations:** It's important to note that hair tests can sometimes provide a positive result even if you haven't recently used cannabis. This can be due to secondhand smoke exposure or environmental factors. A positive hair test result typically triggers further investigation to confirm recent use.
**Here are some additional points to consider:**
* **Hair growth rate:** Hair grows at an average rate of half an inch per month. A hair follicle drug test can potentially reveal past usage based on the length of the hair analyzed.
* **Alternatives to hair tests:** If you're concerned about a drug test, urine or blood tests typically have shorter detection windows for edibles (usually up to 30 days for urine and 3-4 days for blood).
**Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you have concerns about drug use or hair testing, consult with a medical professional.