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How THC Affects the Body: What Really Happens When You Consume Cannabis

THC may be the star cannabinoid in cannabis, but few people really understand how it works inside the body. Whether you're exploring cannabis for wellness, recreation, creativity, or relaxation, knowing how THC interacts with your system can help you choose better doses, avoid uncomfortable experiences, and get the most out of your LURE THC drinks.


A box of LURE THC drinks, featuring all 4 signature flavors.

Here’s what actually happens from the moment THC enters your body to the moment its effects fade.


1. THC and the Endocannabinoid System

To understand THC, you first have to understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a regulatory network found throughout your body. It influences mood, appetite, sleep, inflammation, and even memory.


THC fits into the ECS like a puzzle piece. It binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and CB2 receptors throughout the body. This is what produces the classic effects of cannabis such as:


  • Relaxation

  • Mood elevation

  • Increased appetite

  • Altered sensory perception

  • Reduced stress

  • Pain relief


THC doesn’t just activate the ECS; it temporarily shifts how the system communicates.


2. The Brain Effects: Mood, Memory, and Perception

Once THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, it affects areas related to:

A woman in a bathing suit, drinking a LURE Green Dragon THC Drink.

Mood:THC increases dopamine release, which can lead to feelings of calm, euphoria, or contentment.


Memory:THC slows activity in the hippocampus, which is why it can make you forget where you put your keys or lose track of your thought mid-sentence.


Perception:Colors, sounds, music, and time can feel enhanced or altered because THC temporarily changes sensory processing.


Coordination:The cerebellum is also affected, which is why dosing responsibly is essential when timing and coordination matter.


3. The Body Effects: Relaxation, Digestion, and Pain Relief

THC doesn’t just influence the brain. It has major effects throughout the body:


Muscle Relaxation:THC eases tension by acting on motor pathways.


Pain Modulation:It reduces pain signals, which is why many users find relief from chronic discomfort.


Digestion and Appetite:THC increases appetite by stimulating the hypothalamus. This is why “the munchies” are so common.


Inflammation Reduction:While CBD is the primary anti-inflammatory cannabinoid, THC also offers supportive benefits.


4. Why Edibles and Beverages Feel Different

THC from beverages like LURE doesn’t hit the body the same way as inhaled cannabis.


Inhaled THC

  • Effects begin within minutes

  • High peaks quickly

  • Wears off faster


Edible or beverage THC

  • Metabolized through the liver

  • Converts into 11-hydroxy-THC, a stronger form

  • Takes longer to kick in (20 to 60 minutes)

  • Produces a longer, deeper, more body-focused experience


    A woman holding a handful of THC Gummies.

This is why LURE formulates precise, controlled dosing so you can feel confident with the experience you choose.


5. Dosage Matters More Than Anything

The same THC dose can feel very different from person to person. Your experience depends on:


  • Metabolism

  • Tolerance

  • Recent meals

  • Body weight

  • Hormones

  • Hydration

  • Sensitivity to cannabinoids


If you're new to THC beverages, always start with a low dose and give it time to work. Your ECS responds best when you ease into it.


6. The Come-Down: How THC Leaves the System

As THC wears off, the body gradually restores normal ECS communication. Many people feel:


  • Relaxed

  • Sleepy

  • Calm

  • Mentally quieter


Hydration, a balanced snack, and a stable environment all help smooth out the decline. Interested in THC Drinks? check out our article on everything you could know about THC Drinks!

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