How Long Does Weed Stay in Your System? Full Breakdown

Felicia Parris
6 days ago
3 min read

How Long Does Weed Stay in the System After Quitting?

Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances today, but many people are surprised to learn how long weed can stay in the system after quitting. Whether you’re preparing for a drug test, starting a new job, or simply want clarity about your health, understanding THC detection time is important. At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we support individuals through every stage of recovery, helping them make informed decisions about their well-being.

In this guide, you’ll learn how long weed stays in your urine, blood, saliva, and hair, what affects THC detection time, and what to do if marijuana use has become hard to control.

How the Body Processes THC

When someone uses marijuana, the main psychoactive chemical, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), enters the bloodstream and is stored in the body’s fat cells. That’s why cannabis stays in the body longer than alcohol or many other substances.

Your metabolism, frequency of use, and body fat percentage all impact how long THC remains detectable.

General Detection Times for Weed

Here is a breakdown of average detection windows for different types of drug tests:

1. Urine Test (Most Common)

Single use: 1–3 days
Moderate use (3–4x/week): 5–7 days
Daily use: 10–15 days
Heavy, long-term use: 30+ days

Urine tests detect THC-COOH, a metabolite stored in fat cells, making detection last much longer for regular users.

2. Blood Test

Single use: Up to 24 hours
Frequent use: 1–7 days

THC leaves the blood faster but may linger longer for daily users.

3. Saliva Test

Most people: 24–72 hours
Daily users: Up to 1 week

Saliva tests are increasingly used by employers and police because they measure recent use.

4. Hair Test

Up to 90 days

Hair tests detect long-term use and are difficult to beat because THC metabolites build up inside the hair shaft.

Factors That Affect How Long Weed Stays in Your System

Not everyone clears THC at the same pace. Here’s what affects detection time:

1. Frequency of Use

Daily or heavy users store much more THC in body fat, making detection longer.

2. Body Fat Percentage

THC binds to fat cells. Higher body fat = slower clearance.

3. Metabolism & Overall Health

People with faster metabolisms process THC more quickly.

4. Type of Cannabis Product

High-THC strains
Vape cartridges
Concentrates All deliver more THC than traditional flower.

5. Hydration & Diet

While hydration doesn’t “erase” THC, it may slightly lower concentration levels.

Can You Speed Up THC Detox?

There is no guaranteed quick fix. Many detox products online are unreliable.

Healthy ways to support your body include:

Drinking water regularly
Eating a clean, balanced diet
Exercising (burning fat releases stored THC, but may temporarily increase levels)
Getting enough sleep
Avoiding all cannabis use during detox

If marijuana use has become frequent or difficult to cut back on, professional support can help.

When Marijuana Use Becomes a Problem

Many people assume weed is “safe” because it’s common and legal in many states. But chronic or heavy use can lead to:

Anxiety or mood swings
Memory problems
Poor sleep
Lack of motivation
Difficulty quitting
Impact on work or school
Relationship issues

If any of these feel familiar, you’re not alone. DeLand Treatment Solutions provides compassionate, confidential marijuana addiction support.

How DeLand Treatment Solutions Can Help

Our treatment programs are designed to help you regain control of your life, without judgment.

We offer:

✔ Personalized outpatient treatment ✔ Evidence-based therapy ✔ Support for anxiety, depression & underlying issues ✔ Relapse-prevention tools ✔ Flexible schedules for work and family life

You don’t need to struggle alone. Whether you want help cutting back or stopping completely, our team is here for you.

Take the First Step Toward Clarity & Wellness

Wondering how long weed will stay in your system is often a sign that you’re ready for a healthier change. At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way with understanding and care.

Call now for confidential support: (386) 866-8689

Your recovery starts with one conversation. Let’s take that step together.