Since cannabis continues to be illegal on the federal level, you may now find yourself face-to-face with a drug test for an upcoming job (not something we have to worry about as cannabis marketing experts).

Or maybe you’re considering quitting for a while and taking a tolerance break so you can start over again brand new.

Whatever the case, you’ll need to do a cannabis detox. And there are some ways that are more effective than others.

The Down and Dirty on Cannabis in Your System

Fact: THC can show up in your urine for anywhere between a couple days to 30 days (or, in some cases, even longer). Why is there such a wide discrepancy? It all depends on your body and your lifestyle.

It’s going to take longer to clear THC from someone who’s a hardcore regular consumer, overweight with poor eating habits, and never exercises than from someone who doesn’t use as frequently, has a higher metabolism, and eats well and exercises.

Also, the cleanse will not happen as quickly if you’re smoker. Of any kind. So based on those factors, you can get some sort of idea of how long it might take for you.

You Will Need to Abstain

Whether you like it or not, the only true way you can flush THC from your system is by not putting it in there for a while. There’s no way around that.

If you’re a hard hitter, once you stop using you may experience irritability, headaches, insomnia, anxiety and depression. These may be signs that you’re experiencing withdrawal – but given that marijuana is often prescribed to ease these conditions, it could just as easily be a return of the symptoms.

No matter how little or much you consume, you should plan on it taking six weeks to completely clear THC from your system. This is especially critical if you’re getting tested.

There are products on the market aimed at detoxification and they can help. But you’re absolute best bet is to do an all-natural detox where you stop using cannabis and follow these guidelines:

  1. Drink Plenty of Water and Tea

When considering what to drink, let water and tea top the list. It’s important to understand though that you’re not trying to flush out your system. Drinking excessive water isn’t going to clear you out faster. The idea is to stay hydrated to help your body expel toxins.

Tea is also a helpful detox beverage. Pick teas like dandelion or milk thistle that have high levels of antioxidants.

  1. Get Off the Couch

The primary place THC is stored in the body is in fat cells. That’s why people who are overweight or have a low metabolism have a much harder time flushing it from their bodies.

So kick up your metabolism and start exercising. Get some cardio and weight training going to boost your metabolism and speed up the detox process.

Another big plus to exercise is the production of endorphins which will provide a natural high transition from the cannabis high. Plus, exercise is just plain good for you! So this could be a good time to make it a regular part of your life.

  1. Steer Toward Healthier Foods

While you’re building muscle and losing fat through exercise, try shifting away from foods high in salt, sugar, and fat. Yeah, we know they’re delicious. And we’re not saying ditch them altogether. Just know that they increase water retention and slow metabolism – the exact opposite effect you want for cleansing the system of THC.

So when you can, opt instead for lean meats, fruits, veggies, and especially leafy greens (since they increase metabolism). Whole grains, beans, and legumes will also help to clear the system and provide needed energy. Plus, all of this healthy eating helps to stabilize the system and leave you feeling less of the effects of negative symptoms from the detox.

Ditch the Myths

And now for the bad news.

Things such as cranberry juice, vinegar, and niacin have been purported to clear the system quickly of THC. This is bunk. There is even (mis)information that ingesting bleach can help. Nope. Not true. Calling bullsh*t.

The reality is, detoxing is a lengthy process and there aren’t quick shortcuts.

Nurture Yourself During Cannabis Detox

If you’re preparing to go through a cannabis detox, be kind to yourself. Especially if you’ll be incorporating major lifestyle changes.

This could be a good time to try yoga or meditation, or pick up a new hobby. You may just find this cannabis detox a time to learn and grow.

And for more stories, articles, and tips about all things cannabis, keep checking back with us!