// Medicine · Glossary

11-Hydroxy-THC

🩺 Medicine First mentioned: Ep. 261

The metabolite produced when delta-9 THC is processed through the liver's first-pass metabolism after oral consumption. A much more potent ligand for CB1 receptors than inhaled THC, 11-hydroxy-THC primarily acts on the peripheral endocannabinoid system (CB2 receptors throughout the body) rather than the central nervous system, producing the characteristic intense body high of edibles.

Dr. Mark Lewis explained the two distinct endocannabinoid system pathways: smoking targets CB1 in the brain (central), while edibles target CB2 throughout the body (peripheral). This is why smoking tolerance does not equal edible tolerance. Bubbleman maxes out at 30mg edible dose despite very heavy dabbing.

Ep. 261 Cannabis Cooking with Vanessa Lavorato