Cannabis Detection Times
Cannabis Detection Times: Urine, Hair, Saliva & Blood (2025)
A clear, up-to-date explainer on how long THC and its metabolites can be detected in the body—by test type—and what affects your timeline.
If you’re preparing for a screen, understanding cannabis detection times is essential. Drug tests measure either active THC (most often in blood) or THC metabolites (commonly in urine and hair). Actual detection depends on test type, frequency of use, body fat, hydration, sleep, and overall metabolism.
What Affects THC Detection?
- Frequency & amount: Daily or heavy use extends windows versus occasional use.
- Body composition: THC is fat-soluble; more body fat can mean longer storage.
- Metabolism & lifestyle: Sleep, diet quality, hydration, and activity level matter.
- Test sensitivity: Cutoff thresholds (e.g., 50 ng/mL for urine screens) and lab methods differ.
Estimated Detection Times by Test Type
Urine (THC-COOH Metabolites)
- Occasional (≤3×/week): ~3 days
- Moderate (≈4×/week): ~5–7 days
- Daily: ~10–15 days
- Heavy daily / multiple times per day: 30+ days
Hair (Metabolites Incorporated into Hair Shaft)
Provides a long lookback window (typically up to 90 days) but is less useful for very recent use.
Saliva (Recent Oral Exposure)
Non-invasive; typically detects use within 24–72 hours.
Blood (Active THC)
Detects active THC—shorter window (often hours to ~1–2 days), though frequent users may show longer persistence.
Practical Tips for a Natural THC Cleanse
- Abstain early: Time is the most reliable factor.
- Hydrate steadily: Avoid extreme overhydration.
- Eat fiber-rich foods: Support digestion and elimination.
- Sleep & move: Rest and light activity support metabolism.
Want a step-by-step plan? See our guide to THC detection in urine, saliva, blood & hair.