Cannabinoids have taken the wellness world by storm. From easing everyday stress to managing physical discomfort, these natural compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants are versatile and increasingly popular. But dosing cannabinoids can feel a bit daunting, especially with so many options out there. If you’re unsure how to dose cannabinoids, our easy guide breaks it all down for you!
In this guide, we’ll break everything down to help you figure out your ideal cannabis or your needs, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cannabis connoisseur. We’ll answer questions like, what’s the best way to consume them? How much THC should you take? What’s a regular dose of CBD? Are medical cannabis doses different? Which cannabinoids produce psychoactive effects? Keep reading to learn more!
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, which includes both hemp and marijuana. These compounds interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps modulate things like mood, appetite, sleep, and even soreness.
Scientists, through cannabis research, have discovered over 100 cannabinoids, but some are more well-known than others. Popular cannabinoids include:
- CBD (Cannabidiol)
- CBG (Cannabigerol)
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta 9 THC, Delta 9, D9 THC, or D9)
- Delta-8 THC
- HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
- THCp (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)
Each cannabinoid offers distinct health effects, making them popular for both medical and recreational use. They’re available in various forms, including cannabis edibles, disposable vapes, and tinctures. Some people use them for fun, while others, like medical marijuana patients, use certain cannabinoids for physical discomfort relief or help with other conditions.
While small amounts of THC and Delta-8 are known for making people feel euphoric or “buzzed,” other cannabinoids like CBD and CBG don’t cause that effect. Instead, they can support stress relief, enhance sleep quality, and contribute to overall wellness.
Factors That Influence Dosage
When it comes to cannabinoids, everyone’s experience is a little different. That’s because several factors affect how a particular dose will work for you. Understanding these factors can help you fine-tune your dosing to meet your specific needs and avoid unwanted side effects.
Let’s break down several factors that may influence dosage.
Body Weight
If you weigh more, you might need a higher dose to feel the effects compared to someone lighter. Cannabinoids are distributed throughout your body and are often fat-soluble. This means individuals with a higher body weight may experience diluted effects if the dosage isn’t adjusted appropriately.
Metabolism
Some people’s bodies process cannabinoids faster than others. If you have a fast metabolism, you might feel the effects more quickly, but they may not last as long. Conversely, a slower metabolism might mean the effects take longer to kick in but stick around longer.
Body Chemistry
Everyone’s body chemistry is unique. Factors like hormones, diet, and even hydration levels can influence how cannabinoids affect you. Some people may feel stronger effects with smaller doses, while others need more to notice any changes.
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Experience with Cannabis
If you’re new to cannabis, you’ll likely feel the stronger effects of cannabis with smaller doses. People with more experience often build up a tolerance over time, which can lessen the impact of cannabinoids.
Tolerance
Regular cannabis consumers may need higher doses to achieve the same effects they felt when they first started. Taking breaks, sometimes called “tolerance breaks,” can help reset your body’s response to cannabinoids.
Form Factor
How you consume cannabinoids matters. Smoking or vaping works faster, delivering effects within seconds. But these effects may fade quickly. Edibles and tinctures take longer to kick in, often up to two hours, but their effects last longer, making them ideal for sustained relief.
Desired Effects
Your purpose for consuming cannabinoids — whether for the potential of chronic discomfort relief, relaxation, or sleep — can also influence your ideal dose. Different goals may require different amounts and types of cannabinoids.
DISCLAIMER: This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions but is not a substitute for medical advice. Cannabinoids are not meant to replace medications or treatments you are undergoing for conditions such as chronic pain relief, anxiety, insomnia, or other medical issues. While many patients safely incorporate cannabinoids into their daily routine, adding THC or other substances may carry a higher risk for some individuals, particularly those with a history of drug abuse, alcohol issues, or cannabis use disorder. If you have questions about medical use or substance use, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
How to Dose Cannabinoids: Tips Every Consumer Should Know
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for dosing cannabinoids. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so it’s essential to approach dosing methodically. Here are six key tips on how to dose cannabis products:
- Start Small. Always begin with a low first dose, especially if it’s your first time or you’re trying a new cannabinoid. For example, start with 1-2 mg of THC or Delta 8, or 10 mg of CBD. We’ll explore this further later in this guide.
- Go Slow. Give your body time to process the dose. Some methods, like edibles, can take up to two hours to fully kick in. Avoid consuming more until you know how the initial dose affects you.
- Keep a Journal. Write down how much you take, the method of consumption, how you feel, and how long the effects last. Tracking your experiences can help you identify patterns and helpy you to find your optimal dose more quickly.
- Adjust Gradually. Once you’re familiar with how a small dose feels, you can increase it slightly. For example, if 5 mg of THC content feels too mild, try 7 mg next time. Incremental adjustments are safer and more effective than making big leaps.
- Consider Form Factor. The way you consume cannabinoids plays a significant role. Inhalation methods, like vaping, offer immediate effects but wear off quickly, making them ideal for quick relief. Edibles and tinctures, on the other hand, provide longer-lasting effects but require patience.
- Understand Ratios. Many products combine cannabinoids, like a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC dosage. These ratios can balance effects, with CBD often tempering THC’s intensity. Experimenting with ratios can help you find a product that suits your needs.
Dosing cannabinoids requires patience and attention to your body’s signals. By starting small, being methodical, and adjusting gradually, you can find the right balance for your needs.
What Is Microdosing?
Microdosing is when you take very small doses of a cannabinoid to see how they affect you. This method is especially helpful for beginners, anyone trying a potent cannabinoid for the first time, or those looking for subtle, functional benefits without strong euphoric effects.
Why Microdose?
Microdosing is a safe and effective way to explore cannabinoids, especially for those who want to avoid the risk of overconsumption. It’s also an excellent approach for people looking to enhance specific aspects of their day, like focus or relaxation, without dramatic changes.
Microdosing can help you avoid overwhelming effects, especially with potent cannabinoids like THC or THCp. This method helps you to stay functional throughout the day while still enjoying therapeutic benefits. Microdosing also provides a manageable way to gradually increase your comfort level with cannabinoids without the risk of taking too much.
How To Microdose
Microdosing is a very simple process. Let’s break it down for you in three simple steps:
- Take a very small dose. For example, if you’re taking Delta-8, start with 2 mg. With CBD, try starting with 5-10 mg.
- Wait at least two hours. Cannabinoids can take time to fully kick in, so patience is key.
- Assess how you feel. Notice any changes in your mood, focus, or physical sensations. If you’re comfortable, you can slowly adjust your dosage over time.
Dosing Non-Euphoric Cannabinoids
Non-euphoric cannabinoids like CBD and CBG are excellent options for people who want therapeutic benefits without the euphoria. Let’s look at how to dose these popular compounds.
CBD Dosing
CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoids because it doesn’t make you feel buzzed. Many people use it for relaxation and stress relief. Others incorporate it into their daily wellness routine to optimize overall well-being. To figure out your dose, try this formula:
- Regular Dose of CBD: Multiply your weight in pounds by 0.25 mg.
- Strong Dose of CBD: Multiply your weight in pounds by 0.50 mg.
For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your regular single dose would be 37.5 mg of CBD, and your strong dose would be 75.0 mg of CBD.
Start with the lower amount and work your way up if needed. Keep in mind that these calculations are not absolute. They’re just an estimated range of your ideal CBD dosage. Microdosing, paying attention to how you feel, and understanding how CBD affects you are essential to finding your ideal dose.
CBG Dosing
CBG is another non-euphoric cannabinoid. It’s often called the “mother of all cannabinoids” because it’s the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. CBG is thought to have many potential benefits and may help with focus or everyday stress relief. Use these formulas to calculate your estimated CBG dosage range:
- Regular Dose of CBG: Multiply your weight in pounds by 0.10 mg of CBG.
- Strong Dose of CBG: Multiply your weight in pounds by 0.30 mg of CBG.
For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your regular single dose would be 15.0 mg of CBG, and your strong dose would be 45.0 mg of CBG.
Again, these calculations are not absolute; they’re just estimates of what might be right for you. To assess the effectiveness of CBG, start small and see how your body responds before increasing the recommended dosages.
Dosing Euphoric Cannabinoids
Euphoric cannabinoids like THC, Delta-8, Delta-9, HHC, and THCp can produce powerful effects, each with varying intensities and potencies. These cannabinoids are often used for relaxation or just enjoying a bit of euphoria. Because they can be potent, starting low, going slow, and following the recommended dosages is essential.
Delta 8 Dosing
Delta 8 THC is sometimes called THC’s “milder cousin.” It provides a calm, uplifting euphoria that’s perfect for reducing stress or winding down after a long day. Many consume it in the evening when they want to wash away stress or ease into a night of peaceful sleep. Others microdose it to calm their nerves before heading into social events.
- Microdose Delta-8: 2-5 mg
- Potency: 50-75% of THC
Delta 9 Dosing
Delta 9 THC is the main compound responsible for the euphoria people associate with cannabis. It is the world’s most popular cannabinoid. Expect a powerful euphoria that lifts your mood, boosts creativity, and brings physical sensations like relief from discomfort, deep relaxation, and increased hunger.
- Microdose Delta 9: 1-3 mg
- Potency: 100% of THC
HHC Dosing
HHC offers effects similar to THC but tends to feel a bit smoother and more manageable. It’s a great option if you want to relax without feeling overwhelmed. Many turn to HHC when they need quick relief from sudden, overwhelming stress.
- Microdose: 2-5 mg
- Potency: 70-80% of THC
THCp Dosing
THCp is incredibly potent — up to 33 times stronger than the regular THC dosage. This cannabinoid delivers intense euphoria and alters perception, so caution is critical. You’ll feel prolonged euphoria and a gradual comedown of effects that can extend well beyond 24 hours.
- Microdose: 0.2-0.5 mg
- Potency: 3,300%
Tips for Safe Dosing
Cannabinoids can be powerful, so it’s essential to use them safely. Here are some tips for safe dosing and preventing any disastrous situations from occurring.
- Avoid Driving or Operating Machinery. Certain cannabinoids can impair your coordination and reaction time.
- Stay in a Safe Environment. Especially when trying a new cannabinoid, make sure you’re in a comfortable and secure place.
- Know Your Tolerance. Start with a low dose and slowly work up the dosage. Everyone’s tolerance is different.
- Be Aware of Interactions. Cannabinoids can interact with other medications. Talk to a doctor if you’re unsure.
- Take Breaks. Regular consumption can lead to tolerance, so take breaks to reset your body.
What Happens if You Take Too Much?
Taking too much of a cannabinoid can be an uncomfortable experience, especially if it’s one with powerful effects like THC or Delta-8. Overconsuming beyond your ideal dosage can lead to adverse effects such as:
- Anxious Thoughts. This is especially common with high doses of THC. Some people may feel overly anxious or even experience mild panic attacks.
- Drowsiness. While cannabinoids like CBD are often used to promote sleep, too much can make you feel excessively tired or lethargic.
- Increased Heart Rate. Some cannabinoids, particularly THC, can temporarily increase your heart rate, which might feel alarming if you’re not expecting it.
- Nausea or Dizziness. High doses can upset your stomach or make you feel lightheaded. In extreme cases, vomiting might occur.
- Impaired Motor Skills. Overconsumption of cannabinoids can make it difficult to concentrate or perform physical tasks safely.
How To Manage Overconsuming Cannabinoids
If you accidentally take too much, don’t panic. Most effects of cannabis will wear off on their own within a few hours. To manage the situation, try these tips:
- Stay Hydrated. Drink water or herbal tea to help flush cannabinoids out of your system.
- Find a Calm Environment. Being in a quiet, comfortable space can help reduce feelings of thoughts of anxiety or discomfort.
- Counteract the Effects. CBD is known to counteract some of THC’s euphoric effects. Taking a small dose of CBD might help you feel more balanced.
- Distract Yourself. Watch a comforting movie, listen to music, or engage in a relaxing activity to take your mind off the discomfort.
Remember, taking too much isn’t dangerous in most cases, but it’s always better to avoid overconsumption by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed.
Final Thoughts – How to Dose Cannabinoids [The Ultimate Guide + 6 Powerful Tips for Safe Consumption]
Finding the right way to dose cannabis is a personal journey. It’s not just about taking the right amount but also understanding how your body reacts to different cannabinoids and forms of consumption. Whether you’re seeking physical discomfort relief, help with anxious thoughts or a better night’s sleep, there’s a cannabinoid and an effective dose that can fit your needs. Cannabinoids offer a wide range of benefits, but safety and mindfulness are key.
Approach dosing with patience and curiosity. Start small, go slow, and pay attention to how your body feels. Keep track of your experiences so you can fine-tune your approach over time. And remember, it’s always better to under-dose and build up gradually than to take too much at once. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can enjoy the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids while minimizing risks while dosing medical marijuana or other cannabis products. Always listen to your body when dosing cannabinoids, and enjoy the journey of discovering what works best for you!
