Decoding dosage: Finding your sweet spot
Let’s Find Your Sweet Spot
When it comes to cannabis, especially THC-rich varieties, dosage is key. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as individual reactions can vary widely based on factors like:
Body weight and metabolism: Just like with alcohol or medication, your body processes cannabis differently.
Tolerance: Regular users often develop a higher tolerance and may require larger doses to achieve the same effects.
Method of consumption: Smoking or vaping typically leads to faster and more intense effects compared to edibles, which take longer to kick in and can feel stronger.
Individual sensitivity: Some people are naturally more sensitive to cannabis than others.
Strain and cannabinoid content: Different cannabis strains have varying levels of THC and other cannabinoids, which will influence the effects.
Here's a general guideline, but always start low and go slow, especially if you're new to cannabis or trying a new product:
1-5 mg of THC: This is often considered a low dose, suitable for beginners or those seeking mild effects like relaxation or pain relief. You might experience subtle changes in mood or perception.
5-10 mg of THC: At this moderate dose, effects become more noticeable. You might feel euphoria, altered perception, and increased relaxation. This range is common for recreational use and managing moderate symptoms.
10-25 mg of THC: This is considered a strong dose and is generally recommended for experienced users or those seeking significant relief from pain or other conditions. Effects can be intense and may include impaired coordination and altered cognition.
25+ mg of THC: These high doses are typically for experienced users with high tolerance or those with specific medical needs under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Effects can be very strong and potentially overwhelming for some.
Important Note for Edibles: Edibles are metabolized differently by the liver, which converts THC into a more potent form. This means the effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to appear and can be much stronger and longer-lasting than inhaled cannabis. Be patient and don't take more before you feel the initial effects! Many "bad trips" with cannabis edibles happen because people take too much too soon.
When in doubt, start with the lowest possible dose and wait at least an hour or two (especially with edibles) before considering taking more. It's always better to under dose it than overdose it, especially as a curious explorer!