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As marijuana becomes legal for recreational use in more and more places, consumers are increasingly interested in learning about its benefits, specifically curious about its most well-known compound, THC. In exploring how to integrate THC into daily life and getting the most out of using cannabis without making it an overwhelming or overly euphoric experience, they are turning to microdosing.
Cannabis consumers in both medical and recreational markets are becoming more conscious of the dosage that they are consuming. They seek to tailor the type of cannabis they use to get better results. As this trend increases, there are more low-dose THC products than ever, made intentionally for mindful cannabis users. Edibles and beverages are popular delivery methods that allow users to ingest THC and CBD in smaller amounts.
It’s All Cannabis:
It is a common misconception that hemp and marijuana are two different plant species. In fact, they’re not distinct species at all.
They are both varieties of the Cannabis Sativa plant. Hemp strains contain low levels of naturally occurring THC and high levels of CBD, while Marijuana strains contain naturally high levels of THC and low levels of CBD. Legally, the critical difference between the two is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content.
What is THC:
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol — it’s the primary psychoactive component found in cannabis that makes users feel high. THC works by activating specific receptors in the brain involved with memory, appetite, visual and auditory perception, coordination, and much more.
While THC has been widely known for its recreational uses, many people rely on it for its wellness benefits. For instance, initial and ongoing research suggests that it can be used to support sleep quality, physical discomfort, balance, and overall mood. Similarly, to CBD, Delta-9 THC interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Benefits of Microdosing:
Microdosing cannabis refers to using small amounts of a cannabis product that usually contains THC throughout the day rather than a single, larger dose. Microdosing is ideal for those that want to experience the wellness benefits of Cannabis without feeling “high” or overwhelmed. Consuming too much THC can cause adverse effects such as nervousness, dry mouth, red eyes, and more.
For some, using the smallest doses of cannabis can provide the most significant relief. This result has been verified in studies and reported by individuals who have switched to microdosing. Low THC and CBD doses may ease discomfort, uplift mood, and relax the mind.
A typical microdose of THC is 2.5 – 5mg. Gummies containing 5mg of delta-9 THC can be a great option for cannabis users embracing supplementation through microdosing. If you are new to THC, you should start with a low and slow method (2.5mg) to experiment and find your optimal dose. The intention of the progressive intake, starting from a lower dosage, is to avoid the side effects of overconsuming THC, or avoid the psychoactivity, while still receiving its benefits.
There are many cannabis products, such as oils, supplements, edibles, and beverages, that allow for the microdosing of cannabis discreetly. These options don’t have the typical smell of cannabis when smoked or vaporized.
Since microdosing involves consuming smaller quantities of cannabis to experience a therapeutic dose, the effects on an individual’s wallet are minimal relative to those who consume cannabis in higher doses. Once people discover their optimal dose, they can consume effectively.
Delivery Methods:
Different delivery methods will affect your experience with cannabis. THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, is processed in your body differently depending on how you consume it. You’ll feel the effects of THC in different ways depending on how quickly your body absorbs it.
THC and other cannabinoids are taken in by the body via the lungs when you smoke. This goes directly into the bloodstream and has a noticeable impact in minutes. However, before the cannabinoids in edibles can be taken into circulation, your body must digest the food to break it down. As a result, edibles might take between 30 minutes and several hours to take effect and can come on much stronger.
Final Thoughts:
Microdosing edibles can be a great way to enjoy cannabis without feeling stoned. However, it is important to understand that everyone reacts differently. Be aware that you can’t always accurately predict the effects you’ll have, so you will want to start slow when starting your journey with THC and increase your dosage with time. Here are some tips on how to enhance your edible experience, and if you are new to THC edibles, please check out our beginner’s guide.
As you explore microdosing, it’s important to read and understand product labels to be intentional about your consumption.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide medical advice whatsoever. It is intended for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult with your physician or a healthcare professional before making any lifestyle changes.