Congratulations! You've learned about cannabinoids and terpenes, and you're ready to explore cannabis. But before you dive in, there's a crucial skill to master: the art of dosing. Getting your dosage right is the key to a positive experience, especially when it comes to edibles. Too little, and you might not feel anything; too much, and you could end up feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable.
At DEADLY NUGS, we prioritize safe, enjoyable, and responsible consumption. This guide will help you understand how to dose effectively, ensuring your cannabis journey is a smooth one.
The Golden Rule: Start Low, Go Slow!
This isn't just a suggestion; it's a mantra for responsible cannabis use, particularly for beginners and with edibles.
"Start Low": Begin with the smallest recommended dose.
"Go Slow": Wait patiently to feel the effects before consuming more.
Cannabis affects everyone differently due to factors like individual body chemistry, metabolism, tolerance, and even what you've eaten that day. What works for your friend might be too much or too little for you.
Dosing By Consumption Method:
The method of consumption significantly impacts how quickly you feel effects (onset) and how long those effects last (duration).
1. Smoking or Vaping Flower (Inhalation)
- Onset: Fast (seconds to a few minutes). The cannabinoids enter your bloodstream directly through your lungs.
- Duration: Relatively short (1-3 hours, peaking around 30-60 minutes).
Dosing for Beginners:
- Flower: Take one small "puff" or "hit" from a pipe, bong, or pre-roll. Wait 5-10 minutes. Assess how you feel. If you want more, take another small puff.
- Vape Pen: Take one short, gentle inhale. Wait 5-10 minutes. Vapor is less harsh than smoke, but the effects are still quick.
Pros for Dosing: The rapid onset allows for easier "titration" (adjusting your dose incrementally until you reach your desired effect). If you feel too much, the effects also subside relatively quickly.
2. Edibles (Ingestion)
- Onset: Slow (30 minutes to 2 hours, sometimes longer). Cannabinoids are metabolized by your liver before entering the bloodstream, converting THC into a more potent compound (11-hydroxy-THC).
- Duration: Long-lasting (4-8 hours, sometimes up to 12).
Dosing for Beginners:
- THE MOST IMPORTANT RULE FOR EDIBLES: Start with 2.5mg to 5mg of THC, MAX. Even if you don't feel anything after an hour, DO NOT take more. Wait a full 2-3 hours before considering another tiny increment (and really, for your first time, it's best to just wait it out).
- Read Labels Carefully: Legal edibles will clearly state the THC content per serving (e.g., 10mg per gummy, or 100mg per chocolate bar with 10 x 10mg squares). If a gummy is 10mg, cut it in half or quarters.
Pros for Dosing: Smoke-free, discreet, and long-lasting effects.
Cons for Dosing: The delayed onset is the biggest challenge for beginners, leading to accidental overconsumption. This is where the "start low, go slow" mantra is absolutely critical.
3. Tinctures (Sublingual)
- Onset: Moderate (15-45 minutes). When placed under the tongue, cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. If swallowed immediately, it acts more like an edible.
- Duration: Moderate (2-6 hours).
Dosing for Beginners: Start with a few drops (e.g., 0.25ml to 0.5ml), paying attention to the total THC/CBD mg per dropper on the label. Hold under your tongue for 60-90 seconds before swallowing. Wait at least an hour to assess effects before taking more.
Pros for Dosing: Offers more precise dosing control than smoking or edibles, thanks to measured droppers.
4. Topicals (External Application)
- Onset: Varies (minutes to an hour).
- Duration: Varies (hours).
Dosing for Beginners: Apply a small amount to the affected area. Topicals are generally non-psychoactive as cannabinoids don't typically enter the bloodstream in significant amounts.
Pros for Dosing: Localized relief without any "high." Safe for virtually anyone.
Factors Influencing Your Dose:
- Tolerance: Regular users build tolerance and need higher doses. Beginners have low tolerance.
- Metabolism: Influences how quickly your body processes cannabinoids.
- Body Weight: Can play a minor role, but less significant than tolerance or metabolism.
- Product Potency: Always check THC/CBD percentages and milligram counts.
- Set and Setting: Your mindset and environment heavily influence your experience. Be in a comfortable, safe place.
- Empty vs. Full Stomach (for edibles): Eating edibles on an empty stomach can lead to a faster and more intense onset.
Mastering the art of dosing is an ongoing journey of self-discovery. By practicing "start low, go slow" and understanding how different consumption methods affect your body, you'll be well on your way to a consistently positive and controlled cannabis experience.
What's your best tip for a beginner trying to figure out their ideal cannabis dose? Share your wisdom in the comments!