If it is true you can have “too much of a good thing,” microdosing is the answer to that when it comes to cannabis.
You have probably heard more and more people talk about microdosing in relation to how they use cannabis, and this is likely to increase in the future. We are learning more about how beneficial this approach can be when cannabis is used in medicinal and therapeutic settings, and it is also particularly helpful for anyone new to cannabis and worried about overdoing it right out of the gate.
Read on to learn more about why microdosing is the latest and greatest thing in the world of cannabis.
What Is Microdosing?
Microdosing is, essentially, what it sounds like taking small (micro) amounts (doses) throughout the day instead of a large amount of cannabis all at once. The result is typically a sustained benefit from cannabis without the more intense psychoactive effects.
Microdosing usually involved edibles and tinctures rather than vapes and prerolls. Edibles and tinctures are ideal for microdosing in that they are discreet and portable, making it easy to maintain a microdosing schedule while you are on the go. They are also useful in terms of monitoring exactly how much cannabis you are using over a specific period of time.
What Are the Benefits of Microdosing?
There are many reasons to try microdosing, and even recreational-only users of cannabis may find that this method of consumption provides benefits they did not even expect.
Microdosing is ideal for cannabis users who are interested in
- Avoiding some of the negative side effects that can be experienced with large amounts of THC, such as paranoia or anxiety
- Using cannabis for its healing and therapeutic properties (for example, to manage pain or benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties)
- Improving the quality of sleep with the compounds in cannabis
Those experienced with microdosing cannabis are often able to find just the right amount and dosing schedule to maintain mental clarity and focus throughout the day. Large amounts of cannabis can be disruptive to a work schedule, so a microdosing approach might provide the best way for users to enjoy the therapeutic and calming benefits of cannabis while maintaining productivity.
How Much Cannabis Should I Use When Microdosing?
There is no one magic formula to apply here, as the compounds in cannabis affect people differently. Your ideal dosing schedule may be smaller and with less frequency than another user, and it may take a bit of trial and error to find what works best for you.
If you want to have the best experience with microdosing, there are two important rules of thumb to consider:
- Start with quality products (and aim for an even CBD to THC ratio, if possible, or a higher CBD percentage than THC)
- Keep a journal to record which strains and doses seem to provide the best results
The effects of THC could overpower the microdosing experience for new users, which is why we recommended starting heavier on the CBD side and then adjusting as needed.
Experienced cannabis users may find they can easily develop a beneficial microdosing schedule with a high THC content. Just remember that the microdosing schedule is yours to develop and tweak as needed until the desired benefits are reached.
If you want to microdose to improve sleep, for example, you might rely on different strains than someone who is microdosing to manage pain or boost their mood.
Should I Use Gummies or Tinctures to Microdose?
Both of these edible forms of cannabis are ideal for microdosing, so it really comes down to personal preference. A few items to note about tinctures and edibles are:
- The effects of tinctures are generally felt quicker than gummies
- Gummies tend to be less expensive and more readily available
- Both are discreet and offer a way to enjoy cannabis without inhaling vapor
- Gummies tend to have fruity flavor profiles for those who do not enjoy the earthy flavor of cannabis
There is also the option to combine the two when microdosing, which might provide the perfect balance for the desired effects you are seeking from cannabis. For example, if you are specifically interested in improving the quality of your sleep, you might use some gummies throughout the day but switch to a fast-acting tincture before bed.
Is It Legal to Microdose Cannabis?
Fortunately, there are now many ways to legally enjoy consumer cannabis products thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. Once that legislation was passed, the Federal government essentially stipulated that hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% dry weight Delta 9 THC were legal.
Additionally, many states have their own specific laws surrounding the use of medicinal marijuana. You should always consult your own state laws before purchasing cannabis products and also be sure to buy from only reputable sources.
Potency for Your Microdosing Needs
At Potency, we are committed to the best in Massachusetts cannabis, and we have a wide variety of products to try, whether you are interested in microdosing or occasional recreational use. Stop by our Pittsfield dispensary to learn more about our products and let our expert staff recommend the best cannabis for your needs.
