Cannabis Dosing for Beginners

Finding the right cannabis dosage can be the difference between a relaxing night and being couch-locked for hours. So, how do you get it right?

First of all, it's important to know that a 5 mg edible isn't going to hit the same as taking a few puffs from a vape or a pre-roll. Each consumption method packs its own unique punch. If you usually take dabs and want to try an edible, you're in for a different ride. And if you love edibles but want to give vaping a go, you might need a strong one to get the same vibe.

Let’s go through the best tips and tricks to help you understand dosing so you can enjoy your experience, no matter how you like to consume.

Desired Effects

Before you pick your product, it really helps to know what kind of experience you're looking for. Are you trying to sleep like a baby after a long day, or do you need something that will help you be the life of the party? Here's how you can match your goals with the right cannabis product:

Relax and Sleep

If you want to unwind and get some much-needed sleep, go for something on the indica side with a higher THC percentage.

• Edible: Try a 5 mg gummie. Edibles typically take longer to kick in (about 1-2 hours) but may provide a long-lasting, body-heavy high. Perfect for winding down before bed.
• Flower: Burning down an indica pre-roll (aim for around 10-15% THC) can also do the trick.
• Concentrates: If you're used to something stronger, a small dab of indica concentrate can be very effective. Keep in mind that concentrates are very potent, so start small.

Stay Awake and Active

Need an energy boost? Sativa strains will be your bestie for this one.

• Vape: A few puffs from a sativa vape pen (look for around 70-80% THC) can give you a quick, uplifting buzz. Vapes typically hit fast (within minutes) and are easy to control, making them perfect for daytime use.
• Edible: If you prefer edibles, go for a lower dose (2.5-5 mg of THC). A 2.5 mg mint can help keep you lively and social without giving you the couch-melting experience.
• Flower: A light puff or two from a sativa pre-roll (around 10-15% THC) can be a great addition to that shot of espresso you need.

Chill and Hang Out

Want a balanced, mellow high? Hybrids can offer the best of both worlds.

• Edible: A hybrid edible (around 5-10 mg of THC) can give you a smooth, balanced high.
• Vape: 2-3 hits from a hybrid vape pen (around 60-70% THC) can offer a moderate high that's both relaxing and uplifting.
• Flower: Smoking half of a hybrid pre-roll (around 10-15% THC) can be just right for a laid-back pizza party with friends.

When in doubt, start low and go slow. This way, you can find the right balance for the experience you want.

Different Types of Consumption Methods

Finding your cup of tea is the fun part. Whether you're into flower, edibles, concentrates, or vapes, each method has its own vibe. Here is what you can typically expect from each type:

Flower

• Onset Time: Almost immediate (within minutes)
• Duration: 1-3 hours
• Effects: Smoking or vaping flower gives you a quick buzz. It's easy to control since you can take a hit, chill for a bit, and then decide if you want more. Great for when you want to feel it fast and can handle it.

Edibles

• Onset Time: 1-2 hours
• Duration: 4-8 hours
• Effects: Edibles are a whole different ball game. They take longer to kick in since they have to go through your stomach, but when they hit, they hit hard and last long. They're more of a body high.

Concentrates

• Onset Time: Immediate (within minutes)
• Duration: 1-3 hours
• Effects: Concentrates are like the heavyweight champions of the cannabis world. They're super potent and give you a quick, intense high. Start with a small amount, about the size of a grain of rice.

Vapes

• Onset Time: Immediate (within minutes)
• Duration: 1-3 hours
• Effects: Vaping is smooth and hits fast, like smoking but easier on the lungs. Plus, vape pens are super convenient and discreet.

Comparing Methods

From Smoking to Edibles

If you’re used to smoking and want to try edibles, go easy at first. Edibles hit differently because they’re processed through your stomach, leading to a stronger and longer-lasting high. Start with a small dose, like 5 mg of THC. And remember, edibles take their sweet time to kick in – sometimes up to 2 hours – so be patient and don’t rush to take more. The high can last for hours, so it’s best to chill and wait it out.

From Edibles to Vaping

For those who love edibles but are curious about vaping, this is an easy switch. Vaping delivers THC straight to your lungs, so you’ll feel it fast – usually within minutes. Begin with 3 or 4 puffs and see how you feel before taking more. Vaping gives you quick feedback, making it easier to control your high and find the sweet spot without going overboard.

From Vaping to Smoking Flower

If you’re a vape fan thinking about trying smoking flower, it’s a pretty smooth transition. Take a couple of hits from a pre-roll to start. The effects of smoking come on quickly, like vaping, but the high is a bit different and usually shorter. This makes it easy to control how much you consume. You can take more hits as needed without worrying about an overwhelming high that lasts too long.

You Got This

Finding the right cannabis dose is a personal journey and takes some experimentation. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to try a different method, it’s important to start low and go slow.

The best rule of thumb is to think about what experience you're looking for, what strain will give you that, and what consumption method will tie it all together.

Trying new things can be tricky, but with the right approach, it can also be a lot of fun. Keep yourself comfortable, stay hydrated, and have some snacks handy. Most importantly, enjoy the ride.