How to Dose Edibles – THC & CBD Content

If you are confused with dosing edibles, you are not alone. After all, edibles, work differently from other forms of cannabis. Even experienced marijuana users sometimes find themselves unsure of the amount of cannabis brownie, gummy or chocolate they should eat. But even when it can be confusing at first, determining your ideal dosage becomes easy once you understand edibles a little more. Read on to learn what you need to know about dosing the THC and CBD content of your edibles.

Metabolizing Cannabis Edibles

The THCA in marijuana has to go through decarboxylation before becoming THC, which is the cannabinoid with psychoactive effects. When you smoke or when the cannabis is cooked, the burning process triggers decarboxylation. Smoked cannabis is processed in the lungs. From the lungs, it goes to the bloodstream and almost immediately will reach the brain and the endocannabinoid system. With ingested edibles, on the other hand, the cannabis will go to the stomach where the digestive system will break it down into sugars and cards and THC. The intestines will absorb the THC and send it to the liver to be processed to a high potency THC that can quickly cross the body-brain barrier. The ingestion process takes more time than the smoking method, thus its effects take longer to deliver.

Cannabis Dosing Guide for Beginners

1. Be patient. Cannabis can be very tasty, so it can be tempting to have more than one piece, especially when they come in little chocolate squares or gummy bears. Taking too much too soon can pose problems; it is easy to overdose on edibles if you are not disciplined enough or if you are not educated enough. It can take up to 2 hours for edibles to kick in so you need to plan the process. Also consider that personal metabolic rate and body fat are huge factors, so start slow and wait for it to deliver its effects before going for another.
2. Consider your diet. Marijuana edibles are likely not alone in your stomach. This is why you should consider the other things you have eaten. Fatty foods slow the process, while an empty one accelerates it. Also consider any alcohol ingestion. Mixing alcohol with edibles can complicate the digestion. Also, alcohol can significantly increase THC concentration. For empty stomachs or those that have consumed alcohol prior, try a smaller dose at about 1 to 2 milligrams.
Follow directions. Clear and information labeling on cannabis edibles will help you control your consumption. Many labels show a standard dose of 10 milligrams. But if you have low tolerance or a novice user, divide this into mini doses so you can properly monitor the effects. Read labels that identify doses as 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 or 100 milligrams to schedule your intake and effects until you get the hang of it.
3. Remember CBD. Good labeling should list the CBD content and its ratio with THC. Edibles offer lots of medical benefits from CBD. Many patients even opt for eating edibles instead of smoking them. CBD offsets the high potency and unpleasant effects of THC to treat pain and anxiety, among others. A CBD and THC ratio of 1:1 offers the ideal balance, but you should still avoid overdosing.

Novice Tips for Dosing with Edibles

• Gummies, mints, lozenges, torches and oils dissolve in the mouth where they will be absorbed in the tongue and mouth lining.
• Add a fresh piece or orange or apple after taking an edible to expedite its effects.
• When consuming edibles, let it break down in your mouth before swallowing.
• Remain hydrated during and after consuming edibles.
Because they can be tasty and delicious, it can be tempting to eat more than one is needed, especially among novices. It is important to discipline your intake and monitor the results. If they can, new users should not consume edibles without someone watching over them.