How much THC should you take?

What you experience when you consume a cannabis product largely depends on potency. Choosing the right potency can mean the difference between feeling soothed and feeling overwhelmed.

To have a positive experience, you need to take the appropriate dose of THC. But how do you figure that out?

Factors Influencing the Best Dosage of THC for You

The best dosage of THC depends on such factors as body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and sensitivity to cannabis. Additionally, the desired effects, consumption method, and product potency all play a role in determining the appropriate dosage.

Tolerance

If you have a low tolerance for THC or little experience with cannabis, start low and go slow. For edibles, the recommended starting dose is 5 mg of THC. After starting at this low dose, you can determine whether you want to up or lessen your dosage, adjusting until you find the perfect potency.

If you are an experienced user, you can try higher dosages. But you should still approach cannabis with caution and increase dosage as needed gradually. Keep in mind that even if you have a lot of experience, your tolerance can diminish rapidly if you haven't used THC products in a while.

Method of Consumption

You can use all sorts of methods from smoking pipes and papers, to portable and desktop vaporizers. Your method of consumption has a big impact on THC absorption and onset of effects. Inhalation methods like smoking or vaping offer rapid onset, but the effects don't last as long as the effects of products consumed orally, like edibles or tinctures.

Because edibles have a longer onset, it's even more important when consuming them to get the potency right. The effects of THC edibles usually last about six to eight hours.

Body Weight and Metabolism

Differences in body weight and metabolism affect how quickly THC is absorbed and metabolized. Heavier people may require higher dosages to get the same results.

Desired Effects

The affects you want to achieve -- whether therapeutic or recreational -- affect what dosage is best for you. To relieve pain, you may need higher dosages than are necessary to enhance your mood.

Tips for Safe THC Consumption

Start low and go slow. Begin with a low dosage and gradually adjust it while monitoring the effects. This approach reduces the risk of overconsumption and adverse reactions.

Wait and assess. Allow enough time for THC to take effect before consuming more. Depending on your method of consumption, effects may take minutes or hours to hit.

Know your limits. Know your personal tolerance when consuming THC. Avoid exceeding recommended dosages or consuming more than you're comfortable with.

Take CBD. Try consuming some CBD as you consume THC products. Because of its calming effects, CBD can ameliorate some of the unwanted effects of taking too much THC, like feelings of stress or paranoia.

To find the right dosage of THC for you, you need to carefully consider personal factors, product potency, and desired effects. By understanding THC dosage and its influence on effects, individuals can make informed decisions that prioritize both enjoyment and well-being in their cannabis consumption journey.