Answer First
Start with 1 to 2.5 mg THC. Wait 2 hours. Do not take more during that window. For CBD edibles, start with 10 to 25 mg CBD.
how to dose cannabis edibles chart
Why Edible Doses Differ from Smoked Cannabis
When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC enters the blood through the lungs. Effects start in minutes. When you eat cannabis, THC goes through the liver. The liver converts THC to 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound crosses the blood-brain barrier with more force. Edibles take 30 to 120 minutes to kick in. Effects last 4 to 6 hours. Some people feel effects for 8 hours.
how to dose cannabis edibles for beginners
First Dose for Beginners
No single dose works for all people. Body weight, liver enzymes, and tolerance change the response. A safe start for most beginners is 1 to 2.5 mg THC. Many states sell edibles in 5 mg or 10 mg pieces. Cut the piece into quarters or halves. A 10 mg piece cut into four parts gives 2.5 mg per part.
How to Dose Cannabis Edibles Step by Step
Wait Time and Redosing
Wait at least 2 hours before you take more. Some sources say wait 3 hours. The peak effect arrives at 2 to 3 hours. If you take more at 30 minutes, you stack doses. That leads to a bad experience. Set a timer. Do not redose because you 'feel nothing' at 60 minutes.
How to Dose Cannabis Edibles: Chart by Experience Level
CBD Edible Doses
CBD edibles have a different dose range. CBD does not cause intoxication. Common starting doses for CBD are 10 to 25 mg. For sleep or pain, some people use 25 to 50 mg. A 1:1 THC:CBD edible changes the effect. The CBD may reduce THC anxiety. Start with 1 mg THC and 1 mg CBD in a 1:1 product.
How to Measure a Dose
- Read the label. Find the total THC in mg per package.
- Count the pieces. Divide total THC by piece count.
- Use a knife to cut the piece. A pill cutter works for hard edibles.
- Buy products with lab tests. Lab tests show the real THC level.
What to Avoid
- Do not drink alcohol with edibles. Alcohol raises THC blood levels.
- Do not drive after taking THC. Edibles cause drowsiness and delayed reaction.
- Do not take edibles with unknown THC content. Homemade edibles vary.
- Do not give edibles to children or pets. Keep them in a locked box.
When to Get Help
Call 911 if you see chest pain, a seizure, or trouble breathing. For heavy anxiety or a racing heart, go to a quiet room. Drink water. Wait. The effect will pass. Do not take more cannabis to 'fix' the feeling.