CANNABIS EXPLAINER
Cannabis Dosing Guide
The golden rule: start with 2.5mg THC, wait 2 hours before considering more.
CANNABIS EXPLAINER
The golden rule: start with 2.5mg THC, wait 2 hours before considering more.
| Dose Range | Experience Level | Expected Effects |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2.5mg THC | First-timers, microdosing | Mild relief, minimal impairment |
| 2.5-5mg THC | Occasional users | Light euphoria, relaxation |
| 5-10mg THC | Regular users | Moderate effects, some impairment |
| 10-25mg THC | Experienced users | Strong effects, significant impairment |
| 25mg+ THC | Very high tolerance | Intense effects, not for beginners |
One gram of cannabis flower with 20% THC contains approximately 200mg total THC. However, only 30-40% is delivered to the bloodstream when smoked — so one gram delivers roughly 60-80mg of effective THC. A single medium puff delivers approximately 1-3mg. For beginners, one or two puffs and waiting 15 minutes is the correct starting approach. Vaping is more efficient and delivers slightly more THC per puff than smoking.
Microdosing involves consuming 1-2.5mg of THC — enough to experience subtle therapeutic benefits (reduced anxiety, improved focus, mild pain relief) without noticeable impairment. Many medical patients prefer microdosing for daytime use. Microdosing is often done with precisely dosed products like 2.5mg mints or low-dose capsules, or by taking a single small puff of low-THC flower.
Regular cannabis use upregulates CB1 receptor downregulation — over time, the same dose produces diminishing effects. A dose of 5mg that once produced strong effects may require 20-30mg for a regular daily user. Tolerance breaks (2-4 weeks of abstinence) significantly reset sensitivity, allowing you to return to lower effective doses. This also reduces costs and potential long-term side effects.