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New (and seasoned) cannabis consumers can benefit from an understanding of microdosing. Here’s everything you need to know. 

If you’re a seasoned cannabis consumer, you’re likely familiar with the potency race to the top. As cannabis becomes legal in a growing number of states, producers battle to attract consumers with products that pack a more potent punch. 

But stronger doesn’t always mean better! 

There are days when you want to experience the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, but you still need to get things done. That’s where cannabis microdosing, our Patient Consultant’s secret weapon for sustainable daily cannabis consumption, comes in. So what is cannabis microdosing? And how can you incorporate the benefits of micro-dosed cannabis into your daily routine? Let’s take a closer look!

What is cannabis microdosing?

First things first; what is cannabis microdosing? While the actual amounts of cannabis an individual uses for microdosing can vary from person to person, micro-dosing consists of using a minimal dose of cannabis, either by taking a small amount of a pure THC product or a larger amount of a high CBD, low THC product for a more mellow effect enjoyable over a long period. 

The techniques of micro-dosing cannabis were initially associated with hallucinogens like LSD or mushrooms and have recently been expanded to investigate the potential of low dosage THC.

The idea is to balance the desirable benefits of THC and the sometimes overwhelming psychoactive effects to create a sustainable daily high.

How is cannabis microdosing different from a full dose of cannabis?

When it comes to cannabis consumption, microdosing is all about calibration. Rather than maxing out THC levels for a complete mind/body experience, the small doses utilized by practitioners of cannabis microdosing are designed to deliver precise effects. 

Where consuming a full dose of THC creates a specific bodily experience that some find overwhelming, the effects of microdosing are far more subtle and vary from person to person depending on several factors, including the cannabis strain, dosage level, and your body’s tolerances. Basically–the effects of microdosing are more subtle and controlled, allowing you to experience the therapeutic benefits of THC while continuing to go about your day unimpeded by the psychoactive effects.

What are the benefits of cannabis microdosing?

So, why microdose? The short answer is, it all depends! 

Individuals might try microdosing for a variety of reasons–depending on their physical and psychological needs. Some people enjoy the relief microdosing can provide for bodily conditions like relief from chronic pain or topical treatments for inflammation. In contrast, others turn to the treatment for conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

While most academic studies on microdosing have been done on psychedelic substances, consumers often report symptomatic relief; in addition, if you’re new to the world of cannabis consumption, microdosing can be a great way to test your tolerances and find out the right level of THC for your individual needs.

How to start cannabis microdosing?

First things first—let’s get you talking to a professional! 

As with any change in your wellness or supplement routine, you should always check with an expert who understands the ins and outs of consumption to see if cannabis microdosing is right for you. A qualified Patient Consultant will help you determine if cannabis microdosing is right for you and determine the best place to start.

Once you’ve got the professional go-ahead, check out some of our favorite low-dose products! If you’re brand new to the world of microdosing, a high dosage CBD product like Abatin Wellness CBD oil can be a great place to start. A low THC/high CBD tincture like Liberty’s MediHaze allows you to control your dosage drop by drop. Or try a little infused honey for a sweetly light dose. Whatever product you choose, Takoma Wellness’ experienced budtenders are here to help guide you through your cannabis microdosing journey.

Drop by Washington DC’s finest – and first – medical cannabis dispensary today and start your microdosing journey!

New cannabis consumers often approach edibles with a mixture of excitement, fear, and caution. We get it – edibles have an interesting reputation. But they shouldn’t. Our cannabis edibles basics will ensure you have the best experience – every time. 

When it comes to cannabis edibles, there’s an element of mystery that can make taking the first bite of that infused chocolate bar (or oat bar, marshmallow crisp, or cookie in a jar) a nerve-wracking experience. How do you know the correct dosage? And what effects will you experience? 

Unlike more familiar forms of cannabis, like flower and vape cartridges, it’s hard to make a visual assessment of the perfect amount (and variety) of cannabis edibles to suit your needs. 

That’s why we decided to sit down with our favorite professional Patient Consultants to learn the ins and outs of cannabis edibles and how new consumers can ensure a perfect experience every time.

What are cannabis edibles?

Let’s start with the basics: what are cannabis edibles, and how do they work? 

Put simply–a cannabis edible is any cannabis-infused food product that contains either THC or CBD. Some cannabis edibles enthusiasts prefer them for their convenience, while others like the relief of not worrying about the impact of smoking on their lungs. 

These days, edibles come in many forms beyond the familiar pot brownie, from beef jerky to breakfast cereal! With the world of cannabis edible brands growing by the day, it’s easy to find a product to suit your palette (and dosage and effects requirements).

How long does it take cannabis edibles to kick in?

Edibles tend to take longer to kick in than inhalable cannabis products. Typically, you can expect to wait between 30-60 minutes to experience the effects of cannabis edibles. Many factors can affect the timing of cannabis absorption via edibles. Let’s go over a few:

• You might feel the effects of high dosage THC edibles more quickly than a lower dose product.
• Edibles you consume by sucking on them (like lozenges, lollipops, and gum) kick in faster since they’re absorbed directly through your saliva (they’re sublingual). 
• Chewable edibles (like gummies, cookies, or that oat bar we talked about earlier) take longer to kick in since they have to be digested before your body absorbs the THC or CBD they contain. 
• Other factors, like how empty your stomach is and your sex, weight, and cannabis tolerance, can affect how quickly your body reacts to edibles.

If you’ve consumed an edible and don’t yet feel the effects, have patience! Our Budtenders recommend waiting 24 hours before taking a second dose to avoid consuming too much. Instead, try eating something else to kick-start your digestion.

How do edibles make you feel?

One advantage of edibles is the intensity they offer compared to other cannabis products. Cannabis edibles create a more powerful high than some other consumption methods, and you’ll feel the effects longer than inhalable cannabis products. 

That’s why it’s so important to read your labels and consult your budtender before embarking on a novel cannabis experience. Make sure you pay attention to serving sizes–what sounds like a reasonable dose for that chocolate bar you’re chowing down on might just represent the THC content of a single square!

The bottom line: whether you’re brand new to the world of edibles, or a seasoned pro, starting low and going slow is always the best advice. Taking a mindful approach to cannabis edible consumption will ensure you have a blissful, relaxing experience that’s 100% DC Budtender approved.

Do you have cannabis consumption questions? Drop by Takoma Wellness and ask a DC Patient Consultant (Budtender)! We’re here for you.