Microdosing THC

States across the country are legalizing cannabis, and interest in microdosing THC is through the roof. What is it, exactly? What benefits do people report–and how can you get started?

Here’s what you’ll want to know.

A woman lying on a lilac-colored shag rug, holding a 5 mg can of Cantrip lemon basil seltzer toward the camera

What is microdosing?

Microdosing THC is all about finding your just-right dose so you can enjoy the feel-good mental and physical benefits of THC—without feeling stoned or tired.

Why do people microdose THC?

The reasons are endless. Here are just a few of the ways people say they benefit from microdosing.

Folks who are canna-curious report more control over their first experiences
Athletes say it helps them set aside stress, empowering them to push through tough workouts
Folks microdosing THC for anxiety share that it helps them realize a greater sense of calm—avoiding the panic or paranoia some experience at higher doses
Medical marijuana patients report that it helps them manage their pain, control nausea, and boost their appetite
Creatives say it helps get their juices flowing—without the intoxicating effects of alcohol or high-dose THC products
Regular cannabis users share that they reset their tolerance by microdosing THC after abstaining for a few days

How much is a microdose?

Like most things in life, it depends. Micro for some doesn’t necessarily mean micro for others.

We typically consider 2-to-5 mg of THC to be a microdose, as do many in the cannabis industry.

What about when and how often to microdose?

The totally unsatisfying truth is we just don’t know; the answer is different for everyone.

Most people consuming THC drinks say they feel the effects in just 10-15 minutes, and they often last for an hour to an hour-and-a-half. Meanwhile, smoking pot can take minutes and last 2-3 hours, while weed edibles can take 45-90 minutes and last 4-6 hours.

If you’re new to microdosing THC, experts say to consume just once a day at the start.

How to microdose THC

Pick your perfect product.

There are lots of exciting THC products on the market—from weed gummies and THC tinctures to cannabis joints and infused beverages.

Our recommendation: Stick to THC drinks.

Why?

When THC is suspended in a drink, it quickly enters your bloodstream. Meanwhile, low-dose edibles have to be processed by your liver first—and when the effects are delayed, people sometimes think they need more, which can lead to overconsumption and a not-so-great experience.

THC-infused drinks also mean you’re not inhaling harmful chemicals into your lungs as you would with a joint, blunt, or bong—so you can avoid the damaging effects of smoking.

Choose your just-right THC dose.

If you’re brand new to THC, you might want to try a 1 or 2mg THC product first. Meanwhile, if you and THC are old friends, take a break for a few days and then try a 5mg product.

Start out slow.

You’ll have a better experience if you start with too low of a dose than if you overshoot. So take it easy. The next day, you’ll know if you hit the mark—or want more.

Keep track of your journey.

Some people find it really helpful to journal their microdosing experience.

Each day, simply jot down your THC dose, how long it took to feel the effects, and how long they lasted. Keep notes on the brands and flavors you love, while you’re at it. All this info can be helpful to people who really know their stuff, which brings us to…

Get advice from the experts.

While we enjoy creating and drinking THC beverages ourselves, we’re not medical experts and we can’t offer surefire advice. That’s because THC affects everyone differently.

Want a helping hand?

Pop into your friendly, neighborhood THC dispensary—or consult your physician if you’re using THC for medical reasons.

Ready to kick off your THC microdosing journey?

We carefully craft our infused beverages using fast-acting THC, all-natural flavorings and sweeteners, and a wee bit of magic. Get Cantrip delivered right to your doorstep!