Microdosing cannabis involves taking the smallest amount of the compound required to achieve the desired effect, allowing users to enjoy the various benefits of cannabis while minimizing the psychoactive effects. Microdosing can also be used to save money or reset tolerance. Unlike users who consume higher doses of THC in a single session, individuals who microdose often use cannabis more often throughout the day. 

What’s Considered a “Microdose”? 

What constitutes a microdose varies from person to person. For example, an individual who regularly consumes 30mg of cannabis at a time might consider 10mg to be a microdose, while a person who has never used cannabis before would be advised against using 10mg the first time. Most in the industry agree, though, that a microdose is usually between 1-2.5mg THC. 

What are the Benefits of Microdosing?

The most obvious benefit of microdosing is that you can better avoid uncomfortable feelings like paranoia or anxiety. Other benefits include resetting tolerance levels -- by taking small and controlled doses, you can reset your body’s tolerance to THC. This allows users who have built up a tolerance over time to experience their desired effects with smaller amounts, leading to more efficient use and savings in the long run. 

Finally, users with certain health conditions may benefit from taking smaller doses of THC. In fact, a 2020 study showed that just 500 micrograms of THC was enough to relieve pain. For the sake of comparison, a typical medical cannabis patient consumes about 150,000 micrograms of THC a day. Before using cannabis in any form or dosage to treat a medical condition, please speak with your primary care physician about any potential benefits or risks. 

Cannabinoid Microdosing: An Alzheimer’s Treatment? 

When it comes to specific ways microdosing can be leveraged to treat specific conditions, a group of researchers in 2022 sought to see what impact, if any, cannabinoid microdosing had on the memory and brain functions of a 75-year old patient with mild-stage Alzheimer’s disease. The patient presented common Alzheimer’s symptoms, including memory deficit and limited daily activity, and was given microdoses of cannabis extract across 22 months. 

The results were revelatory. At the conclusion of the study, the patient showed improved scores in two common patient evaluation tests, and the patient and the patient’s caregiver also noted cognitive improvements, as well as an improvement in energy, excitement, and sleep. 

Of course, one study on a single individual is not enough to point toward microdosing being an effective treatment for all patients, but it’s an important step toward further research and open-mindedness toward cannabis as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s and other diseases. 

Other Research-Backed Benefits of Microdosing

The Alzheimer's and cancer studies aren’t the only research that has been done on the benefits of microdosing THC. Here are the results of a few others: 

• Research from the University of Illinois at Chicago pointed towards low doses of delta-9-THC as reducing anxiety in individuals preparing to speak in public. 
• Another study found that a low dose of synthetic cannabinoids can help reduce insomnia, nightmares, chronic pain, and self-harm in subjects suffering from PTSD.
• In another trial, 27 individuals suffering from chronic neuropathic pain were given a placebo, 1mg THC, or .5mg THC. According to the researchers, both doses (but not the placebo) resulted in a significant reduction in the intensity of the pain. 

So far, research has been relatively limited, but as more states legalize adult use and medical cannabis, we hope to see an increase in the number of clinical trials and studies. 

How to Microdose THC 

Microdosing is easy in clinical settings, where the dosages are carefully controlled by medical practitioners, but what if you want to microdose on your own? Fortunately, it’s not as difficult as you might think. First, start with a small amount of THC, use that amount for three days, and then increase it by 1mg for another three days. Continue this methodology, keeping note of how you feel and how many milligrams resulted in the intended effect until you reach the dosage that works for you. 

It is incredibly important to monitor the effects and how your body responds. Pay attention to changes in your mood, energy, or pain levels, and note any negative effects, like dizziness or dry mouth. Since a microdose is different for every person, keeping detailed notes is crucial. 

The Best Products to Microdose With

When it comes to microdosing, there are several methods to consider. Each method offers its own unique advantages for those looking to get started with THC microdosing. 

Gummies & Edibles 

Gummies and other edibles are a great place to start with microdosing because you can easily see how much THC is in a single gummy. You can then use this to control the dosage. For example, if a gummy has 5mg THC each and your microdose “dose” is 2.5mg, simply cut the gummy in half. Just remember: edibles take a little longer to take effect than other products. 

Tinctures & Sublinguals 

Like gummies, oral tinctures and sublinguals are easy to dose and can be taken discreetly. Unlike gummies, though, you’ll feel the effects much quicker. With this method, the cannabinoids sink through the skin of your mouth and enter your bloodstream directly, rather than having to be digested. 

Tablets & Capsules 

Like the other options, tablets and capsules can be very precisely dosed, giving you control over how much THC you’re taking. There is a wide variety of tablets and capsules available, many of which are microdose-friendly, depending on the milligrams of THC in each. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, just make sure the capsules are gelatin-free. 

CULTA: Your Source for Cannabis Products to Microdose 

When it comes to microdosing, the quality of the product matters just as much as the quantity. For cannabis that’s meticulously grown, harvested, and processed, look no further than CULTA. All our cannabis is lovingly grown on our Cambridge farm, where we do everything possible to produce the healthiest plants and best-quality gummies, tinctures, tablets, and edibles. Learn more about our hands-on indoor and outdoor cultivation here. 

Cannabis Microdosing FAQs 

What is Microdosing THC? 

Microdosing is taking the smallest amount of THC possible to still have an effect. This minimizes side effects like dizziness and anxiety and can help save money and support tolerance breaks.

What’s the Best Way to Try Microdosing?

The best way to try microdosing is to start with the lowest dose possible and gradually increase the dose until you achieve your desired results. If you feel like you took too much, check out our guide for what to do if you accidentally overdo it.

Which Cannabis Products Should I Microdose With?

Some good products to microdose with are those with clear and accurate doses, including gummies and other edibles, tinctures, and capsules. Your budtender can help you find the right product.