Cannabis microdosing – what, why and how?
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not encourage illegal activity. In Finland, the use, possession and sale of cannabis is prohibited by law. Before using any substance or investigating its effects, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with local legislation and speak with an expert.
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In recent years, microdosing has become a popular method for various psychoactive substances, such as LSD and psilocybin. More and more people have also become interested in microdosing cannabis, as it has been claimed to provide some of the benefits of the plant without the intoxication or other potential side effects.
What is cannabis microdosing?
Microdosing refers to the use of a very small, subperceptual dose. This means that the dose is so small that it does not cause significant intoxication or changes in consciousness. In the case of cannabis, microdosing can mean, for example, a dose of 1–5 milligrams of THC, or an even smaller amount that contains only CBD.
Why do people microdose cannabis?
The purpose of microdosing is not to get high, but to take advantage of the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Stress and anxiety management – Many report that doses containing small amounts of cannabis can help them relax without affecting their daily functioning.
- Increased focus and creativity – Some users say microdosing can help them stay productive and improve their focus without causing highs or confusion.
- Pain Relief – Cannabis is known to have pain-relieving properties, and microdosing can allow for the treatment of mild pain without making the user feel too heavy or tired.
- Mood regulation – Some people find that microdosing can help balance mood and prevent symptoms of depression, for example.
How does cannabis microdosing happen?
The key to microdosing is finding the right dose that provides the desired effects without significant psychoactive effects. This can mean:
1. Start small – Typically, microdosing starts with a dose containing 1–2 mg of THC or CBD alone.
2. Choosing the right method of administration – Oils, capsules, and certain vaporizable products can allow for more precise dosing than, for example, cannabis in flower form.
3. Monitoring the effects – It is important to record how small doses affect you in order to find the optimal amount for your individual needs.
4. Sticking to a consistent dosing schedule – The effectiveness of microdosing can depend on how regularly and consistently it is practiced.
Possible risks and things to consider
While microdosing can reduce many of the risks associated with cannabis use, there are still certain things to consider:
- Legislation – As mentioned earlier, cannabis is illegal in Finland, so there are legal risks involved.
- Individual effects – Everyone's body reacts to cannabis differently, so even a small dose can cause unexpected effects.
- Tolerance and long-term effects – Regular use can lead to the development of tolerance, which can result in the effects becoming weaker over time.
- Possible side effects – While microdosing reduces the risk of side effects, some may still experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or mild anxiety.
Summary
Microdosing cannabis is an interesting phenomenon that is increasingly being studied for its potential benefits. Many people report that it helps with stress management, focus, and pain without significant psychoactive effects. However, it is important to consider the legalities and individual effects before even considering trying this method.
Sources
- Fadiman, J. (2011). *The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys*. Park Street Press.
- Russo, EB (2011). "Taming THC: potential cannabis Synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid Entourage effects." *British Journal of Pharmacology*, 163(7), 1344-1364.
- MacCallum, CA, & Russo, EB (2018). "Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing." *European Journal of Internal Medicine*, 49, 12-19.
- Szigeti, B., et al. (2021). "Self-blinding citizen science to explore psychedelic microdosing." *eLife*, 10, e62878.