Deciding on the right CBD dose isn’t as simple as it may seem. While cannabis has a long history, CBD products are relatively new, lacking established dosing guidelines based on solid evidence.
Most experts recommend starting with a low dose for your initial CBD use and gradually increasing it.
Here’s what you need to know before trying CBD for the first time.
Several factors come into play.
Your body weight and individual body chemistry influence your CBD tolerance.
Consider these factors that impact the appropriate CBD dose for you.
Methods of consumption matter
CBD has various forms, affecting dosage, absorption, and onset time differently.
Common forms include:
- oils and tinctures
- edibles
- pills and capsules
- creams and lotions
- vaping
Dosages vary among forms. For example, CBD gummies typically contain around 5 milligrams (mg) per gummy, while tinctures have about 1 mg per drop. Capsules and edibles take longer to take effect compared to sprays or tinctures.
Your intended use matters
CBD is used for a range of issues, from nausea to arthritis pain. Your purpose for using it is crucial in determining the right dosage.
For instance, the Arthritis Foundation suggests starting with a small sublingual CBD dose a couple of times daily and increasing it after a week if pain relief is insufficient.
However, this recommendation might not apply if you use CBD for a different reason.
Consider other medications
If you’re taking other medications, be cautious about CBD dosage.
While CBD is generally well tolerated, there is limited drug interaction data. CBD might alter drug metabolism, and some evidence indicates interactions with blood thinners, immune suppressants, and antidepressants.
If you’re on other medications, consult your doctor before using CBD.
When Does CBD Start Working?
The timing varies based on how you use it.
Edibles, like gummies, must pass through your digestive system before absorption. This process might lead to a lower amount of CBD entering your system.
On the other hand, a tincture taken sublingually directly enters your bloodstream, resulting in a quicker onset.
Feeling Nothing from CBD? Should You Take More?
Hold on a moment!
Jumping to re-dose is a common mistake that often leads to overconsumption. Rapidly increasing your intake might lead to undesirable effects.
Although CBD is generally safe even in high amounts, it’s not entirely without risk.
Taking excessive CBD could lead to the following:
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite and weight
Furthermore, a recent study on animals suggested that high CBD doses could potentially harm the liver.
How Long Does CBD Last?
Typically, CBD effects endure for 2 to 6 hours. The duration depends on consumption method, dosage, and individual tolerance.
To gain insights into your CBD response, jot down key details when using it, such as:
- The amount taken and the method
- Onset of effects
- Strength of effects
- Duration of effects
Tips for Beginners
Ready to explore CBD? These pointers ensure a comfortable, safe, and effective experience:
- Shop Wisely: CBD products lack strict regulations in the US. Stick to reputable, licensed dispensaries to avoid mislabeling and poor quality control.
- Consult a Pro: Contact a healthcare provider familiar with your medical history for personalized CBD advice. While sales staff might be knowledgeable, they’re not medical professionals. Consulting both is best.
- Timing Matters: CBD can induce drowsiness, so consider using it before bedtime or when you have time to relax. This approach allows you to assess its effects on your body.
- Avoid Vaping: Vaping has been associated with severe lung infections and fatalities, though the exact causes remain unclear. Government health agencies advise steering clear of vaping until more is known.
In Conclusion,
CBD is typically safe and well tolerated but is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Several factors play into how much and how often you should use it.
Until experts develop clinical guidelines, your best bet is to talk to your healthcare provider, especially if you’re using CBD to manage a specific condition or regularly take a medication for a specific condition.