THC Edible Dosage Chart: How to Choose the Right Amount
It’s no secret we love cannabis-infused edibles. Not only do they give our lounge a break with their smoke-free high, the long-lasting effects can have you chilling for hours, man. Whether you’re getting into Delta-9 gummies, chocolates, or other edible products, understanding THC dosage is key, unless you wanna blast off to the moon without a helmet.
Edibles are processed differently by your body than other forms of cannabis, which can mean more intense highs. Unlike smoking or vaping (where those sweet cannabinoids go directly to your bloodstream), edibles pass through your digestive system. This converts the regular THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound with a stronger — and longer — psychoactive effect. It’s like trading in your coffee for a shot of espresso — or two, or three.
Knowing how to use edible cannabis products and figure out the right dosage for you is important so you don’t end up having a total freakout (no one wants to be that guy in the ER…). And if you’re ready to get your hands on some safe, legal cosmic treats, check out Cheech and Chong for high-quality edibles shipped straight to your door.
How to Dose Edibles
There are tons of types of edibles, from gummies and candies to brownies that pack a punch, and each type of edible comes with a recommended starting dose. Here’s our guide to help you find the right THC edible dosage based on your tolerance and experience level.
Remember, everyone’s experience with edibles is different. The effects of cannabis can vary based on factors like metabolism and tolerance. When in doubt, start low and go slow, man. It’s better to be pleasantly surprised than end up way off in the deep end.
Edible Dosing Chart
This chart gives the basics on how different amounts of THC can produce different highs, and who they’re best for.
1 to 2.5 mg THC: Ideal for First-Time Users
For first-time users or if you’re microdosing, start low with 1 to 2.5 mg of THC. At this low dose, you can expect subtle effects like mild relief from aches and pains and relaxation, a little boost to your mood, and minimal side effects (like a little drowsiness or dry mouth). This range is ideal for anyone who wants a very mild experience, just dipping your toes in the cosmic pool.
2.5 to 5 mg THC: Great for Beginners
If you’re ready for the next level, a dose of 2.5 to 5 mg of THC can give you a little more euphoria and relaxation. It’s a great potency for nervous users who want to check out edibles without getting overwhelmed, though you might feel a little tired or get a cottonmouth.
Our Cruise Chews are a perfect option in this range, giving you exactly 3 mg of THC per chew for a real smooth ride.
5 to 10 mg THC: Best for Occasional Users
For occasional cannabis users, a dose of 5 to 10 mg can give you a decent amount of euphoria, improved focus, and even more creativity — so if you’re trying to write the Great American Novel, chances are this dose is for you, man.
While it’s still pretty manageable, this dose may cause heightened relaxation or minor side effects like dry mouth for some people. Our THC Seltzers, with 5 mg of Delta-9 THC, offer a refreshing way to try out this dosage level and tend to kick in faster than traditional edibles.
If you’re trying to decide if Delta 9 edibles or drinks are the better choice for you, learn about the differences between edibles and THC seltzers here.
10 to 30 mg THC: Suitable for Regular Consumers
Stoners or people seeking relief from medical conditions usually turn to doses in the 10 to 30 mg range. At higher doses, the effects of THC get more powerful, with heightened sensory perception and a more intense euphoria. But you might also feel sedated or glued to the couch, especially if you don’t have a high tolerance tolerance.
30 to 50 mg THC: Tailored to High-Tolerance Users
High-tolerance THC users or medical cannabis patients might need 30 to 50 mg to get their ideal dosage. This range delivers deep relaxation and intense euphoria, but may also result in drowsiness, nausea, or heavy lethargy.
If you need a cosmic snack in this range, our Delta-9 Legends gummies, which contain 20 mg of THC per gummy, are perfect for those in need of a more potent experience.
50+ mg THC: Reserved for Extremely High-Tolerance Users
Not for the faint of heart, doses more than 50 mg are typically reserved for people with an extremely high tolerance level or for patients with health conditions that need it. These doses provide overwhelming relaxation and near-total sedation and last a real long time. They’re not recommended for the average person, so unless you’re a super-heavy user who can really handle your weed, or you need it, it's probably best to steer clear.
Important Considerations When Determining Your Dose
Edible dosing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Lots of things can influence how your body responds, and taking those into account will help get you the safest and best experience.
Start Small for Safe Results
Remember to always start low and go slow. For your first edible experience ever, starting with 1 to 5 mg of THC is ideal. Low doses make it possible to gauge your tolerance as you go and minimize the risk of side effects. It’s especially important to do this for edibles since the effects tend to be stronger and longer lasting than lighting up a J.
Pay Attention to Onset and Duration
Because they have to travel all the way to your stomach (then digest a little), edibles take longer to kick in — typically between 30 minutes and two hours — and the effects last longer. It might seem like a buzzkill, but wait at least two hours before seeing if you wanna take an additional dose so you don’t get stuck in a time warp.
Factor In Your Body Weight and Metabolism
Your body weight and metabolism can also affect how you react to edibles. Having a higher body weight might mean you need a slightly stronger dose to achieve the same desired effects as someone with a lower body weight.
Also, people with faster metabolisms may experience quicker onset and shorter duration of a high, while slower metabolisms can mean delayed onset and longer effects.
Understand the Cannabinoid Ratio
Many edibles are made with a blend of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, which can alter the experience. The ratio tells you the balance of CBD-to-THC content in a product. For example, a 1:1 ratio means equal parts CBD and THC.
Products with higher CBD content (e.g., a 1:1 or 5:1 CBD-to-THC ratio) are often less intoxicating and more relaxing, so they’re good for beginners or medical use.
Blends can also mean more unique experiences, like our Kosmic Chews, which blend 15 mg of THC with 25 mg of kratom in each chew to give you a totally new kind of high.
The bottom line is, if you keep this stuff in mind, you’ll almost definitely have a smooth, easy ride. If you don’t, you might find yourself on a trip that’s a little more intense than expected—so take it slow and enjoy the ride. Choice is yours, man!
How Edibles Compare to Smoking or Vaping
Edibles are a whole different ball game compared to smoking or vaping.
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Onset time: Smoking or vaping cannabis provides near-instant effects, while edibles can take an hour or more.
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Duration: Edibles last longer compared to smoking, making them perfect for sustained relief or relaxation. Up to you if you want a sprint or a marathon.
- Psychoactive intensity: The effects of edibles can feel stronger because of the conversion to 11-hydroxy-THC (basically rocket fuel) during digestion.
If you’re looking for a quick buzz that fades fast, smoking or vaping one of the many types of weed pens might be your best bet. But if you want a longer adventure or a smoke-free option, THC edibles are a great way to go.
What Happens if You Take Too High a Dosage of Edibles?
While you’re probably never gonna fatally overdose on THC, overconsumption can definitely give you some uncomfortable side effects. You might get anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, or nausea, especially if you’re a newbie with low tolerance.
These effects are temporary and will disappear as the THC gets metabolized, usually within a few hours. So if you accidentally bite off more than you can chew, try to stay calm, keep yourself hydrated, and remind yourself that the effects will wear off with time. Just chill out and watch some movies.
Tips for a Safe and Positive Edible Experience
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Build your tolerance gradually. Don’t rush into high doses, man. If you’re new to edibles, take your time to build tolerance safely. Regular use can increase tolerance over time, but gradual adjustments help you avoid overwhelming experiences. Nobody wants to blast off into outer space without a spacesuit.
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Choose reputable brands. Only buy from trusted sources with transparent lab-testing, like Cheech and Chong, to make sure you’re getting consistent quality and accurate dosing. You wouldn’t buy a parachute for your skydiving trip from a shady guy in an alley, would you? Same principle applies here.
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Always check the labels. Check the packaging for cannabinoid content and serving size. Trusted brands clearly label their products for safe consumption.
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Consider eating before consuming edibles. Eating an edible on an empty stomach usually means faster onset and stronger effects. Taking edibles after a meal, however, can delay the onset but give you a smoother and more gradual experience.
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Choose a comfortable environment. The setting where you consume edibles can influence how you feel. Taking them in a comfortable, familiar environment and with your buddies can reduce the likelihood of anxiety or paranoia. You want to be chilling in your happy place.
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Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated can help reduce mild side effects when consuming edibles. THC can cause dry mouth (aka cottonmouth), so drinking water before, during, and after your experience can help you feel more comfortable.
- Avoid mixing edibles with alcohol or other substances. Combining THC with other substances can be unpredictable, which may increase the likelihood of bad interactions and uncomfortable side effects. Keep things simple and avoid mixing your highs.
Get Precision-Dosed Edibles Shipped to You
Edibles are a convenient, smoke-free way to enjoy cannabis, but understanding how to dose them correctly is important for a safe and positive experience. Whether you’re exploring Delta-9 THC edibles or a combination of cannabinoids, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing if you can deal is the best approach.
For high-quality, precisely dosed Delta-9 THC edibles, you can count on Cheech and Chong. With a wide selection of products, you can easily find the edible that’s right for you. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our tasty cosmic treats and find your perfect chill.
