When it comes to stress relief, many people consider CBD the go-to cannabinoid. They use a CBD tincture, vape CBD oil, or consume a CBD edible. While CBD is effective for alleviating stress and helping you to relax, THC can help as well, in particular, microdosing THC. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Microdosing?
Microdosing is a method of cannabis use that involves taking small doses of cannabis to obtain the desired results. You take just enough to feel the effects you want, so you don’t have to worry about getting too high (or feeling high at all, in some cases).
Benefits of Microdosing
There are several benefits of microdosing, including:
- Your products last longer
- You avoid certain effects such as paranoia or intense psychoactivity
- You get subtle but effective relief
How Microdosing THC Works for Stress Relief
Many cannabis users who choose THC-dominant products are looking for or enjoy the full-body or cerebral high of the different strains. Not everyone does, however. Some are sensitive to the effects, and normal doses can produce intense results. Additionally, too much THC can lead to (and worsen) feelings of anxiety and stress.
Small amounts of THC, however, don’t have the same effects. While there’s little research currently, some has found that microdosing THC can alleviate feelings of stress, enabling you to relax and feel more at ease. A study performed at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that low doses were effective while higher doses had the opposite effect. Another study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders states that high THC low CBD strains can alleviate stress in the short-term when taken in small amounts.
Tips for Microdosing THC
There is no specific dose for microdosing THC because every person is different. What works for one person might not work the same for you. To find your minimum effective dose, you have to titrate. The process involves starting with a very small dose of your chosen product. A good place to start is with one to two milligrams of THC and wait for the effects. The method you choose may determine how long you’ll need to wait. Smoking, vaping, and tinctures take effect in as little as 15 minutes, while edibles take up to 90 minutes or longer.
If you don’t feel anything, start gradually increasing the amount you take until you begin to feel the desired effects. A journal can help you to keep track of your doses and what you feel, particularly if you use more than one strain.
One thing to keep in mind is that some people start to develop a tolerance to THC. You might find that you start needing higher doses to achieve the same stress relief you’ve grown accustomed to. In situations like these, you may choose to reset your tolerance by taking a break from your chosen strain for a couple of days and then start the titration process over.
Ease Your Stress with Small Doses
CBD isn’t the only cannabinoid that can effectively alleviate stress. Small amounts of THC can help as well, broadening your cannabis options. Remember to start low and take it slow to find the most effective dose for you.