For decades, cannabis was used as a harmless recreational substance, called upon to ease stress and invoke relaxation, widely known for its popularity with “hippies,” but hardly exclusive to their ranks. Over the years, some enthusiasts began seeking cannabis as a way to get as high as possible – one or two puffs might become a whole joint, and breeders coaxed THC levels until they skyrocketed; today, some strains contain 30% or more of this euphoric cannabinoid, and a single puff or bite can result in an intense high.

Whether or not they realize it, most people who have consumed cannabis recreationally have experienced its medicinal benefits as well, though it has only been in the last decade or so that the healing plant has been publicly recognized and celebrated for its therapeutic qualities. This shift to new uses – and new demographics – comes with a whole host of opinions on the best ingestion method, the best strains, and the best dose. Microdosing – the direct opposite of “get as high as possible” – is one such opinion that has become quite popular lately, and patients turning to cannabis for solely medicinal reasons may find this method particularly enticing.

What is Microdosing?

Microdosing involves taking very small, measured doses of THC – usually between 5 and 10mg, depending on tolerance – at regular intervals. Used in this way, cannabis becomes something of a vitamin, not only alleviating existing symptoms but also potentially acting preventatively. More and more companies are creating products with pre-divided doses, for sale as daily treatments. Often, the products – which come in the form of chocolates, candies, oils, and even drinks and sauces – are marketed as ideal for relieving inflammation and encouraging relaxation, two of the plant’s long-time, many sought-after benefits. Small studies and anecdotal evidence suggest microdosing is well-suited to people dealing with cancer pain, Multiple Sclerosis, insomnia, and chronic pain, in addition to general symptoms.

Why Would I Microdose Cannabis?

Many medical professionals are in agreement: when such small quantities of cannabis are consumed, patients can access the medical qualities of the plant without suffering minor, temporary side effects like paranoia, the munchies, and red eyes. Cannabis might also be useful for keeping your metabolism in tip-top shape, encouraging creativity, and protecting the brain.

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How Do You Microdose Marijuana?

If you plan to try microdosing, the daily dose you need will depend on your existing tolerance and other physical factors unique to you. You may find 5 mg is too much, and have to start with 2 mg or so. On the other hand, you might have used cannabis for a long time, and need a dose of 15 mg.

Microdosing is primarily intended for THC because large doses of CBD, the other prominent cannabinoid, will not cause the psychoactive effects some people prefer to avoid. That’s not to say, however, that you can’t microdose with CBD.

Simply put, if you are looking for neuroprotection, antioxidants, or relief from pain, you might find microdosing with a high-THC strain like American Haze (24%) or Amnesia (20%) works best for you.

CBD has healing properties that stop seizures and counteract nausea; a strain like CBD Blueberry is a great choice (7% CBD:7% THC), and regular Blueberry also offers a good dose of CBD. Both cannabinoids are a great option for inflammation, a good symptom to prevent or treat early on before it starts causing havoc.