Explain how dosages of cannabis flower is measured and how to choose the right dose as a patient.
Each state has their rules and regulations regarding cannabis as medicine. However, the measurements for purchasing cannabis and for cannabis dosages remain fairly universal throughout the country. Understanding the measurements cannabis is sold in is helpful for first time buyers. Knowing the differences in cannabis dosages can help anyone looking to find medical relief from cannabis.
How is Cannabis Measured?
Cannabis flower is measured in grams, ounces, and pounds, but you won’t need to worry about pounds. The legal limit for patients in Missouri is a 60 day supply. This is described as being four ounces of dried cannabis flower. One ounce of dried, unprocessed cannabis, is equivalent to eight grams of concentrate. Eight grams of concentrate is equal to 800 milligrams of THC in infused products.
When you purchase flower from dispensaries, the smallest amount of cannabis flower you can buy at is 1 gram. Except for 1/2 gram pre-rolled joints. The next step up in measurement from grams is an eighth of an ounce, which is 3.5 grams. Then there’s a quarter ounce, which is 7 grams. Followed by a half ounce and so on. Ounces are a total of 28 grams.
How are Dosages of Cannabis Measured?
Now that you know what measurements to expect when you purchase flower, let’s talk about how doses of cannabis flower are measured. Doses can be split up by how many grams, or fractions of a gram, you consume at one time.
For beginners, doses can be measured in the number of inhalations. This this is not very accurate because everyone’s inhalation is different, but can be a starting point. If you’re new to cannabis you don’t want to smoke an entire gram all at once. Start with one or two inhalations. Then experiment with amounts until you find the dose that works best for you.
Cannabinoid Content
Cannabinoid content is the amount of THC or CBD, in edibles, oils, and tinctures. It is measured in milligrams (mg). You will most likely see single dosages of these products being in the 2.5mg – 5mg range. These products tend to come with 100mg of THC or CBD in a package. Most edibles are already sectioned into dose servings. Oils and tinctures come with measured droppers. This makes them easier to determine your exact dose.
It is very important to remember that everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different. Even the same dosages of the same product can affect everyone differently. The primary rule to figuring out your ideal cannabis dosage is to start out slow.
Experiment with different doses of different products at different times. Keep a journal to record your experiences with different cannabis products. This will will help you determine what the right cannabis dosage is for you.
Things to Record In a Cannabis Journal
- What is the product?
- How much did you consume?
- What do you you feel?
- How long did the effects take to begin?
- How long did the effects last?