Microdosing Revolution: The Secret Behind Microdose Delta 8 THC
Key Takeaways
- Microdosing Delta 8 refers to consuming a low dose of the substance, generally between 5-10 mg or 5-10% of the recommended dose.
- The most recommended product for microdosing is gummies, as it’s easier to control the dose since they come in a specific size.
- For best results with microdosing, it’s necessary to adhere to a schedule, taking it at frequent intervals.
- Microdosing Delta 8 can deliver therapeutic benefits without the high effects.
- The best way to start with microdosing is to take a smaller dose and gradually increase it until reaching the desired effects.
Perhaps you’ve heard or read about people that microdose delta 8 gummies for sleep, and you’re curious about what exactly that means. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about microdosing so that you can decide whether it’s the right thing for you or not.
We understand that taking a low dose of delta 8 may not be for everyone, but in some cases, it can be highly beneficial. Nonetheless, it’s worth knowing more about the different ways to consume this powerful substance that can provide outstanding benefits and a pleasant high.
First of all, we should define what microdosing delta 8 THC is. In some studies [1] microdosing can range from 0.5mg to 1 mg, whereas in others it can be up to 15 mg [2].
However, if you don’t use cannabis or cannabinoids frequently, or you’re a new user, it’s best to follow the recommended dose based on your weight and the desired dose, depending on how potent you want the effects to be.
More specifically, a microdose can be defined as a sub-threshold dose [3], thus, generally, any dose below 15 mg is considered a low dose, and below 5mg is considered a microdose, though it’s also important to note that this is for non-experienced users.
For experienced or chronic users, a microdose is 5-10% of the recommended dosage [4] based on their weight, frequency, and tolerance.
Once you know how to microdose delta, you can follow the proper dosage and process to start receiving all the benefits it can give.
How to Microdose Delta 8
The process for microdosing is very simple. You just need to take a look at the delta 8 dosage chart and take 5 to 10% of the recommended dose.
However, when it comes to taking small amounts of delta-8, it’s important to consider the type of product you will use or how you’ll consume the substance. For example, if you’re going to take a gummy or if you’re going to smoke it.
Given that consuming less than 5 milligrams or even micrograms of D8 can be challenging, as it’s a tiny amount to measure, the most highly recommended method when it comes to starting a new microdosing routine is to use gummies. This is because gummies come in a specific size, most similar to controlled pills, and you know how many milligrams you’ll consume per unit. Thus, you can cut the gummy and take a small dose.
Let’s say you cut a 25 mg gummy, which can be considered a standard dose, into four parts and each piece would contain about 6.25mg each. Thus, it’s easier to microdose using this product than vaping, for example.
If we take into account that the recommended dosage of this substance is 0.15-0.30 mg/kg for mild effects [5,6] and 0.50mg/kg for heavy effects [7] then we can calculate the dose of delta-8 for mild or high effects and by this a microdose.
With this in mind, here we have a chart for you to follow on taking small dose of D8:
Once you know the recommended dose for microdosing, you should know the process you have to follow and the type of product you should be using.
First of all, you must adhere to a schedule, which may typically be to take a small dose every three days [8]. This is not precisely related to potency but this is because you have to take the dose at frequent intervals to boost the benefits it can produce.
Lastly, regarding the methods or products, the best way to microdose is by using gummies since they contain an exact dose of D8. In the case of vapes or carts, it’s more difficult to microdose since you can’t measure exactly how many milligrams a puff will have. You could take a small puff but, in terms of its actual D8 content, it’s imprecise for microdosing.
Some people also use extracts or oils under the tongue for microdosing since you can use the dropper to control the administration or add it to your beverage or food.
This way you can be sure you’re using small controlled amounts, however, between gummies and extracts or tinctures, the former is better.
Benefits of Microdosing Delta-8
Even though delta 8 gets you high some users consume the substance in microdoses since it can deliver therapeutic benefits and also has some other advantages.
Get to know the potential benefits of microdosing delta 8 and how you can use it to your advantage.
Reduced anxiety
Microdosing has been proven to be an effective tool for potentially reducing anxiety and improving mood [9]. Most people who decide to microdose do it to enhance their well-being.
Given that D8 is known for reducing anxiety, even if taken in small doses it can produce the same effect, which is great for improving mental health through continued use.
Enhanced creativity
With microdosing it’s possible to enhance productivity and creativity. Most users state that with a small dose, they feel a boost in creativity and feel cleverer overall [9]. In general, they also say that microdosing also helps them with focus and sociability [9], and it has been proven that it can boost cognitive function too.
Improved sleep
It’s known that when you take a higher dose of D8 you can experience intense psychoactive effects but, given that the effects are dose-dependent, with a very low dose you can achieve sedative effects [10].
Therefore, with a small amount of D8, you can sleep better, which is something that many users have reported, and it’s one of the main reasons why they decide to start microdosing.
Lower risk and no hallucinogenic effects
Another benefit is that there are fewer side effects associated with microdosing since it involves fewer risks and doesn’t cause any psychedelic effects or hallucinations [11].
In this regard, it’s best for those who have never tried cannabis or its derivatives and thus don’t know much about experiencing the full spectrum CBD.
So forget about having to worry about side effects like increased heart rate and paranoia, as with microdosing this likely won’t happen.
No withdrawal symptoms
According to the research, being able to microdose delta 8 THC is preferable for some since it doesn’t produce withdrawal symptoms [3]. Many people fear starting to consume this substance, even in small doses, since they worry it could lead to them creating a dependency or suffering from withdrawal symptoms once they decide to stop taking it.
However, with microdosing this is not a problem, since you can take it and enjoy its benefits while minimizing potential side effects of delta-8 THC.
Best Gummies for Microdosing
When it comes to a top delta 8 product for microdosing, gummies definitely stand out. But, how do you choose the best gummies to start with?
First of all, you have to look for gummies that have third-party lab tests. This way, you can be completely sure about its content and that they don’t contain any harmful chemicals. Our gummies are lab-tested for purity, with no heavy metals and no bleaches, which makes them a great option.
Since microdosing is the practice of taking a controlled dose, you have to look for gummies that are easy to cut and measure. In this regard, our gummies are perfect because they contain 50mg of D8, so you can follow the guide to microdosing and estimate how much will be enough for you to start.
In addition, since our products are made with hemp grown in the US and are farm bill compliant, they are of the utmost quality. Lastly, our gummies come in a variety of flavors to provide a delightful experience that you’ll never forget.
Consider that our products are not intended to treat a medical condition, but to help you improve your overall health, so always consult with a physician before consuming them. What’s more, you cannot consume them if you’re under the age of 21.
Is This Technique Right for Me?
Delta 8 is considered D9 THC’s nicer younger sibling because it’s more suitable for those who want to get high but without the side effects often produced by it.
Delta 9 THC is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, as well as D8 and many others. Given that there are a variety of cannabinoids, people can choose which one to consume based on their preferences.
For example, some people consume delta 8 carts to get high as it kicks in faster and makes them feel good. While others may opt for microdosing psychedelics to take advantage of the benefits without experiencing potent effects.
Thus, if you’re one of those who prefer to use D8 for its therapeutic benefits, to kickstart your metabolism, relieve stress, or sleep better without psychoactive feelings, then microdosing may be for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer to feel a buzz when consuming it, then you better look for a higher dose. Please remember that the recommended dose varies depending on your tolerance, frequency of use, and weight. For example, 10 mg of delta 8 may be a higher dose for one person but a smaller dose for another one.
Also, you can start your microdosing journey whenever you want, even if you start taking higher doses you can always cut your consumption and start microdosing.
Lastly, take into consideration that microdosing is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. So, talk to your doctor to clear up any doubts about it.
Can You Microdose If You Drive, Operate Heavy Equipment, or Under Other Conditions?
Microdosing is advisable in cases where you want to have better pain management, reduce anxiety, and even sleep better. D8 gummies are the most appropriate because they are perfect for controlling the dosage.
But even though it has many therapeutic benefits, it’s not viable to consume it when you know you need to be completely focused. This is to avoid any potential risk or danger you could potentially cause when taking your pre measured dose.
According to research, even taking a microdose of a psychoactive substance can lead to the risk of your body getting accustomed to it, and thus it has the potential to lead you to take a higher dose to achieve the desired effects [3]. This can be a risk in your workplace.
Given that when you consume a delta 8 pen you’re advised not to drive or operate heavy equipment, the same applies when you consume even a small amount.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, you should abstain from driving, even if the dose is small, as it’s not known how much you can safely consume to drive. In this regard, studies are needed to determine this matter.
Even though microdoses are unlikely to be associated with impairment [12], they still can produce subjective effects without the overwhelming feeling of a heavy high. Thus, if you feel notably different from your regular self, then it’s advisable to not do something that may be harmful to you or others.
Be careful with those who advise you to drive or operate heavy equipment even when taking a small amount of D8, as these statements have not been evaluated by scientific research.
Will Microdosing Make Me Fail a Drug Test?
Getting a positive drug test is one of the most common fears of people who want to try cannabinoids. You may think that given it’s a very small amount, it won’t show up on a drug test but the evidence tells otherwise.
You can take D8 in controlled amounts, but there’s a likelihood that if you take a drug test you will fail it.
One study where individuals consumed 5 mg of vaporized D9 proved that 42.9% of participants tested positive for TCH-COOH above the cutoff value (>15 ng/ml) [13].
In this regard, microdosing is a great option for those who are looking to experience therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects, but you have to be careful not to take it if you have a drug test coming up.
Therefore, if you have to take a drug test in the workplace or for a potential employer, then it’s better to abstain from the substance for at least 30 days before the test. Even though you can feel more productive, you could be at risk of failing the test.
Since exceptionally low doses of THC can cause a positive result in a drug test, don’t consume the substance if you want to avoid any troubles at work or in any other situation.
Best Way to Cut Gummies in Half?
If you want to start with amanita muscaria microdosing or microdosing with any Delta-8 product but you have been consuming this substance for a long time, you may be wondering if there’s a proper way to do it or if you’re going to experience any withdrawal symptoms if you do so.
When you consume D8 or D9, you can feel potent psychoactive effects. These two cannabinoids provide great benefits and pleasant sensations, but you should know that if you consume them for a long time, you’re likely going to experience withdrawal symptoms.
The difference between delta 8 and D9 is that the former produces less psychoactive effects. You can start microdosing once you’ve taken a larger dose, but it’s helpful to follow some useful tips.
One way of reducing the risk of feeling any effect is by working out. Doing some moderate-intensity workouts can help you release the stored THC metabolites in your adipose tissue, and help you to readjust to your new dose.
You can also try to eat healthy foods, which is great for your health, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical condition, not only for stopping you from experiencing withdrawal.
In addition, you should drink more water as it can help you with dehydration and its common symptoms, which include dry mouth and irritability.
Some studies have proven that CBD has the potential to block the psychotic symptoms produced by THC [14], thus, according to anecdotal references, microdosing cannabis (CBD) can help you relieve withdrawal when cutting gummies in half.
Please keep in mind that the best way to avoid this is by starting to take smaller doses and gradually increase it, not the other way around. But, if this is your situation, you can achieve microdosing by taking your time and following our recommendations.
Benefit from the legal status these cannabinoids have and start microdosing to improve your well-being.
References
[1] Ruver-Martins AC, Bicca MA, de Araujo FS, et al. Cannabinoid extract in microdoses ameliorates mnemonic and nonmnemonic Alzheimer’s disease symptoms: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2022;16(1):277. Published 2022 Jul 12. doi:10.1186/s13256-022-03457-w.
[2] Nicholson, Anthony N. MD, PhD*; Turner, Claire BSc*; Stone, Barbara M. PhD*; Robson, Philip J. MD†. Effect of Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol on Nocturnal Sleep and Early-Morning Behavior in Young Adults. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 24(3):p 305-313, June 2004. | DOI: 10.1097/01.jcp.0000125688.05091.8f.
[3] Lehmert K, Ambrozova E, Pokorny V, Kolenak J. Microdosing of Psychoactive Substances in Business Practice. Businesses. 2021; 1(3):196-204. https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses1030014.
[4] Preller, K. H. (2019). The Effects of Low Doses of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in Healthy Humans: Demystifying the Microdosing of Psychedelics. Biological Psychiatry, 86(10), 736–737. doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.08.02.
[5] Ramaekers JG, van Wel JH, Spronk DB, et al. Cannabis and tolerance: acute drug impairment as a function of cannabis use history [published correction appears in Sci Rep. 2016 Sep 02;6:31939]. Sci Rep. 2016;6:26843. Published 2016 May 26. doi:10.1038/srep26843.
[6] Grotenhermen, Franjo. (2001). Harm Reduction Associated with Inhalation and Oral Administration of Cannabis and THC. Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics. 1. 10.1300/J175v01n03_09.
[7] Zuardi AW, Shirakawa I, Finkelfarb E, Karniol IG. Action of cannabidiol on the anxiety and other effects produced by delta 9-THC in normal subjects. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1982;76(3):245-250. doi:10.1007/BF00432554
[8] Webb, M., Copes, H., & Hendricks, P. S. (2019). Narrative identity, rationality, and microdosing classic psychedelics. International Journal of Drug Policy, 70, 33–39. doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.04.013
[9] Petranker R, Anderson T, Maier LJ, Barratt MJ, Ferris JA, Winstock AR. Microdosing psychedelics: Subjective benefits and challenges, substance testing behavior, and the relevance of intention. Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2022;36(1):85-96. doi:10.1177/0269881120953994
[10] Kaul, M., Zee, P.C. & Sahni, A.S. Effects of Cannabinoids on Sleep and their Therapeutic Potential for Sleep Disorders. Neurotherapeutics 18, 217–227 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-021-01013-w.
[11] Anderson, T., Petranker, R., Rosenbaum, D., Weissman, C. R., Dinh-Williams, L.-A., Hui, K., … Farb, N. A. S. (2019). Microdosing psychedelics: personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers. Psychopharmacology. doi:10.1007/s00213-018-5106-2
[12] Spindle T.R., Martin E.L., Grabenauer M., Woodward T., Milburn M.A., Vandrey R. (2021) Assessment of cognitive and psychomotor impairment, subjective effects, and blood THC concentrations following acute administration of oral and vaporized cannabis. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 35, 786–803.
[13] Dennis J Sholler, C Austin Zamarripa, Tory R Spindle, Erin L Martin, David Kuntz, Ryan Vandrey, Megan Grabenauer, Urinary Excretion Profile of Cannabinoid Analytes Following Acute Administration of Oral and Vaporized Cannabis in Infrequent Cannabis Users, Journal of Analytical Toxicology, Volume 46, Issue 8, October 2022, Pages 882–890, https://doi.org/10.1093/jat/bkac042.
[14] Bhattacharyya S, Morrison PD, Fusar-Poli P, et al. Opposite effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on human brain function and psychopathology. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2010;35(3):764-774. doi:10.1038/npp.2009.184.
