Microdosing Uprise - by Dolan Frick

MICRODOSING
     Microdosing has been a term in the medical community for a very long time. It is exactly what it sounds like, the goal of microdosing is to use a dosage that gives you the minimal noticeable effects possible. Microdosing is typically associated with hallucinogenics like LSD, and psilocybin mushrooms. Microdosing with these psychedelics is known to enhance productivity and inspiration. It could also have the capability to treat various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Microdosing has become more and more popular in recent years and the benefits are definitely there.

MICRODOSING WITH CANNABIS
     Microdosing with cannabis has recently become much more popular and could definitely be

Less is More

something that is worth a try! Many experts now believe that the threshold for the medical benefits of THC is far lower than many people think. Too much of a good thing can quickly turn overwhelming. If you’re looking for the positive effects of marijuana without the psychoactive effects that interfere with demands of everyday life, microdosing might appeal to you. When taking low doses of cannabis, you don’t perceive you’re intoxicated but experience a creative mindset that allows you to fully enjoy the benefits.



BENEFITS
     According to Leafly; Dustin Sulak, an osteopathic physician based in Maine , believes in the benefits of microdosing and treats many of his patients with small doses of cannabis. The benefits include: improved focus, sleep promotion, and treatments for conditions such as depression, stress, anxiety and pain.

DELIVERY METHODS
     The most popular ways of delivery are smoking, vaping, and ingesting cannabis. All have their own advantages and disadvantages. But it is important to find what works best for you even if that means combining all three.

     Smoking is the most difficult way to control your dose. One single hit could contain up to 10 milligrams of THC. So if this is your chosen method try to avoid big bongs or large pipes that hold a lot of smoke. Maybe try a mini hitter pipe or a small glass steamroller. Combusting your cannabis is not the most economical way to microdose. Also if you are medicating for health reasons, you may want to avoid combusting as it is not the cleanest way to consume cannabis.

     Vaporization of cannabis allows you to dial in your microdose and accurately regulate your intake. Also, vaporization allows you to avoid harmful carcinogens, and Vaping has never been easier than with the new discrete handheld vaporizer pens.

     Ingesting cannabis edibles and tinctures is an easy way to microdose. There are many healthy and tasty treats out there with minimal THC. Check the packets before you buy, THC amounts should be listed on their labels. Eating cannabis edibles is a great way to consume discreetly and precisely without inhaling harsh smoke.

CORRECT DOSAGE
     According to Leafly and Osteopathic Physician, Dustin Sulak, the general recommendation for first time microdosers is to start off at 2.5 milligrams. For those using cannabis regularly, Sulak

recommends an initial 48-hour period of abstinence, this should be enough time to reset the endocannabinoid system. While this might seem like a relatively brief window after years of usage, a brain imaging study published in 2016 tracked the number of cannabinoid receptors during a period of abstinence from cannabis and the results showed that even in heavy smokers, the receptors bounced back to baseline levels after just two days. This is good news for all the heavy cannabis users interested in microdosing. After the initial 48-hour break, anyone interested in microdosing should gradually reintroduce cannabis into their system, starting with just one milligram. “You are not trying to get stoned, you are not trying to get total relief from symptoms- you are trying to get a little something. Then once you get that dose where you feel a little something, stay there for a few days and then you can start gradually increasing if needed. That typically falls somewhere between one and three milligrams per dose.” Sulak Says.

     The challenge with finding your dose is that it’s different for each person. With most drugs there is a tolerance or curve, the same amount is not for everyone. There is no magical dosage amount. In fact, what works for you one day, may not work the following. It is about trial and error and the process will take patience. Slow and steady is the key to proper microdosing. Just remember that the point of microdosing is to avoid amounts which produce euphoria and unwanted side effects while still reaping the subtle benefits of consuming cannabis into your mind-body-spirit system.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN MICRODOSING
     According to Merry Jane News, you can expect to feel a slight devoid of paranoia. You may feel more relaxed, energetic, or focused. Some people report an increase in creativity. Some also feel an improved emotional balance and heightened spiritual awareness. Others microdose to relieve stress, treat disorders, alleviate pain, or take advantage of cannabis’ anti-inflammatory properties without having to deal with intense psychoactivity.


HELPFUL TIPS FOR MICRODOSING

• Avoid mixing cannabis and alcohol until you have a firm understanding of your relationship with both.

• Pay attention to the potency of your cannabis and the ratios of CBD and THC.

• Try strains high in CBD and low in THC to experience CBD’s muscle-relaxing benefits while minimizing THC’s strong psychoactivity.

• Create therapeutic blends by combining cannabis and natural tobacco alternatives.

• Metabolism and physiology can affect your experience. Be mindful of the ingredients in your edibles by looking for gluten-free, vegan, organic, sugar-free, and low-fat options to maintain a well-balanced diet.

• Be patient. Finding what works for you may take a little time.