Trying cannabis for the first time can feel overwhelming given all the different products, consumption methods, and dose variations.
Whether you’re curious about smoking, vaping, using edibles, or something else, understanding how much to consume is key to having a positive experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of cannabis serving sizes, offer tips for beginners, and help you find your ideal dose to enjoy cannabis safely and comfortably.
Understanding cannabis serving sizes
A “serving” of cannabis is essentially the amount you consume to experience its effects. For most people, a serving is around 5 to 10 milligrams of THC (the main psychoactive compound), but this can vary depending on your tolerance and how you consume cannabis. When starting out using cannabis, micro-dosing is recommended; 2.5 to 5 milligrams of THC is a great place to start until you learn the best serving for your desired effects.
It’s helpful to understand the role of bioavailability when it comes to serving sizes. This term refers to the proportion of the cannabis you consume that actually gets absorbed into your bloodstream and produces effects.
When smoking or vaping cannabis, for example, THC’s bioavailability is higher, meaning THC enters your system quickly. Edibles, on the other hand, have a much lower bioavailability but also take much longer to digest. They often have a slower onset time but longer-lasting effects.
How much cannabis to smoke your first time
It can be tricky to figure out how much to consume when trying cannabis for the first time, especially when it comes to flower and pre-rolls.
While edibles list specific milligram amounts of THC, flower, and pre-rolls don’t have such clear dosing information. Each puff can vary, so it’s best to start low and go slow.
If you’re new to smoking, don’t try to consume an entire joint or bowl in one sitting. Start with one or two puffs and wait 10 to 15 minutes to feel the effects before deciding if you want more.
While it’s hard to precisely measure cannabinoids with flower, you can get a rough estimate by checking the THC content. Flower typically ranges from 15% to 30% THC, and each puff might deliver 10 or so milligrams of THC, depending on how deeply you inhale.
This varies widely, though. So don’t stress over the exact numbers – just focus on pacing yourself.
How much to vape for the first time
It’s important to approach vaping slowly as well, as it can be tricky to quantify. Vapes don’t come with precise measurements per inhale, and most products don’t have a precise “dosing” mechanism.
Keep in mind that vaping tends to be more potent than smoking flower because the cannabinoids are absorbed more efficiently into your system. This means you’ll typically need much less to feel the effects.
If you’re new to vaping, start with just a small puff and wait 10 to 15 minutes to assess how you feel. It’s easy to overdo it because the effects can hit quickly, but they also tend to fade faster than with flower or edibles.
Generally, you can estimate that each inhale might give you about 2.5 milligrams of THC, depending on the device and how deeply you inhale.
How much edible cannabis to try
The great thing about edibles is that most products come pre-measured, meaning you don’t have to worry about dosing like you would with smoking or vaping.
Each serving contains a specific amount of THC, typically between 5 to 10 milligrams per piece. Start low and go slow with edibles; since it can usually take 1 to 2 hours to feel the effects, it is easy to overconsume.
If you’re looking for smaller doses, many edibles are easy to divide, like gummies or chocolates.
Read the label, check how much THC is in each piece, and use that information to adjust your edible dosing.
How much tincture to use
Tinctures are great because they usually come with a dropper top with measurement lines, so you can easily control your dose.
Most tinctures contain a set amount of THC or CBD per milliliter (mL), and you can measure the amount you’re taking by using the lines on the dropper.
Start by reading the label on the tincture to see how much THC is in each serving. For beginners, it’s common to start with 0.5 mL to 1 mL (or around 5 to 10 mg of THC).
If you’re looking for a smaller dose, you can adjust by using less than 1 mL and slowly increasing as you get more comfortable.
How much of a cannabis topical to apply
Topicals can vary in potency, so the amount you apply will depend on the concentration of cannabinoids.
Always check the milligram content of any topical products. Most will list the amount of CBD or THC in the product.
If a 1oz container contains 300mg of CBD and the product recommends using a dime-sized amount, you can estimate the amount of CBD in that amount to determine how much you’re applying.
Should a first-timer try concentrates?
First-timers should generally avoid concentrates as they are extremely potent – often ranging from 60% to 90% THC.
For beginners with no tolerance, this can lead to overwhelming effects, including intense disorientation, anxiety, and paranoia.
Generally, it’s best to stick to precisely dosed edibles or flower when trying cannabis for the first time.
What to do if you feel like you’ve consumed too much cannabis
If you find yourself overwhelmed after consuming too much cannabis, don’t panic. The effects are temporary and will pass.
Find a safe, comfortable place where you feel at ease – being in a familiar environment can help you regain control. Engaging in calming activities like listening to music or watching TV can distract you and shift your focus.
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed, try taking a nap. Sleeping it off is often the quickest way to let the effects pass.
Taking CBD oil has been shown to cut the effects of THC more quickly, so this may be good to try if you have some on hand.
Remember, the discomfort will subside, and you’ll feel better soon.
General tips for first-time cannabis consumers
If you’re trying cannabis for the first time, it’s important to set yourself up for a positive experience. Here are some tips to help you enjoy cannabis safely and comfortably.
- Start low and go slow: Always begin with a small dose and wait to feel the effects before consuming more.
- Buddy system: Try cannabis for the first time with an experienced consumer or a sober buddy who can guide you and help if things get overwhelming.
- Inhale slowly: If you’re consuming via inhalation, don’t rush it. Let the smoke or vapor settle in your lungs for a moment, but don’t hold it in too long.
- Hydrate: Cannabis, especially flower, can make you thirsty or dry out your mouth. Be sure to keep some water on hand to stay hydrated and comfortable.
- Find a comfortable environment: Always smoke in a place where you feel at ease and can relax. First-time experiences are often best enjoyed with a calm atmosphere.
- Prepare munchies: Have snacks ready so you don’t have to leave the comfort of your space if you get the munchies.
- Take breaks: If you’re feeling too high, take a break and relax. Give your body time to adjust before trying more.
FAQs about trying cannabis for the first time
How long do the effects last?
The duration of cannabis effects depends on the method of consumption and your tolerance. With smoking and vaping, effects usually kick in within minutes and can last 1 to 3 hours.
For edibles, the effects usually take 1 to 2 hours to set in but can last 4 to 6 hours or even longer. For tinctures, the effects may kick in within 15 minutes and last up to 4 hours.
Topicals typically provide localized relief and last 1 to 3 hours without affecting your mental state, as they don’t reach your bloodstream.
Should I choose THC or CBD?
This decision ultimately depends on what you’re looking to get out of the experience. THC is great for relaxation, creativity, and pain relief, but it can also cause anxiety or paranoia in higher doses – especially for beginners.
On the other hand, CBD is non-intoxicating and won’t get you high. It’s known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties without the mental effects of THC.
If you’re after a more noticeable mental or physical shift, THC might be the way to go.
If you’re looking for a more therapeutic experience or want to avoid feeling “high,” CBD is a great choice.
Many first-timers also opt for products that contain a balance of both THC and CBD.
What is a good cannabis dose for a beginner?
Many people start with 5 to 10 milligrams of THC. However, if you’re feeling especially nervous, a microdose of 2.5 milligrams of THC may help you feel more at ease and more deeply appreciate the experience.
Start your cannabis journey with confidence at Blue Oak
If you’re ready to try cannabis for the first time, Blue Oak has a wide range of high-quality, beginner-friendly products.
Plus, our knowledgeable staff can guide you in choosing the right products based on your needs and offer precise dosing options to help you start slow.
Visit us today and start your cannabis journey with confidence!
