Have you heard about delta 8 THC and want to try it, but aren’t sure where to start with dosing? As delta 8 products gain popularity, new users wonder about dosage and how to feel the effects without discomfort.
This guide explains how much delta 8 you should take based on your weight, tolerance, and other factors. Plus, get tips for dosing delta 8 edibles, vapes, and other products safely.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
Before getting into dosage, it helps to understand exactly what delta 8 THC is. Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally in small amounts in the cannabis plant. It has become popular in recent years thanks to new extraction and isolation methods that allow larger amounts of pure delta 8 to be produced.
Delta 8 THC produces mild psychoactive effects similar to delta 9 THC, the main intoxicating compound in cannabis. However, delta 8 tends to provide a lower, less anxious high that many users find more functional than delta 9.
Is Delta 8 THC Legal?
Delta 8 sits in a legal gray area. Technically, it is legal thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill’s definition of legal hemp derivatives. But some states have banned delta 8 retail sales, so check your local laws before purchasing any delta 8 products.
How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects of Delta 8?
When figuring out dosage, it’s helpful to know how long delta 8 takes to kick in with various methods of use:
- Delta 8 edibles: Effects onset within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Peak high at around 2-4 hours, lasting 4-8 hours total.
- Delta 8 vape cartridges: Effects onset within 5-20 minutes. Peak high at 20-60 minutes, lasting 2-3 hours total.
- Delta 8 tinctures/oils: Effects onset within 20-40 minutes. Total duration around 4-6 hours.
As you can see, delta 8 edibles are typically the slowest to take effect but last the longest. Vapes are the fastest. Oils and tinctures fall somewhere in between.
Delta 8 THC Dosage Chart
So how much delta 8 should you take? There are no official dosing guidelines, but this chart can help provide rough estimates based on your weight and other factors:
Delta 8 Dosage Chart Recommendations
Weight Range |
Low Dose |
Medium Dose |
High Dose |
100-150 lbs |
5-8 mg |
8-12 mg |
12-20 mg |
150-200 lbs |
8-10 mg |
10-15 mg |
15-25 mg |
200-250 lbs |
10-13 mg |
13-17 mg |
17-30 mg |
250+ lbs |
13-16 mg |
16-22 mg |
22-35 mg |
These are just general guidelines - your ideal dosage depends on your individual body chemistry and tolerance. Start low with delta 8 until you learn how it affects you specifically.
Factors that Influence Delta 8 THC Dosage
Several key factors beyond just body weight impact your ideal delta 8 dose:
Tolerance Level
If you use delta 8 or delta 9 THC frequently, you likely have a higher tolerance and need a larger dose to feel effects. Those new to THC should start very small.
Type of Delta 8 Product
As noted above, delta 8 delivery methods influence dose pacing and strength. Edibles provide the longest high while vaping is quicker.
Desired Effects
Are you looking for strong recreational effects or just mild relaxation? This determines whether you should stick to a low, medium or high dose.
Time Needed for Effects
Some situations require faster onset than others. Vaping or tinctures may be better if you need effects quickly.
How to Take a Safe Delta 8 THC Dosage
To enjoy delta 8 safely, follow these best practices:
- Start low and go slow - Begin with the lowest suggested dose for your weight to assess tolerance.
- Wait at least 2 hours between doses - Let a dose fully kick in before taking more to avoid overdoing it.
- Increase slowly in small increments - Up your dosage gradually over time for comfort.
- Avoid mixing with other substances - Don't combine delta 8 with alcohol, medications or other drugs.
- Use precise serving sizes - Carefully measure out doses using milligram scales for accuracy.
- Read product labels - Some packaged delta 8 shows the total milligrams along with number of servings. Pay attention so you properly portion servings.
- Beware of delta 8 product potency differences - Extract types, strains and manufacturing processes influence potency, so adjust doses accordingly.
- Consider your Plans - If you need to complete important tasks, remain lower on the dosage chart.
Following these tips will allow you to safely find the sweet spot dose of delta 8 that provides the desired effects for your needs.
What If You Take Too Much Delta 8 THC?
While delta 8 THC has a good safety profile, taking too much can lead to some unpleasant temporary side effects like:
- Anxiety, paranoia
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sedation, confusion
- Increased heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
Fortunately, any negative effects from too high of a delta 8 dose will resolve on their own within 6-12 hours as the substance wears off. Stay hydrated and rest to feel better. Learn from the experience and use a lower amount next time.
Overdosing on delta 8 THC can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia. However, it is important to note that there have been no reported cases of fatal overdoses solely from delta 8 THC.
High tolerance can sometimes be a double-edged sword, especially when it comes to the world of delta 8 THC. As users consume this compound more frequently, their bodies become accustomed to its effects, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the same level of euphoria. While it may seem daunting at first, having a high tolerance is not necessarily a bad thing. It opens up doors for experimentation and pushing our boundaries within safe limits.
One fascinating aspect of high tolerance is that it allows seasoned users to explore various consumption methods and products. From edibles and vape pens to tinctures and capsules, there is an extensive range of options available in the delta 8 THC market. Shifting between these different forms not only provides a diversified experience but also stimulates creativity and encourages users to discover what works best for them.
Moreover, building high tolerance teaches us patience and self-control. By gradually increasing consumption over time, individuals learn how to manage their usage responsibly while ensuring their experience remains enjoyable. They gain a deeper understanding of their own body's reactions and can navigate dosage levels more effectively. Ultimately, achieving high tolerance with delta 8 THC leads to a much richer journey filled with learning experiences and personal growth.
If symptoms seem severe, contact poison control or seek medical assistance as a precaution.
How to Dose Delta 8 THC Edibles
Edible delta 8 THC products like gummies, baked goods and candies are popular for their tasty delivery and long-lasting high. Follow these edible dosing tips:
- Start with just 5 mg of delta 8 THC or half a standard edible.
- Wait at least 1-2 hours before increasing your dose if desired.
- Consume edibles with food for slower, more even absorption.
- Understand that effects take 30-120 minutes to onset since edibles must digest.
- Consider your plans for the day - take edibles early if you need to be sober later.
- Store edibles safely away from kids and pets due to accidental ingestion risks.
How to Dose Delta 8 THC Vape Cartridges
Inhaling vaporized delta 8 THC via cartridges offers faster onset than edibles. Follow these vape dosing tips:
- Take 1-3 puffs of a delta 8 vape to start.
- Wait 5-10 minutes between puffs to judge effects before increasing.
- Use the lowest voltage setting on your battery.
- Take small 2-3 second puffs rather than huge rips.
- Hold each puff 3-5 seconds before exhaling to allow absorption.
- Keep vape cartridges upright when not in use to avoid leaks.
- Let the vape cartridge and battery cool down between use to avoid overheating issues.
The Takeaway on Delta 8 THC Dosage
Delta 8 THC offers intriguing light psychoactive effects for those who want to gently experience the benefits of cannabis. By carefully dosing delta 8 based on the advice in this guide, you can tailor the perfect amount to suit your needs while avoiding going overboard. Let the above information on establishing your ideal delta 8 THC dosage guide you into an enjoyable and safe experience.
In conclusion, understanding the proper dosage of delta 8 is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. By referring to a delta 8 dosage chart, individuals can gauge the appropriate amount to consume based on their tolerance level and desired effects.
It is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, while always keeping in mind the potential side effects and individual differences in metabolism. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional or knowledgeable expert can provide further guidance and ensure a personalized approach.
By following these guidelines and taking responsible steps towards dosing delta 8, users can optimize their experience and make informed decisions about their consumption. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when exploring the