For those that are new to using Cannabis or for those that are new to consuming it internally, it can be confusing to navigate the many available options. Cannabis can be effective at a wide range of doses and the right dose for each individual is a very personal experience. Because it is generally very safe, it is ok to experiment to find out what works best for your individual needs. However, some people will be very sensitive to the psychoactive properties of THC, and this factor should guide the choice of the individual when choosing the product and dose that is best.
For new users, we recommend starting with a high CBD formula, such as our Sweet Jane 20:1 or 16:1. CBD is non-psychoactive, generally well tolerated, and it offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits. It is best to start with a small dose, such as half of a dropper. Try this in the evening when you have time to feel the effects without the constraints of other obligations. After some initial experimentation, you can start taking small doses throughout the day. It is best to stick with a consistent dose for several days so that you can track the effects in your body.
Please keep in mind that less is often more! In clinical trials, Cannabis has been shown to be more effective at lower doses. Additionally, there is evidence to show that taking small doses more frequently will ensure that one’s tolerance remains relatively low and there will be less of a need to increase the dose for the desired effect. Surprisingly, exceeding the optimal dose may actually decrease the efficacy of the treatment, so more is not always better. This is important for your wallet, and it is a good approach to making sure that your desired Cannabis therapy provides lasting and effective results.
High CBD ratios tend to be particularly effective for certain types of ailments. CBD can lessen the intoxicating effects of THC, so a higher ratio will mean that there is less psychoactivity. CBD is particularly effective for the nervous system, and can be beneficial for anxiety, depression, tremors, palsies, and epilepsy. For some people, Too much THC may amplify anxiety and mood disorders.
Many people find that as they become more comfortable using Cannabis, their ideal CBD:THC ratio will change. CBD and THC have a synergistic effect, meaning that they work better when taken in combination. At Humboldt Apothecary, we offer a wide variety of different CBD:THC ratios to meet every individual’s needs. If you find that the 20:1 becomes less effective, you may choose to try an 8:1 or a 4:1 ratio. Rather than continuing to increase your dose of the 20:1, you may find that a smaller dose of the 4:1 will better suit your needs.
A high CBD, low THC product is not always the appropriate remedy. Some people will find that a more balanced CBD:THC ratio is most effective. A 1:1 ratio has demonstrated efficacy for pain and inflammation, indicating that this choice might be most beneficial for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. This may also be the best ratio for certain cancers and for people with autism.. In clinical trials, a 1:1 ratio has also demonstrated efficacy for neuropathic pain (http://n.neurology.org/content/65/6/812.long).
Finally, there are some cases where a THC formula may be the most appropriate choice. THC is particularly good to soothe nausea and to stimulate the appetite. It tends to be very effective for pain relief, neuropathic pain, and for insomnia. It is also an effective bronchodilator and can be used for conditions associated with allergies, asthma, and COPD. THC is also the constituent that is responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with being “high”. While some people find this undesirable, many people will find that this generates a feeling of euphoria and may lend itself to heightened feelings of pleasure, sensuality and creativity.
Humboldt Apothecary has designed an array of products to suit the needs of every individual. You can expect the same high quality and consistency from every tincture that you try. You can be assured that as your needs change over time, there is a solution and a Cannabis ratio that is just right for you!
