Skip to content

Glossary · Science & Effect

Microdosing

Microdosing is taking cannabis in very small amounts, usually around 1 to 2.5 mg of THC, to feel light effects without a strong high. The goal is a subtle shift while staying clear-headed and functional. It is a common starting point for beginners and low-tolerance shoppers.

Also known as: microdose, low-dose cannabis, micro-dosing

Typical range
1 to 2.5 mg THC (up to ~5 mg)
Best for
Beginners, low tolerance
Wait time
1 to 2 hours before more
NY serving cap
10 mg THC per piece

What microdosing means

Microdosing is the practice of using a very small amount of cannabis on purpose. Instead of a full dose, you take just enough to notice a gentle change while staying clear and in control. For THC edibles, that usually means somewhere in the 1 to 2.5 mg range, and sometimes up to about 5 mg. A standard edible serving is often 5 to 10 mg, so a microdose is a fraction of that. Effects may vary. Please consume responsibly.

Why shoppers care about it

Low doses let new or sensitive users explore cannabis without feeling overwhelmed. People often report a light mood shift, mild ease, or a bit more relaxation, without the intensity of a full dose. It is also popular with experienced users who want a softer experience during the day. At very low amounts like 1 mg, many people report little to no perceptible high at all.

How it shows up on a menu or label

New York labels list THC by milligrams per serving and per package. In NY, edible servings are capped at 10 mg THC per piece and 100 mg per package, so a 100 mg pack is typically ten 10 mg pieces. To microdose, look for low-dose products like 2.5 mg gummies, or pick a scored edible you can cut into smaller pieces. Your budtender can point you to the lowest-dose options in the case.

How do you microdose cannabis edibles?

Start with a very small amount, often 1 to 2.5 mg of THC. Take it, then wait at least one to two hours before deciding whether you want more, since edibles can take up to 90 minutes or longer to fully kick in. Add only a little at a time. Effects may vary.

Practical takeaway

  • ·Start low and go slow, especially your first time
  • ·Choose a low-dose or scorable edible so you can measure small amounts
  • ·Wait the full onset window before taking more
  • ·Keep notes on what amount feels right for you
  • ·21+ only. Effects may vary. Please consume responsibly.

FAQ · Microdosing

How many milligrams is a microdose of THC?

A microdose is generally around 1 to 2.5 mg of THC, and sometimes up to about 5 mg. That is well below a standard 5 to 10 mg serving. The exact amount that feels right varies from person to person, so start at the low end.

Is microdosing good for beginners?

Many beginners start with a microdose because it keeps effects gentle and easier to manage. Taking a small amount and waiting before adding more lowers the chance of feeling too much. Talk to a budtender and start low. Effects may vary. Please consume responsibly.

Will a microdose get you high?

A microdose is meant to be subtle. At very low amounts like 1 mg, many people report little to no noticeable high, just a light shift. Around 2.5 mg, more people start to feel mild effects. Everyone reacts differently, so results vary.

See Microdosing on a real menu, lab-tested and labeled.

Shop the menu