Average CBD edible dosage: How many mg per day is recommended?
CBD edibles have quickly become a favorite among those seeking the wellness benefits of cannabinoids in an approachable and enjoyable way.
From CBD gummies to beverages, these products provide a convenient way to incorporate cannabidiol into your routine. They’re especially popular for their ease of use, long-lasting effects, and discreet nature.
But, how much CBD should you consume? Finding the right CBD serving size is key to achieving the desired effects while avoiding unnecessary side effects. This guide will help you understand how CBD edibles work, how to find your ideal serving size, and what to expect as you start your journey with CBD.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s one of the most abundant cannabinoids, alongside THC, but it’s distinct in that it doesn’t cause psychoactive effects. This means CBD doesn’t produce the high associated with tetrahydrocannabinol.* Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that help maintain balance and regulate processes like mood, sleep, and discomfort.*
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t bind directly to the cannabinoid receptors found throughout the brain and body, which is why its effects tend to be more subtle.* But, this subtly doesn’t make the effects of CBD any less enjoyable! Health benefits associated with CBD include encouraging relaxation, helping ease stress and discomfort, better sleep quality, and promoting balance within the ECS.*
What are CBD edibles?
CBD edibles are ingestible products infused with cannabidiol, offering a tasty and convenient way to incorporate CBD into your routine. Common examples include gummies, seltzers, candies, and chocolates, as well as tinctures and other supplements.
One of the main advantages of CBD edibles is their ease of use. Unlike vaping or sublingual methods, edibles don’t require additional equipment and are easy to take on the go, offering a consistent amount of CBD whenever you need it. When consumed, the CBD passes through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream. While this means edibles have a longer onset time (typically 30-90 minutes), the effects can last much longer compared to other forms of CBD.
For those who prefer a subtle approach to cannabinoids or want a product that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle, CBD edibles are a fantastic choice.
What are the main forms of CBD and what are their effects?
Edibles are just one form of CBD product, but they stand out for their convenience and longevity. Other popular forms include tinctures, CBD oil, and topicals, each offering unique benefits.
Tinctures and CBD oil, for instance, are fast-acting and taken sublingually, which allows CBD to enter the bloodstream more quickly. Topicals, on the other hand, are ideal for targeted relief; they are applied directly to the skin and don’t enter the bloodstream.
You’re also likely to come across two main categorizations of CBD products: full spectrum and broad spectrum. Full spectrum CBD contains all the beneficial compounds of the cannabis plant, including terpenes, minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG, and small amounts of THC, which can enhance the effects of CBD through the entourage effect.*
In broad-spectrum CBD, the THC content is carefully filtered out, while the other plant parts remain intact.
What to know about CBD serving sizes
Determining the right amount of CBD edibles can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s easier when you understand the key factors involved. Serving sizes can vary based on individual characteristics, including body weight, body chemistry, metabolism, age, experience level and tolerance, and the desired effects.
Studies suggest that there is no single “right” amount of CBD recommended for everyone. Instead, the best CBD serving size for you largely comes down to what feels best!
In various research settings, CBD was found to be safe for most people even at high amounts — up to 1500 mg. But, this amount is not recommended for everyday use outside of clinical trials. For most users, a daily serving of 10mg to 75mg is enough to produce the desired effects.*
For first-time users, the golden rule is to start low and go slow. Begin with a small amount of CBD — such as 5 to 10 mg — and gradually increase as needed. Edibles are often labeled with the amount of CBD per serving, making it easier to track your intake.
Dosage charts and CBD serving size calculators can also be helpful for interpreting CBD gummies dosage or edible dosage guidelines.
Are there any risks to using CBD edibles?
CBD is generally well-tolerated, and side effects are rare. When they do occur, they’re usually mild and temporary, such as drowsiness or nausea. However, CBD can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, so it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional if you have any medical conditions.
Proper edible dosing is also crucial. Consuming higher amounts than needed can lead to unwanted effects, such as increased drowsiness or feeling unwell. By starting with a low amount and increasing gradually, you can avoid these potential issues and enjoy the wellness benefits of CBD safely.
How to find your ideal serving size
Finding your ideal amount of CBD involves a bit of experimentation and patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:
- Start Low: Begin with a low starting amount, such as half a gummy or 5 mg of CBD. You can always increase the amount later.
- Be Patient: Edibles take time to kick in — usually 30-90 minutes — so resist the urge to take more too soon!
- Adjust Gradually: If you didn’t feel the desired effects with your starting amount, you can slowly increase the amount of CBD by 5-10 mg per day.
- Monitor Effects: Track how your body responds. Are you experiencing the desired effects, or do you feel drowsy? Adjust accordingly.
- Listen to Your Body: Everyone is different. Some people may need only 5-15 mg daily, while others benefit from higher amounts of 25-50 mg.
- Consider your goals: You may find that different amounts of CBD work better for different needs. For instance, you may need a higher amount to ease discomfort than you do for occasional sleep support. Track your results to help better understand your needs.
Remember, CBD edibles are a gentle way to introduce cannabinoids into your routine. Take your time to find what works for you.
The bottom line
CBD edibles are a versatile and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of cannabidiol. By understanding your personal needs and starting with a low dose, you can safely explore how much CBD works for your body. Whether you’re looking to support relaxation, improve sleep, or ease discomfort, edibles provide a reliable and accessible option for incorporating CBD into your wellness routine.
If you’re ready to take the next step, explore Sunmed’s collection of high-quality, third-party-tested CBD products and find the perfect fit for your needs.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious | Harvard Health
Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol | PMC