Dosing CBD: The Stepwise Dosing Procedure
We get a lot of questions with regards to how much CBD one should take when using cannabidiol as an alternative or supplement. Due to FDA regulations we cannot give specific advice on how to use CBD for a particular condition. Fortunately though, the process of finding the minimum effective dose of CBD for any condition is quite straightforward, using a technique called the Stepwise Dosing Procedure.
What is the Stepwise Dosing Procedure?
The Stepwise Dosing is a process by which you first establish a minimum baseline dosage, then adjust the dosage incrementally over a set period of time – typically 3 days. This is continued until the effective dosage is established.
On that note, it is important to recognize that everyone responds a little differently to CBD. Consequently, there is no set dose for everyone or every condition. By following the Stepwise Dosing Procedure, you can easily find your most effective dosage of CBD which will vary depending on different factors such as age, weight, metabolism, etc.
The Stepwise Dosing Procedure
Start Low and Go Slow : The first step to finding your minimum effective dose is to establish a baseline dosage. Since many people report desirable results with CBD at low doses, we suggest you start with a least dose possible and slowly increase the dosage until you are comfortable with the results.
As a rule of thumb, start with a small baseline dosage between 2-5mg, two times or three times daily (6-10mg total).
Next is to:
- Maintain your baseline dosage for 7 days, taking note of how the CBD interacts with your body (see note below).
- If you are not receiving the benefits you were expecting after the initial 7 days of taking your baseline CBD dosage, then increase the daily dosage by 1-2 mg every 3 days until you find the dosage that is most suited to you.
- Once you have determined your minimum effective dose, you may wish to decrease your dosage by one step to see if you can maintain the benefits at a slightly lower dosage.
Important Note: Typically, people decide to try CBD because of a specific condition, only to find it helps other areas of their health as well. Remember, your endocannabinoid system runs throughout the entire body at a cellular and sub-cellular level. CBD is a whole-body compound. When you start taking CBD for the first time, pay attention to everything going on in your body. Do not be surprised if you find various benefits from your dosage.
About Sleep: Often times, certain conditions or side-effects from medication can create insomnia. Sleep is essential to the bodies healing and recovery process. If sleep deprivation is an issue, you may want to consider increasing your dosage slightly at night, to assist with a more sound sleep.
Establishing A Baseline Dosage Based On Weight
If you feel you need a higher dosage, we have created the following chart to assist you in establishing your baseline dosage depending on your weight.
This chart is submitted as a suggestive guide only and is not meant to take the place of a qualified physician.
