Many CBD users take their daily dose in one or two goes. There is, however, another approach you may not know yet: microdosing, a method where you take several small doses of CBD during the day instead of one or two large doses. Some users find that this fits their day better.
But what does CBD microdosing involve exactly? How do you go about it, and is it something for you? In this article we explain everything about this interesting way of dosing, with practical tips for getting started yourself.
What exactly is CBD microdosing?
CBD microdosing means you take very small amounts of CBD, usually 1 to 2 milligrams at a time, spread over several moments a day. Where the traditional advice is often to take a larger dose once or twice a day, with microdosing you spread the same total amount over several moments of intake.
An example: instead of 10 mg of CBD in two goes (5 mg in the morning and 5 mg in the evening), with microdosing you take 2 mg five times spread over the day. Every 2 to 3 hours, for instance.
This method resembles the way we drink water. You do not drink your full daily water requirement in one go either, but take small sips during the day. The same principle applies to CBD: by taking very small, frequent doses, you spread the CBD evenly over the day.
The idea is not to notice anything big, but to keep the amount small and even.
Why do people choose microdosing?
- Small amounts per dose Large doses of CBD can sometimes lead to sleepiness, a dry mouth or slight dizziness. If you are sensitive to that, you may prefer to keep the amount per dose small. Whether microdosing actually causes fewer side effects has not been researched.
- Even across the day Instead of one or two larger portions, you take a little at a time.
- Staying low You stay low and do not experiment with high doses.
It is worth mentioning that microdosing is not the ideal method for everyone. If you have any complaints, discuss them with your GP. Read more here about which CBD dose suits you.
Microdosing and the endocannabinoid system
In discussions of microdosing, the endocannabinoid system in your body often comes up. This is an extensive network of receptors that is involved in many processes in the body.
What small, spread-out doses mean for that system has not been researched. Microdosing is mainly a practical choice.
Getting started in practice: your microdosing schedule
- Starting dose and spread Start low, for example with 2 to 3 drops of 5% CBD oil, and stick to the dose on the label. Spread those drops over the day, for example one at breakfast, one at lunch and one at dinner.
- Take it slowly Keep your dose the same for at least 3 to 4 days. Do not change things too quickly.
- Choosing a product Use CBD oil with a low concentration (2.5% or 5%) for precise dosing. With a 2.5% oil one drop contains about 1 mg of CBD: ideal for microdosing. CBD capsules are usually less suitable because they often contain too high a dose per capsule.
Points to note and safety
CBD does not get you high, but it can cause side effects and interact with medication. Choose products with clear concentration information and a maximum of 0.05% THC. If you take medication or are pregnant, consult your doctor first. You will find more information about CBD side effects in our detailed article.
Frequently asked questions about microdosing CBD
How much CBD can you take per day?
Start low, for example with 2 to 3 drops of 5% CBD oil, and stick to the dosage on the label. With microdosing you spread that amount over several small moments, instead of taking it all in one or two goes. An oil with a low concentration, such as 2.5% or 5%, makes it easier to measure out small amounts precisely.
What are the negative effects of CBD?
CBD does not make you high, but it can cause side effects. Large doses can sometimes lead to drowsiness, a dry mouth or slight dizziness. CBD can also interact with medicines. If you take medicines or are pregnant, consult your doctor first.
What is the best time to take CBD?
With microdosing there is not one moment: you take a small amount each time, spread over the day, for example every few hours. Keep a fixed rhythm for a few days before you change anything. If that does not fit your day, one fixed moment is fine too.
What do you feel after taking CBD oil?
It does not make you high. With microdosing the idea is not to notice anything big either, but to keep the amount small and even. We do not say what else CBD does for you: there are no EU-approved health claims for CBD.
Starting with CBD microdosing yourself?
For some people microdosing fits their day better.
If you want to try it, start with a low concentration CBD oil and see whether this approach suits you.
