Ask Dr. Litinas is a column that publishes twice monthly as part of The MichiGanja Report—our free, weekly newsletter about all things marijuana. Click here to sign up.
MICHIGAN—When people think about cannabis, they often picture getting “high.”
But here’s the truth: You don’t have to feel intoxicated to benefit from this powerful plant.
Many medicinal and wellness effects can happen at doses so low you might not feel any cognitive or body changes at all. This is one of the most important lessons for anyone using cannabis, whether for stress, sleep, pain, or just improving daily wellness: start low, go slow.
What does that mean? Start with a very low dose and increase in small increments, until you find a dose that gives you the most benefit with minimum or no side effects.
Why does this matter? Because your endocannabinoid system—the biochemical system that cannabis interacts with—is designed to maintain balance, not extremes. Sometimes a small nudge is all it takes to restore balance, reduce inflammation, ease anxiety, or help you sleep.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Therapeutic effects don’t require a large dose. Research and clinical experience shows that lower doses of cannabinoids like THC and CBD often produce better outcomes for many people, especially over time.
- Overdoing it can backfire. Taking too much THC, in particular, can lead to side effects like anxiety or dizziness. Low doses, on the other hand, can deliver benefits with fewer adverse events—ultimately keeping you clear-headed and functional.
- Microdosing is a real option. Some people find wellness benefits at doses as low as 1-2 mg of THC or 5-10 mg of CBD, especially when used consistently over time.
The takeaway?
Cannabis isn’t a “more is better” substance. Like any tool for wellness, it’s about finding the right amount for your body and your goals—and that amount is often less than you think.
So, whether you’re new to cannabis or simply looking to refine your routine, remember: start low and go slow. You might be surprised at how far a little cannabis can go.
This content is for education, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making any health decisions—especially when it comes to cannabis. Products are only for adults ages 21 and up.
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