CBD Dosing Guide for Pain Relief

General Guidelines:

1. Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find relief.
2. Consistency is key: Use CBD regularly for best results.
3. Consult your doctor, especially if you’re on other medications.

Dosing by Product Type:

CBD Oil/Tinctures

CBD oils and tinctures are versatile and fast-acting. They offer precise dosing and are absorbed quickly when taken sublingually (under the tongue). There are several types of CBD and cannabis-derived oil/tincture products:

• CBD Isolate Oil: Contains pure CBD extract, with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or other cannabinoids.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: Contains CBD along with all other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). This may provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect”.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Like full-spectrum but with THC removed. It contains CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, but no THC.
• CBD:CBG Oil: Combines CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have additional anti-inflammatory properties.
• CBD:CBN Oil: Blends CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties and may be beneficial for sleep and pain relief.
• Delta-8 THC Tincture: Contains Delta-8 THC, offering mild psychoactive effects and potential pain relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC.
• Delta-9 THC Oil: Contains Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can provide strong pain relief but also produces a significant “high”. Only legal in certain regions.
• Balanced CBD:THC Oil: Contains specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC).

The Dosing:

Starting dose: 5-10mg, 1-2 times daily

1. – Increase by 5mg every week if needed
2. – Typical effective range: 20-100mg per day
3. – How to use: Place drops under tongue, hold for 60 seconds, then swallow

CBD Capsules/Softgels

Capsules and softgels provide a convenient, pre-measured dose of CBD. They’re ideal for those who prefer a tasteless option and want consistent dosing. There are several types of CBD and cannabis-derived capsule/softgel products:

• CBD Isolate Capsules: Contain pure CBD extract, with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. These are suitable for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or other cannabinoids.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Softgels: Contain CBD along with all other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). This may provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect”.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD Capsules: Like full-spectrum but with THC removed. They contain CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, but no THC.
• CBD:CBG Capsules: Combine CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have additional anti-inflammatory properties.
• CBD:CBN Softgels: Blend CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties and may be beneficial for sleep and pain relief.
• CBD with Melatonin Capsules: Combine CBD with melatonin, often used for improving sleep quality alongside pain relief.
• Delta-8 THC Softgels: Contain Delta-8 THC, offering mild psychoactive effects and potential pain relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC.
• Delta-9 THC Capsules: Contain Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. They can provide strong pain relief but also produce a significant “high”. Only legal in certain regions.
• Balanced CBD:THC Capsules: Contain specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC).

Starting dose: 10-25mg, once or twice daily

1. – Increase by 10mg every week if needed
2. – Typical effective range: 20-100mg per day
3. – How to use: Swallow with water
4. – Onset time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
5. – Duration: Effects typically last 6-8 hours

CBD Edibles (Gummies, etc.)

Edibles offer a tasty and discreet way to consume CBD. They’re pre-dosed but take longer to take effect due to digestion. There are several types of CBD and cannabis-derived edible products:

• CBD Gummies: Chewy, often fruit-flavored candies infused with CBD. They’re popular due to their ease of use and precise dosing.
• CBD Chocolates: Chocolate bars or pieces infused with CBD, offering a more indulgent option for CBD consumption.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Edibles: Contain CBD along with other cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant, potentially offering enhanced benefits through the “entourage effect”.
• CBD Isolate Edibles: Made with pure CBD isolate, these contain no other cannabinoids or hemp compounds. They’re ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC.
• Delta-8 THC Edibles: Contain Delta-8 THC, offering mild psychoactive effects and potential pain relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC.
• Delta-9 THC Edibles: Contain Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. They can provide strong pain relief but also produce a significant “high”. Only legal in certain regions.
• CBD:THC Combination Edibles: Contain specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC).
• Delta-8, Delta-9 and CBD/CBG Mints and Snacks like cereal bars and cookies are included as edibles.

Starting dose: 5-10mg

1. – Increase by 5mg every few days if needed
2. – Typical effective range: 10-50mg per day
3. – How to use: Chew and swallow

CBD Topicals (Creams, Balms)

Topicals are applied directly to the skin for localized relief. They’re great for targeting specific areas of pain without systemic effects.

1. – Apply a thin layer to affected area
2. – Reapply 3-4 times daily or as needed
3. – Start with a small amount and increase if necessary

CBD Vape Products

Vaping CBD provides the fastest onset of effects but may not last as long as other methods. It’s suitable for those seeking quick relief. There are several types of CBD and cannabis-derived vape products:

• CBD Vape Oil: Contains pure CBD extract. It offers the benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Vape: Includes CBD along with other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, potentially offering an “entourage effect” for enhanced benefits.
• Delta-8 THC Vape: Contains Delta-8 THC, a less potent cousin of Delta-9 THC. It may provide mild psychoactive effects and potential pain relief.
• Delta-9 THC Vape: Contains Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can offer strong pain relief but also produces a “high” and is only legal in certain regions.
• CBD + CBG Vape: Combines CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have additional anti-inflammatory properties.

Dosing guidelines for vape products:

Starting dose: 1-2 puffs

• Wait 10 minutes and repeat if needed
• Typical effective range: 5-40mg per day
• How to use: Inhale and hold for a few seconds before exhaling

Note: The effects and legality of these products can vary. Always check local laws and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for products containing THC.

Factors Affecting Your Dosage:

– Body weight: Heavier individuals may need higher doses

– Pain severity: More intense pain may require higher doses

– Metabolism: Faster metabolisms may need more frequent dosing

– CBD concentration: Higher potency products require smaller amounts

Tips:

– Keep a journal to track your dosage and effects

– Allow 1-2 weeks at a consistent dose to evaluate effectiveness

– If you experience side effects, reduce the dosage

– For severe or chronic pain, higher doses may be necessary

Note that everyone’s optimal dose is different. Adjust as needed and be patient in finding your ideal dosage.