Cannabis, when utilized with the utmost care and consistency, can be a powerhouse of health for the body. Here are 7 simple tips for using cannabis as a wellness tool.
1. Pick your method of ingestion
There’s a lot more out there than bong rips and joints. Nowadays you can purchase tinctures, body creams, sublingual strips, vape pens, and infused foods. Exploring and choosing your favorite products, ones that don’t shy you away from cannabis, can make this process so much more enjoyable and repeatable. My personal favorite is an MCT oil tincture, otherwise known as a non-alcoholic tincture. I find it to give me a subtle onset of ease.
2. Dial in your golden cannabinoid ratio
Every one is truly unique in how they process cannabis, and finding your unique ratio can do wonders to your body and mind. Cannabinoid ratio refers to the differentiating amounts of cannabinoids (THC, CBD, THCa, CBDa) found in a given product. Even if you’re a CBD-only kinda gal, having a dash of THC can make your experience far better, while not getting high. Going back to my fav tincture, I love a 22:1 ratio- 22 mg CBD to 1mg THC. Having more than one cannabinoid means “full-spectrum” giving you a more synergistic experience. I like to think of it as eating an orange instead of taking a vitamin C supplement.
3. Dose low and steady, repeat
Start slow and work your way up. If you’re new to using cannabis for wellness, it’s important to start low and go slow. This means to begin with a very small dose, and gradually increase as needed. You don’t need to start so high that you’re now incapable of moving throughout your day. If using THC products, a good starting point is 1-5 mg THC every 3 or so hours, depending on what feels right for you.
4. Be consistent
Like with any medication or supplement, consistency is key when it comes to reaping the full benefits of cannabis. Find a dosage and delivery method that works for you, and stick to it.
5. Be patient
It can often take a few weeks or even months of consistent use to experience the full effects of cannabis as medicine. Don’t give up if you don’t see results immediately – give your body time to adjust and reap the benefits of this powerful plant medicine.
6. Use cannabis as a supplement to a healthy diet and lifestyle
Cannabis is NOT a cure-all. If you want to feel healthy and energetic and satisfied, you’ll need to do more than just cannabis. Eating healthy, clean foods, hydrating, meditating, moving and breathing, and keeping up with good hygiene are some incredible ways to live a healthy, cannabis-infused lifestyle.
7. Talk to your doctor
Cannabis medicine is still relatively new, and not all doctors are on board yet. However, it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your physician about your interest in using cannabis as a wellness tool, and see if they are willing to work with you on this front.
