When you walk into a dispensary, there’s a wide selection of cannabis products. So, how do you decide what the right one is for you? It can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to cannabis.
This blog post will discuss two crucial factors to consider when choosing a medicinal cannabis product: terpenes and cannabinoids. We’ll also share some insights on finding the correct dosage for your needs. Keep reading for more information.
Introducing Terpenes And Cannabinoids
When it comes to medicinal cannabis, two main types of compounds work together to provide relief: terpenes and cannabinoids. Terpenes are aromatic oils found in cannabis and give them their unique smells. However, cannabinoids are active ingredients that bind to receptors in the body to provide various medicinal effects.
Scientists believe that cannabis terpenes play a role in the “entourage effect,” whereby the different compounds in cannabis work together to provide more significant therapeutic benefits than any one compound alone. While they need more research in this area, they believe that terpenes may help modulate the effects of cannabinoids, making them more effective at treating certain conditions.
What Is The Correct Dose Of Cannabis For A Patient’s Needs?
Determining the proper terpene tincture and cannabinoid dosage can be tricky, as each individual responds differently to cannabis. It is essential that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the best amount for you. The following are some general guidelines for dosing terpene tinctures:
- Start with a low dose (1-2 drops) and gradually increase the dosage as needed.
- If using for the first time, it is best to wait at least an hour before re-dosing to see how you respond.
- Be mindful of the tincture’s terpene profile, as some terpenes can cause drowsiness or other side effects.
- Work with a healthcare professional experienced in cannabis medicine to find the correct dose for your individual needs.
These guidelines work for your cannabinoid dosage, so be sure to follow them when starting your cannabis medicine journey.
What Are Some Common Terpenes Found In Cannabis?
Researchers have identified over 100 different terpenes in cannabis, each with its own unique aroma and therapeutic effect. The following are the more common terpenes found in cannabis:
- Myrcene: earthy, musky aroma; sedative effect
- Limonene: citrusy aroma; uplifting, mood-enhancing effect
- Pinene: piney aroma; anxiolytic, bronchodilator effect
- Linalool: floral aroma; anxiolytic, sedative effect
- Caryophyllene: peppery aroma; analgesic, anti-inflammatory effect
You may be wondering, how do I know which terpene tincture is right for me? Let’s discuss that next.
How Can I Find A Terpene Tincture Or Cannabinoid That’s Right For Me?
When choosing a terpene tincture, you must consider your individual needs and preferences. After all, each person is different and will react to it differently.
For example, if you need a tincture to help with anxiety, you may want to pick one with a high concentration of linalool. On the other hand, if you seek an anti-inflammatory medicine, you may want to choose one with a high concentration of Caryophyllene.
Similarly, finding the right cannabinoid depends on what you need it to do. For example, if you want a cannabinoid for pain relief, you may want to try one with a high THC content. However, if you’re looking for a cannabinoid to help with anxiety or insomnia, you may want to try one with a high CBD content.
The best way to figure out which terpene tincture or cannabinoid is right for you is to experiment and find what works best.
How Does Cannabis Interact With Other Medications?
Cannabis can interact with other medications a patient takes, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using cannabis.
Cannabis may increase the effects of other medications, such as sedatives or antidepressants, and it can also reduce the effectiveness of some medications, such as blood thinners. You can find more information about these interactions here.
Final Thoughts
So, what is the correct dose of cannabis for a patient’s needs? It depends on the terpenes and cannabinoids present in the strain. And therein lies one of the significant advantages of medical cannabis—there are many strains with different compositions, so patients can find what they need to address their specific symptoms.
It also means that as scientists learn more about terpenes and cannabinoids and how they work together, they can develop targeted therapies using cannabis.
Take one of our online courses if you’re ready to discover more about this excellent plant and how it might help you or a loved one. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about cannabis so that you can make informed decisions about your usage.