If you are new to edibles, the usual advice is to start with a low dose, often somewhere around 2.5 to 5 mg of THC, and wait at least two hours before taking any more. Edibles are slow and can be stronger than people expect, so patience matters more than anything. Saint John Bud Express put this guide together for first-timers in Saint John who want to enjoy edibles without overdoing it.
How is edible strength measured?
Milligrams of THC. Edibles are labelled by how many milligrams (mg) of THC they contain. Look for two numbers on the package: the amount per piece and the amount in the whole package.
Per piece versus per package. A bag of gummies might contain several pieces, each with its own dose. A chocolate bar might be scored into squares. Always check which number you are reading before you eat anything.
Not all edibles are equal. Two gummies that look the same can carry very different amounts of THC. Read every label, every time.
What dose should a beginner start with?
Everyone responds differently, so these are general ranges many people use, not medical advice:
- About 1 to 2.5 mg: a microdose. Many beginners feel little or nothing, while some notice a gentle lift.
- About 2.5 to 5 mg: a common starting point for people new to edibles.
- About 5 to 10 mg: a moderate dose. Some beginners find this stronger than they wanted.
- Above 10 mg: generally for people with experience and tolerance.
When in doubt, go lower. You can always take more next time. You cannot take less once it is in your system.
Cut it up. If your edible has more THC than you want, cut it into pieces. A knife and a little patience turn a strong gummy into several beginner doses.
How long should you wait before taking more?
At least two hours. Edibles usually take 30 to 90 minutes to start working and can take up to two hours. The most common mistake is taking a second dose because the first "isn't working," then feeling both at once.
Expect a long ride. Effects can last 6 hours or more. Our article on how long edibles take explains the full timeline.
Next time, adjust. If your first dose felt too light after a full wait, try a little more on a different day rather than stacking doses the same night.
What changes how strong a dose feels?
Food. An empty stomach can make an edible hit faster and harder for some people.
Tolerance. Regular cannabis users may need more; someone new may feel a small dose strongly. Smoking tolerance does not always carry over to edibles.
Body and metabolism. Two people can take the same dose and have very different experiences.
Mixing. Combining edibles with alcohol or other substances can make effects stronger and less predictable. Many people find it best to avoid mixing, especially at first.
How do you set yourself up for a good first time?
Pick a free evening. Take your edible when you have nowhere to be and nothing to drive to. Never drive after taking an edible.
Be somewhere comfortable. Home, with a show, music or a friend you trust, is ideal.
Have water and snacks ready.
Write it down. Note the time, the product and the dose. That record makes it easy to fine-tune next time.
Store the rest safely. Edibles look like regular candy. Keep them sealed and well out of reach of children and pets.
What if you take too much?
It passes. Taking too much can be uncomfortable, but the feeling fades with time. Move somewhere quiet, sip water, eat something and rest. Many people find sleeping it off is the easiest route. If you feel seriously unwell, contact a health professional. Our guide to being too high on edibles has more tips.
For a broader overview of types, flavours and formats, read our THC edibles guide.
The Bottom Line
Start with a low dose, check the milligrams per piece, and wait at least two hours before taking more. Keep notes and adjust slowly from one session to the next. When you are ready, browse our THC edibles and order with weed delivery in Saint John.
