Cancer & Cannabis - Dosing THC
Updated: Sep 22, 2022
At the end of June, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and everyone was right, your life changes instantly. With no hesitation whatsoever, there is a shift in the way you think and operate. You can't really explain it. I feel called to share how I am using cannabis throughout my cancer journey - from managing pain, anxiety, nausea, insomnia, loss of appetite, and whatever else cancer is going to throw my way. Thank you to the owners, Jake & Emily from Northern Belle Holistic, for their encouragement and support in using their platform to do so.
Even for those of you reading who do not have cancer, you may be suffering from the same ailments/symptoms as I...just from other causes. I remember when I was working in the shop, patients were always asking me what I used day to day. I am using my cancer diagnosis to be fully transparent about how CBD, CBN, and THC (to name just a few of the many powerful cannabinoids marijuana has) help me.
Some of you may remember me when I was a budtender in the shop. I made a brief appearance for a couple of months to learn the ropes. Some of you may remember me from being in the office, receiving and processing inventory. Some of you may know me from marketing and my many meetings with Emily. I hope what I have to share can help just one of you reading this.
Tip #1: Get Clear. Ask Questions.
When treating anything, knowledge is power, right? Before you go running to clear the shelves of your local dispensary, understand the needs you are trying to address. Trust me, you may feel one way one day and another way the next. You can and you will. Adjust to your needs as necessary. Let me give you a personal example - I have been suffering from insomnia for years, so I have been addressing sleep for a long time. So, while I am looking for sleep aids, I also need something to give me energy (since I don't get much sleep). Cannabis can do both. You just have to know what you're shopping for.
Don't be afraid to share with your budtender what symptoms you are trying to lessen or treat. It is important because some cannabis products are made with strains that can pick you up and some that will put you to bed. It may take trying both safely, to find out what works for you. I've noticed that over time, the way my body reacts to the same cannabis product/strain changes, so don't be afraid to revisit things that might not have worked for you in the past.
Tip #2: Start Slow and build up.
When it comes to dosing, I always use the suggested dosage and work from there. The charts below, from our partners at Leafwell, are a great jumping-off point for dosing THC, no matter what shape or form you imbibe or prefer.
Most packaging will have what a dose is, but of course - use it according to how it affects you. Some people need to eat half a gummy or take two hits, while others (myself included) need double the normal just to feel anything.
Tip #3: It's all about you!
Take the time to explore what works for you! You are worth it! I enjoy smoking in the morning, it's more uplifting for me. But as the day goes on, I prefer edibles to maintain my energy or a quick dab. Here are a few of the products I am currently using.
If you have problems sleeping, pair Northern Belle Holistic's Zkittlez with a Sleep CBD Zkittlez gummy, and you will ease into sleep. Anything Indica provides me with great relaxation but even more so when paired with CBD (which calms my body). This powerful duo has finally been giving me some well-needed rest.
While on bed rest, I will have my handy Rokin nearby. After using pen after pen, I finally upgraded to this dial battery. One of the features that drew me to this particular battery is its ability to change the temperature (which I find the best for dealing with various resins and such). Also, it comes with a lanyard...no more searching for your pen AND the concentrate stays at the bottom of the cart. I am currently vaping a live resin cart of the Oregon Diesel variety. Indica dominant strains keep my anxiety at bay, without knocking me out during the day.
Last but by no means least, is the THC salve. There’s 750mg of it packed into that little jar. This luxurious salve (which melts to the touch and smooths on like buttah) packs a punch. I use this on my arthritic knees but only at night. This stuff, after it enters the bloodstream through the skin, relaxes me like nothing else I do. Please, get yourself some. I highly recommend this for physical aches, pains, and deep relaxation.
My main message is to do what works for you. Tune in. Listen. Try new things. Be curious. And again, ask questions. Ask your neighbor or one of our budtenders...they are always happy to talk about all things marijuana and help you find the best cannabis products for your needs.
Hope to see you soon at Northern Belle Holistic. Feel free to support my Go Fund Me by clicking here. It all truly helps.
