Estimate THC and CBD in infused oils, fats, and homemade recipes. Adjust your flower weight, potency, and batch size to plan safer servings.
In the first section, you can determine the potency of your infused oil, alcohol, or fat, which can then be used directly in your recipe through the second section of this calculator.
In the second section, you can directly incorporate the infused oil you prepared in step one into any recipe.
Calculating THC in homemade edibles is essential to know your dosage and avoid taking too much. Here’s how you can figure out the approximate THC content in your infused oil or butter:
Step 1Start by converting the THC percentage on your cannabis flower label into milligrams per gram. Simply multiply the THC percentage by 10. For example, if your flower has 17.7% THC, then: 17.7 × 10 = 177 mg THC per gram of flower.
Step 2Decarboxylation is a process of heating cannabis to activate THC and CBD. When you heat cannabis to activate THC, you lose about 20% of its potency. To adjust for this, multiply the total THC by 0.8 (or 80%). So, 177 mg × 0.8 = 141.6 mg THC per gram after decarboxylation.
Step 3Now, figure out the total THC in your batch based on how much flower you use. 1 gram = 141.6 mg THC. 3.5 grams = 495.6 mg THC (3.5 × 141.6). 7 grams = 991.2 mg THC (7 × 141.6).
Step 4(A)If you use 7 grams of decarboxylated flower in 14 fluid ounces of oil, you’ll end up with about 12 ounces of infused oil after heating. There are 72 teaspoons in 12 ounces. So, 991.2 mg ÷ 72 = 13.76 mg THC per teaspoon. If you prefer a microdose (¼ teaspoon), that equals about 3.44 mg THC.
Step 4(B)If you use 7 grams of flower in 16 ounces of butter, you’ll likely end up with 14 ounces after heating. There are 84 teaspoons in 14 ounces. So, 991.2 mg ÷ 84 = 11.8 mg THC per teaspoon. A ¼ teaspoon microdose equals about 2.95 mg THC.
For beginners, the right THC dose is typically between 1 to 5 milligrams. This small amount allows new users to experience the potential benefits of cannabis without feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable.
This range is best for first-timers. At this dose, most users don’t feel “high,” but they may notice relief from mild pain, anxiety, or nausea. It provides a gentle, clear-headed experience, perfect for understanding your body’s response to THC.
Slightly higher doses can help with sleep, inflammation, and moderate pain. However, new users may begin to feel a mild “high” at around 5 mg. It’s important to start slow and wait at least two hours before taking more, as edibles take time to kick in.
In short: If you’re new to cannabis, start with 1–2.5 mg of THC. Once you understand your tolerance, you can gradually increase to 3–5 mg if needed. Always follow the “start low and go slow” rule to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
| THC per dose | Dose category | What to expect | Edible recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – 2.5 mg | Microdose | Most users don’t experience intoxication at this dose, but may feel that their pain, anxiety, and nausea have abated without affecting their cognition. | Mints |
| 3 – 5 mg | Low | This dose helps with pain, nausea, inflammation, and may help with sleep. New users will likely feel a degree of intoxication, including feeling less coordinated and more silly. A 5mg dose is when a “high” begins to set in for many new and/or inconsistent consumers. | Infused seltzer, some gummies, honey sticks |
| 10 – 15 mg | Moderate | This is an ideal dose for more experienced users looking to have fun, sleep, or manage pain. New users may feel overwhelmed. | Gummies, single-dose baked goods, savory snacks, some beverages |
| 20 – 30 mg | High | This dose is only recommended for experienced edible consumers: expect strong euphoria and impaired coordination and/or perception. May be beneficial for chronic illness, insomnia, or severe pain. | Infused chocolate bars, THC-infused condiments |
| 50 – 100 mg | Acute | An effective dose for experienced users seeking relief from intense physical pain, PMS, MS, cancer treatment, and other conditions. Not recommended for those dealing with mental health issues. May cause nausea or disrupt the emotions of inconsistent consumers. | Infused baked goods |
| 100 – 500 mg | Macrodose | A useful dose for patients with GI absorption issues and other severe medical conditions like cancer. This is an intensely intoxicating dose, and many users risk experiencing adverse effects. Consume with caution and intention. | Infused shots and sodas |
This table provides a general guide for CBD dosage based on body weight. It categorizes doses into low (starting), medium, and high ranges to help users determine the right amount for their needs. Beginners are advised to start with the low dose and gradually increase if necessary, while always consulting with a healthcare professional for safety.
| Body Weight | Low (Starting) Dose | Medium Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 lbs | 10-20 mg | 21-49 mg | 50-60 mg |
| 110 lbs | 11-22 mg | 23-54 mg | 55-66 mg |
| 120 lbs | 12-24 mg | 25-59 mg | 60-72 mg |
| 130 lbs | 13-26 mg | 27-64 mg | 65-78 mg |
| 140 lbs | 14-28 mg | 29-69 mg | 70-84 mg |
| 150 lbs | 15-30 mg | 31-74 mg | 75-90 mg |
| 160 lbs | 16-32 mg | 33-79 mg | 80-96 mg |
| 170 lbs | 17-34 mg | 35-84 mg | 85-102 mg |
| 180 lbs | 18-36 mg | 37-89 mg | 90-108 mg |
| 190 lbs | 19-38 mg | 39-94 mg | 95-114 mg |
| 200 lbs | 20-40 mg | 41-99 mg | 100-120 mg |
| 210 lbs | 21-42 mg | 43-104 mg | 105-126 mg |
| 220 lbs | 22-44 mg | 45-109 mg | 110-132 mg |
| 230 lbs | 23-46 mg | 47-114 mg | 115-138 mg |
| 240 lbs | 24-48 mg | 49-119 mg | 120-144 mg |
| 250 lbs | 25-50 mg | 51-124 mg | 125-150 mg |
| 260 lbs | 26-52 mg | 53-129 mg | 130-156 mg |
| 270 lbs | 27-54 mg | 55-134 mg | 135-162 mg |
Because edibles are processed through the digestive tract, they take longer to kick in and can have a more intense, long-lasting impact. Understanding practical safety guidelines will guarantee a comfortable and safe experience.
Tip 1Always read the label before eating any THC or CBD edible. Check the total amount and per serving of THC or CBD edible. This helps you calculate your dose correctly and prevents you from taking too much at once.
Tip 2Only buy edibles from trusted and licensed sources. Quality products go through strict testing for purity and accurate dosing, ensuring a safe and reliable experience without the risks that come with unregulated products.
Tip 3Your surroundings can greatly affect your experience. Choose a calm, familiar place and stay with people you trust, especially if it’s your first time. A comfortable setting helps you enjoy the effects safely and peacefully.
Tip 4If you’re new to edibles, begin with a low dose (1–2.5 mg of THC). Wait at least two hours before taking more, since edibles take longer to work than smoking or vaping. Increasing the dose slowly helps you find your comfort level and avoid unpleasant effects.
Yes, it’s possible to take too much THC, but unlike many other substances, a THC overdose is rarely life-threatening. However, consuming too much can cause several uncomfortable side effects that may feel overwhelming, especially for beginners. Common side effects of taking too much THC include:
Sudden onset of intense fear, rapid heartbeat, and overwhelming dread that can be triggered by overconsumption.
Extreme paranoia or racing thoughts that distort perception and create irrational fears or suspicion.
Nausea, dizziness, and cyclical vomiting that may persist until the effects wear off.
Increased heart rate or temporary blood pressure changes that can feel alarming but are usually short-lived.
Disorientation, impaired motor skills, and difficulty processing information or making decisions.
In severe instances, temporary hallucinations or delusions that alter your sense of reality.
Edibles are more likely to cause an overdose because they take longer to work. When people don’t feel the effects right away, they might take a second dose too soon, not realizing that their body is still processing the first one. Once both doses take effect, the results can feel much stronger than expected.
If you ever consume too much THC, stay calm and patient. The effects will wear off with time. Try to rest in a safe, comfortable space, drink water, and focus on breathing slowly. However, if you or someone you know experiences severe vomiting, confusion, extreme anxiety, or aggressive behavior, seek medical help immediately.
Although CBD is generally considered safe, taking high doses can cause adverse effects. Be aware of these potential symptoms, especially when starting or adjusting your dosage:
A common side effect where CBD reduces saliva production, causing a dry or cotton-mouth feeling.
In some cases, CBD may increase anxiety, especially at higher doses or in sensitive individuals.
Some users experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort, particularly when taking CBD on an empty stomach.
High doses of CBD oil may cause digestive issues including loose stools or diarrhea.
CBD can either increase or decrease appetite depending on the individual and dosage.
Rarely, CBD may trigger mild psychotic symptoms in predisposed individuals.
CBD can cause fatigue or drowsiness, especially at higher doses, affecting alertness.
Some users report lightheadedness or dizziness, often related to changes in blood pressure.
If you notice any of these symptoms after using CBD, it’s recommended to reduce your dose or stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
Edibles usually take 30 to 60 minutes to take effect. However, the exact onset time can vary depending on several factors:
Factor 1Edibles with higher doses or stronger THC concentrations may kick in faster.
Factor 2CBD edibles are not psychoactive, so they don't produce the typical 'high.' Effects may be subtler and harder to notice.
Factor 3Onset also depends on how your body breaks down and absorbs the edible into your bloodstream.
Cannabis-infused edibles offer several advantages over smoking:
Smoking cannabis exposes the lungs to carcinogens and can cause inflammation or bronchitis. Edibles avoid smoke entirely, reducing these risks.
There are multiple CBD edibles for wellness. These Edibles take longer to wear off compared to smoking or vaping, making them ideal for medicinal users seeking extended relief.
Edibles are easy to consume without going outside or using smoking equipment, making them suitable for those who cannot or prefer not to smoke.
Edibles can be taken without drawing attention. They produce no strong odor, which is helpful for users who need medicinal relief at work or in public.
If you’re a non-smoker or complete beginner, the safest starting dose is 1 to 2.5 milligrams (mg) of THC.
At this small amount, you’ll likely feel relaxed without feeling high. Many people notice relief from stress, anxiety, or minor pain without any loss of control or discomfort.
It’s best to wait at least two hours after your first dose before deciding whether to take more, especially if you’re consuming edibles. THC edibles take time to work because your body digests and processes them slowly.
If you feel fine and want slightly stronger effects next time, you can gradually increase your dose to 3–5 mg. Anything higher may feel too strong for beginners and can cause side effects like dizziness or anxiety.
To convert the THC percentage into milligrams (mg) of THC, you can use this simple formula:
THC (mg per gram) = THC percentage × 10
This is because one gram of cannabis equals 1000 milligrams. The THC percentage shows how much of that gram is pure THC. For example, if your cannabis contains 20% THC, that means:
20% × 1000 mg = 200 mg of THC per gram
So, multiplying the THC percentage by 10 gives you the total milligrams of THC in one gram of cannabis.
The best way to make homemade cannabis edibles depends on your preference for potency, flavor, and type of edible. Two popular methods are:
They’re convenient, precise, and don’t require cooking.
Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil is popular because it absorbs THC well and works in both baked and no-bake recipes.
Tinctures:
Decarboxylation, or “decarbing,” isn’t strictly required, but it’s highly recommended. Heating cannabis activates the THC molecules, which makes edibles more potent and effective. Without decarbing, the effects of your edibles may be weaker.
In general, CBD effects last 2 to 6 hours, depending on the method of use, dosage, and your tolerance.
To understand how your body reacts, keep track of:
Tracking these details can help you find the right dosage and method for your needs.
The side effects of edibles depend on the active ingredient.
THC Edibles: High doses of THC can cause unpleasant symptoms that may last for hours or even days. This is sometimes called “greening out” or a cannabis overdose. Common symptoms include:
Yes, everything is 100% online. You'll never need to visit a physical office. Complete your application from home, meet with a doctor via video or phone, and receive your recommendation via email. The entire process can be done from your smartphone, tablet, or computer at your convenience.
We offer a 100% money-back guarantee. If the doctor determines you don't qualify for a medical marijuana card, you'll receive a full refund - no questions asked. However, 98% of our patients who have qualifying conditions are approved.
Some states honor out-of-state medical marijuana cards through reciprocity agreements, while others require you to register as an out-of-state patient. Requirements vary by state. Our state-specific pages provide detailed information about reciprocity policies.
Absolutely. Leafy DOC is fully HIPAA-compliant, and all your medical information is protected with bank-level encryption. We never share your data with third parties. All doctor consultations are completely confidential, just like visiting a doctor's office in person.
This tool provides estimates based on the potency percentages and amounts you enter. Actual infusion efficiency varies with decarboxylation time, temperature, flower quality, and how thoroughly the oil is mixed.
Total infusion volume determines how cannabinoids are distributed. We convert cups to teaspoons (48 tsp per cup) so you can see milligrams per teaspoon for recipes.
Yes. Step two uses the THC and CBD per teaspoon values from your infusion results. Change recipe teaspoons or servings anytime to update per-serving estimates.
Most people feel effects within 30 to 60 minutes, but onset can take up to two hours depending on metabolism, recent meals, and product type. Wait at least two hours before taking more.
Start with 1 to 2.5 mg THC (a microdose) for your first homemade batch. Increase slowly over separate sessions — never stack doses in the same sitting.
THC overdose is rarely life-threatening but can cause intense anxiety, nausea, and confusion. Symptoms are temporary. Lie down, hydrate, and seek medical help if you are concerned.
Use the infusion calculator with your flower CBD percentage and batch size, then use the recipe section to divide totals by servings. Our CBD chart offers weight-based starting ranges.
Yes. Heating activates THCA and CBDA, but some potency is lost in the process. Our how-to steps use standard decarb efficiency factors for more realistic estimates.
Effects often last 4 to 8 hours or longer because edibles are processed through the liver. Peak intensity usually occurs 2 to 4 hours after consumption.
Medical cannabis is surrounded by outdated information, and patients are the ones left guessing. That is why every article on Leafy DOC is reviewed by licensed medical professionals with direct experience caring for cannabis patients. Their expertise keeps our guidance medically sound, easy to follow, and genuinely useful at every stage of your cannabis care. Read every page knowing a qualified doctor has already vetted it.
Reviewed by
Internal Medicine Physician, Master of Public Health
Dr. Hannah Russo is an internal medicine doctor and public health advocate with extensive experience in telemedicine and cannabis education. Her work bridges clinical practice and digital health, ensuring that patients receive safe, informed, and convenient care. She is passionate about expanding access to natural, evidence-based therapies for chronic conditions.
Connect with a licensed physician online in minutes
July 2, 2026
Discover why patients still choose MMJ cards over recreational access in 2026. Tax savings, stronger products, and patient protections
June 24, 2026
Need clarity on medical cannabis? Review the key criteria, required evidence, and expert steps for making an informed decision.
June 10, 2026
Learn how to get a medical card for anxiety, qualifying conditions, state rules, and how MMJ for anxiety may support symptom relief.
Chat with your favorite AI chat assistant or book a consultation with our healthcare team to discover how Leafy DOC can support your medical cannabis journey!
