How do I use the edible dosage calculator?
The calculator simplifies dosing into a two-step process. First, you calculate the total potency (in milligrams of THC) of your infused oil, butter, or alcohol. Second, you enter how much of that infusion you used in a specific recipe and how many servings it makes. The calculator then divides the total THC by the number of servings to give you the estimated dose per serving.
What information do I need to use the edible dosage calculator?
You need three key pieces of information:
Cannabis Amount & Potency: The weight (in grams) of the flower you used and its THC percentage (or a reliable estimate, like 15% if unknown).
Infusion Details: The total amount of oil, butter, or other fat you infused the cannabis into (e.g., 1 cup of coconut oil).
Recipe Details: The specific amount of that infusion used in your recipe and the total number of servings it yields.
What if I don’t know the exact THC percentage of my cannabis?
If you don’t have lab test results from a dispensary, using a general estimate is common. An average of 10-15% THC is a safe starting point for most non-dispensary flower. If you know it’s a particularly strong strain, you might estimate 18-20%. Always err on the side of a lower percentage to avoid accidentally calculating a dose that is too high.
What is the difference between decarboxylation efficiency and extraction efficiency?
These are two separate losses that happen at different stages, and most calculators treat them as one.
Decarboxylation efficiency is how well your raw THC-A converted into active THC during the heating process. A properly done oven decarb runs around 87–92%. A dedicated machine like Ardent can hit 95–97%.
Extraction efficiency is how much of that active THC actually transferred from the plant material into your oil, butter or tincture. Stovetop infusions typically land at 60–80%. Machine infusions (LEVO, Ardent) can reach 85–95%. Distillate skips this step entirely since it’s already activated and concentrated.
The reason your homemade edibles are often weaker than expected is usually an extraction efficiency of 60–70%, not a decarb problem. That’s normal, and it’s why this calculator asks for both numbers separately.
Can I use this calculator for distillate or concentrates?
Yes. Select the appropriate material type and the calculator adjusts the defaults. Distillate is already activated, so decarboxylation efficiency is set to near 100% and extraction efficiency is set to reflect direct mixing rather than infusion. For concentrates like wax or shatter, the THC percentage is significantly higher (typically 65–85%) and a smaller weight goes a long way.
What is a recommended starting dose for edibles?
For someone new to edibles or with low tolerance, a dose of 2.5 to 5 milligrams of THC is widely recommended. Edibles affect people very differently, and their effects take longer to feel (30 minutes to 2 hours). The golden rule is “start low and go slow.” You can always take a little more later, but you can’t undo a dose that is too high.
Why is accurate dosing so important?
Accurate dosing is the key to a safe and enjoyable experience. An imprecise dose can lead to overconsumption, which may cause intense anxiety, paranoia, a rapid heart rate, and extreme discomfort. The goal is to ensure predictable effects so you and anyone you share with can enjoy your homemade creations with confidence. The edible dosage calculator is free to use so you can spread the edible love!
Can I use this edible dosage calculator for CBD-dominant strains or hemp flower?
Yes, the math is identical. Simply use the CBD percentage of your flower instead of the THC percentage in the calculation. This will give you the estimated milligrams of CBD per serving, which is useful for crafting edibles for therapeutic or relaxation purposes without strong psychoactive effects.
Do I need special equipment to dose accurately at home?
No. While devices like the tCheck can provide precise measurements, they are not necessary. Using this calculator with a kitchen scale to weigh your cannabis and standard measuring cups for your infusions and recipes will give you a reasonably accurate and reliable dose estimate for home use.
I did the math myself and my dose seems very high. What should I check?
Double-check your conversions. A common error is confusing grams and milligrams. Remember: 1 gram of cannabis = 1,000 milligrams. Also, ensure you are correctly moving the decimal point when using the THC percentage (e.g., 15% = 0.15 for multiplication). Finally, confirm that you divided the total THC by the correct number of recipe servings.
Where can I learn more about safe consumption?
For a much deeper dive into the science, stories, and importance of dosing, listen to The Dose is the Poison, the most-downloaded episode from the Bite Me Podcast. It covers crucial information for anyone making or consuming cannabis edibles. Pair this with The Science of Onset Time, The Science of Edibles Simplified or Easy Edibles Dosing: Calculate Potency Like A Pro
A note on accuracy
This calculator gives you a reliable estimate, not a lab result. Real-world potency can vary based on how evenly your cannabis was distributed during infusion, temperature fluctuations during decarb, and the natural variation in THC percentage across different parts of the same plant.
The numbers you get here will be significantly more accurate than guessing. They are not a substitute for starting low with any new batch, especially one you plan to share.
Keep cannabis edibles clearly labeled, stored safely, and away from children and pets.
