Professional Edible Dosage Calculator
Calculate the exact THC content of your homemade edibles with precision.
THC Loss & Retention Breakdown
Visual representation of THC retention through the extraction process.
What is an Edible Dosage Calculator?
An edible dosage calculator is an essential tool for anyone venturing into the world of cannabis cooking. Whether you are a medical patient or a recreational enthusiast, knowing the exact milligram (mg) count of THC in your homemade goods is vital for safety and experience. Unlike store-bought products with regulated labels, homemade edibles often suffer from inconsistent potency. This tool helps bridge that gap by applying mathematical precision to your infusion guide.
Using an edible dosage calculator allows you to estimate the strength of your butter, oils, or tinctures before you even take a bite. It accounts for variables like the weight of your flower, its THC percentage, and the inevitable losses that occur during the decarboxylation process and fat infusion.
Edible Dosage Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The math behind cannabis infusions involves several steps of reduction. We start with the theoretical maximum and subtract losses at each stage of the process.
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| W (Flower Weight) | Total weight of raw cannabis | Grams | 3.5g – 28g |
| T (THC%) | Percentage of THC in raw flower | % | 15% – 30% |
| D (Decarb) | Efficiency of THCA to THC conversion | % | 70% – 90% |
| I (Infusion) | Efficiency of THC transfer to fat | % | 60% – 85% |
| S (Servings) | Number of individual units created | Count | 1 – 100 |
The Formula:
Potency per Serving = (Weight in mg * THC% * Decarb% * Infusion%) / Number of Servings
First, we convert grams to milligrams (1g = 1000mg). Then we multiply by the decimal percentage of THC. We then multiply by the efficiency coefficients (0.8 for decarb and 0.75 for infusion) to find the final bioavailable THC.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: The Standard Batch
A user has 7 grams of flower with 20% THC. They decarb in a standard oven (80% efficiency) and infuse into butter (75% efficiency) to make 24 cookies.
7000mg * 0.20 * 0.80 * 0.75 = 840mg Total.
840mg / 24 servings = 35mg THC per cookie.
Example 2: High Potency Small Batch
A user uses 3.5 grams of 25% THC flower for a potent tincture potency calculator. They use high-efficiency methods (90% decarb, 85% infusion) for 10 servings.
3500mg * 0.25 * 0.90 * 0.85 = 669mg Total.
669mg / 10 servings = 66.9mg THC per serving.
How to Use This Edible Dosage Calculator
- Enter Flower Weight: Weigh your dry herb using a digital scale.
- Input THC Percentage: Refer to your strain's lab results or use an average (20% is common for mid-grade).
- Select Efficiencies: If you are new to decarboxylation guide techniques, stick with "Standard" settings.
- Set Servings: Determine exactly how many pieces you will cut your tray into.
- Review Results: The calculator updates in real-time. Check the "Dosage Per Serving" to ensure it meets your tolerance level.
Key Factors That Affect Edible Dosage Results
- Decarboxylation Accuracy: THCA does not get you high; it must be heated to become THC. If your oven temperature fluctuates, you may lose potency.
- Type of Fat: Saturated fats like coconut oil or clarified butter (ghee) hold THC better than unsaturated fats like olive oil. Check our oil infusion ratios for more details.
- Strain Variance: Different strains have different terpene profiles which can change the "perceived" potency, even if the MG count is the same.
- Grind Size: A medium-fine grind increases surface area for the infusion guide but a powder grind can be hard to filter.
- Infusion Time: Simmering for too long can convert THC into CBN, causing sleepiness rather than a high.
- Bioavailability: Your metabolism and whether you have eaten recently significantly impact how your body processes a marijuana dosage chart recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a safe dose for a beginner?
For most beginners, 2.5mg to 5mg of THC is recommended. Avoid starting with 10mg+ unless you are familiar with your reaction.
Why is my homemade edible not working?
The most common reason is improper decarboxylation. If you don't heat the flower first, the THC isn't activated.
Can I use ABV (Already Been Vaped) weed?
Yes, but the THC percentage is much lower (usually 3-5%) and it is already decarbed.
How long do edibles take to kick in?
They usually take 45 minutes to 2 hours. Never take a second dose until at least 3 hours have passed.
Does the type of butter matter?
Yes, clarified butter (ghee) is superior because it removes water and milk solids, providing a cleaner cannabutter recipe.
How do I calculate CBD edibles?
The math is exactly the same! Just swap the THC% for the CBD% in the calculator.
How do I ensure equal dosage in every piece?
Mix your infused oil into your batter extremely well. For gummies, see our gummy dosage guide for mixing tips.
Why does the calculator assume loss?
It is physically impossible to extract 100% of the cannabinoids from the plant material into the oil in a home kitchen.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- Decarboxylation Guide: Learn the science of activating your cannabis.
- Cannabutter Recipe: The ultimate step-by-step for the perfect base.
- Marijuana Dosage Chart: A visual guide to effects by milligram.
- Oil Infusion Ratios: Find the best herb-to-oil measurements.
- Tincture Potency Calculator: Specific math for alcohol-based extractions.
- Gummy Dosage Guide: How to make consistent gelatin treats.