Not a huge fan of smoking, but love the effects of THC? You’re in luck. Over the past few years, cannabis-infused drinks have grown in popularity. This innovative way to enjoy cannabis while quenching your thirst has captured the attention of beginners and seasoned cannabis users alike.
Cannabis-infused beverages have recently become popular because of their convenience, discreetness, and predictability. Not only are these drinks easy to consume, but they’re also easy to conceal, making them the perfect alternative to traditional smoking or vaping in a social setting.
THC-infused drinks provide precise dosing information directly on the can so you can stay knowledgeable about how much THC you are consuming. This allows you to have a more enjoyable experience, as you can tailor your consumption to your preferences and tolerance. Lastly, unlike edibles, these drinks tend to take effect relatively quickly, allowing you to manage your high accordingly.
Here, we’ll explore the rising popularity of cannabis-infused drinks and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to make a THC drink at home. Regardless of whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or a curious beginner, crafting homemade cannabis beverages allows you to tailor the dosage to your personal preferences, experiment with various flavor profiles, save money, and utilize high-quality ingredients.
Understanding THC Dosage in Drinks
When it comes to THC drink safety, proper dosing tops the list. Not only does proper THC dosing ensure you remain safe, but it also allows you to have an enjoyable experience. Though this is always an important aspect of cannabis, the significance is amplified when it comes to THC-infused beverage recipes, as these drinks can pack a punch. Like always, a user’s experience with cannabis is based on a range of factors, including metabolism, concentration of THC, and tolerance.
It’s always best to start with low doses and add more as needed. No one wants unwanted effects from consuming too much cannabis! While store-bought cannabis beverages have clear dosing information, the dosing of homemade drinks depends on your precision. It’s also important to keep in mind that THC drinks often have a delayed onset compared to smoking or vaping. This means it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the full effects, making it particularly paramount that you practice patience. When dosing is done correctly, everyone has a much more enjoyable experience!
THC Extraction Methods Used When Infusing Drinks
In cannabis beverages, the cannabis-infused components are obtained through various methods from cannabis flower via concentrates or distillates. To ensure your drinks are consistent in potency and effects every time, you must carefully measure and manage the cannabinoid content.
One way extraction can be done is through cannabis tinctures, which allow for faster and more precise dosing control and use in a wide variety of beverages. This can be done by grinding dry cannabis flowers finely and decarboxylating the ground cannabis in an oven at 240°F for 30-45 minutes to activate THC. You can stop here and use the ground cannabis or combine the decarboxylated cannabis with high-proof alcohol in a glass jar. After sealing the jar, shaking it daily, and letting it sit in a dark place for a few weeks, you’ll need to strain the liquid to remove the plant material.
Another method of extraction involves creating cannabis oils. This method has a longer shelf life and is ideal for cooking and baking as well. This extraction process consists of decarboxylating the cannabis as in the tincture method, combining the decarboxylated cannabis with coconut or olive oil in a saucepan, simmering the mixture over low heat for 1-2 hours, and then straining the plant material.
Regardless of what method you choose, it’s important to handle THC carefully. Always work in a well-ventilated area, and store extracted THC products in a secure, child-proof container. Be sure to label products clearly to avoid accidental consumption.
Recipes for THC-Infused Drinks
Without further ado, here are some of our favorite cannabis drink ideas!
Cannabis-Infused Tea
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of cannabis oil (adjust based on tolerance)
- Your choice of tea (black, green, chai, or herbal)
- 1 cup of water
- Sweetener (honey, sugar, or agave nectar)
- Optional flavorings (e.g., cinnamon, ginger, lemon)
Instructions
- Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot or saucepan.
- Choose your tea: for a classic option, use black or green tea. For variations, try chai or herbal tea.
- Place the tea bag or loose tea leaves in your teacup.
Step 1: Brewing the Tea
- Pour the boiling water over the tea and let it steep for the recommended time based on the type of tea you’ve chosen (usually 3-5 minutes).
- Add sweetener to taste and optional flavorings like cinnamon, ginger, or lemon for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Infusing with THC
- Stir the prepared THC-infused coconut oil or butter into the tea.
- Mix it well until the THC oil is fully incorporated into the tea.
Step 3: Enjoy
- Sip your THC-infused tea slowly and savor the flavors. Start with a lower dosage to gauge the effects, and adjust as needed to achieve your desired experience.
Variations:
- Chai Tea: Use chai tea bags or loose chai tea leaves and add a splash of milk or dairy-free milk for a creamy twist.
- Herbal Tea: Experiment with various herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, or peppermint to create your unique blends.
Sweeteners and Flavorings
Common sweeteners include honey, sugar, and agave nectar, but feel free to use your preferred sweetener. Cinnamon, ginger, and lemon are excellent flavorings to enhance the taste of your THC-infused tea.
Remember to consume THC-infused tea responsibly, starting with a lower dosage and waiting at least 30-60 minutes to assess the effects before considering another cup.
Cannabis-Infused Lemonade
THC-infused lemonade is a refreshing way to enjoy the effects of cannabis on a sunny day. Here’s a simple recipe with options for adding fruit flavors or herbs along with suggestions for suitable cannabis strains.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 4-6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis flower (adjust based on tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (for THC extraction)
- Optional fruit flavors or herbs (e.g., strawberries, mint, lavender)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemonade
- In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sugar, adjusting the sugar to your desired level of sweetness.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Step 2: Add Water and THC-Infused Oil
- Pour the cold water into the lemonade mixture and stir until well combined.
- Mix in the THC-infused coconut oil. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Customize with Fruit Flavors or Herbs
- For added flavor, consider muddling fresh strawberries or adding herbs like mint or lavender to the pitcher. This step is optional but can enhance the taste.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let the THC-infused lemonade chill for at least an hour.
- Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, garnished with a lemon slice or a sprig of your chosen herb.
Cannabis Strain Suggestions
For a balanced, uplifting experience, consider using strains like Blue Dream or Sour Diesel. Strains with citrusy or lemony terpenes, such as Lemon Haze or Lemon Skunk, can complement the flavor profile of your lemonade.
Remember to consume THC-infused lemonade responsibly, starting with a lower dosage to gauge the effects, and adjusting as needed to achieve your desired experience. Enjoy your homemade cannabis-infused lemonade on a warm day or whenever you’re looking for a refreshing and relaxing beverage.
THC-Infused Cocktails
Elevate your cocktail experience with a cannabis twist by infusing classic drinks with THC. Here are two recipes for cannabis-infused cocktails, along with tips for responsible consumption and creative garnishes.
Cannabis-Infused Mojito
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on tolerance)
- Soda water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the fresh mint leaves and sugar in a glass to release their flavors.
- Add fresh lime juice, white rum, and ice cubes.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the mixture.
- Top off with soda water.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wheel.
Cannabis-Infused Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on tolerance)
- Orange peel
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a glass, muddle the sugar cube and bitters with a splash of water to dissolve the sugar.
- Add ice cubes and the decarboxylated cannabis.
- Pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Express the orange peel over the glass by holding it over the cocktail and giving it a sharp twist to release the oils. Then, drop it into the glass.
Responsible Consumption
Always be mindful of your tolerance and start with lower doses, especially when combining cannabis and alcohol. Both substances can potentiate each other’s effects. Consume these cocktails in moderation and avoid overindulgence, as the effects may take time to set in. Never drive or operate heavy machinery under the influence.
Creative Garnishes
Enhance the visual and aromatic appeal of your cannabis-infused cocktails with creative garnishes. For the mojito, try a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wheel. For the Old Fashioned, the citrusy aroma of the orange peel adds depth to the drink. You can also experiment with other garnishes like edible flowers, herb sprigs, or decorative fruit slices.
By responsibly enjoying these cannabis-infused classic cocktails, you can savor the rich flavors while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember to imbibe mindfully and appreciate the delightful synergy between cannabis and classic mixology.
Cannabis-Infused Smoothies
THC-Infused Smoothies: Fruity and Green Variations
Cannabis-infused smoothies are a delightful way to combine the benefits of cannabis with the nutritional powerhouse of smoothie ingredients. Here are recipes for both fruity and green THC-infused smoothies, along with the potential nutritional benefits of adding cannabis to your blend.
Fruity THC-Infused Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 cup of yogurt (Greek or dairy-free alternative)
- 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on tolerance)
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/2 cup of ice
- Honey or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the banana, mixed berries, yogurt, and ice.
- Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the mixture.
- Pour in the orange juice and blend until smooth.
- If desired, add honey or agave nectar for additional sweetness.
Green THC-Infused Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh spinach or kale
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 1/2 cup of coconut water
- 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on tolerance)
- Ice cubes
- A small piece of fresh ginger (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Place fresh spinach or kale, avocado, cucumber, and ice cubes in a blender.
- Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the mixture.
- Squeeze the lemon juice into the blender.
- Pour in the coconut water and add a small piece of fresh ginger for extra flavor.
- Blend until the smoothie reaches your desired consistency.
By adding cannabis to your smoothies, you can potentially enhance your overall wellness while enjoying a tasty and nutritious treat. Always be mindful of your tolerance and start with lower doses, especially if you’re new to cannabis consumption.
Responsible Consumption Tips
Responsible THC consumption is vital to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while minimizing potential risks. It’s essential to be aware of the importance of moderation and understanding your tolerance.
Always keep your THC-infused products securely stored, out of reach of children and pets. Clearly label containers to avoid accidental consumption and follow local regulations on product storage. Responsible consumption also means not driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence, as THC can impair cognitive and motor skills.
Understanding your tolerance, consuming in a controlled environment, and being mindful of the effects are essential practices when incorporating THC into your lifestyle. By adhering to these principles, you can enjoy the benefits of cannabis while minimizing any potential drawbacks.
Visit Reverie 73
When it comes to choosing the best cannabis flower for you, consider your desired effects and your previous experience. At Reverie 73, we are always happy to help guide you to the best flower for your journey! Our muses are super knowledgeable, and we love to educate, so please ask lots of questions.