What to Know about Cannabis-Infused Beverages and How to Pick the Best One for You
Looking for a new way to unwind? Cannabis-infused beverages have become just as popular as rolling up a joint, especially among non-traditional marijuana consumers who may be a newcomer to the game. But there’s a lot to know about drinks, dosages, and personal preferences. Keep reading to learn all about the different types of cannabis-infused beverages out there and how to choose the right one for you.
What is a Cannabis-infused beverage?
Cannabis-infused beverages contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), or other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, such as Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10. From soda, seltzer, coffee, tea, energy drinks, water, tonics, and other elixirs to soda, seltzer, coffee, tea, and energy drinks, cannabis can be infused into almost any drink.
Effects range from relaxation and stress relief to pain relief and increased focus. A drink’s effect depends on the dosage, the individual’s tolerance, and the type of cannabinoids present. Depending on how much cannabinoids are used and the infusion method, cannabis-infused beverages can vary in potency. A mild, relaxing effect may be provided by some drinks containing trace amounts of cannabinoids. Some may, however, be highly potent and have strong psychoactive effects.
What’s the Difference Between THC, CBD, and Delta Products?
As the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol causes the “high” associated with cannabis. Additionally, it can relieve pain, curb nausea, and reduce inflammation. THC can also cause anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination, especially at high dosages.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, isn’t psychoactive or euphoric like THC, which some people prefer. The good news is that it does have therapeutic benefits, like reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation. Some THC adverse side effects, like paranoia and anxiety, may also be counteracted by CBD.
Delta-8 is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that resembles traditional Delta-9 THC, the best-known and most studied THC form. Delta-8-THC is produced in much smaller amounts than Delta-9-THC, but it might offer some unique effects and benefits. Delta-10 is another type of cannabinoid found in the plant that is also becoming more popular in states where regular THC is not yet legal.
Combining CBD with THC to Reduce Psychoactive Effects
Combining CBD with THC has become popular among cannabis users due to CBD’s potential to reduce psychoactive effects. While many people enjoy THC’s euphoric effects, some may find them overwhelming or experience side effects such as anxiety or paranoia, so the combination can be a more pleasant experience for some consumers.
Because CBD interacts with the same receptors in the brain as THC, it can help reduce the psychoactive effects of THC. Some negative effects, like anxiety and paranoia, may be blocked, while positive effects, like pain relief and relaxation, are enhanced. Combined CBD and THC may also enhance their therapeutic effects in addition to reducing the psychoactive effects of THC.
Types of Cannabis-infused drinks
Cannabis drinks are available in many different varieties, some of which can be infused with other cannabinoids, flavors, and ingredients in order to enhance the aroma and flavor of the drink. Here are some examples.
THC-infused beverages
These drinks contain THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a “high” or altered state of mind. They can be infused with different flavors and ingredients, such as fruit juice or soda, to create a range of flavor profiles.
CBD-infused Beverages
These drinks contain CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis with potential therapeutic benefits. CBD-infused drinks may be marketed as health and wellness products. They can be found in various flavors and formulations, such as water or tea.
Delta-infused Beverages
Delta-infused drinks contain Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta-10 and are legal to purchase in smoke shops in some states, just like CBD products. Typically, these beverages produce psychoactive effects but are mild compared to traditional THC infusions.
Hemp-Infused Beverages
These drinks are made with hemp and various cannabis plants containing low THC and high CBD levels. Hemp-infused beverages may be marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional soda or energy drinks.
Infused Coffee and Tea
These drinks combine caffeine’s stimulating effects with the potential therapeutic benefits of THC or CBD. They may be marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional coffee or tea. They are often infused with different flavors and ingredients to create a range of flavor profiles.
Infused Energy Drinks
These drinks combine the energizing effects of caffeine with the psychoactive effects of THC or CBD, creating a unique experience that can be relaxing or euphoric. These drinks may also be infused with other ingredients, such as vitamins and amino acids, to create a “functional” beverage with additional health benefits.
How to Pick the Right Marijuana-Infused Beverage for You
Are you ready to find the right cannabis-infused drink to help you relax and unwind after a long day? You have a lot of options available to you, and you don’t want to sign up for something you are not 100% sure about. It is important to take a few things into account when you are trying to decide which type of infused beverage would be right for you:
- Your experience with cannabis: If you are new to cannabis, you may want to start with a low-dose THC or CBD-infused beverage, as they tend to have milder effects. If you have more experience with cannabis, you may want to try a higher dose THC-infused beverage or a cannabis-infused alcoholic beverage for a more intense experience.
- Your Flavor Preferences: It all depends on your taste preferences, as cannabis drinks are available in a wide variety of flavors, ranging from fruity and sweet to herbal and earthy. Consider your taste preferences when choosing a cannabis drink.
- Your Desired Effects: Depending on your desired effects, there are some THC-infused beverages that typically lead to a psychoactive high, while CBD-infused beverages are known for their potential therapeutic benefits, including those that reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The effects you want from a cannabis drink should be taken into consideration when selecting one.
- Local Laws and Regulations: Cannabis drinks might not be available where you live, and some jurisdictions might restrict what kind of cannabis can be used in beverages. Do your research before you try a cannabis drink.
Tips for Safely Consuming THC or CBD Infused Beverages
There is nothing worse than a bad trip, so it is important to make sure that safety is the primary concern when drinking infused drinks. If you’re interested in trying cannabis-infused drinks but not sure what to expect, here are some tips to make the experience enjoyable and safe:
Consider your tolerance and start with a low dose
If you’re a newbie to cannabis or haven’t consumed it, your tolerance may be lower than you think. Start with a low dose and wait to see how it affects you before taking more. Cannabisinfused drinks can vary in potency, so it’s wise to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. The effects can take up to two hours to fully kick in, so wait at least that long before consuming more.
Read the label thoroughly and store it properly.
Read the label carefully to understand the drink’s potency, dosage, and other ingredients. Look for products that have been lab tested for purity and potency. Cannabis-infused drinks should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and heat to maintain potency and freshness.
Stay hydrated and keep snacks nearby
Cannabis can cause dry mouth and dehydration, so drink plenty of water before and after cannabis-infused drinks. If you’re drinking a THC infusion, keep the munchies within arms’ reach. More potent beverages can still cause a serious snack attack!
