Sip Back and Relax: A Guide to Cannabis-Infused Teas and Beverages
If you think cannabis is only about rolling joints or taking bong rips, allow me to introduce you to the civilized side of cannabis consumption: tea and infused beverages.
Yes, my friend, we can sip our weed now.
Gone are the days of just lighting up—today’s cannabis lovers are out here steeping, sipping, and stirring their way to bliss. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a warm cup of cannabis-infused chamomile, get a little creative with a THC lemonade, or simply enjoy the ritual of drinking something deliciously potent, this guide is for you.
Let’s break down why cannabis-infused beverages are a game-changer, how to make them, and what to expect when you swap smoke for a sip.
Why Drink Your Weed?
Drinking cannabis might sound fancy and new, but it’s actually been around for centuries (because our ancestors knew what was up). From India’s bhang-infused milk drinks to medicinal cannabis teas used in traditional Chinese medicine, people have been sipping their way to relaxation and enlightenment for a long time.
But why choose a cannabis beverage over other consumption methods?
✔️ No smoke, no fire – Perfect if you want to avoid inhaling (your lungs say thank you).
✔️ Longer-lasting high – Like edibles, drinks take a little longer to kick in, but they last for hours (great for movie marathons and deep conversations about the meaning of life).
✔️ More control over dosage – You can sip slowly and pace yourself instead of committing to an entire edible (because we all know someone who’s made that mistake).
✔️ Fun & creative flavors – THC tea, infused coffee, lemonade, mocktails—the options are endless.
Basically, cannabis beverages are the refined, sophisticated cousin of edibles. (Think “wine tasting,” but make it weed.)
🚀 How Do Cannabis Drinks Work?
Okay, let’s get nerdy for a second.
When you smoke or vape cannabis, THC goes straight to your bloodstream, hitting you almost instantly. But when you drink cannabis-infused beverages, your body has to digest and process the THC through your liver—which means:
⏳ Slower onset – Expect 30-90 minutes before you feel anything.
💥 Stronger effects – Your liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent, longer-lasting compound.
⏳ Extended high – The effects can last 4-8 hours, so clear your schedule if needed.
🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t chug a whole cannabis drink in five minutes because you “don’t feel anything yet.” It’s coming. Be patient.
🍹 Types of Cannabis-Infused Beverages
So, what’s on the cannabis drink menu? Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Cannabis Tea: The OG Infused Beverage
Cannabis tea is soothing, simple, and customizable. Whether you prefer green, black, or herbal blends, you can infuse your tea with THC, CBD, or both.
🔥 How to Make It:
• Steep cannabis leaves, stems, or ground flower in hot water.
• Pro Tip: Since THC isn’t water-soluble, add a fat source (milk, coconut oil, or butter) to help with absorption.
• Sweeten with honey or spices for extra flavor.
✨ Perfect for: Relaxing evenings, winding down before bed, and pretending you’re an enlightened philosopher.
2. Bhang: India’s Legendary Cannabis Drink
If cannabis tea is the beginner’s option, bhang is for the pros.
A staple in Indian culture for centuries, bhang is a milk-based cannabis drink traditionally consumed during Holi (the festival of colors).
🔥 How to Make It:
• Blend cannabis leaves and flowers with warm milk or cream.
• Add spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.
• Stir in honey or sugar for sweetness.
✨ Perfect for: Feeling like royalty while sipping on an ancient tradition.
3. Infused Lemonade: Refreshing & Potent
What’s better than a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day? A THC-infused lemonade that makes everything just a little more interesting.
🔥 How to Make It:
• Mix fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water.
• Stir in a cannabis tincture or infused honey.
• Add ice, sip, and enjoy the slow-building wave of relaxation.
✨ Perfect for: Poolside lounging, BBQs, and impressing your friends with your infused mixology skills.
4. Cannabis Coffee: Wake & Bake, Elevated
If you love coffee but wish it came with a side of chill, cannabis coffee is your new best friend.
🔥 How to Make It:
• Brew your favorite coffee or espresso.
• Add cannabis-infused milk, creamer, or coconut oil.
• Stir in sugar, cinnamon, or vanilla for extra flavor.
✨ Perfect for: Starting your day with energy AND relaxation. (Caffeine and THC? The ultimate power couple.)
🧪 DIY vs. Store-Bought: Which Should You Choose?
While making your own cannabis drinks is fun and rewarding, there are plenty of pre-made, ready-to-drink options hitting dispensary shelves.
DIY Cannabis Drinks
✔️ Customizable – Adjust flavors, potency, and ingredients to your liking.
✔️ More cost-effective – No fancy branding = more savings.
❌ Takes effort – You actually have to make it (which is hard if you’re already high).
Store-Bought Cannabis Drinks
✔️ Convenient & consistent dosing – No guesswork, no surprise “Oops, I accidentally made this way too strong”.
✔️ Tons of options – From infused seltzers to energy drinks, there’s something for everyone.
❌ More expensive – You’re paying for convenience and fancy packaging.
🔥 Best Choice? If you love experimenting in the kitchen, go DIY. If you prefer grab-and-go simplicity, store-bought is the way to go.
🌿 Sip Your Way to Bliss
Cannabis-infused teas and beverages are more than just a fun way to consume weed—they’re a delicious, effective, and often more relaxing alternative to smoking or vaping.
Whether you’re brewing a cup of soothing THC tea, sipping on a cannabis lemonade, or indulging in infused coffee, these drinks offer a smooth, flavorful, and long-lasting high without the harshness of smoke.
✨ So go ahead—brew, sip, and enjoy the ride. Your taste buds (and your lungs) will thank you.
Have you ever tried a cannabis-infused drink? What’s your go-to recipe? Drop your best infused beverage ideas in the comments! 🍵🍹🔥
