Creating Cannabis-Infused Drinks: An Informative Guide

Cannabis-infused beverages are rapidly gaining popularity as a discreet, customizable, and smoke-free alternative to traditional consumption methods. Whether you're interested in THC-infused mocktails for recreation or CBD teas for wellness, making your own cannabis drinks at home is both fun and rewarding.

This guide will walk you through the key concepts, tools, and methods you need to understand to safely and effectively create cannabis-infused beverages.

Understanding Cannabis Compounds

Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, but the most common ones used in beverages are:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Responsible for the psychoactive effects.

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive and known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Different drinks may utilize full-spectrum extracts, broad-spectrum CBD, or THC isolate depending on the desired effect.

Decarboxylation: Activating Cannabinoids

Raw cannabis flower contains THCA and CBDA, which need to be converted into THC and CBD through a process called decarboxylation (heating the flower to activate its effects).

To decarb:

1. Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C).

2. Break cannabis into small pieces and spread on a baking sheet.

3. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once decarbed, the flower is ready to be infused.

Methods for Infusing Cannabis Into Drinks

1. Infused Simple Syrup

A versatile base for cocktails and teas.

• Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan.

• Add your desired dose of decarbed cannabis (or cannabis tincture).

• Simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes.

• Strain out plant material and store in a sealed container.

2. Cannabis Tinctures

An alcohol-based extract that’s ideal for precision dosing in drinks.

• Soak decarbed cannabis in high-proof alcohol (like Everclear) for a few weeks.

• Shake daily and store in a dark, cool place.

• Strain and bottle the final tincture for use.

3. Cannabis Oil Emulsions

Oil and water don’t mix naturally, so emulsifiers are used to blend cannabis oils into drinks.

• Use lecithin (sunflower or soy) to help emulsify cannabis oil or concentrate.

• Blend with other ingredients using a high-speed blender for even distribution.

Popular Cannabis Drink Recipes

CBD Lemonade

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 cup honey or infused simple syrup

• 4 cups cold water

• 10-20 mg CBD isolate or tincture

• Stir well and serve over ice

THC-Infused Hot Cocoa

• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 10 mg THC tincture or oil

• Heat milk, whisk in cocoa and sugar, then stir in cannabis

Green Tea with CBD

• Brew a cup of green tea

• Add honey and lemon to taste

• Mix in 5-10 mg CBD tincture or infused syrup

Dosing and Safety Tips

• Start low and go slow: 5-10 mg of THC is a common beginner dose.

• Be mindful of delayed onset: effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours.

• Clearly label homemade drinks to avoid accidental consumption.

• Store in a cool, dark place to preserve potency and freshness.

Legal and Health Considerations

• Always check local cannabis laws before making or sharing infused drinks.

• If using alcohol in infusions, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

• Avoid mixing high doses of THC with alcohol due to increased impairment.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis-infused drinks offer a customizable and enjoyable way to explore the benefits of cannabinoids. Whether you're crafting wellness beverages with CBD or hosting a THC mocktail night, knowing how to infuse properly and dose safely makes all the difference. Experiment with flavors, keep safety in mind, and enjoy the art of cannabis mixology!