How to Make Tea from Cannabis

Making tea from cannabis is a great way to enjoy its benefits without the need to smoke or vape. It’s easy, flavorful, and provides a unique, mellow experience that’s different from traditional cannabis consumption. If you’re curious about cannabis tea, I’m here to walk you through the entire process—from understanding how it works to crafting a perfect cup. Let’s get into it!

Introduction to Cannabis Tea

What is Cannabis Tea?

Cannabis tea is an infusion made by brewing cannabis in water, similar to how you’d make any herbal tea. The process extracts cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, along with the plant’s flavor. Depending on how it’s made, cannabis tea can contain both THC, the compound that gives a high, and CBD, which has calming and medicinal effects.

Benefits of Drinking Cannabis Tea

Cannabis tea offers a slow, smooth way to experience the effects of cannabis. Because you’re drinking it, the onset is more gradual than smoking, making it ideal for those who prefer a longer-lasting experience. Here are a few benefits:

• Gentler on the lungs: No smoke, no coughing.
• Easier to control dose: You can start with a light cup and build up as you like.
• Soothing experience: Perfect for relaxation, pain relief, or a peaceful night’s sleep.

Understanding THC and CBD in Cannabis Tea

THC and CBD are the stars of the show in cannabis tea. THC will give you the well-known high, while CBD offers relaxation without any intoxication. Depending on the strain you use, you can make tea that’s high in THC, high in CBD, or a balanced mix of both. I like a balanced strain myself, but it’s all about finding what works for you!

Decarboxylation: The Key to Making Potent Cannabis Tea

What is Decarboxylation?

Decarboxylation is a process that activates THC and CBD in raw cannabis. Raw cannabis doesn’t naturally contain THC; it contains THCA, a non-psychoactive compound. Heating it—decarboxylating—converts THCA to THC, giving it those familiar effects.

Why Decarboxylation is Important for Cannabis Tea

Decarboxylation is essential if you want your tea to have the psychoactive effects of THC. Without it, your tea will only have non-activated compounds. It’s simple to do: a gentle bake in the oven does the trick.

How to Decarboxylate Cannabis for Tea

To decarboxylate, spread your cannabis on a baking tray lined with parchment. Bake it at around 220°F (105°C) for about 30-40 minutes. This process activates the THC and CBD, making sure your tea has the full effects you’re looking for.

How to Make Cannabis Tea: Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients Needed for Cannabis Tea

For a basic cannabis tea, you’ll need:

• 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on preference)
• 2 cups of water
• A fat source (like coconut oil or butter, which helps extract cannabinoids)
• Optional flavorings: honey, lemon, mint, or ginger

Tools for Making Cannabis Tea

Gather these tools:

• Saucepan or teapot
• Strainer or tea infuser
• Spoon
• Mug

Step 1: Preparing Your Cannabis

Once your cannabis is decarboxylated, grind it up finely. Smaller pieces make for a better infusion and maximize extraction.

Step 2: Brewing the Cannabis Tea

Boil your water and add a fat source like coconut oil or butter (about ½ teaspoon per cup). This fat is crucial because cannabinoids are fat-soluble, meaning they need fats to dissolve. Add your cannabis and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Adding Flavorings and Sweeteners

Once the tea is brewed, strain out the cannabis and add any flavorings you like. A bit of honey or lemon goes a long way to make it tastier!

Types of Cannabis Tea Recipes

Simple Cannabis Tea Recipe

For a no-fuss recipe, use just water, cannabis, and a fat source. Simmer, strain, and enjoy. This is ideal if you want pure, unadulterated cannabis flavor.

CBD-Infused Herbal Cannabis Tea

Want a relaxing, non-psychoactive cup? Use CBD-rich strains and add herbs like chamomile or lavender. Perfect for a calming evening brew.

THC-Infused Cannabis Tea for Potency

For those seeking a stronger experience, choose a THC-rich strain. Brew as usual but make sure your dosage is right for your tolerance level.

Cannamilk Tea for Extra Creaminess

Replace water with milk or cream to make “cannamilk.” This makes for a creamy, rich tea that’s especially good with spicy flavors like ginger or cinnamon.

Dosage and Potency of Cannabis Tea

How to Control Dosage in Cannabis Tea

Dosage depends on the strain’s potency and how much you use. Start with a small amount of cannabis (about 0.25-0.5 grams per cup) and adjust based on how you feel.

Determining the Potency of Your Cannabis Tea

Cannabis tea potency varies with brewing time, strain, and dosage. If you’re new to this, keep it light. It’s better to sip and add more later if you want.

Effects of Different Dosages of Cannabis Tea

Light doses are relaxing, while higher doses can be intense. With cannabis tea, effects take longer to set in—usually 30-90 minutes—so go slow and enjoy the experience.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Tips

Common Side Effects of Cannabis Tea

Some people may feel a bit too relaxed, sleepy, or dizzy, especially with high THC doses. If you’re trying it for the first time, I recommend starting small.

Who Should Avoid Cannabis Tea?

If you’re pregnant, on certain medications, or have conditions that react poorly to THC, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider first.

Tips for Safe Cannabis Tea Consumption

• Start small: It’s easier to increase dosage than to reduce it.
• Stay hydrated: Sometimes cannabis can make you feel thirsty.
• Take it slow: Especially for newbies, it’s best to sip rather than chug!

Storing and Reheating Cannabis Tea

Best Practices for Storing Cannabis Tea

Store your tea in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for a few days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the less potent it may become.

How Long Does Cannabis Tea Last?

Stored correctly, cannabis tea can last up to a week in the fridge. But honestly, it’s best enjoyed fresh to keep all those cannabinoids intact.

Tips for Reheating Cannabis Tea without Losing Potency

Reheat your tea gently on the stove over low heat. Microwaving can be a bit harsh on cannabinoids and may reduce potency.

FAQ:

Can you make tea with raw cannabis?

Yes, but it won’t provide psychoactive effects unless decarboxylated first, making it more of a health tonic than a traditional cannabis tea.

Does cannabis tea get you high?

Yes, if made with decarboxylated cannabis containing THC, it can provide a mild, longer-lasting high compared to smoking.

How long does it take for cannabis tea to kick in?

Effects usually begin within 30-90 minutes and may last longer than smoking, providing a slow, steady experience.

What’s the difference between CBD and THC in cannabis tea?

THC gives a high, while CBD provides relaxation without intoxication. Combining them balances effects for a pleasant tea experience.

Can you store cannabis tea in the fridge?

Yes, storing in the fridge keeps it fresh for a few days. Use an airtight container to preserve its flavor and potency.

Cannabis tea is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis in a calm, relaxing format. From choosing the right ingredients to brewing techniques, it’s an easy, enjoyable experience for any cannabis lover. So, brew yourself a cup, kick back, and enjoy the mellow vibes of cannabis tea. Cheers to good times and even better tea!