How to Make Cannabis Tea?

Are you looking for a soothing and healthy way to consume cannabis? Have you considered brewing a warm cup of cannabis tea?

Cannabis tea is a simple and effective method to obtain the benefits of marijuana without smoking or vaping. It provides a different experience compared to other consumption methods. The effects tend to be more gentle and long-lasting.

Making cannabis tea is easier than you might think. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of brewing your own cup of cannabis tea at home. You'll learn what ingredients and equipment you need, different recipe options to try, and important tips for getting the best results. Let's dive in!

What is Cannabis Tea?

Cannabis tea refers to any tea or herbal infusion that contains cannabis as a primary ingredient. The cannabis can be in the form of dried flowers (buds), leaves, stems, or even a concentrated cannabis-infused product like a tincture or oil.

When cannabis is steeped in hot water, its active compounds, including THC and CBD, are extracted and infused into the liquid. This creates a drinkable form of cannabis that many people find more appealing or accessible than smoking or edibles.

The effects of drinking cannabis tea can be slightly different than other methods. Since the THC is processed through your digestive system, it can take longer to feel the effects (30-90 minutes). However, the effects also tend to last longer, for 4-8 hours.

Benefits of Cannabis Tea

Why would you want to make cannabis tea? What are the advantages over other consumption methods? Here are a few key benefits:

• Gentler experience: Cannabis tea tends to provide a milder, more soothing high compared to smoking or edibles. It can promote relaxation without being too intense.
• Healthier than smoking: Drinking cannabis tea eliminates the negative respiratory effects associated with smoking. There's no smoke or vapor entering your lungs.
• Long-lasting effects: Because the cannabinoids are absorbed through your digestive system, the effects of cannabis tea can last much longer than smoking, often 4-8 hours.
• Easy to customize: You have total control over the potency of your tea based on how much cannabis you add. It's easy to adjust the dose to your preference.
• Soothing ritual: The process of brewing and sipping a warm cup of tea can be a calming ritual to add to your wellness routine.

Gathering Your Ingredients & Supplies

To make cannabis tea, you'll need to gather a few key ingredients and basic supplies:

Ingredients

• Cannabis: Use your desired strain and amount of dried cannabis flower (buds). About 1 teaspoon per cup of water is a good starting ratio.
• Water: Filtered water provides the best flavor, but any water will work. Use about 1 cup of water per serving.
• Tea Bags (Optional): You can add your favorite tea, like chamomile, mint, ginger, or black tea for added flavor. 1 tea bag per cup.
• Fat (Optional): Adding some fat, like milk, butter, or coconut oil, helps increase the bioavailability of cannabinoids. About 1 teaspoon per cup.

Equipment

• Tea kettle or pot to boil water
• A tea infuser, sachet, or reusable tea bag to hold your cannabis
• A mug to drink your tea from
• A fine mesh strainer to separate brewed tea from the cannabis

Basic Cannabis Tea Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let's walk through the basic steps of making a cup of cannabis tea:

1. Grind your cannabis into a medium-fine consistency using a grinder. You want smaller pieces to increase surface area, but not a fine powder. Aim for about 1 teaspoon of ground cannabis per 1 cup of water.
2. Place your ground cannabis into a tea infuser, sachet, or reusable tea bag. Seal it tightly. If you're adding any other tea (like green tea or chamomile), add it to the infuser as well.
3. Bring your water to a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. The ideal water temperature is around 160-180°F. If it's too hot it can degrade the THC and other cannabinoids.
4. Once your water reaches the right temperature, pour it over your cannabis-filled tea infuser in a mug. Let it steep for at least 15-20 minutes. You can steep longer for a stronger effect.
5. If you want a creamier, latte-style cannabis tea, add a splash of your favorite milk or half and half. You can also add a natural fat like coconut oil, butter, or MCT oil. The fat helps increase the absorption of THC and other cannabinoids.
6. After steeping, remove the tea infuser and enjoy your fresh cup of cannabis tea! You can enhance the flavor further with honey, lemon, or other herbal tea blends. Start with a small serving size and wait at least an hour to assess the effects before drinking more.

Tips for Better Cannabis Tea

Making cannabis tea is an art that takes some practice to perfect. Here are some pro tips to help you brew a better cup:

• Decarboxylate your cannabis first: THC and other cannabinoids need to be activated through heat before they can produce psychoactive effects. Heating your cannabis in the oven at around 240°F for 30-40 minutes before brewing your tea makes it significantly more potent.
• Use a fat: THC is not water-soluble, it's fat-soluble. Adding a fat source like milk, cream, butter, or coconut oil helps the THC bind to the liquid and increases bioavailability. Your body will absorb more of the active compounds.
• Don't boil it: Avoid letting your cannabis tea come to a boil or simmer too long. Boiling temperatures above 212°F can degrade THC and other cannabinoids. Keep your water between 160-180°F for the best quality.
• Steep longer: Unlike regular tea that might get bitter if steeped too long, cannabis tea benefits from a nice long steeping time. Let it brew for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a stronger effect. The longer the steeping time, the more cannabinoids will be extracted.
• Combine with other herbs: Cannabis tea on its own can have an earthy, vegetal flavor that may not be appealing to everyone. Try combining it with other flavorful tea blends like peppermint, hibiscus, lemon, or cinnamon to improve the taste.
• Control your dose: It's important to be very mindful of your serving size with cannabis tea. If you drink a large mug, it will be a lot more potent than a small cup. Start with a low dose (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground cannabis per cup) and wait at least an hour to assess the effects before consuming more. Cannabis tea can sneak up on you!

Cannabis Tea Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic cannabis tea recipe, there are plenty of variations to try to customize it to your tastes:

• Cannabis Chai Latte: Combine your cannabis tea with chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. Add warm milk and a touch of honey for a comforting latte.
• Iced Cannabis Tea: Steep a concentrated batch of cannabis tea and chill it in the fridge. Pour it over ice and add lemon, mint, or fruit juice for a refreshing summer drink.
• Matcha Cannabis Latte: Blend your brewed cannabis tea with matcha green tea powder, steamed milk, and honey or agave for an earthy, antioxidant-rich latte.
• Cannabis Golden Milk: Steep your cannabis with anti-inflammatory turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Add coconut milk and honey for a balancing ayurvedic tonic.
• Cannabis Herbal Blends: Combine your cannabis with other medicinal herbs like lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, or holy basil for targeted therapeutic benefits. Let the herbs work in synergy.

CBD Tea

In addition to using THC-rich cannabis strains, you can also experiment with making tea using CBD products like:

• CBD Oil: Add a few drops of your favorite CBD oil tincture to a cup of brewed tea. The fat content in the oil will help the CBD disperse through the liquid.
• CBD Isolate Powder: If you want a THC-free cup of tea, you can stir a small scoop of CBD isolate powder into your favorite tea blend. Isolated CBD won't produce any psychoactive effects.
• CBD Flower: Hemp flower that is rich in CBD and low in THC (
• CBD Honey: For an easy way to add CBD to your tea, try a CBD-infused honey. The sweetness of the honey blends beautifully with strong teas like black tea or chai.

Understanding the Effects

It's important to remember that cannabis tea can produce strong psychoactive effects, especially if you're new to cannabis. The experience of drinking cannabis tea is different than smoking:

• Onset time: Cannabis tea has a longer onset time since the cannabinoids are processed through your digestive system first. It can take anywhere from 30-90 minutes to start feeling the effects, compared to just a few minutes with smoking.
• Duration: The effects of cannabis tea also last much longer than smoking, typically 4-8 hours. The peak effects are usually felt around 2-4 hours after drinking.
• Intensity: Your experience can vary in intensity based on a lot of factors, like the dose, strain, your tolerance, and whether you consumed it with any other food. In general, the high from cannabis tea is described as a more mellow, full-body relaxation than the cerebral intensity of smoking.
• Individual factors: Every person responds to cannabis differently. Your unique endocannabinoid system, body weight, metabolism, and tolerance impact how you will feel the effects of cannabis tea. It's important to start with a low dose and listen to your body's response.

Dosing Recommendations

If you're new to cannabis tea (or cannabis in general), it's crucial to start with a low dose to assess your tolerance. Here's a general dosing guide:

• Mild: 1-2 mg THC
• Low: 3-5 mg THC
• Moderate: 6-10 mg THC
• High: 10-15 mg THC
• Very High: 15-30 mg THC

To put that into practical terms, a cup of cannabis tea made with 1 teaspoon of ground cannabis will likely contain 6-20 mg of THC, depending on the potency of your strain. If you're a beginner, try starting with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per cup and waiting at least an hour before drinking more.

Remember, you can always drink more but you can't undo the effects of too much. It's better to err on the side of caution and have a milder experience than to overwhelm yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use stems and leaves to make cannabis tea?

Yes, you can use any part of the cannabis plant to make tea, including stems, leaves, and flower. However, the stems and leaves contain very little THC compared to the buds. You would need to use a much larger quantity of stems or leaves to produce a noticeable effect.

How can I make my cannabis tea more potent?

To increase the potency of your cannabis tea, you can 1) use a stronger THC strain, 2) increase the amount of cannabis you use per cup, 3) decarboxylate your cannabis first by heating it, 4) add a fat source like coconut oil to increase bioavailability, or 5) let it steep for longer.

How long does cannabis tea stay fresh?

Brewed cannabis tea is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. The longer it sits, the more the flavor and potency will degrade. If you make a large batch, consider freezing some in individual portions to thaw out later.

Can I add alcohol to cannabis tea?

It's not recommended to mix cannabis and alcohol, especially if you're a beginner. The effects can be unpredictable and overwhelming. It's better to enjoy them separately.

Does cannabis tea have a strong flavor?

On its own, cannabis tea has a strong vegetal, earthy, and sometimes bitter flavor that can be an acquired taste. If you don't enjoy the flavor, you can mask it by combining it with other strong tea blends like chai, mint, or ginger. Adding honey or milk also helps mellow it out.

Cannabis Tea - A Soothing Wellness Ritual

Making a cup of cannabis tea is a soothing ritual you can incorporate into your daily wellness routine. With its gentle onset, long-lasting effects, and versatile customizations, weed tea offers a different experience than other consumption methods.

Use this guide as a starting point to develop your own perfect cannabis tea recipe. Remember to start with a low dose, be patient, and listen to your body. With practice, you'll enjoy the warm relaxation and full-body release of your own homemade cannabis tea.

As with any cannabis product, please consume responsibly and make sure to keep your tea out of reach of children or pets. Enjoy exploring the world of cannabis tea!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the effects of drinking cannabis tea?

The effects of cannabis tea are typically described as a gentle, soothing body high that promotes relaxation. Compared to smoking, the onset of effects is slower (30-90 minutes) but the duration is longer (4-8 hours). Effects can include pain relief, muscle relaxation, reduced anxiety, and improved sleep.

Can I use cannabis tea for medical purposes?

Yes, many people use cannabis tea for symptom management of medical conditions like chronic pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, anxiety, insomnia, and nausea. The combination of THC and CBD may produce enhanced therapeutic effects. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before using cannabis for medical purposes.

Does cannabis tea make you high?

Yes, cannabis tea made with THC-containing cannabis will produce psychoactive effects or a "high." The intensity of the high depends on the potency of the strain and the amount used. If you want to avoid getting high, opt for making tea with CBD-dominant hemp flower instead.

How much cannabis should I use per cup of tea?

A good starting ratio is about 1 teaspoon of ground cannabis per 1 cup of water. However, the ideal amount depends on the potency of your cannabis and your desired dose. Start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per cup and wait at least an hour to assess the effects before consuming more.

Can I make cannabis tea with fresh cannabis leaves?

Yes, you can use fresh, raw cannabis leaves to make tea. However, raw cannabis does not contain activated THC, so it will not produce psychoactive effects. To make a more potent tea, it's better to use dried cannabis that has been decarboxylated first (heated to activate the THC).

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

The onset of effects from cannabis tea is slower than smoking because the cannabinoids are processed through your digestive system. Most people start to feel effects within 30-90 minutes of drinking, with peak effects around 2-4 hours. However, it can take up to 2 hours for some people to feel the full effects.

Is it safe to drink cannabis tea every day?

While cannabis tea is generally well-tolerated, it's not recommended to drink it every day long-term. Frequent use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and other potential side effects. It's best to consume cannabis tea in moderation as an occasional treat or natural remedy. If you use it daily, take regular "t-breaks" to reset your tolerance.

Can I drink cannabis tea before bed to help me sleep?

Yes, cannabis tea can be a helpful sleep aid for some people, especially when made with a relaxing Indica strain. The combination of THC and CBD can produce sedative effects that make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Try drinking your cannabis tea about an hour before bed and be sure to use a low dose so you don't wake up feeling groggy.

How should I store leftover cannabis tea?

If you have any leftover brewed cannabis tea, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Some separation may occur, but you can stir it to recombine before drinking. For longer storage, you can freeze your tea in individual portions for up to 6 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating and enjoying.

What are the side effects of drinking too much cannabis tea?

Consuming too high of a dose of cannabis tea may produce unpleasant side effects like paranoia, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, or extreme drowsiness. These effects will wear off with time, but it can be an uncomfortable experience. The best way to avoid this is to start with a low dose, be patient, and don't consume more until you know how your body reacts.

Can I add other ingredients to flavor my cannabis tea?

Absolutely! There are so many options for customizing the flavor of your cannabis tea. You can steep your cannabis with other tea blends like green tea, black tea, chamomile, or mint. You can also add lemon, ginger, honey, cinnamon, milk, or coconut oil. Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative to suit your taste preferences.

What type of cannabis should I use for tea?

You can use any dried cannabis flower to make tea. If you want a milder, more clear-headed effect, opt for a strain that is higher in CBD. If you want a stronger psychoactive effect, choose a THC-dominant strain. Consider the effects you want - for example, an energizing Sativa for daytime or a relaxing Indica for evening. It's best to use organic cannabis whenever possible to avoid unwanted pesticides or chemicals.

Summary

Cannabis tea is a soothing and healthful way to consume marijuana without smoking. Making weed tea at home is easy with just a few simple ingredients like ground cannabis flower, water, and optional tea bags or milk. The effects of drinking cannabis tea differ from other methods - it has a slower onset time (30-90 minutes), but the effects last longer (4-8 hours) and tend to be a milder, more relaxing body high.

To make a basic cannabis tea, start by simmering 1 teaspoon of ground cannabis with 1 cup of water for 15-20 minutes. Strain out the plant matter and enjoy with optional add-ins like milk, honey, or lemon. For a more potent tea, use a stronger strain, decarboxylate your cannabis first, or add a fat source like coconut oil to increase absorption.

The ideal dose of cannabis tea varies by individual, but beginners should start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cannabis per cup and wait at least an hour before drinking more. Weed tea can be a helpful natural remedy for chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and other symptoms, but it's best used in moderation. Be sure to store any leftover tea in the fridge and consume within 5 days for best quality. With many variations and customizations possible, cannabis tea is a versatile addition to any wellness routine.