How Cannabis-Infused Beverages Work And Why You Should Try Them

Kimberly Cargile, CEO  of A Therapeutic Alternative
Kimberly Cargile, CEO of A Therapeutic Alternative

Kimberly Cargile has been dedicated to advancing the cannabis industry as an activist, educator and business leader for almost two decades.

About Kimberly

Cannabis-infused beverages are quickly becoming a favorite choice for consumers seeking an easy, enjoyable way to relax while on the go. These drinks blend the calming effects of cannabis with familiar, delicious flavors, offering a refreshing new way to unwind. Whether you’re drawn to the soothing notes of chamomile or the energizing zest of citrus, the variety of flavors ensures you can find the perfect beverage to match your mood.

Designed with precise dosing, these beverages provide a consistent and predictable experience for both newcomers and seasoned cannabis users. Their discreet nature makes them easy to incorporate into any routine, whether at home or socializing with friends.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best cannabis-infused beverages, perfect for enhancing your lifestyle and providing a new, refreshing way to relax. Cheers to discovering a flavorful path to relaxation!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Cannabis-infused beverages are an easy, fun, and convenient way to chill out. With either THC or CBD, they provide therapeutic benefits and are a healthier alternative to alcohol.
  • These drinks can be found in a variety of formats such as tea, coffee, seltzers, cocktails, and lemonades. They’re accessible to everyone, regardless of taste.
  • They support stress relief, better sleep quality, and increased mood all while providing the ability to control THC dosing for a tailored experience.
  • Take your relaxation beverage to the next level! Consider the THC content, flavor, onset time, and brand transparency to ensure both safety and satisfaction.
  • Cannabis drinks have much lower health risks than drinks with alcohol. They offer a reduced risk of addiction and no associated hangovers, making them a safer alternative to social events.
  • Be sure to reference your local regulations and THC limits before buying or consuming cannabis-infused beverages so you stay on the right side of the law.

What Are Cannabis-Infused Beverages

Definition And Overview

Cannabis-infused beverages are drinks that infuse cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which provide relaxation and healing benefits. Our drinks help you feel cool, calm, collected, and less stressed. They’re exactly what you need to chill out after a stressful day.

For those suffering from chronic insomnia, cannabis drinks can provide a safe, natural sleep aid. They work to deliver better sleep without the use of manmade substitutes. Similar to alcoholic beverages, they provide a more health-conscious option by skipping hangovers and reducing years of negative health effects.

These beverages offer precise THC amounts, usually prominently marked on each drink, offering cannabis users the chance to tailor their high according to their taste.

How They Differ From Other Cannabis Products

Cannabis-infused beverages are distinct because of their liquid form and consumption methods. They include a variety of options:

  • THC-infused teas: Known for their calming and grounding effects.
  • THC coffee: Offers a mild energy boost while aligning with relaxation.
  • THC seltzers: Light and fizzy for a refreshing experience.
  • THC cocktails: Creative blends for social settings without alcohol.
  • THC lemonades: Sweet and soothing, perfect for summer days.

These beverages skip the need for smoking or edibles, offering a quick, discreet, and more convenient option to enjoy cannabis. Their effects may take longer to set in. Since THC is digested, likely onset times are going to be 30 minutes to 2+ hours.

Popularity And Growing Market Trends

The cannabis beverage market is one of the fastest growing markets, projected to be worth $2 billion in annual revenue by 2026. This impressive growth is a direct result of consumer demand for products that provide an alternative to smoking or drinking alcohol.

The global market is expected to increase by 25% annually. Creative flavor combinations and the booming consumer interest in healthier lifestyle alternatives are driving this trend.

When selecting a cannabis beverage, look carefully at the THC concentration. It depends on the area and often has a limit of 5 mg or 10 mg of THC per beverage. Packs typically come in 4-, 6- or larger packs so it’s at least worth comparing value.

Choose brands that value transparency and third-party lab testing for safety and quality are key. Exercise caution if mixing cannabis with alcohol. This combination can lead to dizziness or nausea and can potentially dampen your whole experience.

Benefits Of Cannabis-Infused Beverages

Cannabis-infused beverages, including THC tea drinks, are the in-thing right now, allowing users to indulge in the calming effects of cannabis while enjoying a contemporary, refreshing drink. These products can provide a uniquely refreshing experience compared to smokable or edible consumption, relieving anxiety and improving social connection. Here are some of their most notable benefits.

1. Promoting Relaxation And Stress Relief

Cannabis-infused beverages are specifically created to provide a peaceful, relaxing feeling. THC-infused beverages help cultivate relaxation by working with your body’s endocannabinoid system. Alcohol is known to cause dehydration and mood imbalances.

Knowing your tolerance is key. Since overconsumption may be more likely to result in drowsiness or anxiety, using responsibly will help guarantee a positive experience. BRĒZ’s lineup, for example, offers consistent, transparent dosages, allowing cannabis consumers to sip and relax without stress.

2. Enhancing Sleep Quality

For everyone else who’s going to be spending some restless nights, cannabis-infused drinks are worth a try. Cannabis compounds such as THC and CBD are known for their sedative effects, making these drinks a great option for individuals looking to regulate their sleep cycle.

Make sure you’re looking at local laws and THC limits so you know you’re not breaking any rules. States like California have limited the amount of THC to 10 mg per serving, making them much more consistent and predictable.

3. Offering A Healthier Alternative To Alcohol

Cannabis drinks fit the “Cali sober” lifestyle, preferring to substitute alcohol with more intentional consumption. Canna beverages, unlike alcohol, come with a lower risk of addiction and no next-day hangovers.

A recent study found that 70% of consumers would choose cannabis beverages for these factors, creating a healthier alternative.

4. Providing Controlled THC Dosage

Perhaps the greatest benefit that cannabis-infused beverages provide is the ability to dose accurately. Unlike edibles, which range widely in potency, the labeling means users will know precisely how much THC they’re consuming.

BRĒZ’s commitment to quality means you can count on BRĒZ for a consistent experience every time.

5. Supporting Mood Improvement And Mental Clarity

Beyond relaxation, cannabis beverages can enhance mood and improve focus. By providing a discreet, social-friendly alternative, they’re perfect for any get-together—or just to unwind solo.

THC goes through a special metabolic process that converts it into the more potent 11-hydroxy THC. This conversion makes for enduring effects, which makes it great for relaxing after a stressful day.

Types Of Cannabis-Infused Beverages

THC-Infused Teas For Calmness

THC-infused teas have become a favorite of consumers looking for a peaceful, relaxing, and restorative effect. These teas usually use indica strains for their soothing effects. They’re ideal for relaxing after a stressful day.

These drinks are all formulated with hemp-derived extracts. They’re a great option for anyone looking for a legal, convenient way to enjoy the benefits of THC, including pain relief and stress reduction. Popular flavors such as chamomile, peppermint, or green tea create a pleasant drinking experience and deliver even more wellness effects.

For example, peppermint helps digestion, and chamomile helps you sleep. The effects can take place in as little as 10 minutes, providing a quicker onset than typical edibles.

THC Coffee For Gentle Energy Boost

The combination of energy and relaxation that THC coffee provides is hard to beat. Green Tea Matcha blends the invigoration of caffeine with the relaxation provided by THC, typically sourced from sativa or hybrid cannabis strains.

This lightly effervescent ginger and lavender-infused beverage is the ideal companion to a grounded morning or a harmonious happy hour. For starters, happy consumers rave about the way it helps sharpen their focus without triggering feelings of anxiety.

Available in blends or single origin in light, medium, or dark roasts, THC coffee offers a great option to switch up your morning cup of joe.

THC Seltzers For Refreshing Relaxation

THC seltzers have found a place in the market as a low-calorie, fizzy choice for fans of all things sparkling. Crafted with exact THC doses, these beverages typically draw on hybrid strains to chill you out without sleepiness.

They’re a smash at social engagements, providing a deliciously refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage. Flavors such as lime, berry, and grapefruit give them a refreshing kick, perfect for any occasion and any palate.

The effects come on within 15-30 minutes and last about 1.5 hours, providing a lovely, unhurried wave of calm.

THC Cocktails For Creative Enjoyment

THC cocktails are the most elegant choice. Sophisticated and classy, THC cocktails mix the magic of cannabis with the art of classic mixology. Many of these drinks utilize sativa-dominated strains, which are popular for their mood-boosting and imaginative effects.

For instance, a THC-infused mojito tastes like a mojito should—refreshing, minty, citrusy goodness. It’s the ideal sidekick for a chill night of deep discussion or creative pursuits.

These cocktails serve the social experience of consumption that alcohol provides. With no hangover in sight, they’re a no-brainer for the more health-conscious drinkers out there.

THC Lemonades For A Sweet And Soothing Option

THC lemonades are one of the most popular THC-infused drinks, combining the sweet-and-sour zing of lemonade with the mellow buzz of cannabis. All of these beverages have taken advantage of hemp-derived THC, letting them skirt legal regulations.

They lure in consumers seeking an organic, health-conscious alternative to a comforting, sweet, delicious beverage. Indica strains are often used in these drinks, adding to their relaxing properties.

THC lemonades are an easy, delicious treat that can provide a calming sense of relief. Sip them on a relaxing summer day or enjoy them after dinner as a nightcap.

How To Choose The Best Cannabis Drink

Check THC Content And Dosage

When considering THC tea drinks, it’s essential to look at the THC content per drink, as individual tolerance levels vary. For those new to cannabis or seeking a lighter experience, beverages with 2-5 mg of THC are a safer, more enjoyable choice. These refreshing drinks provide a delightful THC experience without overwhelming effects.

If you are an experienced THC consumer or in search of a more potent option, drinks containing 10 mg of THC will meet your needs. Many of these delicious cannabis beverages are also infused with CBD, which helps balance the psychoactive effects of THC while enhancing relaxation.

Brands often display clear THC-to-CBD ratios on their labels, allowing you to find the perfect cannabis tea or drink to match your relaxation requirements.

Consider Flavor Preferences

There are a lot of different flavors of cannabis drinks, so you want to make sure you pick one that suits your taste preferences. Popular flavors include zesty citrus blends, calming herbal teas, and refreshing fruity infusions.

Products with fewer, vegan ingredients usually taste better, with no complicated flavors or added sugar. Select something thirst-quenching, like flavored sparkling water!

With under 6 grams of sugar and about 30 calories, it’s a better alternative than sugary sodas.

Evaluate Onset Time And Effects Duration

Onset time for cannabis beverages is all over the place. Other products provide fast onset effects, starting as quickly as 5-15 minutes. For some, it can take an hour or more.

Rapid-onset drinks work best when you need some fast-acting relaxation after a stressful day. Consider how long you want the effects to last. Indica strains usually provide an anxiety-reducing, relaxing euphoric high that’s just right after a long day.

On the flip side, sativa-based drinks tend to be more invigorating.

Verify Brand Transparency And Lab Testing

A reliable brand will understand that transparency is key and will have no shame in sharing its ingredients and lab testing. Choose beverages labeled gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan, with THC and CBD amounts indicated.

Third-party lab testing is essential. The best brands and companies will have their drinks tested for quality and safety, showing they’re free from harmful and potentially dangerous contaminants.

As cannabis drinks continue to take off, they’re increasing availability. This is especially important in the 24 states—and growing—that have legalized cannabis for recreational use.

Read Customer Reviews And Ratings

Customer reviews and ratings can be very helpful in determining a drink’s quality and reliability. Look for reviews that address any concerns about flavor, dosage accuracy, and overall euphoric effects.

You’ll find that many users have reviewed their experience with particular drinks, allowing you to make the most informed choice possible. A brand with a track record of happy customers is a brand you can trust to deliver what you’re looking for.

Comparing Cannabis Drinks And Alcoholic Beverages

Key Similarities In Social Use

Cannabis drinks and alcoholic beverages undeniably add excitement to social settings. Not only do they offer a fun alternative to chill out and socialize with friends, but for some, these beverages serve as social lubricants, too, functioning as icebreakers and relaxation aides at social events.

Consumers are accustomed to enjoying a 12-ounce beer or 5-ounce glass of wine in social settings. Likewise, a cannabis beverage with 5mg of THC or so does the same thing, making that moment feel special. Brands are advertising cannabis drinks as fantastic substitutes for alcoholic beverages.

They pull in people who crave that same social atmosphere but don’t want the traditional drawbacks of alcohol. These cannabis drinks provide very different experiences. They are more complementary than substitutive products.

Major Differences In Effects And Safety

Alcohol’s effects are much more stable and consistent, with a standard drink amounting to a similar level of intoxication across individuals. Cannabis drinks, though, are a different animal entirely, driven by unique factors such as THC dosage, individual tolerance levels, and even body composition.

Though alcohol metabolizes fairly quickly, cannabis drinks use swift-acting emulsion tech for onsets of 10–20 minutes. This variability underscores the importance of knowing your tolerance. Higher THC doses over 20mg are more appropriate for advanced consumers.

Cannabis drinks have myriad benefits over alcohol—they don’t cause hangovers or damage your liver.

Why Cannabis Drinks Are A Safer Option

Cannabis drinks provide a safer consumption experience than alcohol. They sidestep the dangers of chronic conditions such as liver injury and alcohol addiction. Users can customize their experience with more flexible dosing.

Consumers can indulge in a mild 2mg THC dose or drink up to something stronger. The worldwide market corroborates growing confidence in these products, with expected revenue surpassing $2 billion by 2026.

This rapid growth is an important indication that consumers are prioritizing preference over product and that wellness and safety come first.

Potential Risks And Side Effects

Understanding Possible Adverse Reactions

Cannabis beverages, particularly THC tea drinks, can induce a sense of calm and overall well-being; however, they also carry potential negative side effects if consumed irresponsibly or in large quantities. Reports of tachycardia, confusion, and mydriasis, or dilated pupils, have surfaced, which can be incredibly frightening, especially for inexperienced THC consumers or those unfamiliar with legal cannabis products.

In some cases, very high doses of cannabis products have led to toxic exposure and serious vomiting. It’s crucial to be mindful of the strength of the drink. For instance, a 25 mg dose of THC tea will affect you similarly to consuming an entire bottle of wine, while a 100 mg dose can produce the same high as chugging a fifth of 80-proof vodka. Understanding the potency formulation of what you’re consuming is essential.

Knowing Your Tolerance And Limits

Cannabis affects everyone differently, and understanding your level of tolerance is important. Beginners and casual users would do best to begin at low doses. Start with 2.5-5 mg of THC and gauge how it makes you feel.

Among consumers, 34% like THC-dominant beverages for their mind-altering effects. 18% say they would choose CBD-dominant drinks because of their subtler, non-intoxicating effects. Overlabeling problems still inundate the market with risk. Almost unbelievably, 78.57% of products incorrectly report how much CBD they contain, and 61.5% of products over-report their THC. This inconsistency points to a broader need for caution, particularly when trying new brands or products.

Importance Of Responsible Consumption

Responsible consumption begins with knowing how to read a product label, how to verify strength, and how to take appropriate doses. The typical analytical range for phytocannabinoids in beverages is 0.002% to 10% w/w. This range protects safe and controlled experiences when products are accurately labeled.

Retailers make a huge difference to safety efforts. Surprisingly, 90% of shops routinely implement security standards including ID checks and age verification. Being aware of these considerations makes it possible to have a fun, exciting, well-rounded experience without sacrificing your health or happiness.

Legal Considerations For Cannabis Beverages

Laws Varying By Location

Cannabis regulations are complex and different from state to state in the U.S. Most importantly, it’s vital to understand the regulations that govern where you live and work. California and Colorado have established legal regimes for recreational cannabis, including cannabis beverages.

On the other end of the spectrum, some states have much more stringent limits or have prohibited cannabis altogether. The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. It also removed cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC from the Controlled Substances Act. Even with a cannabis legalization bill passed, the FDA will continue to have oversight and regulate cannabis products as it does other substances under its jurisdiction.

That duality between state and federal laws often makes for a confusing patchwork of rules and regulations – so it’s important to do your homework.

Checking Legal THC Limits In Your Area

THC content is often at the center of cannabis regulation. Most states even limit the amount of THC in the products, with 5-10 milligrams per serving being the industry’s suggested standard. Going over these limits may result in fines or a recall of the affected product.

The FDA has similarly determined that it is illegal to add THC or CBD to foods that are sold in interstate commerce. Being aware of these boundaries allows you to select compliant beverages and steer clear of potential legal pitfalls.

Continually educate consumers that high-dose beverages, such as those containing 25 mg THC or more, can be akin to consuming multiple servings of alcohol. These more potent options could be subject to heavy-handed regulation.

Ensuring Compliance With Local Regulations

There’s more to compliance than just THC content. Check to see if there are any additional licensing or labeling requirements associated with beverages. The legal landscape is constantly evolving.

The FDA has approved cannabis-derived medications like Epidiolex, Marinol, and Syndros, for example, for particular medical conditions. It has not allowed cannabis-infused foods or drinks, aside from very limited hemp seed ingredients.

This serves to further emphasize the need to differentiate between accepted uses and those which may result in regulatory complications. Being aware keeps your use of cannabis beverages on the right side of the law.

Conclusion

Cannabis-infused beverages are a great new alternative to relax without losing control. Each line of these refreshing beverages comes in various delicious flavors and strengths, providing you with a variety of options that cater to your taste and lifestyle. Or pick up a sparkling beverage to sip with your pals. Or better yet, enjoy a refreshing CBD-infused tea in the daytime, and unwind with a relaxing tea blend come evening.

These beverages offer a chill experience, without the booze hangover lurking around the corner. Just be sure to pay attention to the THC or CBD content and look at local laws before buying.

If you’re interested, take a low dose to begin with and listen to your body to see how it affects you. With a little luck, these cannabis-infused beverages will help you find a deeper sense of relaxation and calm in your day. Stay curious, sip smart, and relax into the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Cannabis-Infused Beverages?

Cannabis-infused beverages, including THC tea drinks and delicious cannabis cocktails, are drinks that are infused with cannabinoids like THC or CBD. They make it easy to enjoy cannabis benefits in a drinkable form, providing a refreshing drink option for THC consumers.

2. How Do Cannabis Drinks Help With Relaxation?

Most cannabis drinks, including THC tea and delicious cannabis cocktails, are infused with CBD, THC, or both, providing a delightful THC experience by relaxing both the mind and body. They serve as a perfect alternative for consumers to unwind after a long day without the need to smoke or vape.

3. Are Cannabis Beverages Better Than Alcohol For Relaxation?

Cannabis beverages, such as THC tea drinks, provide fabulous relaxation without the next-day hangover or dehydration that often accompanies alcoholic drinks, making them a delightful alternative when enjoyed responsibly.

4. What Types Of Cannabis-Infused Beverages Are Available?

Options include teas, seltzers, sodas, coffees, and energy drinks. THC tea drinks come in all flavors, THC or CBD dominant, uplifting, or chill—pick a beverage that appeals to your taste and desired cannabis experience.

5. How Do I Choose The Best Cannabis-Infused Beverage?

Think about what you want from your beverage (relaxation, focus, energy) and consider the THC tea drinks or CBD levels. It’s always best for beginners to start with low doses of THC products. Always purchase from trusted brands to ensure quality and safety.

6. Are There Any Risks Associated With Cannabis Drinks?

If you consume too much THC tea or other cannabis products, you may experience side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, or feelings of anxiety. As with any infused product, be sure to start with a low dose and go slow, particularly if you are new to recreational cannabis.

7. Are Cannabis Beverages Legal In The United States?

While many states have legalized medical cannabis and recreational cannabis use, federal roadblocks still loom large. Always check local laws before purchasing any THC products or cannabis beverages.

Looking For A Cannabis Dispensary You Can Trust?

For over a decade, we’ve been championing the rights of medical cannabis patients and redefining what it means to inspire wellness. At A Therapeutic Alternative, we’re not just about offering premium cannabis products but about creating a community where health, knowledge, and compassion thrive.

Located in the heart of Midtown Sacramento’s medical district, our dispensary is more than a place to shop—it’s a hub for empowerment and education. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or exploring its benefits for the first time, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you every step of the way.

We take pride in offering premium products, including top-notch Indica Vape Cartridges. Our accessibility-focused facilities, featuring an ADA lift and convenient parking options like a lot directly behind us and free street parking, make visiting us seamless. Our commitment to professionalism, compassion, and integrity sets us apart in the industry.

Ready to experience cannabis done differently? Join us at A Therapeutic Alternative and discover how holistic health can transform your life. Visit us today—your path to wellness starts here!

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