Step aside, alcohol—there’s a fresh new way to get buzzed. As more people swap out their usual boozy drinks, THC-infused beverages are stepping into the spotlight. These drinks offer a fresh twist on enjoying cannabis, blending relaxation with refreshment. From fizzy sodas to revitalizing teas, canna bevvies are becoming a favorite for those looking to shake up their routine.
These drinks aren’t exactly new to the scene, but they gained mainstream attention within the last few years. And as people seek out new ways to enjoy cannabis, these drinks are showing up as a delicious and convenient alternative to smoking or vaping. With a range of flavors and a discreet way to get your THC fix, marijuana drinks are becoming more popular. Whether you’re chilling with friends, unwinding after a long day, or just looking to spice up your every day, these beverages are the perfect companion for the dog days of summer.
The Science Behind Cannabis Drinks
While the concept of weed-infused drinks might sound simple, the science behind them is pretty intriguing. The process starts with extracting THC from cannabis using solvents like ethanol or CO2. This THC extract is then blended with a carrier oil or fat—since THC is fat-soluble—before being mixed into the beverage.
Once prepared, the extract is blended with a beverage base, such as soda, tea, or water, ensuring an even distribution of THC throughout the drink. This method allows each sip to deliver a precise and consistent dose of THC, providing a controlled and enjoyable experience without the need for smoking or vaping. The result is a tasty, refreshing way to experience cannabis effects tailored to your beverage preferences.
What are the Effects and Onset Time?
When you sip on a THC-infused drink, the effects come on a bit differently compared to puffing flower or vaping. Since these beverages move through your stomach, the THC has to be broken down in your digestive system. This means the onset of effects can take a little longer—usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours, as the THC metabolizes in the liver before entering the bloodstream—so it’s important to be patient and not overdo it.
Your individual experience can vary based on a few factors. Dosage plays a big role, so it’s best to start low and go slow to figure out what works for you. Additionally, everyone’s metabolism is a bit different, which means the speed and intensity of the effects can vary from person to person. Overall, THC drinks offer a laid-back way to enjoy cannabis, but the timing and impact can be slower compared to the instant effects of smoking or vaping.
Types of Canna Bevvies
When it comes to cannabis drinks, the term “beverages” doesn’t quite capture the full range of options available. There’s a whole world of creative ways to infuse cannabis into your drinks beyond just sodas, seltzers, or mocktails. From innovative mixers and melting ice cubes to wellness shots, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
THC-Infused Sodas: These are classic fizzy drinks with a cannabis twist, offering a fun and flavorful way to enjoy THC. Think of flavors like cola, root beer, and lemon-lime.
Cannabis-Infused Teas: Whether you prefer herbal, black, or green tea, these beverages blend calming effects with a touch of THC. Great hot or iced.
Sparkling Waters: Refreshing and bubbly with a hint of THC, these beverages come in various flavors, such as lime, berry, and cucumber.
Mocktails: Non-alcoholic cocktails enhanced with THC, providing a sophisticated, buzz-worthy alternative to traditional drinks. Try options like mojitos, margaritas, and cosmopolitans.
THC Shots: Small, concentrated doses of THC in vibrant flavors like cucumber haze, maui blast, and kush berry. Perfect for a quick and potent boost.
Cannabis-Infused Mixers: These versatile liquids can be added to your favorite non-infused beverages, allowing you to create custom cannabis cocktails or mocktails.
Enhanced Ice Cubes: THC-infused frozen cubes that can be added to any drink offer a slow-release and chilled experience.
CBD-Enhanced Beverages: For a balanced experience, some drinks combine THC with CBD to offer a more nuanced effect, catering to those seeking relaxation and focus.
Popular THC-Infused Drink Brands
At Stairway Cannabis, we’ve got a handpicked range of top brands and products to match every taste. Whether you’re into classic flavors or looking for something new, we’ve got options for everyone. From well-known favorites to exciting new finds, you’ll discover plenty of choices to enjoy.
Keef
Keef is a pioneer in the world of cannabis beverages, and it shows. Their lineup includes standout flavors like Pineapple Xpress soda, Lemonade Mocktail, and High Octane, offering a mix of fizzy drinks and refreshing mocktails. Keef is a solid choice for newcomers, thanks to their established reputation for quality and consistency.
Zen drinks are “berry” delicious. Their Sativa and Indica options pack a delightful berry flavor, making them a tasty choice for any mood. Whether you’re looking to relax with an Indica or get a little pep with a sativa, each drink has a solid 50 mg dose of THC. They’re designed to kick in quickly, so you won’t be left waiting for your high to hit.
Drink Loud shots are all about vibrant flavors that make your taste buds dance. From refreshing Cucumber Haze to tropical Maui Blast and fruity Kush Berry, there’s something for everyone. They offer a wellness shot boosted with 10 mg of CBN for those seeking extra benefits. Pick up a few different flavors and find your new favorite.
If you’re new to cannabis drinks and not sure where to start, our friendly budtenders at Branson and Blue Springs are here to help. They can guide you through our selection and recommend the perfect beverage to suit your taste and needs.
Tips for Safely Enjoying Cannabis Beverages
Start Low and Go Slow
If you take anything away from this blog, let this be it! Begin with a small dose to gauge how the THC affects you. Since cannabis drinks often have a slower onset compared to smoking or vaping, it’s easy to overconsume if you’re not patient. Give it time—usually, effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in fully.
Avoid Mixing with Alcohol
While cannabis beverages are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy THC, mixing them with alcohol can intensify effects and increase the risk of negative side effects. Stick to one or the other to ensure a more predictable and enjoyable experience.
Read Labels Carefully
Understanding the THC content and ingredients of your drink is crucial. Labels can provide insights into dosage and the specific type of high you can expect. Make sure you’re aware of the concentration to avoid any surprises.
Consider Your Taste Preferences
Here’s the fun part: pick a flavor that vibes with you! Cannabis drinks come in all sorts of flavors, so there’s something to tickle your taste buds. Whether you’re into fruity, herbal, or fizzy vibes, you’ll find a flavor that suits you.
Know the Benefits and Drawbacks
Cannabis beverages offer a discreet and varied way to consume THC, with the added benefit of precise dosing. However, they have some drawbacks, such as a slower onset and potential taste issues. Awareness of these can help you make more informed choices and enjoy your drink fully.
Seek Guidance if You’re New
If you’re new to cannabis beverages, don’t hesitate to ask for advice. Budtenders at our locations are always ready to help you find the right drink based on your preferences and desired effects. They can recommend options that suit your taste and tolerance, ensuring a smooth introduction to cannabis-infused beverages.
Future Trends in Cannabis Beverages
Cannabis drinks have taken off thanks to some serious innovation. We’re talking about exciting trends like new flavor blends, enhanced effects, and even beverages that pair with specific moods or occasions. The creativity doesn’t just stop with the drinks themselves; how we experience and enjoy them is constantly being reimagined.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that advancements in Mary Jane will keep pushing the boundaries. Expect to see more unique and functional drinks popping up as the industry continues experimenting and expanding. Whether it’s more advanced infusion techniques or brand-new flavor profiles, cannabis drinks are just getting started. So, if you’re into trying new things, keep an eye out—there’s a lot to look forward to in the world of cannabis drinks!
Ready to sip back and relax? Swing by our store to check out our selection and find your new favorite, or follow us on Instagram for the latest and greatest on the new drink releases. Cheers to discovering your perfect drink!
Key Takeaways
- Innovation Created THC Drinks: THC-infused beverages are a fun, refreshing way to enjoy cannabis, perfect for adding a twist to your routine or chilling with friends.
- Science and Effects: These drinks take longer to hit compared to smoking or vaping—usually 30 minutes to 2 hours. Start with a small dose and be patient, as effects vary by person.
- Safety and Trends: Start low, avoid mixing with alcohol, and check labels for THC content.