- Cannabis-infused drinks and edibles offer a smoke-free way to enjoy cannabis, gaining popularity as alternatives to smoking or vaping.
- Cannabis beverages shine as alcohol-free alternatives for holiday celebrations, delivering unique flavors and effects.
- Cannabis drinks have faster effects due to quicker absorption, making them appealing for those seeking immediate relief.
Exploring alternatives to smoking or vaping cannabis? You're not alone. Many are turning to an array of cannabis-infused drinks and edibles, offering a unique and smoke-free way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis.
Imagine a holiday season filled with laughter and relaxation, where the cheer doesn't depend on alcohol. These cannabis-infused delights offer a refreshing twist: they're not just an excellent alternative for those who choose to steer clear of smoke, but they also shine as the stars of alcohol-free celebrations.
Wondering which infused drink you should try first? In this article, we’ll introduce you to a rich variety of options: from CANN Social Tonics to Select Squeeze and more, you’re guaranteed to find something perfect just for you.
But before we get into our recommendations, let’s go through the basics of CBD and THC-infused beverages and find out what makes them so special.
What exactly are CBD-infused drinks? Often referred to as "liquid edibles" or "drinkables," these beverages are the new trendsetters in the cannabis world. Infused with cannabidiol (CBD), these drinks are all about relaxation without intoxication – a stark contrast to their THC-infused counterparts.
CBD interacts harmoniously with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), fostering a sense of wellness and balance. It's this interaction that makes CBD-infused beverages a favorite among health-conscious individuals. They’re perfect for those looking to unwind, without the buzz typically associated with cannabis.
While CBD drinks are designed to be non-intoxicating, it's wise to start with a lower dose to find the perfect balance for your body's needs.
THC-infused drinks, on the other hand, bring a different vibe. Containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), these beverages can create a feeling of euphoria akin to other methods of cannabis consumption. But remember, the experience with THC is as unique as you are – it's always smart to check the THC levels before indulging.
The rule of thumb with THC drinkables is "start low, go slow." Unlike other edibles, the effects of THC-infused drinks might be felt more quickly due to their absorption rate. Keep in mind, everyone’s body and metabolism differ, so the journey with THC drinks is personal and unique to everyone.
Yes, cannabis beverages are legal in the U.S., but with a twist. The composition and availability of these drinks vary from state to state, reflecting the diverse legal landscape of marijuana in America.
There’s no doubt that the rush for the green herb is upon us. And no one wants to be left behind, especially in ensuring the goodies you want to enjoy are legal. The most recent Gallup Poll from 2023 shows that 17 percent of Americans are active marijuana users and the industry is worth $61 billion, a figure that is expected to reach $100 billion by 2030.
With this kind of growth, it’s no surprise that the U.S. is witnessing widespread interest in, and legalization of cannabis in a variety of forms: medicinal, nutraceutical, and recreational. The growth of marijuana is more evident judging by the 38 US states where medical cannabis is now legal.
When it comes to the consumption of cannabis, defining what’s legal and illegal can be tricky, and the regulations are always changing as new laws come into play. That said, cannabidiol extracted from marijuana is considered illegal as per the federal laws, but some legal states have passed reform laws for medical marijuana use.
Cannabidiol hemp oil that comes from manufactured hemp prepared from natural ingredients of legally imported hemp or grown as per the Farm Act in the U.S., is described as a nutritional supplement in the United States and is considered legal to purchase.
If you're excited to dive into the world of cannabis beverages, here's a friendly tip: keep an eye on the legal status of cannabis in your state. This is often a good indicator of where cannabis beverages stand legally. If your state has given the green light to medical or recreational marijuana, chances are you're in a good place to explore cannabis drinks.
Remember, laws can change, so staying updated is always a good idea. And while keeping track of these changes might seem daunting, it's all part of the adventure in the ever-evolving world of cannabis.
We have a helpful guide on cannabis laws by state for your convenience.
The world of cannabis offers a variety of ways to experience its effects, with beverages and traditional edibles being two popular choices. However, these two forms come with some distinct differences worth knowing about.
Cannabis beverages are water-soluble and absorbed quickly by the body, offering a more immediate experience compared to traditional edibles. This is achieved by a process called nanoemulsification.
Edibles, being fat-soluble, bind with lipids and are metabolized more slowly, leading to a delayed onset of effects. This slower process can sometimes result in an unexpectedly intense high, especially for newcomers to cannabis, due to overconsumption before feeling the initial effects. [Source]
In contrast, cannabis drinks have a higher bioavailability because they don't require digestion through the gastrointestinal tract like edibles. This means their effects are more consistent and promptly felt, making them appealing for those seeking immediate relief or a more predictable experience. [Source]
At a very basic level, everyone’s body and rate of metabolism is different. That’s why it might take one person around 30 minutes after ingesting an edible brownie to start noticing the effects, while it may take up to two hours for some people before they feel anything from a marijuana edible at all.
Research shows that edibles typically take about 30 to 60 minutes to kick in, but the onset time depends on a lot of factors such as the type of edible you’re consuming, your metabolism, and the product’s active ingredients. If the edible contains a high concentration of THC, it could take effect much faster.
Unlike edibles that take a while to show their effects, these drinks usually work their magic much faster. This is because liquids are absorbed more rapidly by the stomach than solids. So, if you're sipping on a THC-infused beverage, you might start feeling the effects in just about 10 to 15 minutes. This quicker onset time, compared to the 30 to 60 minutes or even up to two hours for some edibles, is a significant difference.
It boils down to the unique way our bodies process liquids and solids, and this plays a crucial role in how quickly we begin to feel the effects of cannabis, whether it's in a drinkable or edible form.
Creating your own CBD or THC drinks at home is simpler than you might think, and there are a few methods you can choose from depending on your preferences and resources.
Tinctures are an easy and effective way to infuse beverages with THC. They are popular cannabis extracts and have been a staple in the cannabis world for a long time.
So, how can you use tinctures to make your own cannabis drink? Here are some steps to follow:
1. Choosing the Right Tincture:
- Variety of Options: Tinctures come in various forms - from THC-dominant to CBD-only options, each offering a different experience.
- Strain Consideration: Consider the cannabis strain used in the tincture. Different strains can produce different effects, from relaxing to energizing.
- Finding Your Match: Check out your local RISE dispensary or browse our online menu for an extensive range of tinctures. Our specialists can provide tailored recommendations to suit your preferences.
2. Infusing Your Drink:
- Simple Process: Just add your chosen tincture to any beverage. This could be a morning coffee, a smoothie, or even a mocktail.
- Uniform Blending: Stir the mixture well to ensure the tincture is evenly distributed throughout the drink.
- Customizable Flavors: Tinctures can complement the flavor profile of your drink or add a new twist to it.
3. Gauging Potency:
- Start Small: If you're new to cannabis, begin with a lower dose of tincture.
- Adjusting Dosage: Gradually increase the amount based on your comfort level and the desired effect.
- Controlled Dosage: Tinctures allow precise control over the amount of THC you consume.
- Versatility: They can be added to a wide range of beverages, making them suitable for any time of day or occasion.
- Discretion: Tinctures don’t produce the odor associated with smoking cannabis, making your consumption more discreet.
- Rapid Onset of Effects: Liquid tinctures can be absorbed quickly by the body, offering a faster onset of effects compared to traditional edibles.
- Long Shelf Life: Tinctures have a longer shelf life than many other cannabis products, making them a convenient and durable option.
For those eager to delve into the realm of homemade cannabis beverages, crafting your own cannabis syrup is a splendid and imaginative option. It's a straightforward process, and we've got just the recipe to guide you through it.
The beauty of using homemade cannabis syrup is its simplicity and versatility. Much like tinctures, you can easily mix these syrups into your preferred beverages. Whether you're spicing up your morning coffee, crafting a unique mocktail, or adding a twist to your evening tea, the syrup seamlessly integrates with your drink.
The real charm of homemade syrup lies in the control it offers. You can adjust the THC or CBD levels to suit your taste and desired effect, ensuring each sip of your beverage is just as you like it.
Creating your own cannabis-infused syrup is not just about adding flavor to your drinks; it's about personalizing your cannabis experience. It allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles and potency levels, making each beverage uniquely yours.
If you're interested in exploring this creative avenue, check out our published recipe for detailed instructions and tips on crafting your homemade cannabis syrup. Whether you're new to the world of cannabis drinks or looking to expand your skills, this recipe is a great way to embark on a rewarding and enjoyable cannabis culinary journey.
If you're someone who enjoys the social aspects of drinking but could do without the hangovers, or if you're simply curious to try something new and exciting, CANN Social Tonic could be just the thing for you. This cannabis-infused beverage is garnering quite a buzz for its unique blend of taste and effects.
CANN Social Tonics are microdosed, cannabis-infused beverages crafted in California. They're designed to offer a delightful mix of flavor and a mild, social buzz. With a social buzz in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, these THC-infused drinks provide a light and refreshing alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages, minus the next-day hangover.
CANN is a cannabis drink that contains a perfect balance of THC and CBD plus five simple all-natural ingredients, selected for their energizing and uplifting effects. These social tonics are a great low-calorie alternative to alcohol.
These drinks contain 100% organic agave nectar from Mexico & locally sourced pure cannabis extract.
CANN Social Tonics are crafted to be as bubbly and sociable as your favorite cocktail but without the adverse effects of alcohol. The low-dose cannabis infusion makes them a suitable alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages, offering a sociable experience. They come in convenient sizes (8oz and 12oz) and are available in various delicious flavors, making them ideal for social gatherings.
Whether you’re feeling fancy or laid-back (or a little bit of both), CANN Social Tonic has you covered. Available flavors include:
- Lemon Lavender: With a pale-yellow hue, this flavor uses fresh lemon juice and a natural lavender flavoring. It’s super tasty and extremely refreshing, with a bit of fizziness to it.
- Blood Orange Cardamom: If you’re a sucker for anything Blood Orange, then this is the flavor for you. It’s a cannabis-infused seltzer with a low dosage that delivers relaxing and uplifting results without rendering you incapable of getting your things done.
- Grapefruit Rosemary: Packed in a 7.5 oz can, Grapefruit Rosemary is a more classic flavor that features a unique combination of grapefruit and rosemary that balances the citrusy-themed and earthly flavors pretty well.
- Pineapple Jalapeño: Sweet & spicy, this flavor is for the adventurous ones! You might think that this combination cannot work but you have to try it to understand why exactly it works perfectly!
- Ginger Lemongrass: This zesty flavor is guaranteed to bring you joy and relaxation with it’s light and fresh taste.
Each CANN tonic contains a blend of 2mg THC and 4mg CBD, allowing you to enjoy multiple cans for a fun and refreshing buzz.
The amount of CANN to consume depends on your individual tolerance and experience with cannabis. For those newer to cannabis, it's advised to start with one 8oz can and see how you feel after about 10 minutes. More experienced users might opt for a 12oz can with a higher THC content. Remember, everyone's response to cannabis is different, so it’s important to find what works best for you.
Infused with a microdose of cannabis (2mg THC & 4mg CBD in each 8oz can, and 5mg THC in each 12oz can), CANN is designed to offer a subtle high. It's likened to the light, sociable buzz of a glass of wine or beer, without the hangover. The onset of effects is typically rapid, within 10-15 minutes, and they could last over two hours. As with all cannabis products, the effects can vary based on the specific product and your personal tolerance.
You can find your favorite CANN beverage at your local RISE dispensaries!
Whatever you’re looking for, we can help you find the right product and dose. We’d love to hear from you.
The array of cannabis-infused drinks available at your local dispensary can vary greatly depending on your location. With so many options, making a choice might seem daunting. Wondering where to begin? We're here to guide you through the diverse landscape of cannabis beverages, helping you discover the must-try drink that's just right for you. Join us as we unveil the top picks and hidden gems in cannabis-infused drinks from state to state.
In California, CANN's lineup includes Blood Orange Cardamom, Ginger Lemongrass, and Grapefruit Rosemary, each offering a unique taste adventure.
- Blood Orange Cardamom: CANN's Blood Orange Cardamom offers a harmonious blend of zesty blood orange and the warm, aromatic notes of cardamom. This cannabis-infused microdosed beverage is known for its ability to provide a light and uplifting buzz, making it perfect for social occasions. With just 2mg of THC and 4mg of CBD, it's an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a sociable yet controlled cannabis experience.
- Ginger Lemongrass: If you crave a zesty and refreshing flavor, look no further than CANN's Ginger Lemongrass. This blend combines the invigorating taste of ginger with the bright and citrusy notes of lemongrass. Like other CANN tonics, it offers a light and sociable buzz within minutes of consumption. With its all-natural ingredients and balanced THC/CBD content, it's a delightful choice for those who want to explore the world of cannabis beverages.
- Grapefruit Rosemary: CANN's Grapefruit Rosemary brings together the vibrant flavors of grapefruit and the herbal undertones of rosemary. This unique combination offers a refreshing and tangy experience. With only 30 to 35 calories per can, it's a guilt-free way to enjoy a light cannabis buzz. The 2mg THC and 4mg CBD content ensures a sociable yet manageable effect, making it suitable for both newcomers and experienced cannabis enthusiasts.
Each can is carefully crafted with a balanced microdose of THC and CBD, ensuring a light and enjoyable buzz that’s perfect for social gatherings or a relaxing evening.
Illinois' selection of CANN beverages includes the delightful flavors of Blood Orange Cardamom, Grapefruit Rosemary, and Lemon Lavender Hi Boy. The Blood Orange Cardamom offers a tantalizing fusion of sweet and spicy notes, ideal for those seeking a bold yet balanced flavor. Grapefruit Rosemary stands out with its crisp, citrus-forward taste accompanied by a hint of herbal depth, suitable for a refreshing daytime drink. The Lemon Lavender Hi Boy is a unique blend, combining the soothing floral notes of lavender with the bright, tangy zest of lemon, creating a relaxing yet uplifting beverage experience. Alongside these, Illinois also offers Cannabis Apertif, a sophisticated choice for those looking to explore beyond traditional cannabis drinks, featuring complex flavors and a refined cannabis infusion.
Massachusetts residents can enjoy the Vibations Drink Mix in the delightful flavor of Pomegranate Blueberry Acai. This drink mix allows you to create your own cannabis-infused beverages. Picture sipping on a Pomegranate Blueberry Acai-infused beverage that's bursting with the vibrant flavors of these superfruits. It's like a fruity symphony in your mouth, and the best part? You get to control the intensity of your cannabis experience. Just mix, sip, and let the good vibes flow. It's the perfect choice for those seeking a little extra excitement in their cannabis-infused sips.
Get ready to chill in style with Drink Loud Chill Shot in Kush Berry Chill flavor. It's the taste of coolness in the heart of the desert, with Kush Berry's irresistible flavor. This shot is your ticket to amplifying the fun during your Nevada adventures. Take a shot, embrace the good vibes, and let the party begin. Remember, what happens in Vegas gets even more exciting with Kush Berry Chill!
New Jersey adds a touch of sweetness to your tea time with Select Squeeze Peach Tea. It's the classic comfort of tea with a twist of juicy peaches. Sip on the flavors of summer and let the good times roll. Whether you're unwinding or celebrating with friends, Select Squeeze Peach Tea brings a peachy delight to your Garden State moments. Squeeze, sip, and savor the magic while basking in the vibes of New Jersey.
In the bustling streets of New York, you'll discover a zesty companion for your private moments: Select Squeeze Lemon Lime. It's the perfect blend of tangy lemon and zesty lime, creating a cannabis-infused experience as vibrant as the city itself. Whether you're unwinding at home after a day in the city or simply enjoying some downtime, a sip of Select Squeeze Lemon Lime adds an exciting twist to your New York experience. Grab a bottle, take a sip, and let the city lights illuminate your cannabis adventure in the comfort of your own space.
Ohio residents can indulge in the Certified Cultivators Drinks, available in the Orange Drink 25mg 4 Pack. These cannabis-infused beverages offer a consistent and enjoyable experience. Each pack contains four drinks, each with 25mg of THC, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a moderate cannabis buzz.
Rhode Island's Sea Witch Tonic invites you to set sail on a flavor adventure with its refreshing Strawberry Lime infusion. This delightful cannabis tonic combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the zesty kick of tangy lime, creating a taste sensation that's perfect for a Rhode Island getaway. Imagine basking in the ocean breeze, sipping on Sea Witch Tonic, and feeling the harmony of fruity goodness in every sip. It's a cannabis beverage that perfectly complements the state's laid-back coastal vibe. So, whether you're lounging by the beach or enjoying a summer picnic, Sea Witch Tonic in Strawberry Lime is your ticket to a blissful, sun-soaked experience in the Ocean State.
Connecticut (CT), Florida (FL), Maryland (MD), Pennsylvania (PA), and Virginia (VA) do not currently have cannabis-infused beverage options available. However, the cannabis industry is dynamic, and new products may emerge in these states in the future. Don't hesitate to check again later, as the market evolves, providing more choices for cannabis enthusiasts.