Cannabis Infused Beverages: The Rise of THC and CBD Drinks

Cannabis-infused beverages have gained popularity as a novel method of cannabis consumption in recent years. These drinks offer a distinctive experience for people wishing to enjoy the effects of cannabis without smoking or vaping. They come in several forms, including beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.

The increasing acceptance of cannabis as a product that is legal and socially acceptable in many areas of the world is one of the primary factors contributing to the popularity and growth of beverages infused with cannabis. The need for new and practical methods of consuming cannabis has increased as several states have started legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational uses.

In addition to THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, several businesses are now developing products using CBD, a non-psychoactive ingredient with several health advantages. CBD is an appealing addition to cannabis-infused beverages for individuals wishing to enjoy the effects of cannabis in a more health-conscious way because it is thought to help lower anxiety, ease pain, and even improve sleep. You can buy cannabis-infused beverages to attain multiple benefits. 

In this blog, we’ll explore more about cannabis-infused beverages. Right, from the history to the future of cannabis-infused beverages. 

The History of Cannabis-Infused Beverages

A beverage containing cannabis that goes back to roughly 7,000 BCE was found in China. Cannabis seeds were ground and combined with water and additional components like rice, millet, and barley to create the beverage. After being allowed to ferment, this mixture produced a lightly alcoholic beverage.

Cannabis was employed in beverages in ancient India. Bhang is a cannabis-infused beverage that is mentioned in the Atharvaveda, a sacred scripture from circa 1500 BCE. Cannabis leaves and buds were ground into a paste, which was then combined with milk, sugar, spices, and other ingredients to make bhang. It was frequently consumed at religious festivals and occasions.

Ancient Egypt made use of cannabis in beverages. A recipe for the cannabis-infused beverage shemshemet can be found in the Ebers Papyrus, which dates back to approximately 1550 BCE. Cannabis flowers were steeped in wine to create shemshemet, which was thought to have therapeutic benefits.

In more recent times, the 19th century saw a rise in the popularity of beverages containing cannabis. Cannabis tinctures were frequently mixed with wine or other alcoholic beverages, and tonics containing cannabis were also offered for sale as medications.

The Prohibition of Cannabis 

The early 20th century’s cannabis prohibition caused serious damage to the cannabis business, particularly beverages with cannabis flavoring. For many years, it was against the law to use or sell cannabis in the majority of nations, which forced the cannabis sector to operate covertly. The manufacture and consumption of beverages infused with cannabis were severely impacted by this.

Production and distribution of beverages containing cannabis were deemed unlawful during the Prohibition era. Due to this, many enterprises that made these beverages had to cease operations, and those that did so had to do it illegally. As a result, the demand for and popularity of beverages containing cannabis significantly decreased.

The Resurgence of Cannabis 

Cannabis has been more popular in recent years thanks to the legalization of the drug in many nations. A new era of cannabis production and use has emerged as a result of its legalization. Cannabis-infused beverages are being produced and sold legally, which has revived their appeal.

Additionally, the popularity of beverages infused with cannabis has increased as a result of the rising interest in alternative wellness products. Cannabis-infused beverages are a great alternative to standard medicines for customers looking for natural and holistic ways to manage their health and wellness.

THC vs CBD Infused Beverages

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the main components of cannabis, is what gives cannabis its characteristically psychotropic effects. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive substance with potential therapeutic uses, is another ingredient.

THC and CBD are increasingly being used as components in beverages, especially those that use cannabis. These drinks are believed to give a distinctive experience, providing cannabis health benefits without requiring smoking or other conventional ways of ingestion.

Depending on the quantity and concentration of each ingredient as well as the tolerance and sensitivity of the individual, the effects of THC and CBD in beverages can differ. Although THC can be uplifting and calming, it can also have negative effects including anxiety and paranoia. The relaxing and anti-inflammatory qualities of CBD, on the other hand, are well recognized and can aid with anxiety and pain relief.

The advantages of THC and CBD in drinks include their possible medicinal effects, which include pain alleviation, a reduction of anxiety and despair, and sleep assistance. Additionally, they provide a covert and practical method of cannabis ingestion, especially for people who are unable or reluctant to smoke.

However, adding THC and CBD to beverages has some disadvantages as well. The absence of dosage recommendations and consistency is one thing that can be of concern because it can have unwanted effects like overconsumption or uneven effects. Additionally, ongoing research on the long-term effects of frequent cannabis use has raised concerns about possible adverse effects on mental and cognitive health.

Popular Cannabis-Infused Beverages

Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks containing cannabis extract are popular forms of cannabis-infused beverages. Let’s look at the most well-liked cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages available right now.

Alcoholic Beverages Containing Cannabis

Cannabis-Infused Beer: 

One of the most well-liked alcoholic drinks on the market is a beer with cannabis infusions. To make it, a cannabis extract is added to the brewing process. With a light and delightful buzz, cannabis-infused beer has a distinctive flavor that is slightly different from ordinary beer.

Cannabis-Infused Wine:

Another well-liked alcoholic beverage is cannabis-infused wine. It is created by fermenting wine while cannabis is added to it. Wines that contain cannabis have a distinct flavor and a minimally intoxicating impact.

Cannabis-infused beverages without alcohol

Cannabis-Infused Coffee: 

Many people prefer cannabis-infused coffee which is a well-known non-alcoholic beverage. Before brewing, a cannabis extract is infused into coffee beans to create the drink. Cannabis-infused coffee gives off a slight high and has gained popularity as a favorite morning brew.

Cannabis-Infused Tea: 

Another well-liked non-alcoholic beverage that many people like is tea with cannabis flavoring. Before brewing, a cannabis extract is infused into the tea leaves to create the drink. Tea with cannabis extract has a relaxing effect and is a wonderful way to unwind after a stressful day.

The Future of Cannabis-Infused Beverages

Cannabis-infused beverages are no exception to the cannabis industry’s rapid evolution. The market for beverages infused with cannabis is anticipated to expand rapidly over the next few years as a result of the legalization of marijuana in numerous nations and jurisdictions. 

In the cannabis market, cannabis-infused beverages are a relatively new product. However, there is tremendous room for expansion. The global market for cannabis beverages is predicted to reach $2.8 billion by 2025, expanding at a CAGR of 17.8%, according to a report by Grand View Research. 

The popularity of cannabis for both medical and recreational uses, as well as the increased need for better and more natural substitutes for alcohol and sugary drinks, are the main causes of this growth.

Additionally, the sector for cannabis-infused beverages is expanding as a result of the legalization of cannabis in numerous nations and jurisdictions. For instance, Canada legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2018, which is predicted to fuel the growth of the market for cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages. Similarly, the legalization of cannabis for both medical and recreational use in several US states has sparked the growth of various cannabis-infused beverage businesses.

Furthermore, the growing interest in health and wellness is probably going to increase demand for beverages with cannabis additives. The market for beverages containing cannabis-infused ingredients is anticipated to increase as consumers pay more attention to their health and look for natural alternatives to alcohol and sugary drinks.

FAQs

What are cannabis-infused beverages?

Beverages that contain some amount of cannabis extract are called cannabis-infused beverages. These beverages, which can be purchased at dispensaries or online, also include alcohol, caffeine, or other cannabis derivatives in addition to varying concentrations of THC. These beverages’ safety hasn’t been thoroughly researched in people.

How to do cannabis-infused beverages work?

Drinks containing cannabis bypass the digestive system and quickly enter circulation after consumption. The water-soluble THC is quickly absorbed by the soft tissues in your mouth, esophagus, and stomach, which shortens the onset period.

What are the effects of THC and CBD in cannabis-infused beverages?

Beverages infused with CBD are meant to help you relax without getting you high, but drinks infused with THC are psychoactive and will make you feel euphoric.

Are cannabis-infused beverages legal?

Cannabis-infused beverages are legal in most parts of the globe. Although in some countries cannabis products are not legal as of yet.

What are some popular cannabis-infused beverages?

Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic are popular forms of cannabis-infused beverages. Customers can choose these drinks based on the level of THC it contains.

How long do the effects of cannabis-infused beverages last?

Since liquids are absorbed by the stomach more quickly than solids, the effects of cannabis beverages can be felt within 10 to 15 minutes of consumption. Nevertheless, the entire experience can last up to an hour to 90 minutes.