Cannabis tea for relaxation: short answer

Cannabis tea can help relaxation when the THC is decarboxylated and paired with fat. THC does not dissolve in water. A tea made by steeping raw flower in hot water delivers little THC. A tea made with heated flower and butter, milk, cream, or coconut oil can deliver THC. Oral THC starts in 30 to 120 minutes. Effects last 4 to 8 hours.

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How cannabis tea works

Cannabis flower contains THCA. Heat converts THCA to THC. This step is decarboxylation. Without heat, THCA stays in the flower and has little psychoactive effect. THC is fat-soluble. Water pulls flavor and some plant compounds, but not THC. Fat in milk, cream, butter, or oil carries THC into the drink.

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Oral THC goes through the liver. The liver converts THC to 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is potent. The result is a slower onset and a longer effect than inhaled THC.

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Steps to make cannabis tea

  1. Decarboxylate ground cannabis flower. Spread it on a baking sheet. Heat at 220°F to 240°F for 30 to 45 minutes.
  2. Combine the heated flower with water and a fat. Use 1 cup water and 1 cup whole milk, cream, or coconut oil for each gram of flower.
  3. Simmer at 160°F to 180°F for 20 to 45 minutes. Stir. Do not boil.
  4. Strain through a fine mesh filter or cheesecloth. Press the plant material to collect liquid.
  5. Cool. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Use within 3 to 5 days.

Potency varies by flower THC percentage, decarboxylation, fat content, and simmer time. A label on the flower gives THC percentage. A lab test gives a closer estimate. Home tea has no standard dose.

Cannabis for Relaxation Without Paranoia: Dose and Product Guide

Dose and timing

Start with 2.5 to 5 mg THC. Wait 2 hours before another serving. A common serving in legal products is 5 to 10 mg THC. Oral effects can last 4 to 8 hours. High doses can cause anxiety, dry mouth, fast heart rate, and impaired memory. Do not drive after drinking cannabis tea.

Safety and legal notes

Cannabis is illegal under federal law in the US. State laws vary. Buy from a licensed source in a state with legal cannabis. Check the package for THC content and contaminants. Avoid cannabis tea with alcohol. Talk to a clinician about drug interactions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and heart conditions. Keep tea away from children and pets.