At The Green Nugget, we love exploring different ways to enjoy cannabis. One popular and relaxing option is cannabis-infused tea, commonly known as weed tea. This warm, soothing beverage provides an alternative way to experience cannabis, whether you’re looking for a mindful ritual or a smoke-free option. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making weed tea, discuss potential effects, and share some helpful tips for the best experience.

What is Weed Tea?

Weed tea is a beverage made by infusing parts of the cannabis plant—such as flowers, leaves, or stems—into hot water. Unlike traditional edibles, which are baked or cooked with cannabis-infused fats, weed tea offers a lighter and more customizable alternative. Depending on the preparation method, it may contain a range of cannabinoids, which could contribute to different effects.

Potential Effects of Cannabis-Infused Tea

While research on cannabis-infused beverages is ongoing, some individuals report experiencing the following benefits after consuming weed tea:

• Relaxation and Calm: Some people find that cannabis tea can help create a sense of relaxation and ease, making it a popular choice for unwinding at the end of the day.
• Aromatherapeutic Enjoyment: The combination of cannabis with herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint may offer a pleasant sensory experience.
• Smoke-Free Alternative: For those who prefer not to smoke or vape, consuming cannabis in tea form provides another way to incorporate it into their lifestyle.
• Mindful Consumption: Drinking tea can be a slow, deliberate practice, encouraging mindful consumption and appreciation of the experience.

If you are considering cannabis tea for any wellness-related purpose, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Understanding Decarboxylation

Before brewing, it’s important to understand decarboxylation. Raw cannabis contains cannabinoids in their acidic forms, such as THCA and CBDA, which do not produce the same effects as activated THC or CBD. Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to convert these compounds into their active forms. This step is necessary when preparing cannabis for edibles or teas to ensure that the desired compounds are present in your brew.

How to Decarboxylate Cannabis:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 240°F (115°C).
2. Prepare the Cannabis: Break apart the cannabis buds into small pieces, avoiding grinding too finely.
3. Bake: Spread the cannabis evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cool: Allow the decarboxylated cannabis to cool before using it in your tea.

Simple Weed Tea Recipe

Now that your cannabis is decarboxylated, let’s brew a basic cup of weed tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or unsalted butter (aids in cannabinoid absorption)
• 4 cups of water
• Your choice of tea bag (green, black, herbal, etc.)
• Optional: honey, lemon, or other flavorings

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil.
2. Add Fat: Stir in coconut oil or butter to help bind cannabinoids, as they are not water-soluble.
3. Introduce Cannabis: Add the decarboxylated cannabis, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Strain: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a mug to remove plant material.
5. Add Tea Bag: Steep your chosen tea bag for 3-5 minutes.
6. Flavor: Enhance the taste with honey, lemon, or other natural additives.

Enjoy: Sip slowly and pay attention to how you feel before consuming more.

Alternative Methods and Enhancements

Using Cannabis-Infused Honey or Sugar

For an easy way to customize potency and sweetness, consider using cannabis-infused honey (cannahoney) or sugar (cannasugar). These can be prepared in advance and added to any tea for a convenient infusion.

Brewing with Cannabis Stems

If you have leftover cannabis stems, you can use them to make a milder version of weed tea:

1. Decarboxylate the Stems: As with flowers, bake the stems at 240°F (115°C) for 30-40 minutes.
2. Boil with Fat: Simmer the decarboxylated stems in water with a tablespoon of coconut oil or butter for 15-20 minutes.
3. Strain and Flavor: Remove plant material, add a tea bag, and flavor to taste.

This method allows you to make the most of your cannabis while enjoying a more subtle effect.

Dosage and Responsible Consumption

Determining the right dosage is important, particularly for those new to cannabis-infused beverages. Effects can take longer to set in compared to smoking, often ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Factors like strain type, individual tolerance, and preparation method all play a role in the final experience.

General Guidelines:

• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a small amount (e.g., 0.5 grams of cannabis) and wait at least an hour before considering more.
• Keep Track of Effects: Take note of how you feel and adjust future recipes accordingly.
• Consume in a Comfortable Setting: Especially if trying weed tea for the first time, choose a relaxing environment.

For those seeking guidance on strains and products, feel free to explore our cannabis dispensary selection at The Green Nugget’s online menu.

Weed tea offers a unique and enjoyable way to explore cannabis, whether for relaxation, a mindful ritual, or as a smoke-free alternative. By understanding the importance of decarboxylation, experimenting with different flavors, and consuming responsibly, you can craft a cannabis tea experience that suits your needs.

If you’re curious about more ways to enjoy cannabis, visit The Green Nugget’s blog for more tips and insights on cannabis culture and consumption!