The Pros And Cons Of Cannabis-Infused Drinks

What Are Cannabis-Infused Drinks?

Cannabis-infused drinks are beverages made by infusing cannabis into them. This could be done using an oil, tincture or extract from the cannabis plant. Cannabis-infused drinks can come in many varieties, ranging from sodas and teas to cocktails and hard alcohols. They offer a unique way to consume marijuana without having to smoke it.

The Pros Of Cannabis-Infused Drinks

Cannabis-infused drinks offer a lot of good effects on our bodies. Here are some:

1. Easier To Dose

Cannabis-infused drinks are easier to dose than other forms of cannabis consumption, such as smoking or edibles. Cannabis-infused drinks provide a much more consistent and predictable experience because they often contain pre-measured amounts of THC or CBD in each serving. This makes it much easier for users to control the effects of their cannabis experience. Moreover, cannabis-infused drinks have a much shorter onset time than other forms of cannabis consumption, providing near-instantaneous effects which allow users to adjust their dose more quickly and efficiently. Finally, many consumers find that the taste and smell of cannabis-infused drinks are less intense and more enjoyable than smoking or edibles. Ultimately, cannabis-infused drinks make it easier for users to find the perfect dose for their desired experience.

2. Healthier Alternative

Cannabis-infused drinks offer a healthier alternative to other forms of cannabis consumption because they allow for precise dosing, require fewer calories and provide longer lasting effects. Additionally, many infused beverages are made with natural ingredients, such as herbal teas or fruit juices, which can provide additional health benefits. For example, some CBD-infused drinks are made with adaptogenic herbs, providing a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds while also delivering the desired effects of cannabis. Furthermore, cannabis-infused drinks may cause fewer side effects than smoking because they do not involve combustion and inhalation of smoke. All in all, cannabis-infused beverages offer an easy way to get the desired effects of cannabis without having to inhale smoke, making it a healthier choice for many.

3. Easier To Craft

Cannabis-infused drinks are relatively easy to create because of their low dose format. As opposed to edibles, which require precise measurements and often a longer infusion time, cannabis-infused beverages can be tailored quickly and easily to the individual’s desired cannabinoid profile. Additionally, they tend to have a more consistent effect compared to edibles, since they are absorbed more rapidly by the body. Furthermore, infused beverages can provide a refreshing and enjoyable way to consume cannabis without needing to smoke or vape. As such, these drinks have become increasingly popular in recent years as consumers look for new and interesting ways to incorporate cannabis into their lives. By carefully controlling the dose and crafting unique flavors, cannabis-infused drinks offer a great way to change up your cannabis consumption and explore new experiences.

4. Discreet

Cannabis-infused drinks offer an alternative to smoking marijuana and are often seen as a much more discreet option. They are designed to be consumed in small sips which make it easier to control how much of the active ingredients you take. Unlike smoking, consuming cannabis-infused drinks does not produce any smoke or smell that could be detected by others. Furthermore, unlike edibles which can look like normal food items such as cookies or gummy bears, cannabis-infused drinks are often packaged in containers that make it clear that they contain marijuana and therefore more discreet when consuming them around other people. Additionally, because the effects of consuming cannabis-infused drinks can take a while to kick in, you can enjoy them without worrying about being under the influence of marijuana for too long.

The Cons of Cannabis-Infused Drinks

As with anything, there are some cons associated with cannabis-infused drinks as well. Here are a few:

1. Longer Onset Time

Cannabis-infused drinks typically have a longer onset time than other forms of cannabis consumption because of the digestion process. When consuming an edible or beverage, the cannabinoids must first pass through the digestive system before being absorbed into the bloodstream and making their way to the brain. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the individual’s metabolism, for the effects to kick in. Furthermore, food and beverages tend to reduce the potency of cannabis, so it can take longer for a person to feel the effects. By comparison, inhalation through smoking or vaping delivers cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream via the lungs, resulting in a much shorter onset time – typically only a few minutes. Thus, individuals who are seeking a quick onset of effects will generally opt for inhalation over ingestion. However, those wanting to enjoy the subtle and delayed effects of cannabis-infused drinks may find them more desirable.

2. Less Control Over Dosing

Cannabis-infused drinks generally have less control over dosing because of their lower concentration levels. The amount of THC that can be found in a single drink is often significantly lower than what would be found in an edible or other cannabis product. This means that it might take several servings to reach the desired effect, making it more difficult to accurately dose. Additionally, because cannabis-infused drinks are often made with carbonated beverages, their effects can be felt sooner than those of other cannabis products. For this reason, it is important to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it until the desired effect has been achieved. It is also important to remember that everyone's tolerance levels are different, so it is best to consult with a medical professional before starting any cannabis-product dosing regimen.

3. Lack Of Flavor

Cannabis-infused drinks lack flavor because the terpenes, or natural flavors and aromas, are largely absent due to the solvents used in extraction. In order for a cannabis extract to be water soluble and suitable for drinkable products, it must first go through an extensive extraction process that often requires high temperatures and harsh solvents like butane, propane or ethanol. These solvents strip away the terpenes which normally provide the aroma and flavor of cannabis. Without these key components, cannabis-infused drinks tend to be tasteless and odorless. Furthermore, due to their high concentration of cannabinoid compounds, they can leave a bitter aftertaste. For this reason, many companies add flavors and sweeteners to their products in order to mask the taste of cannabis. However, these can often be overpowering or artificial-tasting. Therefore, it is important for manufacturers to focus on creating clean, natural tasting beverages that still provide the desired effects of cannabis without being too pungent or bitter.

4. Expense

Cannabis-infused drinks are typically more expensive than other cannabis products because they require additional processing and ingredients. In order to make a cannabis-infused beverage, the cannabis must first be decarboxylated in order to activate the cannabinoids and terpenes. This process requires specialized equipment, as well as skilled technicians, which drives up the cost. Furthermore, cannabis-infused drinks often contain additional ingredients such as flavorings or sweeteners to give them a more palatable taste. All of these factors contribute to why cannabis-infused beverages are generally more expensive than other cannabis products. But for many people, the higher price tag is well worth it for the unique experience and enjoyable taste.

Cannabis-infused drinks can be a great way to consume marijuana without having to smoke it, but they also come with some drawbacks. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if cannabis-infused drinks are right for you. To ensure that you get the most out of your experience, be sure to use high-quality products and follow all dosing instructions carefully. With a little bit of experimentation, you will find the perfect cannabis-infused drink for you!

Whether it's in tea, soda, or cocktails, cannabis-infused drinks can be a great way to enjoy marijuana in a different way. Just remember to do your research, read instructions, and do it carefully for the best experience.