What Are Marijuana Beverages & THC-Infused Drinks?

A marijuana drink or beverage is a type of THC and/or CBD-infused product, also called a THC drink, that’s growing more popular every month.¹ These drinks include:

• Cannabis-Infused Seltzers - THC seltzers and kombuchas are the most common products available, and they're made in a variety of flavor mixtures.
  
  
• Cannabis Teas - If you prefer a cold tea, there are cannabis teas available at many local dispensaries. There are also THC- and CBD-infused tea bags, although these are a bit more difficult to find. When in doubt, you can make your own cannabis tea!
  
  
• Cannabis-Infused Soda - These THC drinks are similar to seltzers but come with a cola-like flavor.
  
  

Marijuana beverages are typically enjoyed socially by cannabis users who prefer cannabis to alcohol, or wish to experience cannabis in a different way. Why? Because a cannabis beverage allows you to mingle with other people who may prefer beer or wine without feeling like you’re standing out from the crowd. That being said, if you enjoy edibles, cannabis drinks can be a great option to have around the house, too. 

Most marijuana drinks include CBD and/or THC in different ratios. While THC will give you the psychoactive effects you expect from cannabis products, the CBD is a less-intoxicating ingredient that helps create a more balanced experience than you might get from a product with only THC. There are also some beverages on the market that are strictly CBD-focused, but for the purposes of this guide, we’ll focus on those that contain both. 

To make THC drinks, most manufacturers use a process called nanoemulsion. Nanoemulsion breaks the cannabis oil down into nanoparticles that are then blended with a liquid, be it juice, coffee, seltzer, or water. This process ensures a better blend, so consumers can trust they’re getting a more even dose of THC with every sip.² 

From there, THC seltzers and other drinks work much like any other edible. As you sip your drink, THC and CBD enter your body and start to affect the Endocannabinoid System. This can lead to a feeling of intoxication commonly experienced with cannabis products. Typically, it takes only about 15-20 minutes to start feeling the effects of a cannabis beverage.³

 

Our expert budtenders get plenty of questions about cannabis beverages. Here are just a few of the most common:

How much CBD and THC are in cannabis seltzers?

Some brands have dosages that vary between 2 mg of THC (with 4 mg of CBD) and 5 mg of THC (with no CBD), and other companies offer dosages that can go up to 100 mg of THC per beverage. You should always know your tolerance levels and consume accordingly, and of course, when in doubt, opt for a lower dose (even if it means just a few sips of a beverage). 

Do cannabis drinks contain alcohol?

No, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau does not allow cannabis-infused beverages to contain alcohol.⁴ 

How can you purchase a THC-infused drink?

Cannabis beverages are only available for purchase at state-licensed dispensaries in states that have approved the sale of cannabis. There are some states that do not allow cannabis beverage sales in state-approved dispensaries, so you’ll need to check local menus to see what’s available in your state.

Purchasing Cannabis Seltzers 

If you enjoy different types of edibles and you’re looking for a unique drink to enjoy socially, THC beverages could be the perfect solution for you. There are countless varieties to choose from, allowing you to try your favorite flavors and see if you enjoy cannabis drinks. To get started, be sure to visit your local dispensary. An expert budtender can walk you through the beverages available in your area and answer any questions you might have about a product.