Effects of Cannabis Infused Drinks
Cannabis-infused drinks such as seltzers and teas are becoming increasingly popular on the market, often available through online retailers or dispensaries. While these drinks may provide an easy and discreet method of ingestion for those who do not wish to smoke or vape cannabis, it is essential that users understand all potential side effects prior to drinking one of these beverages.
Infusing cannabis is an easy and time-intensive process. First, the cannabis must be decarboxylated by baking in order to activate its cannabinoids like THC and CBD – this is called decarbing and can be completed using either a double boiler with fat-based products like butter or ghee or by stirring periodically during its cooking at low temperature over four hours at low heat to avoid burning it.
Once the cannabis has been added to a fatty product, it must be strained in order to remove all plant material and produce an effective and high-quality infusion. Once removed from the infusion, it must be placed into refrigeration as this will protect cannabinoids from degrading prematurely and leading to psychoactive effects.
Infusing cannabis is not only a popular method for recreational cannabis consumption, but is also widely practiced within the medical industry. Infusions are used to produce edibles, topicals and tinctures; depending on their type and desired outcome they may produce different strains with various effects.
While cannabis-infused food and beverages have become more and more popular, few laboratory studies have been undertaken to assess their physiological and behavioral responses after ingestion. One such experiment (Cone, Johnson, Paul, Mell & Mitchell 1988) involved giving participants cannabis-infused brownies as part of the experiment and measuring various behavioral and physiological measures related to drug effects; results demonstrated favorable responses lasting between 3 hours after ingestion and up to 24 hours post ingestion.
To prevent overdosing and avoid potential negative side effects, cannabis consumers are encouraged to begin with small serving sizes and gradually increase them over time. This advice applies specifically for infused beverages which tend to take effect more slowly compared to smoking or vaping, so businesses selling such beverages must promote responsible usage – for example by informing their customers it may take 30-2 hours until they feel the effects. Likewise, cannabis-infused beverages should never be consumed while driving or operating machinery.