How to Make Weed Tea: Guide to Brewing Cannabis-Infused Tea

Weed tea is an increasingly popular alternative method of consuming cannabis, providing a cozy and relaxing experience that many users enjoy. It offers the benefits of cannabis without the need to smoke, vape, or consume calorie-laden edibles.

In this detailed guide, we will explore the process of making weed tea, discuss its effects, and provide useful information for those looking to brew their perfect cup.

Understanding the Effects of Weed Tea

Before diving into the process of making weed tea, it’s essential to understand how the effects of cannabis-infused tea differ from other consumption methods.

The Digestive Journey of Cannabis Tea

Like edibles, cannabis tea must pass through your digestive system before entering your bloodstream. Afterward, it is metabolized in the liver. You can expect to feel the effects of weed tea within 30-90 minutes, depending on factors such as the cannabis strain, your recent food intake, and your individual endocannabinoid system.

Duration of Effects

Due to the slow onset of effects, you may be tempted to consume more tea quickly. However, it’s crucial to wait at least two hours before having another cup. The effects of weed tea can last for 7-8 hours, providing a long-lasting and enjoyable experience.

The High: Will Cannabis Tea Get Me High?

To experience the euphoric effects associated with cannabis, the THCA present in the plant must convert to THC through a process called decarboxylation, which requires heat. This process occurs naturally when consuming cannabis through smoking or vaping. Heat also helps CBDA convert into CBD, the primary medicinal component in cannabis.

In edibles, decarboxylation occurs when the cannabis is cooked, usually with oils or butter. The fat binds to the cannabinoids and extracts THC from the plant matter. The same principle applies when making weed tea.

Choosing the Right Cannabis Strain for Your Tea

The strain of cannabis you choose for your weed tea will significantly impact the overall experience. Different strains offer varying effects, so it’s essential to select one that aligns with your desired outcome.

Indica Strains

Indica strains are known for their relaxing, sedative effects. They are ideal for those looking to unwind, alleviate stress, or improve sleep quality.

Sativa Strains

Sativa strains, on the other hand, are more energizing and uplifting. They can provide a boost of alertness and focus, making them suitable for daytime consumption or when paired with caffeine in the morning.

Hybrid Strains

Hybrid strains offer a balanced combination of both indica and sativa effects. These strains can provide a more well-rounded experience, making them suitable for various occasions.

Preparing Your Cannabis for Tea

Before brewing your cannabis tea, you must properly prepare the cannabis material to ensure that it effectively infuses with the water.

Decarboxylation: Activating Your Cannabis

As mentioned earlier, decarboxylation is a crucial step in the process of making weed tea. To decarboxylate your cannabis, preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread your cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Once your cannabis has turned a golden-brown color, it is ready for use.

Grinding Your Cannabis

Next, you’ll need to grind your decarboxylated cannabis to increase the surface area and improve the infusion process. A medium to fine grind is ideal for weed tea, ensuring that the plant matter fully infuses with the water.

Simple Weed Tea Recipe: Infusing with Fat

With your cannabis prepared, it’s time to brew your weed tea. This recipe utilizes fat, such as coconut oil or unsalted butter, to extract cannabinoids from the cannabis plant effectively.

Ingredients and Supplies

To make your weed tea, you’ll need the following:

• 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or unsalted butter
• 4 cups of water
• A teabag of your choice
• Your preferred sweetener
• A strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth
• A teapot, mug, and spoon

Brewing Your Weed Tea

1. Chop or slightly grind your cannabis, separating all the seeds and stems.
2. Boil the water on a stovetop and add the coconut oil or butter, stirring vigorously until it dissolves.
3. Add the teabag and your cannabis, lower the flame, and continue simmering for 7-10 minutes. Keep stirring every minute or so. A lower temperature will help preserve the medicinal properties of the plant.
4. Remove the teapot from the stove, discard the teabag, and strain the tea slowly and carefully. If you prefer to use a metal strainer, make sure it’s a very fine one, or you’ll have bits of leaves in your mug. Discard any excess plant matter.
5. Sweeten your tea to taste and add milk or lemon as you prefer. You can also opt to add a cinnamon stick or a sprig of peppermint to the hot tea to mask the characteristic weed flavor.

Alternative Weed Tea Recipe: Alcohol-Based Infusion

If you prefer to avoid using fat in your weed tea, you can opt for an alcohol-based infusion instead. This method prevents the fat from collecting at the surface of your beverage, making for a more enjoyable tea-drinking experience.

Ingredients and Supplies

To make your alcohol-infused weed tea, you’ll need the following:

• 1-2 grams of decarboxylated cannabis
• High-proof alcohol (such as Everclear)
• A mason jar
• A teabag of your choice
• Your preferred sweetener
• A strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth
• A teapot, mug, and spoon

Preparing Your Alcohol-Based Cannabis Infusion

1. Place your decarboxylated cannabis in a mason jar, and add enough high-proof alcohol to cover the cannabis completely.
2. Seal the jar tightly, and shake it vigorously for a few minutes.
3. Store the jar in a dark, cool place for at least 48 hours, shaking it occasionally to ensure proper infusion.

Brewing Your Alcohol-Infused Weed Tea

1. Strain the alcohol-infused cannabis mixture through a strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth to remove plant matter.
2. Boil water on a stovetop, and add the teabag of your choice.
3. Lower the flame, and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
4. Remove the teapot from the stove, and discard the teabag.
5. Add 1-2 tablespoons of the alcohol-infused cannabis mixture to your mug, along with your preferred sweetener.
6. Pour the hot tea over the alcohol-infused cannabis mixture in your mug, and stir well.

Using Cannabis-Infused Products in Your Tea

If you have access to cannabis-infused products like butter, oil, honey, or tinctures, you can easily make weed tea by steeping these extracts in hot water with a teabag of your choice. Mix thoroughly, add your preferred sweetener, and enjoy.

Don’t Forget About the Stems: Weed Stem Tea

Remember those cannabis stems you separated earlier? You can use them to brew weed stem tea and get even more out of your cannabis.

Ingredients and Supplies

To make weed stem tea, you’ll need the following:

• Cannabis stems (ideally, enough to fill at least a tablespoon)
• 4 cups of water
• A teabag of your choice
• Your preferred sweetener
• A strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth
• A teapot, mug, and spoon

Brewing Your Weed Stem Tea

1. Chop or grind your cannabis stems finely.
2. Boil the water on a stovetop, and add the teabag and chopped stems.
3. Lower the flame, and continue simmering for 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
4. Remove the teapot from the stove, discard the teabag, and strain the tea carefully, removing any excess plant matter.
5. Sweeten your tea to taste and enjoy.

Final Thoughts on Making Weed Tea

Weed tea provides a unique and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of cannabis. With a bit of patience and practice, you can brew a delicious and potent cup of cannabis-infused tea that suits your preferences. Remember to start slow and wait for the effects before consuming more. Enjoy your cozy and relaxing cannabis tea experience!