Gone are the days when edibles were limited to brownies and gummies. A new wave of cannabis consumption has taken center stage—cannabis infused drinks. From THC-laced seltzers to CBD herbal teas, infused beverages are quickly becoming one of the most innovative and approachable ways to enjoy cannabis. Whether you’re new to the scene or looking for a smoother experience than smoking or vaping, these drinks offer an ideal blend of discretion, taste, and effect.
What Are Cannabis Infused Drinks?
Cannabis infused drinks are beverages that have been formulated with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, or both. These drinks are typically created using nanoemulsion technology, which breaks down cannabinoids into tiny particles to allow for more consistent infusion and faster absorption in the body. This technology helps address a major challenge with cannabis edibles: the long wait time before effects kick in.
Infused drinks come in various forms, including sparkling waters, sodas, teas, juices, mocktails, and even drink mixers. They offer a wide range of potencies and ratios—some are THC-heavy for those seeking a buzz, while others lean into CBD for wellness or relaxation without the high.
How Do They Work Compared to Other Edibles?
When you eat a traditional cannabis edible, it’s digested in your stomach and processed by your liver, which takes time—often 30 minutes to two hours—before effects are felt. With cannabis infused drinks, nanoemulsified cannabinoids begin absorbing in your mouth and digestive tract almost immediately. This means users may feel effects in as little as 10 to 20 minutes.
This faster onset time gives you better control over your experience. If you're aiming to unwind without being glued to your couch hours later, cannabis drinks give you more predictability and flexibility.
Benefits of Cannabis Infused Beverages
Discretion: You can sip an infused seltzer at a picnic, a barbecue, or a social event without drawing attention. There’s no smoke, no odor, and no paraphernalia involved.
Dosing Control: Most cannabis beverages come in single-serve cans with 2.5 to 10mg of THC, allowing you to start slow and scale up if needed. Compared to the unpredictability of homemade edibles, this is a big win for consistency and safety.
Calorie Conscious: Many cannabis drinks are low-calorie, sugar-free, or health-focused, making them a good alternative to alcohol or high-sugar sodas. THC teas and infused waters appeal especially to health-conscious consumers.
Alcohol Alternative: These beverages offer a social buzz without the hangover. For those cutting back on drinking, cannabis infused drinks provide a euphoric yet manageable alternative with fewer side effects.
Types of Cannabis Infused Drinks
- THC Seltzers: Light, bubbly, and flavored, these are among the most popular. Think LaCroix with a kick.
- CBD Teas: Often caffeine-free and calming, great for evening relaxation.
- Mocktails and Mixers: Designed for social settings, these emulate classic cocktails—without the alcohol.
- Functional Wellness Beverages: These might combine cannabinoids with adaptogens, herbs, or vitamins for specific effects like sleep, focus, or energy.
What to Know Before Trying One
Like any cannabis product, start low and go slow. Even if a drink contains only 2.5 mg of THC, effects can vary depending on your body, tolerance, and whether you’ve eaten. If you're new to THC, begin with a low-dose drink and wait at least 45 minutes before consuming more.
Also check the label. Does the drink contain full-spectrum cannabis (which may include trace cannabinoids and terpenes), or is it made with THC isolate? Are there added sugars, artificial flavors, or other ingredients that might affect how you feel?
Finally, always purchase from licensed dispensaries that test their products and provide detailed information about ingredients and potency.
Are Cannabis Drinks Legal?
In states like Colorado where recreational cannabis is legal, cannabis beverages are available at licensed dispensaries. However, they’re still regulated like any other infused product, meaning you can’t consume them in public, drive under the influence, or transport them across state lines. Always check your local laws before purchasing or using any infused product.
Who Are They Good For?
Cannabis infused drinks are a great option for:
- People who don’t want to smoke or vape
- Anyone looking for a social or relaxing experience without alcohol
- Those who want faster onset than edibles, but a smoother effect than dabs or flower
- Consumers interested in wellness-focused cannabis options
They're especially ideal for newer cannabis users who want a gentle entry point, or for regular users seeking a clean, controlled alternative to traditional consumption methods.
The Future is Liquid
The cannabis beverage market is expected to grow substantially over the next few years as more consumers seek health-conscious, smoke-free alternatives to enjoy THC and CBD. As formulations improve and distribution expands, drinks may soon rival edibles and flower in popularity.
If you’ve never tried a cannabis infused drink before, consider this your invitation. It’s an exciting, flavorful, and refreshingly simple way to explore what cannabis can offer—without the smoke, sugar, or unpredictability. Visit your local dispensary and sip for yourself.
