Cannabis tea

Cannabis tea, also known as weed tea, pot tea, ganja tea, or a cannabis decoction, is a drink made by steeping various parts of the cannabis plant in hot or cold water. Recognized as an alternative method for preparing and consuming cannabis, it has been used both medicinally by health professionals worldwide to alleviate disease symptoms and recreationally for its psychoactive effects.

The effects of cannabis tea, which depend on the THC and CBD content, vary significantly with the preparation method, including the volume of water, the amount of cannabis used, and boiling time. Despite its historical and modern-day use, research on cannabis tea’s composition and effects is limited due to the plant’s legal status in many parts of the world.

Composition of Cannabis Tea:

• Composition influenced by steeping time, tea volume, and storage duration.
• Levels of THC and THCA impact variability.
• HPLC peak area determines bioactive cannabinoid levels.
• Different compositions based on bioactive cannabinoids present.
• Variability due to changing bioactivity.

Preparation of Cannabis Tea:

• Boiling for 15 minutes yields highest cannabinoid concentrations.
• Cannabis oil preparation ensures greater stability.
• Decarboxylation needed for psychoactive effects.
• Spices often added to enhance flavor.
• Simmering typically done for 5-10 minutes.

Folk Medicine Use:

• Historically used to treat rheumatism, cystitis, and urinary diseases.
• Centuries-old remedy for various ailments.
• Traditional use for therapeutic purposes.
• Long history of medicinal use.

Legal Status:

• Controlled as a cannabis derivative in most countries.
• Regulation varies based on THC levels.
• Some teas contain undetectable THC levels.
• Legal status depends on composition and preparation.
• Presence of CBD or CBN can alter legal standing.

Adverse Effects:

• Exist alongside therapeutic benefits.
• Mainly due to unconventional methods or dosages.
• Potential risks associated with consumption.
• Side effects documented in select studies.
• Adverse effects linked to decoction interaction.

Cannabis tea Data Sources