Can you make tea out of cannabis leaves?

Introduction

The age-old question persists: can you make tea from cannabis leaves? The short answer is yes; however, there are some nuances to this process, and understanding these details is crucial for those looking to explore the benefits of cannabis in a different form.

Understanding the Chemistry of Cannabis

CBD and THC, the two main compounds found in cannabis, do not dissolve in water but rather in fats and oils. Therefore, making tea using just green cannabis leaves is not the most effective method to extract these beneficial compounds. However, brewing tea with cannabis leaves can still provide a subtle infusion of cannabinoids, particularly when done correctly.

Standard Extraction Methods

If the goal is to create a full infusion of cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, tinctures and edibles are the preferred methods. For instance, many college students have attempted to brew marijuana leaves in vodka as a crude form of extraction. Despite some initial failures, the process can yield potent results.

Health Benefits of Cannabis Tea

Using cannabis leaves in tea can offer several health benefits. Raw unprocessed cannabis leaves contain significant amounts of chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for the plant's characteristic hue. Chlorophyll is known to have detoxifying properties and can boost the immune system. Additionally, it has a slightly sweet taste that can balance the bitterness of the cannabis infusion in the tea.

Specific Brewing Methods

Recipe 1

1. Start with any part of the cannabis plant that contains cannabinoids, such as flower, stems, kief, hash, trim, or shake. Flower is the most common choice for its higher concentration of cannabinoids.

2. Decarb your raw plant matter to activate the THC and other cannabinoids. This process involves heating the cannabis at a low temperature to convert THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) into THC.

3. Infuse the decarbed cannabis into water or a tea base. This can be done by steeping the leaves in cold water for a longer period or using hot water, similar to how you would brew regular tea.

Recipe 2

1. Dry cure and decarb the cannabis to remove excess moisture and preserve the potency.

2. Soak the cannabis in extremely cold water while vigorously stirring to release the trichomes and chlorophyll.

3. Heat the mixture to your personal preference to enhance the flavor and release more of the cannabinoids.

Conclusion

If you're looking to add some extra flavor and potential health benefits to your tea, using green cannabis leaves can be a viable option. However, remember to remove the leaves before drinking, as they can be overly bitter. Experiment with different methods to find the one that best suits your preferences and desired outcomes. Happy brewing!