How to make cannabis tea: 7 Powerful Tips for Relaxing Results 2025

The Gentle Art of Cannabis Infusion

How to make cannabis tea is a delightful ritual that brings together the therapeutic benefits of cannabis with the comfort of a warm beverage. The process is beautifully simple: combine decarboxylated cannabis with a fat source and hot water, then let it simmer to perfection before enjoying your creation.

Here’s your pathway to a perfect cup:

1. Decarboxylate your cannabis: Activate those beneficial compounds by heating ground flower at 230°F for 30-45 minutes
2. Add fat: Blend 1 tablespoon of butter or coconut oil with 1 cup of water (this helps those fat-soluble cannabinoids dissolve)
3. Add cannabis: Start with 0.5-1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis per cup for your first brew
4. Simmer gently: Let the mixture heat for 15-30 minutes, keeping it below boiling to preserve delicate compounds
5. Strain thoroughly: Remove plant material using a fine mesh strainer for a smooth drinking experience
6. Flavor to taste: Transform your medicinal brew with tea bags, honey, or a squeeze of lemon

I’ve found that many of our Terp Bros customers are drawn to cannabis tea as a lung-friendly alternative to smoking. The effects tend to last significantly longer too – typically 4-8 hours compared to the 1-3 hours you might experience from smoking. There’s something special about sipping a warm, infused beverage that connects us to an ancient tradition dating back to 2737 B.C.

When you drink your cannabis rather than smoke it, the cannabinoids travel through your digestive system, creating a more gradual onset with a deeply relaxing, body-focused experience. This makes it perfect for those seeking prolonged relief or gentle relaxation without respiratory irritation.

As the owner of Terp Bros, New York’s pioneering legal cannabis dispensary, I’ve spent years experimenting with how to make cannabis tea techniques that strike the perfect balance of potency, flavor, and therapeutic benefits. Our community members particularly appreciate having smoke-free options that still deliver the full spectrum of cannabis benefits.

Want to explore more cannabis cooking techniques? Check out our guides on How to dose cannabis edibles and How to make cannabutter to expand your cannabis culinary skills.

What Is Cannabis Tea and Why Choose It?

Picture this: an ancient Egyptian healer carefully brewing a cannabis-infused drink, or an Indian family preparing traditional bhang for a festival. Cannabis tea isn’t just some modern trend—it’s one of humanity’s oldest cannabis preparations, with roots stretching back thousands of years across multiple civilizations.

At Terp Bros, we’ve watched more and more of our Queens community members find this gentle alternative to smoking. But what exactly makes this ancient preparation so special?

Cannabis tea is essentially what it sounds like—an infusion of cannabis in hot water, typically with a fat source to help extract the beneficial compounds. Unlike smoking, which sends cannabinoids straight to your bloodstream through your lungs, drinking cannabis introduces these compounds through your digestive system, creating an entirely different experience.

“Cannabis tea produces a more body-centered high that can last up to 8 hours,” one of our regular customers told us after switching from smoking to tea for managing her chronic pain. This extended duration makes it perfect for those seeking longer-lasting relief without constantly re-dosing.

The therapeutic potential of cannabis tea is backed by science too. Research published in the Journal of Pain Research suggests that oral cannabis preparations may provide significant relief for chronic pain conditions, with longer-lasting effects than inhaled methods. Beyond pain management, cannabis tea offers several potential benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory properties that may help with conditions like arthritis
• Neuroprotective effects from cannabinoids, particularly CBD
• Potential relief from nausea, especially for those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy
• Relaxation and stress reduction without the harshness of smoke

Benefits Over Other Methods

What makes cannabis tea stand out from other consumption methods? For starters, the effects typically last 4-8 hours—significantly longer than the 1-3 hours you might get from smoking or vaping. This extended duration means fewer doses throughout the day if you’re using cannabis medicinally.

For folks with respiratory concerns, tea eliminates the lung irritation associated with smoking. As one Terp Bros customer with COPD shared, “Tea has been a game-changer for me. I can finally get relief without harming my lungs.”

The discretion factor can’t be overlooked either. Cannabis tea looks and often smells just like regular tea—no lingering cannabis odor on your clothes or in your apartment. You can carry it in a thermos like any other beverage, making it perfect for New Yorkers on the go.

Many of our customers also appreciate the gentler, more gradual onset. Unlike the immediate effects of smoking, cannabis tea produces a buildup that many find more manageable and less overwhelming. This slower onset allows for better control over your experience.

Plus, you can completely customize both potency and flavor by adjusting ingredients and steeping time. Want something milder? Use less cannabis. Prefer a tastier brew? Add your favorite tea flavors or spices.

Potential Risks & Side Effects

While cannabis tea offers many benefits, we believe in honest conversations about potential risks:

The delayed onset (30-90 minutes) can sometimes lead to overconsumption. We’ve all heard the story—someone gets impatient waiting for effects, takes more, and then both doses hit at once. At Terp Bros, we always advise our customers to wait at least 2 hours before considering an additional dose.

Homemade cannabis tea can also vary in strength depending on your preparation methods, the potency of your cannabis, and your individual metabolism. This inconsistency can make dosing challenging, especially for beginners.

Common side effects include dry mouth, temporary dizziness, increased heart rate, red eyes, and drowsiness. Higher doses, particularly with THC-rich preparations, might cause anxiety or paranoia in some people.

It’s also worth noting that cannabis can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and some heart medications. We recommend checking with your healthcare provider before using cannabis tea if you take prescription medications.

Understanding these potential drawbacks doesn’t mean you should avoid cannabis tea—it just means approaching it with knowledge and respect, starting with low doses until you understand how your body responds. Like any wellness practice, it’s about finding what works best for your unique system.

The Science Behind the Brew: Decarboxylation & Extraction

Ever wonder why you can’t just toss some raw cannabis into hot water and expect magic to happen? The secret to potent how to make cannabis tea lies in understanding two critical processes: decarboxylation and proper extraction.

Think of decarboxylation as “activating” your cannabis. In its natural state, cannabis contains mostly inactive compounds like THCA and CBDA. These compounds won’t produce the effects you’re looking for until they undergo a chemical change. When you heat cannabis to specific temperatures, these inactive compounds lose a carboxyl group (COOH) and transform into their active versions – THC and CBD.

“I always explain to our Terp Bros customers that decarboxylation is like turning on the light switch for cannabis,” says Jeremy, our head budtender. “Without this step, you’re essentially drinking plant-flavored water with minimal effects.”

This change is automatic when smoking (thanks to the high temperatures), but for tea, we need to deliberately create this change before brewing.

The second challenge is extraction. Cannabis compounds are fat-loving, not water-loving. They’re like shy guests at a party who only come out when their best friends (fats) are around.

One regular customer at our Queens location laughs about his first attempt at cannabis tea: “I just threw some flower in hot water and waited. Let’s just say I wasted good product and learned an important lesson about cannabinoid solubility!”

Research published in the Journal of Molecular Structure confirms what we’ve observed – pairing cannabinoids with fat dramatically improves absorption, increasing THC bioavailability by 2.5 times and CBD by 3 times. This is why adding butter, coconut oil, or whole milk is essential for making truly effective cannabis tea.

Must-Know Decarboxylation Steps

For properly activated cannabis tea, follow these simple decarboxylation steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 220-230°F (104-110°C). This temperature sweet spot activates cannabinoids without burning off the beneficial compounds.

2. Grind your cannabis lightly – think coarse ground coffee, not fine powder. Too fine and you’ll end up with gritty tea; too chunky and the heat won’t penetrate effectively.

3. Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving the pieces room to breathe.

4. Bake for 30-45 minutes, checking occasionally. Fresh, moist cannabis might need the full 45 minutes, while drier material could be ready sooner.

5. Look for a subtle color change to light golden brown – if it’s turning dark brown, your temperature is too high.

“The smell during decarboxylation can be quite noticeable,” admits one of our Astoria customers. “I put my ground cannabis in an oven-safe glass jar with the lid slightly loosened during heating. Works perfectly and keeps my apartment from smelling like a dispensary!”

Choosing Your Carrier Medium

Since water and cannabinoids don’t mix well naturally, selecting the right fat carrier is crucial for extraction. Here are your best options:

Butter or Ghee creates a rich, full-bodied tea with excellent cannabinoid extraction. The milk solids in butter contribute to a creamy mouthfeel that many of our customers prefer. Ghee (clarified butter) offers similar benefits with less dairy content.

Coconut Oil is popular among our health-conscious Queens customers. Its high concentration of MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) may improve cannabinoid absorption. “I love the subtle tropical notes coconut oil adds to my evening cannabis tea,” shares one regular Terp Bros visitor.

Full-Fat Milk or Cream creates a smoother, latte-like experience. The natural phospholipids in milk help encapsulate cannabinoids similar to traditional Indian bhang preparations. Many find this creates a less oily mouthfeel than using butter or oils.

High-Proof Alcohol works for those avoiding fats. A few teaspoons of vodka or grain alcohol can help bind cannabinoids without adding calories, though extraction may not be as complete as with fat-based methods.

MCT Oil is essentially refined coconut oil that remains liquid at room temperature with virtually no flavor. It’s perfect for those who want effective extraction without altering their tea’s taste.

“Don’t stress if you don’t have the ‘perfect’ fat source,” our budtenders often advise. “Even a tablespoon of half-and-half from your fridge will significantly improve your cannabis tea compared to using water alone.”

Understanding these scientific principles transforms your cannabis tea experience from disappointing to delightful. With proper decarboxylation and fat extraction, you’ll open up the full potential of your herbs in every soothing sip.

How to Make Cannabis Tea: Core Recipe

Now that we understand the science, let’s dive into a reliable, basic recipe for cannabis tea that you can easily customize to your preferences. This core method forms the foundation for countless variations.

Step-by-Step: How to make cannabis tea with flower

Making the perfect cup of cannabis tea is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll be enjoying a soothing, therapeutic beverage in no time.

Ingredients:
– 0.5-1 gram decarboxylated cannabis flower (start with 0.5g if you’re new to this)
– 1 tablespoon butter, coconut oil, or other fat source
– 1 cup water
– Optional: tea bag of your choice, honey, lemon, cinnamon, or other flavorings
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon sunflower lecithin (helps cannabinoids absorb better)

You’ll need a small saucepan, a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, a tea infuser if you’re using loose leaf tea, and your favorite mug.

Start by bringing water to a gentle simmer in your saucepan. Avoid boiling vigorously as high heat can damage those precious cannabinoids. Add your chosen fat source and stir until it’s completely melted and mixed in. This fat is crucial for binding with the cannabis compounds.

Next, add your decarboxylated cannabis to the water-fat mixture. If you’re using lecithin, now’s the time to add it and stir well. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. Keep the lid on to prevent evaporation and cannabinoid loss. If you notice the water level dropping, just add a little more hot water.

If you’d like to add tea for flavor, drop in a tea bag or loose tea in an infuser during the last 3-5 minutes. Then remove from heat and strain the mixture through your fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into your mug. Give the plant material a gentle press to extract all that goodness.

Now’s the time to personalize your brew with honey, lemon, or spices to taste. Let it cool slightly before drinking—extremely hot tea can degrade cannabinoids and nobody needs a burnt tongue!

Eva Johnson, a Terp Bros customer with chronic insomnia, shared: “I’m going to try the easy method tonight. I have chronic insomnia, fibromyalgia, lupus, widespread arthritis to name a few. This tea has helped me get actual restful sleep for the first time in years.”

For those days when you just don’t have the time or energy for brewing, we offer convenient pre-made options like Harney Brothers Cannabis Tea Sachets Daytime Tea 5pk 50mg at Terp Bros. These provide consistent dosing and delicious flavors without any prep work.

Quick Mug Method: How to make cannabis tea using tincture

Not everyone has 30 minutes to simmer a pot of cannabis tea. For those busy days when you need something quick and reliable, cannabis tincture is your best friend:

Simply steep your favorite tea bag in hot (not boiling) water for the recommended time. Remove the tea bag and let your tea cool slightly—this step is important because adding tincture to boiling water can degrade cannabinoids and evaporate alcohol.

Add your desired dose of tincture, starting small with 0.25-0.5 ml if you’re new to cannabis tea. For reference, most tincture droppers dispense about 1 ml when fully squeezed. Stir thoroughly to distribute the tincture evenly, then add any honey, lemon, or other flavorings you enjoy.

This quick method gives you several advantages: precise, consistent dosing that’s hard to achieve with flower, no cooking required, compatibility with any tea variety you love, and it can be prepared in just minutes.

“I keep a small bottle of tincture at home specifically for adding to evening tea,” shares Michael, a Queens resident and Terp Bros regular. “It’s so much easier than the full brewing process, especially when I just want a quick cup before bed.”

The tincture method is perfect for those who want to know exactly how much THC or CBD they’re consuming, making it ideal for medicinal users or those who are still finding their optimal dose. Plus, it’s discreet enough to prepare anywhere you can make a regular cup of tea.

Beyond the Basics: Methods & Flavor Customization

Once you’ve mastered the basic how to make cannabis tea techniques, a whole world of variations awaits! Cannabis tea is incredibly versatile, allowing you to personalize your experience based on your preferences, needs, and what you have available in your kitchen.

Alternative Preparation Methods

Did you know those cannabis stems you’ve been tossing out still have value? Stem tea makes excellent use of these often-discarded parts. While stems contain lower concentrations of cannabinoids, they can create a pleasantly mild tea. “I save my stems in a jar and make tea once a month—it’s the perfect gentle weekend relaxer,” shares Alex, a regular Terp Bros customer from Astoria. Just use roughly twice the weight of stems compared to what you’d use with flower.

Already have cannabutter on hand? Simply add 1-2 teaspoons to hot tea and stir until completely melted. Many of our Queens customers swear by this method for its simplicity and rich mouthfeel. As Maria from Astoria puts it, “Don’t knock cannabutter tea until you’ve tried it—it adds this satisfying creaminess that regular tea just doesn’t have.”

Similarly, cannabis-infused oil works wonderfully in tea. Add just ¼-½ teaspoon to your finished brew and stir vigorously. Pro tip from our staff: a small frother (like those used for coffee) helps incorporate the oil more evenly for a less oily experience.

For those who enjoy experimenting, concentrates like kief, hash, or RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) can create incredibly potent results. These need careful dosing—start with literally a grain of rice-sized portion after proper decarboxylation. We’ve had customers at Terp Bros who prefer this method for severe pain management, as it delivers more cannabinoids in a smaller volume.

When summer hits Queens with its humidity, try cold brew cannabis tea. Infuse your decarboxylated cannabis with a fat source in cold water for 24-48 hours in the refrigerator. The longer steeping compensates for the lower temperature, creating a refreshing alternative for hot days.

Flavor Improvement

Let’s be honest—cannabis can taste earthy or grassy, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea (pun intended). Here’s how to create delicious brews that you’ll actually look forward to drinking.

Herbal add-ins work wonders for masking cannabis flavor while adding beneficial properties. Chamomile naturally complements indica strains for evening use, while fresh mint cuts through cannabis flavor with its brightness. Ginger adds a pleasant spice that may also help with any potential nausea—particularly helpful for medical users. Lavender improves relaxation effects, making your nighttime tea even more effective for sleep.

Chai spices are among our most recommended flavor improvers at Terp Bros. The robust flavors of traditional chai—cinnamon, cardamom, clove, ginger, and black pepper—effectively mask cannabis taste while creating something truly delicious. Interestingly, black pepper contains beta-caryophyllene, a terpene that may improve cannabis effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.

Don’t underestimate the power of citrus. A squeeze of lemon, lime, or orange adds brightness that balances cannabis flavors, and the acid may help preserve cannabinoids. “Adding lemon to my morning cannabis tea completely transforms it—plus I get a little vitamin C boost,” notes Jamie, who visits our dispensary regularly.

Sweeteners do more than just add sweetness. Honey not only masks flavor but may soothe throat irritation, while maple syrup’s rich flavor beautifully complements earthy cannabis notes. For something special, try cannabis-infused honey for a double-infusion that improves both flavor and effects.

Matching Strains to Tea Types

Creating the perfect cannabis tea experience involves thoughtful pairing of strains with complementary tea varieties.

Sativa strains with green tea create a beautifully balanced daytime experience. The uplifting, energetic effects of sativa complement the gentle caffeine boost from green tea without overwhelming jitters. At Terp Bros, we often recommend citrusy sativa strains like Lemon Haze paired with jasmine green tea for a productive morning blend.

For evening relaxation, indica strains with chamomile or rooibos create the perfect wind-down ritual. The sleep-promoting effects of indica varieties are improved by the calming properties of these herbal teas. One of our longtime customers swears this combination has replaced her sleep medication entirely.

If you’re using cannabis for wellness rather than recreation, consider CBD-rich strains with peppermint or ginger. This combination is particularly effective for digestive issues or nausea, with many of our medical consumers finding relief from chronic conditions.

For the true cannabis connoisseur, terpene pairing takes your tea to the next level. Limonene-rich strains naturally complement citrus teas, while myrcene-dominant varieties feel right at home with chamomile. Pinene-heavy strains work beautifully with mint or rosemary teas, and linalool-rich varieties improve lavender tea’s relaxing properties.

Boosting or Toning Down Potency

Need stronger effects from your tea, or looking to gentle the experience? We’ve got techniques for both.

To increase potency, try adding lecithin as an emulsifier—it significantly improves cannabinoid absorption by helping water and fat mix better. Extending your simmering time to 45-60 minutes (watching carefully to add water as needed) will extract more cannabinoids. For a simple boost, consume your tea on an empty stomach for faster, stronger effects, or enjoy a fat-rich snack alongside your cup.

For those seeking a milder experience, try splitting your serving into multiple smaller cups throughout the day. This provides gentle, consistent effects rather than one strong peak. Many of our customers at Terp Bros find success mixing decarboxylated cannabis with raw cannabis for a balanced THC/THCA ratio that feels less intense.

For daytime use when you need to stay sharp, blend with high-CBD flower to moderate THC effects. “Adding CBD flower to my morning tea gives me pain relief without the mental fog,” explains Michael, who manages chronic back pain while working full-time.

Want the wellness benefits without the high? Try a THCA-dominant tea by steeping raw, non-decarboxylated cannabis for non-intoxicating benefits. THCA offers anti-inflammatory properties without psychoactive effects, making it perfect for daytime relief.

At Terp Bros, our budtenders are always happy to recommend specific strains from our selection that might work well for your preferred tea preparation and desired effects. Stop by our Astoria location, and we’ll help you craft the perfect cannabis tea experience for your needs.

Safe Dosing, Effects Timeline & Storage

When it comes to cannabis tea, finding your perfect dose and understanding how it will affect you can make all the difference between a pleasant, therapeutic experience and an uncomfortable one. As we like to say at Terp Bros, knowing your limits is just as important as knowing your strains.

Dosing Guidelines

The golden rule with cannabis tea (and all edibles) is to start low and go slow. This isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s essential wisdom that could save you from an overwhelming experience.

Cannabis consumed as tea produces stronger and longer-lasting effects than smoking because it’s processed through your digestive system and liver, converting THC into a more potent form. This is why even experienced smokers should approach cannabis tea with caution.

For beginners, we recommend starting with just 0.5 grams of cannabis flower (with approximately 10% THC, providing roughly 5mg THC). Occasional users might try 0.5-1 gram (about 5-10mg THC), while regular users with established tolerance might use 1-2 grams (approximately 10-20mg THC).

These are general guidelines. Your individual response can vary dramatically based on your body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and even what you’ve eaten that day.

One of our regular customers at our Astoria shop shared her cautionary tale: “I made the mistake of having a second cup after 45 minutes my first time because I didn’t feel anything yet. Two hours later, both doses hit me at once, and I was uncomfortably high for hours. Now I always wait at least 2 hours before considering more.”

Effects Timeline

Understanding how cannabis tea affects you over time helps prevent that all-too-common mistake of taking more before the first dose kicks in. Unlike smoking, which can hit within minutes, cannabis tea follows a much longer timeline:

Onset: You’ll typically begin feeling effects 30-90 minutes after drinking your tea, though it can sometimes take up to 2 hours. Having tea on an empty stomach may speed onset, while a full meal might delay it.

Peak effects: The strongest effects usually occur 2-3 hours after consumption, when your body has had time to fully metabolize the cannabinoids.

Duration: The entire experience typically lasts 4-8 hours, with some residual effects potentially lingering even longer. This extended relief makes tea perfect for medical users seeking long-lasting benefits for conditions like chronic pain or insomnia.

Many of our customers describe cannabis tea effects as more body-centered than smoking, with a “heavier” physical sensation and less intense mental effects. You might notice deeper relaxation, more pronounced pain relief, and better sleep quality compared to smoking the same amount.

Storage Recommendations

Properly storing your cannabis tea not only maintains its potency but also prevents it from spoiling. After all, no one wants to waste good medicine!

For short-term storage (1-3 days), keep your tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always label clearly with the content and date prepared—you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget which jar contains cannabis tea versus regular tea! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove rather than using a microwave, which can degrade cannabinoids.

If you need long-term storage options, consider freezing your tea in ice cube trays for convenient single-dose portions. Alternatively, prepare cannabis-infused honey or sugar that you can add to regular tea as needed—these infusions have much longer shelf lives than prepared tea.

Always treat your cannabis tea like any other cannabis product—store it securely away from children, pets, and unsuspecting adults. At Terp Bros, we provide child-resistant packaging for all our products and recommend similar precautions for home preparations.

For more information about safe cannabis use, visit our FAQ page.

What to Do If You Over-Sip

Even experienced cannabis users occasionally misjudge their dose. If you find yourself feeling uncomfortably high after drinking cannabis tea, don’t panic—there are several things you can do to help ease the experience:

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps with dry mouth and may help dilute the effects. Some of our customers swear by chewing black peppercorns or smelling freshly ground black pepper, as the terpene beta-caryophyllene may help reduce THC-induced anxiety.

If you have CBD oil available, taking some may help moderate THC’s effects. Many find that relaxation techniques like deep breathing, taking a shower, or listening to calming music can help manage anxiety during an intense experience.

Sometimes the best approach is simply to rest in a comfortable environment—lie down in a quiet, comfortable space until the most intense effects subside. The effects will eventually pass, typically within 4-8 hours.

While cannabis overconsumption is rarely dangerous, seek medical help if you experience severe symptoms like extreme anxiety, persistent vomiting, or significant disorientation.

“The first time I overdid it with cannabis tea, I got really anxious,” shares Maria, a Queens resident who visits our Astoria dispensary. “But I found that sipping water, putting on my favorite music, and reminding myself it would pass eventually helped me get through it. Now I’m much more careful with my dosing.”

By respecting cannabis tea’s potency and following these guidelines, you can enjoy a gentle, therapeutic experience that showcases the plant’s benefits without overwhelming side effects.

Legal Considerations & Responsible Enjoyment in New York

Enjoying cannabis tea in New York comes with both freedoms and responsibilities. As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve in our state, understanding the legal framework helps ensure your brewing trips stay on the right side of the law.

New York State Cannabis Laws

When New York passed the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) in March 2021, it opened up new possibilities for cannabis enthusiasts. Here’s what you need to know about enjoying your cannabis tea legally:

Age matters – You must be 21 or older to purchase, possess, or enjoy that soothing cup of cannabis tea. We check IDs at Terp Bros not because we don’t trust you, but because we respect the law and our community.

Know your limits – New York allows adults to possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower or 24 grams of concentrate. That’s plenty for making numerous batches of how to make cannabis tea, but it’s important to stay within these boundaries.

Home brewing is legal – Good news for tea enthusiasts! You can legally prepare your cannabis infusions at home for personal enjoyment. Your kitchen is your laboratory for perfecting that ideal cup.

Private sipping only – While making cannabis tea at home is legal, consuming it follows the same rules as smoking. Avoid public places where tobacco smoking is prohibited, never consume in vehicles (even as a passenger), and remember that federal lands remain no-cannabis zones.

Driving and cannabis don’t mix – The relaxing effects that make cannabis tea so enjoyable also make driving dangerous. Plan to stay put after enjoying your brew, as driving under the influence remains illegal and puts everyone at risk.

State boundaries matter – Even though your thermos of cannabis tea might look like any other beverage, transporting it across state lines violates federal law, even between two cannabis-friendly states.

Responsible Consumption Guidelines

At Terp Bros, we believe enjoying cannabis is about more than just the experience—it’s about being a responsible member of our Queens community. Here’s how we encourage mindful consumption:

Source matters – When learning how to make cannabis tea, starting with quality ingredients makes all the difference. Purchase your cannabis from licensed dispensaries like Terp Bros, where products undergo testing for potency and purity. This isn’t just about quality—it’s about safety and supporting the legal market.

Respect the potency – Cannabis tea can pack a punch, especially when properly prepared with decarboxylation and fat binding. Be aware of your cannabis’s THC content and adjust your brewing accordingly. What works for an experienced consumer might overwhelm a beginner.

“I always measure my cannabis carefully when making tea,” shares Maria, a regular Terp Bros customer. “One time I eyeballed it and spent six hours convinced my couch was giving me life advice.”

Plan your session – The delayed onset (30-90 minutes) and extended duration (4-8 hours) of cannabis tea effects mean timing matters. Choose evenings or days when you’re free from responsibilities like driving or important decision-making.

Be considerate – Even though cannabis tea doesn’t produce the telltale smoke or smell of other consumption methods, consume in private spaces and be mindful of those around you who may not wish to participate.

Secure storage is essential – If you have children or pets at home, store your cannabis products securely. Have age-appropriate conversations with kids about medicine and substances meant only for adults.

For more comprehensive information about cannabis laws and responsible use practices, we’ve put together a helpful guide on our Cannabis 101 page.

At Terp Bros, we’re not just selling cannabis—we’re building a community of informed, responsible consumers who understand that with the freedom to enjoy cannabis comes the responsibility to do so thoughtfully. Our Astoria dispensary isn’t just a store; it’s a resource center for learning how to integrate cannabis into your life in ways that respect both the law and those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis Tea

How strong should my first cup be?

When you’re new to cannabis tea, less is definitely more. I always recommend starting with about 0.5 grams of cannabis flower (with roughly 10% THC), which gives you approximately 5mg of THC per cup.

This gentle introduction lets you get acquainted with how your body responds without diving into the deep end. Many of my customers at Terp Bros are surprised to learn that cannabis in tea form can actually hit harder than the same amount smoked – it’s processed differently by your body when digested.

“I wish someone had told me to start small,” shared Maria, a regular at our Astoria location. “My first experience would have been much more pleasant if I’d been more cautious.”

You can always make a stronger cup next time if you need more, but you can’t un-drink a cup that’s too potent!

Can I make a non-psychoactive CBD or THCA tea?

Absolutely! Not everyone wants the high that comes with THC, and there are two wonderful alternatives:

For a CBD tea, simply use high-CBD, low-THC strains but follow the same preparation methods we’ve discussed. CBD offers potential therapeutic benefits like reduced inflammation and anxiety relief without the intoxication. Many of our older customers at Terp Bros prefer this option for daytime relief.

For a THCA tea, you’ll want to use raw, non-decarboxylated cannabis with your fat source and hot (not boiling) water. By skipping the decarboxylation step, the THCA remains in its non-psychoactive form while still offering potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

We carry several high-CBD strains at Terp Bros that work beautifully for these gentler tea preparations. Just ask our budtenders for recommendations next time you visit!

Why does my tea take so long to kick in?

The waiting game with cannabis tea can test your patience, but understanding why helps. Unlike smoking, where cannabinoids zip straight from your lungs to your bloodstream, cannabis tea takes a scenic route through your digestive system and liver before reaching the bloodstream.

This digestive journey typically takes 30-90 minutes, but I’ve seen it take up to 2 hours for some people. Several factors influence this timeline:

Your recent meal history plays a big role – a full stomach will slow things down considerably. Your personal metabolism, the fat content in your tea, whether you used lecithin as an emulsifier, and your unique endocannabinoid system all affect timing too.

This delayed onset is exactly why we emphasize patience. I can’t tell you how many customers have shared stories of taking a second dose too soon and ending up uncomfortably high for hours. Give it at least 2 hours before considering more – your patience will be rewarded!

How can I make my cannabis tea taste better?

Let’s be honest – cannabis can have an earthy, grassy taste that not everyone loves. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make your cannabis tea more delicious:

Strong-flavored teas like chai, peppermint, or spiced blends do wonders for masking cannabis notes. Adding honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sweetener helps too. Many of our customers swear by adding fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, or a twist of citrus zest.

If it’s the fatty mouthfeel bothering you, try refined coconut oil instead of butter – it’s lighter on the palate. For minimal cannabis flavor, the tincture method works beautifully.

“I add a splash of vanilla extract and some almond milk,” shares Jamal, a regular at our Queens location. “It tastes just like a fancy tea latte – you’d never know there’s cannabis in there.”

Can I make cannabis tea with stems or leftover material?

Yes, and it’s a fantastic way to reduce waste! Cannabis stems contain lower concentrations of cannabinoids but can still make a perfectly effective tea. Just use roughly twice the weight of stems compared to what you’d use with flower.

Already-vaped bud (AVB) or leftover cannabis pulp from other extractions works too – simply simmer with your fat source to extract any remaining cannabinoids. The effects will be milder, but there’s something satisfying about getting every last bit of goodness from your cannabis.

“I save all my stems in a jar and make a big batch of tea once a month,” one of our eco-conscious customers told me. “It’s gentle but effective, and I love knowing nothing goes to waste.”

Is cannabis tea good for sleep issues?

Cannabis tea has earned quite a reputation among our Terp Bros customers as a sleep aid superstar. The extended duration of effects means you’re more likely to stay asleep throughout the night, rather than waking when shorter-acting methods wear off.

For the best sleep support, I recommend indica-dominant strains or those high in the terpenes myrcene and linalool. Prepare your tea 1-2 hours before bedtime to align peak effects with when your head hits the pillow. Many folks find great success combining cannabis with sleep-friendly herbs like chamomile, valerian, or lavender.

Consistency is key – try to keep your timing regular to help establish a healthy sleep cycle. A customer named David recently told me, “After years of prescription sleep aids, switching to cannabis tea has been life-changing. I wake up feeling refreshed instead of groggy.”

While cannabis may help with occasional sleep troubles, I always remind customers that persistent insomnia deserves a conversation with a healthcare provider.

At Terp Bros, we’re passionate about helping our Queens community find the cannabis preparations that work best for their individual needs. Whether you visit us in Astoria, Jackson Heights, or any of our locations throughout Queens and the Bronx, our team is always ready to chat about how to make cannabis tea and other consumption methods.

For more information about our products and services, check out our products page or stop by one of our dispensaries. We offer delivery throughout Queens for your convenience.