How to Make Cannabis Tea: The #1 Guide to Marijuana Infused Beverages

August 18, 2025

Welcome to the ultimate guide to making cannabis tea at home. This is one of the most relaxing and flavorful ways to enjoy cannabis discreetly. If you are looking for a gentle and long-lasting experience without smoking or vaping, cannabis tea is the perfect choice. It transforms your cannabis use into a calming ritual that blends wellness, taste, and culture in every sip.

In this complete guide, you will learn how to make cannabis tea from start to finish. We explain every step clearly, including how to decarboxylate your cannabis, why adding healthy fats like coconut oil is essential for absorption, and how to measure the right dose for your needs. With this knowledge, you will be able to create safe and effective marijuana tea with confidence!

Does Cannabis Make Good Tea?

Yes, cannabis can make a great tea when prepared correctly. Whether using dried herb, small leftover pieces like stems, or cannabis-infused oil, the result is a gentle, slow-building buzz that many find relaxing and enjoyable.

When properly decarboxylated and combined with a fat source, cannabis releases its active compounds into the tea, offering both therapeutic and recreational effects. The experience is smoother than smoking and can be easily customized with added flavors for a more pleasant taste. Cannabis tea is a soothing, flavorful option for those seeking a mindful and mellow way to enjoy the plant.

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The Science Behind Cannabis Tea: Decarboxylation & The Endocannabinoid System

To truly unlock the potential of your cannabis tea, understanding a bit of science is key. Raw cannabis flower contains cannabinoids in their acidic forms, like THCA and CBDA. These compounds aren’t psychoactive on their own. For your cannabis to deliver its full effects when consumed, these acidic cannabinoids need to be converted into their active forms (THC and CBD). This transformation happens through a process called decarboxylation.

Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids, such as turning THCA into THC. This is typically done by baking the cannabis in an oven at a low temperature. Without this step, your tea may have little to no effect, since the raw plant compounds remain inactive.

Unlike inhaled cannabis, infused tea is processed through the digestive system, which results in a slower onset but longer-lasting effects due to how cannabinoids interact with your endocannabinoid system.

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Key Preparation Steps to Make the Perfect Cannabis Tea

Perfecting Your Decarb: Temperature and Time

For optimal decarboxylation, preheat your oven to around 115°C or 240°F. Lightly break up your cannabis (avoid grinding it too fine, as this makes straining more difficult) and spread it evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, gently stirring once halfway through to ensure uniform heating.

The cannabis is ready when it takes on a light golden-brown color and crumbles easily between your fingers. If you use a conduction vaporizer, you can also repurpose an already vaped bud. Known as ABV (Already Been Vaped), about one tablespoon can be used directly since it is already decarboxylated to a large extent.

Cannabis Forms & Fat-Friendly Infusions

You can use various forms of cannabis. Freshly decarboxylated flower is common, but you can also use kief or even concentrates. When it comes to fat, coconut oil is a popular choice due to its high saturated fat content, making it an excellent carrier for cannabinoids. Other effective fats include cannabis butter, olive oil, or a tablespoon of ghee. Full-fat dairy or plant-based milks can also act as a fat source in your brew.

To create a flavorful tea base, start with your favorite herbal blend such as chamomile, peppermint, or ginger. You can also elevate the experience with a bold masala chai or a calming green tea. These ingredients not only add depth to the flavor but also pair well with cannabis. To balance the earthy notes of the infusion, consider natural sweeteners like raw honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

Essential Ingredients & Equipment for Crafting Your Brew

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is the first step to making your perfect cannabis tea. The key to a potent infusion lies in incorporating a fat source, as cannabinoids like THC are fat-soluble. This allows the compounds to bind and be absorbed effectively by your body.

Key equipment includes:

Small saucepan or pot
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Mug or teapot
Grinder (if using flower)
Oven and baking sheet (for decarboxylation)
Measuring spoons and cups
An oil slick mat if handling concentrates
Tea bag, water, sweetener, and milk (depending on the type of tea)

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Step-by-Step Recipes: How to Make Cannabis Tea at Home

Now comes the fun part: Brewing your cannabis tea. We will walk you through a few simple methods so you can choose the one that best fits your ingredients and the experience you are aiming for. Keep in mind that cannabis tea takes time to take effect, so patience is key for a smooth and enjoyable experience

Method 1: Classic Cannabis Flower Tea

This method is perfect for using decarboxylated cannabis flower:

Decarboxylate Your Cannabis: Follow the earlier instructions to activate your cannabis.
Prepare Your Base: In a small saucepan, bring 1-2 cups of water to a gentle simmer (do not boil rapidly). Add your chosen fat source (e.g., 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil). Stir until completely dissolved.
Infuse the Cannabis: Add your decarboxylated cannabis (start with 0.25-0.5 grams per serving for beginners) to the simmering water and fat mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently infuse for 15-20 minutes. Avoid vigorous boiling, as this can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, impacting herbal notes.
Add Tea Bag/Flavor: In the last 5 minutes of simmering, add your chosen tea bag (e.g., ginger teabag).
Strain and Serve: Carefully strain the cannabis tea mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth directly into your cup of tea. Press gently to extract all the liquid.
Sweeten and Enjoy: Stir in natural farm honey, coconut sugar, or other sweeteners to taste.

Method 2: Quick Concentrate/Tincture Tea

If you have cannabis concentrates or tinctures, this method is even faster. Ensure your concentrate is also decarboxylated if it’s not already.

Here are the steps to make weed tea from pre-made oil:

Brew Your Tea: Start by preparing a cup of your favorite herbal tea. Use either a tea bag or loose leaf in hot water, just as you normally would.
Add Cannabis Oil or Tincture: Once your tea is hot and ready, add a small pre-measured amount of cannabis oil or a few drops of cannabis tincture. Make sure the product has already been decarboxylated and is intended for oral use.
Stir Thoroughly: Mix the tea well to ensure the oil or tincture is evenly distributed. Some oils may float, but continued stirring helps with better blending.
Enhance the Flavor (Optional): For a smoother and sweeter taste, add a natural sweetener like raw honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. This can help mask any lingering cannabis flavor.

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Exploring Variations: Bhang Lassi & Hot Toddy Inspired Cannabis Drinks

If you are ready to go beyond traditional cannabis-infused herbal tea, there are many flavorful and culturally rich options to try. One example is the Bhang Lassi, a traditional Indian drink made with cannabis paste and spiced yogurt. Though the authentic preparation is ceremonial and complex, you can take inspiration by blending infused milk or coconut oil into smoothies or creamy spiced beverages.

This approach adds both richness and effective cannabinoid delivery. Another option is a cannabis-inspired Hot Toddy, ideal for cold evenings in cities like Toronto. Combine infused ghee or olive oil with hot water, lemon juice, raw honey, and warming spices like cinnamon or clove. Ghee is a particularly effective fat for cannabinoid absorption and adds a deep, buttery flavor that complements the drink’s soothing profile.

How Long Does It Take for Cannabis Tea to Kick In?

Cannabis tea typically takes 30 to 90 minutes to kick in. The onset time varies based on metabolism, whether it’s consumed on an empty stomach, and the tea’s potency. Effects from cannabis tea last longer than inhaled cannabis, often ranging from 4 to 8 hours.

How to Ensure a Positive Weed Tea Experience

Brewing cannabis tea is more than just making a drink. It is a calming ritual that invites relaxation and personal discovery. To ensure the experience is smooth and enjoyable, thoughtful preparation and mindful consumption are essential.

If you are curious about trying cannabis tea and want to increase your chances of a positive experience, follow these simple steps to create the right setting and mindset:

Start with a Low Dose: When trying cannabis tea, especially for the first time, begin with a very small amount of infused liquid. Edibles have a delayed onset, so wait at least 2-3 hours before considering more. This key dosing tip prevents overconsumption and helps you gauge your personal tolerance.
Mind Your Setting and Mindset: Choose a comfortable, familiar environment where you feel safe and relaxed. Your mental state can significantly influence the experience; approaching your weed tea with a positive and calm mindset will enhance enjoyment. Avoid consuming if you’re feeling anxious or stressed.
Mask the Weed Taste Effectively: If the earthy or herbal flavour of cannabis is a bit too intense for your taste, there are plenty of simple ways to balance or mask it. Try adding natural flavour enhancers (honey, lemon, ginger, cinnamon) or steep your infusion with a bold herbal or spiced tea bag. These additions can help create a more enjoyable, flavourful brew without overpowering your senses.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Always have water or other non-alcoholic beverages on hand to stay hydrated throughout your experience. Consuming a light snack before or during your cannabis tea session can also help manage the effects and contribute to overall comfort.
Plan for the Duration: Be aware that the effects of cannabis tea can last for several hours. Avoid making plans that require alertness or coordination after consuming. Dedicate specific time for your weed tea experience, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy its prolonged effects without interruption or worry.

Make Cannabis Tea with Top Quality Marijuana from Olive Jar

At Olive Jar, we proudly stand at the forefront of Canada’s cannabis landscape, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of premium products designed to elevate your recreational experience. We recognize the diversity within cannabis culture, which is why our collection is carefully selected to deliver both exceptional quality and a wide range of choices to suit every preference.

Our wide range of products include:

Cannabis Flower: A wide range of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains for traditional enjoyment.
Pre-Rolls: Convenient, expertly rolled options perfect for on-the-go or hassle-free sessions.
Cannabis Edibles: Delicious and precisely dosed treats for a smoke-free consumption method.
Concentrates: Potent extracts like shatter, wax, and live resin for experienced enthusiasts.
Vapes & Cartridges: Modern, discreet options for smooth, flavourful vaporization.
Topicals: A selection of infused balms and lotions for external application.

We’re dedicated to helping you explore the world of cannabis with confidence and enjoyment, always prioritizing a safe and informed experience. Visit Olive Jar in Toronto to discover our full range and let us guide you on your cannabis journey.

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