Welcome to Howdy Country: A Beginner’s Guide to THC Beverages
Learn how hemp-derived THC beverages work, how to consume responsibly, and why they’re changing the way adults relax and socialize.
In recent years, one of the fastest growing segments of the hemp marketplace has been THC beverages. These drinks, often infused with hemp-derived Delta-9 THC, are designed to be consumed much like a traditional alcohol product, but without the unwanted hangover or regret the next day. Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC drinks can be found as seltzers, lemonades, sodas, teas, mocktails, and much more. These functional beverage alternatives were once only found in dispensaries, but now can be found in package stores, bars, restaurants, grocery stores, convenience chains, movie theaters, etc. Pretty much wherever alcohol is sold, hemp beverages can now be found.
How THC Beverages Work
When consumed as a drink, THC is absorbed differently than in edibles or other baked goods. Thanks to nano-emulsion technology, the active ingredients are broken down into tiny particles that the body processes more quickly. As a result, the onset of effects with THC beverages often comes in 15-30 minutes, compared with 45 minutes to 2 hours for many edibles.
Start Low, Go Slow
Just like with alcohol, everyone’s tolerance is different. Responsible consumption means beginning with a low dose, usually 2.5-5 milligrams of THC, and waiting to see how your body responds before considering more. The phrase “start low, go slow” is widely recommended by even the most experienced consumers of hemp beverages. You can always take more, but you can’t take less.
Why Hemp-Derived THC Beverages Are Growing in Popularity
-
Declining Alcohol Sales: Adults are open to new kinds of “beverages with effect,” filling the gap left by declining beer and liquor consumption
-
Onset Time: Beverages act more quickly than traditional edibles, allowing consumers to better titrate their exact desired effect.
-
Familiar Feelings: Adults are used to drinking in social situations. Hemp beverages provide a beverage to “sip” on without the next-day regret.
5 Tips for Navigating the Effect of THC Beverages
-
Avoid mixing THC with alcohol. Often called “crossfading”, consumers, especially those unfamiliar with THC beverages, should not mix alcohol with THC beverages. It’s an unpleasant feeling you want to avoid.
-
Positive Drug Test Possible. If you are worried about failing a drug trust do not consume THC beverages.
-
Start low and go slow. This is an industry standard, start with 2.5mg-5mg of THC and wait 30 minutes to an hour to gauge how you feel before consuming more.
-
Don’t drive or use heavy machinery. THC impairs balance, do not attempt to drive if you have consumed THC beverages. Always plan on having a sober friend around, especially your first time drinking THC beverages
-
Hydrate and snack. Be prepared with your favorite sports drink, water bottle, or snacks to offset any negative feelings you may have.
The Bottom Line
Hemp-derived THC beverages is a young category but are quickly becoming a mainstream option for adults who want a safe, measured, and social way to enjoy cannabis. Every day new consumers find these products sitting next to their favorite wine or beer, give it a try, and come back for more after an enjoyable experience. As with any product intended for adults, responsible use is key. Do your homework on the company you’re purchasing from, check their Certificate of Analysis for information on the product, check labels, and know your limits.
Disclaimer: Welcome to Howdy Country, where we like to keep folks informed and responsible. This post is for education only — not legal or medical advice. Always check your local laws and know your limits before consuming any hemp-derived products.
