As the age-old debate between alcohol and cannabis drinks continues, have you ever questioned which option aligns better with your overall health and enjoyment? In this intriguing exploration, we delve into the clash between an old habit and a new trend, opening the door to a world of cannabis-infused beverages that offer a refreshing alternative.
An Old Habit Versus a New Trend
Alcohol has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years, a constant companion in celebrations, social gatherings, and even quiet nights at home.
However, the harsh realities of alcohol consumption – such as liver disease, dependency, and other health problems – have prompted many to search for alternatives.
The alcohol molecules are very small. When we drink alcohol, it quickly enters the blood and is distributed through our organs. It is soluble in fat and water, so it can easily penetrate all tissues and organs throughout the body.
Enter cannabis drinks – a new wave of beverages that offer a distinct set of effects and potential health benefits. They are a flavorful, refreshing, and sophisticated way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without the health drawbacks of smoking.
The Health Implications
Alcohol, particularly when consumed excessively, is linked to a variety of health issues ranging from liver damage to cardiovascular disease. Not to mention, it is calorically dense, which can contribute to unwanted weight gain. Moreover, alcohol impairs motor control and cognitive function, leading to a higher risk of accidents and poor decision-making.
On the other hand, cannabis drinks provide a different experience altogether. The primary psychoactive component, THC, does not present the same physical health risks as alcohol. It is less calorically dense and does not contribute to liver or heart damage. While cannabis can temporarily impair coordination and memory, it does so to a much lesser degree than alcohol.
The Experience
Alcohol’s effects can range from a slight buzz to severe physical and mental impairment, depending on the quantity consumed.
It’s also notorious for its unpleasant after-effects, with hangovers causing headaches, nausea, and general malaise.
Cannabis drinks, in contrast, offer a gentler, more controlled experience. The effects depend on the strain of cannabis used, the amount of THC, and individual tolerance levels.
However, they typically include feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and heightened sensory perception. Importantly, they do not cause hangovers, making the day-after experience much more pleasant.
The Choice is Clear
While both alcohol and cannabis drinks can be enjoyed responsibly, there’s an undeniable trend towards healthier, lower-risk choices. With the potential for fewer health risks and a gentler overall experience, cannabis drinks are a compelling alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
You can prepare a tincture of cannabis at home and use it to make your own cocktails. But first of all you need to choose cannabis for tincture.
APE recommends:
Private Reserve is usually a high quality cannabis variety with rich aromas and flavors. It can add a tincture with cannabis rich and deep taste, making it ideal for creating exquisite dishes.
Ape OG has strong physical and mental effects. If you are looking for a variety that can give a tincture with cannabis a sense of deep relaxation and tranquility, Ape OG can be a suitable choice.
Jealousy is known for its energetic and euphoric effect. If you are looking for a variety with cheerful and cheerful properties, Jealousy can add a tincture with cannabis pleasant emotional and physical sensations.
Kushberry has a fruit and berry flavor. It can give the cannabis tincture a pleasant fruity note, making it attractive for creating a variety of culinary dishes and drinks.
How to make cannabis tincture FOR CANNABIS DRINKS
Ingredients and materials:
Cannabis (decarboxylated)
High-proof alcohol (such as Everclear or grain alcohol)
Mason jar or glass container with a tight-fitting lid
Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Funnel
Dark-colored dropper bottles for storage
Decarboxylation
Preheat your oven to around 240°F (115°C). Break up your cannabis buds or trim into smaller pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the cannabis in the oven for about 40-60 minutes to activate the cannabinoids through the process of decarboxylation. This step is crucial for maximizing the potency of the tincture.
Grinding
Once the cannabis has cooled down, grind it into a coarse consistency using a grinder or by hand.
Infusion
Place the ground cannabis into a mason jar or glass container. Pour enough high-proof alcohol into the jar to completely cover the cannabis.
Stirring
Seal the jar tightly with the lid and give it a good shake to ensure that all the cannabis is submerged in the alcohol.
Extraction
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Shake the jar gently once a day to promote the extraction process. The longer you allow the tincture to steep, the more potent it will become.
Straining
After the desired steeping time has passed, prepare a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer over a funnel and place it on top of a clean container. Pour the tincture through the strainer, allowing the liquid to pass through while straining out the plant material.
Storage
Transfer the strained tincture into dark-colored dropper bottles for storage. Dark glass bottles help protect the tincture from light degradation. Make sure to label the bottles with the date and strain used.
It is important to note that the creation of cannabis tincture involves work with flammable alcohol, so it is important to observe safety measures, work in a well-ventilated area and keep an open flame away from the process. After you have made your tincture, you can use it in various prescription cannabis drinks.
Lemonade
When life gives you lemons, we highly suggest making this THC-infused lemonade. It’s simple, delicious, and will pair well with a limonene-dominant tincture!
Ingredients
3 cups of cold water
1 cup of warm water
4 tbsp of sugar
6 tbsp of lemon juice (2-3 Lemons)
1 lemon for garnish
THC Tincture as desired
Ice Cubes
Directions
Juice lemons by hand or with a juicer.
Mix sugar and 1 cup of warm water until sugar dissolves.
Combined cold water, lemon juice, THC Tincture, and sugar mixture.
Add sliced lemons and ice cubes.
Berry Lemonade
Lemonade is one of the most refreshing drinks you can sip on a muggy day. This recipe can be made with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or any other seasonal berries you’d like to highlight.
Ingredients
¾ cup sugar
5 cups water (divided)
Desired distillate dose
2 lemons (zested)
Pint of fresh berries
1 cup lemon juice
Directions
Combine sugar, 1 cup of water, distillate, and lemon zest in a medium pot.
Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring to thoroughly incorporate the distillate.
Puree your choice of berry (keeping a few aside for garnish), using a metal strainer to remove large chunks of fruit (unless you want to keep them).
Once simple syrup is cooled, strain it into a pitcher or jug.
Add berry puree, lemon juice, remaining water, and your preferred amount of cannabis tincture.
Stir well, add ice, and serve!
Cannabis-Infused Sangria
Another classic summer drink is sangria, and the perfect pairing for all that fresh fruit is, of course, cannabis!
Ingredients
4 cups of white grape juice
1 cup of orange juice
1 lime
a cup of blueberries
a cup of strawberries, cut in half
2 oranges, cut into pieces (peel on)
2 peaches, cored and cut into pieces (peel on)
Cannabis tincture
Directions
Cut all of the fruit into bite-sized pieces and add to a large pitcher.
Add grape juice, orange juice, the juice of 1 lime, and your cannabis tincture (depending on strength desired).
Stir and mix thoroughly.
Let chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.
Also you can use coconut cannabis oil for your cocktail.
Remember, everyone’s body reacts differently to cannabis and alcohol, so always consume in moderation and be aware of your limits. In the end, it seems the choice is clear – if you’re looking to enjoy a drink while prioritizing your health, going green with cannabis-infused beverages could be the way forward.
