Explore CBD tea, examining its preparation, potential wellness benefits

What is CBD Tea?

CBD tea is a beverage that combines cannabidiol (CBD) with regular tea. CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD alone does not create the “high” often associated with cannabis use. CBD tea contains varying concentrations of CBD and is used with the aim of inducing relaxation or providing other purported health benefits. It is available in tea bags containing a measured dose of CBD, which are then infused in hot water. Alternatively, individuals can brew their preferred tea and add a few drops of CBD oil or tincture. Since CBD is not water-soluble, adding a source of fat, such as butter or coconut milk, can increase its absorption in the body. CBD tea is not considered a medication or a supplement, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States continues to caution consumers about potential contaminants and side effects associated with CBD products. Despite this, traditional medicine practitioners have used hemp and cannabis products for centuries to manage various health conditions, with supporters arguing for their efficacy and safety.

Preparation of CBD Tea

CBD tea can be prepared using commercially available CBD tea bags or by adding CBD oil to regular brewed tea. To make CBD hemp tea from flowers or leaves, the process involves:

• Boiling water: Heating water to just below boiling point (around 93°C or 200°F).
• Preparing CBD hemp: Coarsely grinding whole flowers or leaves if using them.
• Steeping the tea: Placing the CBD hemp in a teapot or cup, pouring hot water over it, covering it, and letting it steep for 5-10 minutes depending on the desired strength. Some users find a longer steep time of at least 10 minutes is necessary.
• Enhancing bioavailability: Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or a slice of butter to the tea can aid in better absorption as CBD is fat-soluble.

The resulting tea often has an earthy taste, which can be personalised by adding natural sweeteners like honey, citrus (lemon or orange zest), or spices like cinnamon or cloves.

Potential Benefits of CBD Tea

While scientific studies specifically investigating the health benefits of CBD tea are limited, many manufacturers and anecdotal reports suggest several potential wellness advantages. These include:

• Relaxation and Stress Relief: CBD is known for its calming effects and may promote a sense of relaxation, potentially helping to manage stress and anxiety. The act of sipping a warm cup of tea can further enhance these calming effects. A 2019 study found that daily CBD consumption improved anxiety in most participants.
• Sleep Support: CBD-infused tea might aid in improving sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing insomnia symptoms. Calming tea varieties like chamomile, when combined with CBD oil, may significantly improve sleep quality. A 2019 study indicated improvements in sleep for individuals consuming CBD daily. Another study found that CBD may improve sleep quality for people with conditions affecting the brain.
• Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction: CBD has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It may help in managing pain associated with muscle cramps, joint aches, and sprains by reducing the perception of pain. A clinical trial on cannabis-infused tea (containing THC and CBD) showed decreased pain in fibromyalgia patients.
• Support for Digestion: Certain CBD teas include herbs like ginger, fennel, and mint that promote gut health alongside the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD, potentially aiding digestion and relieving upset stomachs.
• Mental Health Support: Anecdotal evidence and some research suggest CBD may help manage symptoms of mental health conditions, such as anxiety. A 2020 study of social media posts found many CBD users reported managing anxiety with CBD products. A large case series indicated that CBD may hold benefit for anxiety-related disorders, with anxiety scores decreasing in most patients within the first month of CBD treatment. Some studies suggest CBD’s activity at 5-HT1A receptors may contribute to its anxiolytic benefits.
• Potential Benefits for Specific Conditions: While more research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests CBD may help with arthritis pain. Animal studies indicate CBD might reduce inflammation or prevent neurological damage related to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. A 2020 review found that compounds containing CBD were beneficial for reducing symptoms of schizophrenia and social anxiety disorder.

Risks and Considerations of CBD Tea

Despite potential benefits, there are risks and considerations associated with CBD tea consumption:

• Lack of Regulation: CBD products, including teas, are not well-regulated, raising concerns about mislabeling and the presence of undisclosed ingredients like THC. The FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products.
• Limited Scientific Evidence: There is limited scientific research backing many of the reported health benefits of CBD. More thorough testing is needed to fully understand how CBD works and its safety.
• Potential for Positive Drug Tests: CBD products, especially full-spectrum and broad-spectrum varieties, may contain trace amounts of THC, which could theoretically lead to a positive drug test. CBD isolate is generally THC-free but may still carry this risk.
• Drug Interactions: CBD may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and pain medications, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before trying CBD, especially if taking other medications.
• Side Effects: Reported side effects of CBD can include fatigue, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite or weight. Some users have reported mild sedation initially.
• Effects on Fertility: Studies suggest that cannabis may negatively affect male and female fertility.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Although CBD tea does not cause intoxication, it can induce sleepiness and slowed reflexes.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Risks: There is insufficient research on the safety of CBD use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Long-Term Effects: The long-term effects of taking CBD are not yet known.
• Cost: CBD teas can be relatively expensive compared to regular teas.

Legality of CBD Tea

The legal status of CBD products varies depending on location. In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC from the legal definition of marijuana at the federal level, making them federally legal. However, the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and state laws regarding CBD sale and use can differ. Some states allow the sale of products containing both CBD and THC without a medical requirement, while others prohibit the sale of CBD with any THC. In the United Kingdom, hemp tea is legal as long as it is produced from hemp plants containing less than 0.2% THC and the final product contains no more than 1 mg of THC per container. It must also be milled or crushed and cannot be sold as whole buds or unprocessed flowers.

Types of CBD in Tea

CBD tea can be made using different types of CBD extracts:

• Full-Spectrum CBD: Contains all extracts of the cannabis plant, including CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, other cannabinoids, and essential oils, as well as up to 0.3% THC. The combination of these compounds may produce an “entourage effect,” potentially enhancing benefits. However, it may lead to a positive drug test.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD: Contains similar compounds to full-spectrum CBD but has had the THC removed or reduced to trace amounts. It may still carry a risk of a positive drug test.
• CBD Isolate: Pure CBD with no other compounds from the cannabis plant, making it THC-free. It does not offer the entourage effect.

User Experiences

Experiences with CBD tea for pain and anxiety vary. Some users on Reddit have found CBD gummies and oil helpful for pain management and anxiety associated with conditions like endometriosis and fibromyalgia. One user reported CBD honey as a “life changer” for pain and anxiety, using it in coffee or tea daily. CBD tea bought from a grocery store was also reported to work well for pain and stress relief, although it required a long steep time. Some individuals found that smoking cannabis flower provided significant pain relief for endometriosis, while others prefer to avoid smoking and opt for tea or oils due to past negative experiences.

Scientific Research

Research on CBD is ongoing. A 2019 systematic review highlighted the potential efficacy of CBD for treating mental health conditions like anxiety, with many trials reporting benefits. However, a 2018 study undermined claims that CBD helps schizophrenia. A 2020 review suggested preliminary evidence that CBD may help with arthritis pain, though more data is needed. A large case series from 2019 found that CBD may benefit anxiety-related disorders and improve sleep in some patients, noting that it was generally well-tolerated. However, the authors cautioned that the results should be interpreted cautiously due to the naturalistic, open-label, and non-randomised nature of the study.

Comparison to Other CBD Products

CBD tea is one way to consume CBD, with other options including CBD oil, gummies, capsules, topicals, and vape juices. Sublingual administration of CBD oil under the tongue allows for faster absorption compared to CBD consumed through the digestive system in tea. However, the effects of CBD tea may last longer and be more intense due to metabolization in the stomach. The bioavailability of CBD can be enhanced by consuming it with fats, whether in tea or other edible forms.

Dosage and Usage

Determining the right dosage of CBD in tea can be subjective. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved. CBD tea products should clearly state the dose of CBD per serving. The effects of CBD tea are generally milder compared to other CBD products and may take 30 minutes to an hour to manifest. Some users consume CBD tea as part of morning or evening routines, or after meals. Consulting a healthcare professional is advised before starting CBD, especially regarding dosage and potential interactions.

Quality Considerations

When purchasing CBD tea, it is important to choose products from reputable retailers that provide third-party lab testing results (Certificate of Analysis or COA). The COA should confirm the CBD and THC content and verify that the product is free from harmful contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and mould. Opting for organic and non-GMO hemp tea is also advisable. Checking customer reviews and looking for FDA warning letters or lawsuits related to the brand can also help in making informed purchasing decisions.