Cannabis tea, also known as CBD tea (Cannabidiol tea) often made by steeping leaves or flowers of Cannabis sativa in hot water is known to have several health benefits. CBD is not a medication nor a supplement. The FDA continues to warn consumers of potential contaminants and side effects associated with CBD products. However, the use of CBD tea for centuries by traditional medicine practitioners for various conditions is available in literature.

In several counties recreational use of cannabis is illegal. In many countries cannabis use for recreational purpose is legal if the chemical content THC is in trace amounts of 0.03% or less. THC delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two compounds present in Cannabis. THC is the compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. In many states of USA now cannabis is legal under 2014 Farm Bill and one can see CBD stores in many states.

Some of the potential benefits of cannabis tea based on anecdotal evidence and research:

Pain relief: Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which are known to have analgesic properties. Consuming cannabis tea may help alleviate several types of pain, including chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and inflammatory pain.

Relaxation and stress relief: People feel relaxed and experiencing stress relief after consuming cannabis tea. This effect may be because of the calming properties of cannabinoids, which can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.

Improved sleep: Cannabis is used as a sleep aid due to its sedative effects. Drinking cannabis tea before bedtime may help individuals fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Cannabinoids known to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may benefit individuals with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or Crohn’s disease.

Nausea relief: Cannabis has antiemetic properties, meaning it can help alleviate nausea and vomiting. Cannabis tea may be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing nausea due to other medical conditions.

Appetites stimulation: Many uses cannabis to increase appetite, particularly individuals with cancer or HIV/AIDS who experience appetite loss and weight loss. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, is known to stimulate appetite.

Mood enhancement: Cannabis tea may have mood-enhancing effects, leading to feelings of euphoria or heightened creativity. However, it is essential to consume cannabis responsibly to avoid adverse effects, especially for those prone to anxiety or psychosis.

Potential Neuroprotective effects: Studies suggest that cannabinoids have neuroprotective properties, which may help protect brain cells from damage and degeneration. This could have implications for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.

The effects of cannabis tea can vary widely depending on factors such as the strain of cannabis used, the dosage, individual tolerance, and method of preparation. Additionally, cannabis tea may cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, impaired memory, or impaired motor coordination, especially at higher doses.

As with any herbal remedy or alternative therapy, before using cannabis tea it is better to consult with healthcare professional, particularly if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications that may interact with cannabinoids.

References:

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
• https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/what-we-know.html
• https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq
• https://www.fda.gov/
• Image credit:  pxhere.com/en/photo/498268 (CC0 Public Domain)