THC Drinks & Effects

It's 2025, more and more people are becoming health conscious about what they're putting in their bodies. This isn't just limited to foods and supplements, but also recreation.

The most recent shift is people swapping their cocktails for THC infused beverages. In fact, the global market for these drinks is expected to grow at 19.2% each year, and is projected to reach $3.8 Billion by 2030.

But what's driving this switch? After years of consistent growth, alcohol is now being replaced rapidly.

Many people prefer the "cleaner buzz" without the dreaded hangovers, or next day regrets over drunk texts. For others, it is simply a healthier way to enjoy life's moments that doesn't take a toll on your body.

What Are THC Drinks?

THC Drinks are beverages infused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the mind-altering cannabinoid in cannabis which makes you intoxicated.

They primarily exist in two categories:

Hemp-derived and Marijuana-derived.

Hemp-derived THC Drinks are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill if they contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight.

These are the ones you can find in some liquor stores and online markets.

Marijuana-derived variety is only available in states which have Medical Marijuana Programs and they're typically sold in dispensaries.

State regulations on the amount of THC in drinks varies and is usually focused on dosage limits rather than percentages.

For instance, Michigan allows up to 100mg THC maximum per cannabis-infused beverage. On the other hand, Massachusetts has a 110mg THC upper limit. Some states allow even higher THC concentrations.

Types Of THC Beverages

There are a lot more varieties in THC Drinks. From ready-to-drink nano-emulsified beverages to convenient drink powders and mixes.

You can find:

• Sparkling Seltzers

• THC Drink Mixes

• Mocktail Syrups

• Functional Brews

How Do THC Drinks Work?

THC drinks and other cannabis products work by interacting with your bodily systems, namely your endocannabinoid system.

CBD however, works indirectly with your ECS.

Your ECS is responsible for managing many important functions including stress, mood, sleep, pain perception and more.

Unlike smoking which delivers THC directly to your bloodstream through your lungs. Beverages are a little slower to act, but not as slow as most edible products which take around 60-90 minutes to kick in.

That's because THC Drinks have small, water soluble particles. This process creates smaller droplets that can be absorbed faster with the help of emulsifying surfactants by suspending the THC oil in water. 

Different products use different emulsion methods for their products. We use natural, polysaccharide based emulsification on our nano-ionized™ cannabinoids instead of synthetic surfactants.

When you take a sip of a THC-infused drink, the nano-sized particles largely bypass your liver's first-pass metabolism. That's why the effects can be felt in as little as 15-20 minutes rather than the longer edible wait.

Note - Nano-Emulsification is not to be confused with Nano-ionization, the solventless extraction process we use for our CBD and THC Products.

How Do THC Drinks Feel?

The taste of THC beverages often begins like any refreshing carbonated drink with some herbal notes on your tongue.

But within minutes, you'll feel a subtle elevation and euphoria in your body. Colors can appear brighter and more vivid, conversations flow with unforced rhythm, and stress dissolves into a calm happiness.

Click here to know more about what being high feels like.

You might be wondering how hemp-derived THC drinks can be intoxicating and give you a buzz if they have 0.3% THC only.

Let’s see it this way - A weak coffee in a big 32oz cup can still deliver a significant caffeine dose. 

Similarly, if 15mg of THC is dissolved in a larger drink with 5g(5,000mgs) of total drink weight including other ingredients like natural flavors etc, it maintains the 0.3% THC concentration.

This dose can produce noticeable psychoactive effects for many people.

Effects by Dosage

5mg THC Drink Effects

Subtle relaxation, akin to a glass of wine. Mild euphoria and stress relief without cognitive impairment.

Ideal for social settings or first-time users looking for a gentle introduction.

Studies indicate 5mg doses activate CB1 receptors enough to reduce anxiety while avoiding overstimulation.

10mg THC Drinks Effects

Noticeable euphoria, muscle relaxation, and heightened sensory perception.

Potential dry mouth or dizziness.

Suitable for regular users seeking deeper relaxation without sedation.

At this dose, you can expect a balanced effect between mental clarity and physical ease.

25mg THC Drink Effects

Intense body high, can be sedating for some people.

Best for specific needs or seasoned consumers.

Many people prefer higher doses of THC for deep meditation or yoga nidra practices.

Alcohol vs THC Drinks - At A Glance

Do THC Drinks Feel The Same As Smoking?

The effects of Smoking vs Edibles are quite different.

Your liver transforms Delta-9 THC into 11-hydroxy-THC - a metabolite which is 3 times more potent. This creates a gentle onset with sustained effects which can last for 6-8 hours.

Cannabis edibles like weed gummies produce more 11-hydroxy-THC which lead to deeper, more intense body effects. THC Drinks preserve more Delta-9 THC which creates effects closer to inhalation with not as much sedation.

However, how much Delta-9 THC gets converted varies by formulation and extraction. Nano-emulsified cannabinoids bypass the first-pass metabolism. Which means higher Delta-9 THC levels and proportionally less 11-hydroxy THC levels compared to THC Gummies.

Factors Influencing THC Drink Effects

• Metabolism: Faster metabolizers feel effects sooner.

• Tolerance: Regular users may require higher doses.

• Cannabinoid Ratios: CBD can temper THC’s anxiety-inducing effects

Food intake can also have an effect on the effects: Empty stomach accelerates onset because the ingredients reach your small intestine faster. On the other hand, fatty meals  can increase the bioavailability of THC (since it is fat-soluble) and lead to better absorption and more potent effects.

Side Effects of THC Drinks

While THC drinks are generally well-tolerated. Most people enjoy their beverages and other ingestible THC products without any discomfort, but here's what to keep in mind:

Mild Physical Effects:

• Dry mouth (easily managed with water or citrus drinks)

• Slight dizziness during peak effects

• Increased appetite, often called "the munchies"

Rare Occurrences:

• Temporary anxiety (if consuming above personal tolerance)

• Mild fatigue as effects wind down

• Slight time perception changes

Quick Prevention Tips:

Start with lower doses, stay hydrated, and make sure you're in a comfortable environment. Most of these side effects are dose-dependent and fade naturally as your body processes the THC.

Conclusion

THC drinks are a cultural shift towards mindful consumption, combining recreation with wellness.

As the research continues, these drinks may change the social rituals and replace alcohol and other harmful substances to a great extent. For now they occupy a niche: the psychoactive choice for those who want euphoria without the hangover.