{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/drink/2","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3026-markdown","title":"What Happens When You Mix Alcohol With CBD?","slug":"what-happens-when-you-mix-alcohol-with-cbd","content":"Whether you’re enjoying a [cocktail infused with cannabidiol (CBD) at a trendy bar](https://www.foodandwine.com/cocktails-spirits/cbd-cocktails) or nibbling on your favorite CBD-infused edible at home with a glass of wine, CBD and alcohol can seem like a perfect match.  \n\nBut is it really a good idea to mix CBD and alcohol? Although research on the subject is skimpy, a few recent studies reveal some surprising—and contradictory—[effects from combining CBD with alcoholic beverages](https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/j5npp7/what-happens-when-you-mix-alcohol-and-cbd) of all kinds. \n\nWhile some health professionals don’t recommend the combination because it may increase sedation, others point to research that suggests CBD may help protect the liver and brain from alcohol’s negative effects. \n\n### CBD Regulates Systems & Promotes Health\n\nCBD is one of the two most abundant compounds in the _Cannabis sativa_ plant, right alongside tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that’s responsible for the high folks experience when consuming it. \n\nThough both cannabinoids act on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors found on cells throughout the body and brain, CBD—unlike THC—doesn’t make consumers feel high. \n\nThe ECS responds both to cannabinoid-like chemicals that are naturally produced by the body itself, and to cannabinoids from outside sources, mainly from the cannabis plant. \n\nThe ECS plays a major role in keeping many of the body’s subsystems in balance, a state called homeostasis. CBD supports processes that contribute to homeostasis, such as:\n\n* Immune responses\n* Circadian rhythms\n* Signaling among neurons within the brain \n\nFor all of these reasons, CBD can help relieve the symptoms of a variety of health conditions. A large body of research from around the world documents the benefits of CBD for helping with:\n\n* Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy\n* Chronic pain\n* Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression\n\nRELATED: [HOW HEMP CBD CAN HELP KIDS WITH SEIZURES](https://www.hellolift.com/health-wellness/5b5b62b1a1805500087db9cd/how-hemp-cbd-oil-can-help-kids-with-seizures)\n\nThe cannabinoid’s calming, relaxing effects come from [CBD’s ability to support major mood-regulating processes](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-and-alcohol) in the brain. CBD can boost the brain’s production of the natural cannabinoid anandamide, which reduces anxiety and promotes positive feelings. \n\nCBD can also inhibit processes that interfere with production of a mood-boosting chemical called GABA. And it can damp down the effects of glutamate, a very abundant excitatory chemical that can cause heightened anxiety and agitation.\n\n### Alcohol Is a Feel-Good Toxin\n\nFor many people, alcohol also causes feelings of calm and relaxation. Taken in moderation, it can:\n\n* Loosen inhibitions\n* Ease social anxiety\n* Help people unwind after a long day\n\nBut alcohol can also do significant damage to the body and brain when used in excess or over long periods of time. Because alcohol can release inhibitions, it can also contribute to episodes of anger and rage. \n\nUnlike the cannabis-friendly ECS, the human body doesn’t have an alcohol receptor system. [When the body metabolizes alcohol, it produces toxins](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3959903/), including acetaldehyde and a form of ethanol. \n\nThese toxins can destroy brain cells and damage the liver, causing conditions like cirrhosis and liver steatosis, or fatty liver syndrome. \n\nSo, what happens when [CBD and alcohol meet each other](https://www.wellandgood.com/good-food/mixing-cbd-alcohol/) in the body and brain?\n\n### CBD & Alcohol Can Enhance Each Other’s Effects\n\nFolks who love CBD-infused alcoholic drinks say that while the combination promotes a more noticeable feeling of relaxation and enjoyment, the effects of CBD aren’t particularly outstanding.  \n\nBut some studies suggest that CBD and alcohol together can intensify the effects of both substances. In this way, some people can feel extremely sedated or have somewhat more impairment in cognitive and motor skills.\n\nIn general, though, these studies indicate that taking CBD with alcohol may affect people much like alcohol alone does. But these effects also depend on a number of factors, such as:\n\n* A person’s tolerance for CBD and alcohol\n* How much they ingest at a given time \n\n### CBD Can Protect the Body Against Alcohol’s Harmful Effects\n\nAlthough not much research has been done specifically on CBD-alcohol interactions, the benefits of CBD as a neuroprotectant and anti-inflammatory are well documented. And these qualities can help  protect the body and brain from alcohol’s toxic effects.  \n\nCBD can be a potent protector of the brain’s complex and delicate neural networks. So much so, in fact, that CBD can help the brain heal from major trauma and stroke.  Some research suggests that it could do the same when taken with alcohol to reduce the damage alcohol can do to the brain’s neural pathways.  \n\nCBD is also a powerful anti-inflammatory that can protect cells from oxidation and other damaging processes. In this way, some researchers have found that [CBD can also help protect the liver from damage](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-10924-8) that heavy alcohol consumption can cause.\n\n### CBD Can Lower Blood Alcohol Levels\n\nResearchers who compared the effects of CBD plus alcohol to the effects of alcohol alone made a surprising discovery: Even though study subjects in both groups showed about the same effects, the blood alcohol levels of those who took CBD with alcohol were significantly lower than those who had ingested alcohol alone.  \n\nAlthough the reason isn’t clear, it appears that CBD is able to lower levels of alcohol in the bloodstream—or to boost the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol.\n\n### Should You Mix CBD & Alcohol?\n\nCBD-infused alcoholic beverages are the latest, hottest trend in CBD consumables. Folks say adding a few drops of a CBD tincture to their favorite drinks simply add an interesting twist. \n\nBut if you haven’t tried these drinks, or you haven’t combined CBD with alcohol in some other way before, it’s wise to proceed with caution and keep your consumption low until it’s clear how the combination affects you.\n\nCBD-infused drinks aside, the way you consume other forms of CBD with alcohol also influences how this combination could affect you. CBD can typically interact with alcohol if the two are taken within four to eight hours of each other. \n\nCBD edibles deliver their effects more slowly, because the digestive system must process them. But CBD oils and tinctures work more quickly. So far, science hasn’t explored whether topically applied CBD products may interact with alcohol. \n\nAlcoholic beverages can vary in their alcohol content, too. For example, spirits like whiskey or vodka typically contain more alcohol than beers and wines do, and this can also affect the way different drinks interact with CBD.  \n\nResearch reveals that mixing CBD with alcohol can bring some unexpected benefits. But it’s still wise to:\n\n* Start slowly\n* Know your limits\n* Consume both CBD and alcohol as responsibly as you can\n\nPhoto credit: Canna Obscura/Shutterstock.com\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://www.hellolift.com/products) and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://www.hellolift.com/answers) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/14b42/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/f836f/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/2244e/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 400w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/14b42/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 800w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/47498/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/0e329/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/ffa36/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/58556/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/61e93/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/1f5c5/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 400w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/58556/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 800w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/99238/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/7c22d/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1600w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/d1528/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3011-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Full-Spectrum Tea Made With Cannabis Rosin","slug":"diy-recipe-full-spectrum-tea-made-with-cannabis-rosin","content":"Edibles are a fantastic way to consume cannabis, but they take a little work. If you’re anything like me, there may be days when you want an edible, but don’t want the hassle of cooking and baking. You may live in a place where you can legally buy premade marijuana edibles. But sometimes you don’t have any on hand, and a trip to the dispensary or a home delivery just isn’t going to work. \n\nSo, what are you to do if all you’ve got is cannabis flower, and you want a quick way to turn it into an edible? Try out my secret recipe for rosin tea.   \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nYou may have heard of rosin as a quick and easy way to make cannabis extracts at home. But few people realize that you can use this same technique to put together a tasty cup of cannabis tea in no time. \n\nIn less than five minutes, you can turn a little bit of cannabis flower into a cup of hot, cannabis- infused tea. This tea is potent and completely customizable with your favorite flavors. And since you’re making it from flower, it will also be strain-specific. \n\n### What Is Cannabis Rosin? \n\nBefore we get to the tea recipe, you may want to [learn a little bit more about cannabis rosin](https://hellomd.com/articles/rosin-a-solvent-free-concentrate/). \n\nRosin is a type of cannabis extract or concentrate that’s distinguished by the way it’s made. To create rosin, you use pressure and heat to literally squeeze the cannabinoids and terpenes out of the plant. \n\nOn a commercial scale, rosin producers use hydraulic presses that can exert huge amounts of pressure and make big batches of rosin. But you can also make rosin at home using a simple flat iron hair straightener.\n\nRELATED: [WHAT IS CANNABIS ROSIN & HOW DO YOU USE IT?](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-is-cannabis-rosin-and-how-do-you-use-it/)\n\n### Why Some Folks Prefer Cannabis Rosin \n\nWhile rosin isn’t the most common way to make cannabis concentrates (mostly due to higher costs for production), it does boast a few benefits that are hard to find in other kinds of concentrates. \n\nHere are a few of the main reasons that some people prefer rosin: \n\n#### 1. You Don’t Need Solvents to Make Cannabis Rosin\n\nSome people prefer rosin, because it’s a method of extraction that doesn’t use solvents. This is a big departure from the usual ways of creating concentrates.\n\nChemical solvents are often times part of the process of making cannabis extracts. The most common solvents used include: \n\n* Butane\n* Naphtha\n* Propane\n* Hexane\n* CO2\n* Alcohol\n\nThe solvents pull the active cannabinoids and terpenes out of the plant, and then the solvents evaporate, leaving behind just the extract. But unfortunately, these processes aren’t perfect, and they sometimes leave behind trace amounts of solvents. \n\nSince many of these solvents have known negative health implications, some folks prefer not to consume cannabis concentrates that use solvents to minimize the risk of exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. \n\nRosin, which only uses heat and pressure, can be a very attractive alternative for those looking to go for solventless cannabis extracts. \n\nRELATED: [UNDERSTANDING CANNABIS CONCENTRATES & HOW TO USE THEM](https://hellomd.com/articles/understanding-cannabis-concentrates-and-how-to-use-them/)\n\n#### 2. Marijuana Rosin Gives You the Full Spectrum of Cannabinoids & Terpenes\n\nAnother reason some people prefer rosin is that it offers a full-spectrum blend of cannabinoids and terpenes. Different methods of making concentrates can result in different blends of cannabinoids and terpenes. Some methods can actually destroy many of the medicinally effective compounds available in the plant, while preserving tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the most common cannabinoid. \n\nWhile some prefer the effects of isolated THC, many find its psychoactive property overwhelming, and prefer to get the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes that a particular strain has to offer. These full-spectrum concentrates, like rosin, preserve the original blend of chemicals and allow the true character of the marijuana strain to shine through. \n\n#### 3. Cannabis Rosin Is More Flavorful Than Other Concentrates\n\nBecause rosin preserves the full spectrum of chemicals, including flavor- and aroma-creating terpenes, it’s also a particularly flavorful and aromatic concentrate. \n\nRosin contains natural terpenes from the cannabis strain, so will often smell similarly to the original flower. When it comes to including rosin in edibles, this means that you should pick cannabis strains with flavors that blend well with the flavors in your food. For rosin tea, I find that floral or fruity marijuana strains tend to work best. \n\n### Ingredients for Tea Infused With Cannabis Rosin:\n\n* Cannabis flower \n* Tea bag of your choice\n* Cream\n* Water \n\n#### Equipment\n\n* Flat iron hair straightener\n* Parchment paper\n* Oven mitt or heavy-duty cloth\n\n### How to Make Cannabis Rosin   \n\nIn order to make rosin tea, you first need to learn how to make rosin. Don’t worry. This is a very simple process.\n\n1. Place your flat iron hair straightener on a hard, clean and heat-resistant surface. Then turn it on to preheat. If your flat iron is adjustable, I recommend setting it to 300 degrees F. If your iron doesn’t have specific temperature settings, put it on the lowest setting possible. In general, rosin can be made at temperatures between 280–330 degrees F. \n2. Take a small bud of cannabis (around the size of a shelled peanut) and place it on a piece of parchment paper that’s about 2 by 4 inches. Fold the parchment over to cover the bud. Some people like to fold the edges of parchment as well, so that the bud can’t fall out and is encased in a little pouch. \n3. When your flat iron is fully heated, rest it against a hard, clean, heat-resistant surface and open the blades. Carefully place your folded parchment between the blades of the flat iron. Make sure that the bud is in position to be squeezed between these blades once you press down. \n4. Then, using an oven mitt or heavy cloth over your hand to protect it from heat, press the blades together and down against the hard surface. Press down as hard as you can for 10–15 seconds.\n5. Release the pressure, and carefully pull out the parchment paper. When you open the paper, you’ll see a flattened bud and some cannabis rosin stuck to the paper. \n\nMany people focus on what’s left behind on the paper, and you can consume that later on. But the flattened cannabis bud will also be full of rich rosin, which will defuse nicely into your tea. \n\nUsing these “tea buds” in your tea, rather than just putting the concentrate directly into your mug, means you won’t find a hunk of rosin stuck to the side of your mug if your water isn’t hot enough. The tea buds also stick together nicely so that you don’t have to worry about cannabis flower breaking apart and floating around in your tea cup. \n\nThat said, set the parchment aside and take the flattened bud out to make the tea. You can use it right away or save it for later. I like to make a bunch of these little tea buds at once so they’re ready to go when I feel like making rosin tea. \n\n![Full-spectrum tea made with cannabis rosin](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-fbe8f667-6e2c-4ad9-94d7-345b39ef7c0d/original.png)\n\n### How to Make Tea Infused With Cannabis Rosin\n\n1. Once you have your tea bud, you’re ready to make the tea. This is the easy part. To start, put the bud directly into your tea cup.\n2. Pick out some tea to blend with your rosin. You can use any tea you’d like, but I recommend thinking about the flavors that will work well with your flower. For example:\n\n * Is the marijuana you used a lemony sativa strain? If so, try a lemon-flavored black tea. \n * Is your cannabis more of a floral-smelling strain? If so, try mixing the rosin you made with lavender tea. \n * Are you going to use a cannabis strain that has fruity notes? Go with a tropical hibiscus tea that may include fruit like mango or coconut. \n\n> Once you’ve chosen your tea, add the tea bag to your cup.\n\n3. Add some boiling water to the cup and let your tea steep for 2–3 minutes. Then pour in some cream. The cream is essential, because it binds with the cannabinoids in your rosin tea so that your body can better absorb them. Make sure not to skip this step or the tea will be much less effective. \n\nRELATED: [WHY YOU NEED TO EAT FAT WITH YOUR CANNABIS](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-you-need-to-eat-fat-with-your-cannabis/)\n\nAnd that’s all it takes. In just a few minutes, you can make a single serving of strain-specific rosin tea. Let the tea cool down to your preferred temperature and enjoy. \n\nPhoto credits: Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock.com (main image), [Emily Earlenbaugh](https://www.instagram.com/emilyearlenbaugh/) (body image)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/14b42/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg","srcSet":"/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/f836f/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 200w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/2244e/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 400w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/14b42/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 800w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/47498/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 1200w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/0e329/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 1600w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/ffa36/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/58556/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/61e93/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 200w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/1f5c5/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 400w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/58556/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 800w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/99238/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 1200w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/7c22d/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 1600w,\n/static/764faf32b3fb244f4d903b2e3c707339/d1528/1945a8119dfbc5e31acf980bfd3f4d47.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2991-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: CBD Mango Spritzers","slug":"diy-recipe-cbd-mango-spritzers","content":"I love making **cannabidiol (CBD) edibles**, but sometimes I want something that’s easy to throw together in a snap. That’s when I decide to put aside the edibles and make a “drinkable” instead. [CBD-infused drinks](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/4-cannabis-drink-products-perfect-for-summer) can come in a million different forms, but since they only require mixing a drink, they take just a few minutes to put together. \n\nMy favorite drinkable recipe is my CBD mango spritzers. These fresh, sparkling, and tropical drinks are perfect for any celebration but are also great for a quick self-care break whenever you need one. If your day is getting stressful, why not take a pause and enjoy a drink that’s designed to relax your body and mind?\n\nThe ingredients are simple:\n\n- CBD\n- Mango juice\n- Ice\n- Sparkling water\n- Lime\n\nThough the recipe is simple, the result is pure magic. Sweet, light, and full of bright flavors, this spritzer may transport your mind to an island paradise. But while simple and flavorful, these ingredients are also **medicinally powerful**. \n\nThe base of this recipe is the vitamin C-rich [mango juice](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mango#immunity), which provides all of the sweetness you need, along with a wide range of nutrients, healthy digestive enzymes, and antioxidants. \n\nOf course, mango juice is more than just a healthy sweetener. Mango also contains **[myrcene](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-myrcene)**, a therapeutically active terpene that’s also found in cannabis. Myrcene is known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing effects when taken alone, so it’s a great way to add some extra stress relief to your drink. \n\n![Hello4-min (32).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_32_36fca9b7f1.png)\n\n[Myrcene is also noted as a terpene that works synergistically with CBD](https://hellomd.com/articles/terpene-and-cannabinoid-combos-that-boost-cannabiss-effects/). This means that when the two are consumed together, they offer benefits that are different or greater than what you could experience with either one on its own. \n\nWhen you take myrcene and CBD together, they can impart increased [pain relief](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/3-popular-questions-about-cbd-and-chronic-pain-answered) and a further reduction in inflammation. Some studies even suggest that they can help fight off cravings for addictive substances.\n\nThe [limes](https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/lime-water-benefits) in this recipe also offer health benefits, with a variety of immune-boosting ingredients like vitamin C. Plus, limes also carry a synergistic terpene: limonene. [Research suggests that this terpene can help fight anxiety when taken in combination with CBD](https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x), so it should add to the relaxing effects of the drink. \n\nDelicious, easy, relaxing, healthy, and no hangover the next day. What are you waiting for? Try the recipe yourself and give yourself a little TLC. \n\n![Hello3-min (35).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_35_89474bd1a4.png)\n\n### Ingredients for CBD Mango Spritzers\n\nServes 1\n\n- Ice cubes\n- 3 tbsp mango juice, chilled and well shaken\n- 1/2 cup chilled sparkling water \n- 1 fresh lime \n- 1 dose CBD tincture* \n\n*Everyone is different when it comes to dosing, so use your best judgment on dosing based on your previous experiences with CBD. If you aren’t sure about dosing, start low. A *good starting point is 5 mg*.\n\n### How to Make CBD Mango Spritzers \n\n- 1.) Put a few ice cubes in your drinking glass. (I like to use a champagne flute, but any glass will do.) \n- 2.) Slice your lime in half, and then cut a thin slice of the lime. Cut a slit in the slice from the center out so that it can sit on the rim of the glass. \n- 3.) Spritz a tiny bit of juice on the ice with the remaining lime to taste. \n- 4.) Add the CBD tincture, followed by the mango juice. Then pour the sparkling water on top. Use a spoon or drink stirrer to mix together. Add a lime slice to rim. Serve immediately. \n\n![Hello2-min (41).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_41_8204f3e26e.png)\n\nIf you’re multiplying this recipe, be sure to mix up a single serving in its individual glass rather than making one big batch. Because the recipe uses sparkling water, it’s difficult to shake up a large batch and ensure it stays evenly mixed. \n\nInstead, get all of the ingredients together and pour each drink individually. This also makes it easy to let folks decide on the dose of CBD they’d like in their own drink. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/14b42/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/f836f/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 200w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/2244e/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 400w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/14b42/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 800w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/47498/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/0e329/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 1600w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/d8255/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.jpg 1920w","srcWebp":"/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/58556/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/61e93/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 200w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/1f5c5/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 400w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/58556/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 800w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/99238/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 1200w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/7c22d/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 1600w,\n/static/6042bddf11eb200fe3ad3f0dc6e6b1e0/25f09/b406aed82b6e9d39e61045e8a1af3a81.webp 1920w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2915-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Cannabis-Infused, Cinnamon-Vanilla Hot Chocolate","slug":"diy-recipe-cannabis-infused-cinnamon-vanilla-hot-chocolate","content":"It’s officially winter. What better way to ease into the colder months of the year than with a drink that’s warm, relaxing and full of rich chocolatey goodness? That’s right. I’m talking about that cold temperature classic, hot chocolate. \n\nWhen I think of wintertime drinks from my childhood, hot chocolate is one of my favorites. One sip, and I’m back in those happy days, drinking hot chocolate by the fire during holiday parties with family or after coming inside from playing in the snow. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nWhile this recipe may leave you feeling nostalgic for winters of the past, it takes a more sophisticated, gourmet approach than the powdered Swiss Miss powdered packets mixed with water that many of us enjoyed growing up. With rich cream, real dark chocolate and notes of vanilla, maple and cinnamon, this hot chocolate is rich and flavorful, but still a breeze to make. \n\nAnd of course, who can forget the star of the dish: cannabis. In this recipe I infuse cannabis concentrate directly into the cream used for each individual cup of hot chocolate. The process is simple and makes it easy to medicate each mug according to everyone’s particular needs. \n\nRELATED: [WHY YOU NEED TO EAT FAT WITH YOUR CANNABIS](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-you-need-to-eat-fat-with-your-cannabis/)\n\nWhether you’re making a special treat for yourself or having marijuana-friendly guests over for winter gatherings or festivities, this marijuana-infused drink is the perfect pairing with the cold weather. \n\n### Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused, Cinnamon-Vanilla Hot Chocolate\n\nServes 1\n\n* 1 drop of cannabis concentrate from a [Dablicator](https://www.hellomd.com/products?category=Concentrates)\n* 1 tbsp dark cocoa powder\n* 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips \n* 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream\n* 1/2  tbsp of maple syrup (or a sweetener of your choice; adjust according to your taste)\n* 1/2 cup of water \n* Pinch of salt\n* Pinch of cinnamon \n* 1/2 tsp of vanilla \n* Whipped cream (optional)\n\nThe easiest way to infuse this recipe is using cannabis concentrate from a dablicator, because it’s an easy and mess-free way to medicate the hot chocolate precisely. If you don’t have a dablicator, you can use a dab of any full-melt cannabis concentrate in the recipe.\n\nEither way, it’s best to start with one drop or just a small dab of cannabis concentrate. Once you see how that dose affects you, if desired you may opt to increase the dose to better fit your needs.  \n\nIf you don’t have cannabis concentrates or aren’t interested in consuming marijuana that way, you can substitute with 1 mL of the cannabis tincture of your choice. \n\n![Cannabis-infused, cinnamon-vanilla hot chocolate](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-4596fadc-3e98-4a72-a4f1-7dc661921472/original.png)\n\n### How to Make Cannabis-Infused, Cinnamon-Vanilla Hot Chocolate\n\n1. If you’re using a cannabis concentrate, place it in a small saucepan and heat on low for a few seconds. Remove from heat if there are any signs of vaporization (such as simmering) or if you can smell a more fragrant odor coming from the concentrate. Don’t let it go too long on the heat or you’ll lose medicinal components of the plant to the air. This step decarboxylates your cannabis concentrate, so that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is active. Skip this step if you’re using a cannabis tincture. \n\nRELATED: [DECARBOXYLATING MARIJUANA: WHY IT’S IMPORTANT](https://hellomd.com/articles/decarboxylating-marijuana-why-its-important/)\n\n2. Add your cream to the saucepan and return to heat. Stir the mixture continually with a spatula as you heat the cream to a simmer. \n\n3. Once your cream is simmering, add the cocoa powder and the chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and mixed with the cream. During this process, make sure to scrape any chocolate mixture from the bottom of the saucepan to avoid it burning. \n\n4. Add the water, vanilla, cinnamon, salt and maple syrup. Stir thoroughly until it’s well incorporated and the entire mixture is homogeneous with a consistent color and texture. If you’re infusing the hot chocolate with a cannabis tincture, here’s where you stir it in. \n\n5. Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream. \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n\nPhoto credits: [rawpixel.com](https://www.pexels.com/@rawpixel) (main image), [Emily Earlenbaugh](https://www.instagram.com/emilyearlenbaugh/) (body image)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/14b42/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/f836f/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 200w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/2244e/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 400w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/14b42/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 800w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/47498/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/0e329/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/47821/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.jpg 3916w","srcWebp":"/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/58556/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/61e93/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 200w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/1f5c5/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 400w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/58556/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 800w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/99238/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 1200w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/7c22d/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 1600w,\n/static/b9e5b598ed0e6f73bb9d8ede9cb80586/1b165/ec94d73bb1257137dc9a6afcee16624a.webp 3916w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2904-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Cannabis-Infused Green Detox Drink","slug":"diy-recipe-cannabis-infused-green-detox-drink","content":"After six or so weeks of holiday binging, starting the new year bright-eyed and bushy-tailed can be a tall order. Whether you’ve gained a few pounds from one too many cookies or are feeling polluted from too many late nights punctuated with a parade of sugary cocktails, you’re likely in need of a detox regimen—one that involves clean eating, exercise and lots of quality sleep.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nTo help you out on the clean eating front, we’ve got a green detox drink that’s chock full of antioxidants—and cannabis as well.\n\n* Kale, kiwis, parsley and lemons are all great sources of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and rids your body of free radicals that can cause inflammation, heart disease and even cancer.\n* Nutrient-dense kale is also loaded with vitamins A and K as well as the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, both of which are powerful antioxidants in their own right.\n* Cucumbers not only help with hydration—due to their high water content—but they also significantly up the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer ante.\n\nThe phytonutrients found in this drink make it the perfect antidote to any kind of holiday overindulgence. And when you add in cannabis, you’ve got a beverage that could also ease pain, improve sleep, boost mood and increase productivity. \n\nRELATED: [DIY RECIPE: CONSUMING THCA NATURALLY](https://hellomd.com/articles/diy-recipe-consuming-thca-naturally/)\n\nConsider adding this drink to your daily repertoire for the month of January. We’re willing to bet it’ll help get you fired up and feeling good heading into the rest of 2019.\n\n### Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused Green Detox Drink\n\n1 serving\n\n* 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced\n* 1 cup baby kale leaves (You can also substitute with spinach.)\n* 1 cucumber, sliced\n* 1/4 cup parsley\n* juice of 1/2 a lemon\n* 5 mL cannabis oil of your choice (Adjust according to your tolerance and preference.)\n\n### How to Make Cannabis-Infused Green Detox Drink\n\n1. Place all of the ingredients in a juicer and process.\n\n2. Pour into a glass, then stir in cannabis oil.\n\nNote: If you don’t have a juicer, place leafy greens into a blender along with lemon juice and kiwis, and blend first. Then add all of the other ingredients and blend thoroughly.\n\nPhoto credit: [Alisha Mishra](https://www.pexels.com/@alisha-mishra-579430)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMFAgT/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABs8Kkypmyn//EABsQAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDAAEEEhMi/9oACAEBAAEFAtYF7O5zKJo2sXdfU//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAEDAQE/AYf/xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRIf/aAAgBAgEBPwFy0s//xAAdEAABAwUBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIhEBESIjFR/9oACAEBAAY/Ah7PKarCmTbcJU//xAAaEAEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhcUFh/9oACAEBAAE/IeprWASdEd2+QS4ALq2BTC/k/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABBUP//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEf/aAAgBAwEBPxATZf/EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARIf/aAAgBAgEBPxDAp//EAB8QAAIBAwUBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESFBgTFhkaHB0f/aAAgBAQABPxBzs4GPLS8Pwo+QiUIpSXeqEVFyjOhG7zZg/9k=","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/14b42/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/f836f/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 200w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/2244e/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 400w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/14b42/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 800w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/47498/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/0e329/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 1600w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/7ccc4/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.jpg 3488w","srcWebp":"/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/58556/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/61e93/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 200w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/1f5c5/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 400w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/58556/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 800w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/99238/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 1200w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/7c22d/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 1600w,\n/static/8b0cdc0ae4b8db32e6a7685d05f0ef71/52ab4/7398116848253441487de6690bd1f1ed.webp 3488w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2875-markdown","title":"New Trend: Alcohol-Free, Cannabis-Infused Wine & Beer","slug":"new-trend-alcohol-free-cannabis-infused-wine-and-beer","content":"There’s nothing quite like having a drink with those you love. Whether it’s a fun night out at the bar, a fancy dinner party, a toast to celebrate a momentous occasion or a simple glass of wine with your partner at home, alcoholic drinks play a big role. \n\nAnd it makes sense. Small amounts of alcohol can help ease people into a more relaxed and social mood, which can make things a lot more fun. But as cannabis legalization continues to open up new possibilities for recreational relaxation, a new alternative is entering the scene: alcohol-free, cannabis-infused wine and beer that mimic the flavors of alcohol. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nOptions like [Rebel Coast Wineries’ new cannabis-infused Sauvignon Blanc](https://definitelynotrebelcoastwinery.com/) and [Lagunitas’ Hi-Fi Hops](https://www.sanluisobispo.com/living/food-drink/article213954384.html) are taking the alcohol out of the equation and replacing it with cannabis. Now you don’t have to get drunk to drink with your friends. \n\n### Weed & Wine Culture \n\nThe cannabis wine craze didn’t start with nonalcoholic wines. People have been mixing cannabis with wine containing alcohol for thousands of years. If fact, [the combination was first used as general anesthesia for surgery back in 400 BC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_general_anesthesia). \n\nBut in recent years, the marijuana and wine movement has been more focused on mixing the two for recreational purposes. What started as just individuals enjoying both cannabis and wine at their parties and gatherings has spawned a high-end culture geared around blending these two recreational substances in sophisticated settings: \n\n* [Cannabis supper clubs where guests are treated to wine and cannabis-infused culinary delights](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b0e3174bf4c4d000a0e73ea/cannabis-supper-clubs-elevated-experiences-by-master-chefs). \n* “Weed and wine” tastings that pair wines with inhaled cannabis flower based on their flavor and aroma. \n* [Marijuana and wine tours](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b08ed7dbf4c4d000a0e73c3/take-a-tour-of-california-wine-and-cannabis-country) that take passengers to visit wineries, vineyards, cannabis dispensaries and marijuana grow sites to show the similarity between the two—and often allow sampling of both products.\n \nRELATED: [ARE MARIJUANA-INFUSED ALCOHOLIC DRINKS A GOOD IDEA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab87d79f24d1300077ccb9d/are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea)\n\nIn California, where the climate is well suited to both cannabis and wine, the cannabis and alcohol culture was thriving. Then Prop 64 passed legalizing recreational cannabis, and the legal options for mixing marijuana and wine or beer disappeared. \n\n### No Mixing Allowed—Why Cannabis-Infused Alcohol Is Now Illegal \n\nUnder the new California laws, no one can mix cannabis and alcohol. Not only are alcohol and cannabis not allowed to be sold in the same product (such as cannabis-infused wine), but they’re not even allowed to be sold at the same event.\n\nThose who have licenses to make or sell alcohol could lose them if they’re found to be selling cannabis as well. This has really put a damper on the cannabis-infused alcohol trend and the many events focused on pairing cannabis and wine. \n\nThe reasoning behind the decision has to do with the way [cannabis and alcohol interact](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol). Perhaps we could have guessed from the fact that this potent combination was used for anesthesia that its effects are powerful. Those under the influence of this mix can find it to be sedative, disorienting and numbing. \n\nSome of this is just from the alcohol itself, which comes with its fair share of [dangerous effects](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body). Alcohol can make it harder to move with coordination or think clearly, making driving unsafe. And for those who drink too much alcohol, death from accidental overdose is a real possibility. \n\nCannabis, on the other hand, is relatively safe. You can’t overdose from it like you can with alcohol, and it doesn’t impair coordination in the same way. Still, it can be extremely disorienting, especially for new or occasional consumers. \n\nUnfortunately, when you mix cannabis and alcohol, the effects become far more pronounced. The disorientation is magnified, often much more than expected for the amount of cannabis consumed. This can be highly dangerous if people try to drive after taking the combination. One study found that [driving ability was moderately impaired by cannabis but severely impaired by the combination of cannabis and alcohol](http://clinchem.aaccjnls.org/content/early/2015/05/05/clinchem.2015.238287). \n\nWhen [scientists studied this phenomenon](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11543984), they found a surprising result. When subjects drank alcohol and smoked cannabis, the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) increased compared to when they consumed the same amount of cannabis without any alcohol. This suggests that alcohol actually increases the absorption of THC and adds to its disorienting and euphoric effects.\n\nOf course, this doesn’t mean that the combination can’t be consumed without issue. Many combine alcohol and THC on a regular basis, without any ill effects. But legislators aren’t ready to take on the risk of drivers on the road coming back from marijuana and alcohol events or bars that serve cannabis and alcohol. So this combination is one that happens at private gatherings only. \n\n### The Solution? Alcohol-Free Cannabis Drinks\n\nBut don’t worry. The “weed and wine” culture isn’t gone yet. And while mixing cannabis and alcohol isn’t allowed, the new trend is moving from mixing to mimicking. \n\nTake the new [Sauvignon Blanc from Rebel Coast](https://definitelynotrebelcoastwinery.com/). This nonalcoholic wine swaps out the alcohol for cannabis. With no alcohol, it doesn’t violate any laws, but it still tastes like wine.\n\nAn alcohol-free wine like this would be the perfect substitute at dinners or tastings that focus on cannabis and wine. It opens up a whole world of possibilities for the event sector, because there’s no legal problem with mixing cannabis wine with other forms of cannabis. \n\nAnd even for private events and gatherings, this could be a game changer. For those who simply prefer the effects of cannabis to alcohol, this offers a way to join in the celebratory culture that surrounds drinks without getting drunk or hungover. \n\nWant to go to a party where everyone is drinking, and smoking isn’t allowed? [Bring some cannabis-infused, nonalcoholic wine or beer](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5bdbd36d26ef630008f055a2/how-cannabis-can-replace-your-glass-of-wine). You can raise your glass in a toast, and still get the kind of buzz you prefer. \n\nAnd it’s not just wine. The [Hi-Hops drink from Lagunitas](https://www.sanluisobispo.com/living/food-drink/article213954384.html) takes a similar route. It’s just sparkling water with cannabis and hops flavors, with the cannabis added in after it leaves the brewery. Other beer makers like [Blue Moon have also announced they’re planning to offer cannabis infused, nonalcoholic beers soon](https://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/california-weed/article207527129.html). \n\nCould these cannabis-infused beverages be the future of celebratory beverages? Only time will tell if there’s a market for people who’d rather sip cannabis than alcohol. \n\nPhoto credit: [Mattias Diesel](https://unsplash.com/@mattiasdiesel)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/14b42/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/f836f/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/2244e/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 400w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/14b42/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 800w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/47498/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/0e329/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/11837/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 3621w","srcWebp":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/58556/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/61e93/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/1f5c5/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 400w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/58556/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 800w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/99238/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 1200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/7c22d/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 1600w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/cbac0/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 3621w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2869-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: CBD-Infused Virgin Hot Toddy","slug":"diy-recipe-cbd-infused-virgin-hot-toddy","content":"Thanksgiving is coming up and for many of us it’s synonymous with eating a bit too much—and then going back for seconds. Instead of adding to the long list of Thanksgiving dishes, we thought we’d switch it up this year and give you a recipe for a cannabidiol (CBD)-infused virgin hot toddy. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\nThis is a good drink to have after your first course and before you start heating up plates of leftovers. A paper in the journal of _Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research_ says that [cannabis can help strengthen our digestive intestines by reducing inflammation](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4940133/), which causes painful irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Symptoms of IBS include:\n\n* Bloating\n* Diarrhea\n* Constipation \n* Stomach cramps\n\nEven if you don’t suffer from IBS, we’ve all experienced these symptoms at one time or another, and many people deal with them after eating too much at Thanksgiving. So, if you want to give your digestive system a boost after a big Thanksgiving meal, sit down and watch some football with this CBD-infused, virgin hot toddy. \n\nAnd as an added bonus, it’s incredibly easy to make with only four ingredients. You can also add to this base recipe by including tasty herbs that aid digestion like ginger, cinnamon or milk thistle. \n\nRELATED: [DIY RECIPE: HEALTHY, CBD-INFUSED PUMPKIN SPICE COOKIES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5bbe32ffdd54d50008d4077e/diy-recipe-healthy-cbd-infused-pumpkin-spice-cookies)\n\n### Ingredients for CBD-Infused Virgin Hot Toddy\n\n* 1 mL [CBD tincture](https://www.hellomd.com/products?category=Tinctures) of your choice\n* 1 tbsp honey \n* 2 tsp fresh lemon juice\n* 1/4 cup boiling water\n\n### How to Make CBD-Infused Hot Toddy\n\n1. In a mug, add the CBD tincture, honey and lemon juice. \n2. When the water is finished boiling, remove from heat and pour over ingredients in the mug. \n\nIt may sound too easy, but that’s really all it takes for a calming, delicious drink that will help you feel good after a big Thanksgiving meal.   \n\nPhoto credit: [rawpixel](https://unsplash.com/@rawpixel) ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/14b42/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/f836f/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 200w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/2244e/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 400w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/14b42/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 800w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/47498/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/0e329/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/17505/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.jpg 2445w","srcWebp":"/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/58556/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/61e93/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 200w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/1f5c5/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 400w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/58556/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 800w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/99238/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 1200w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/7c22d/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 1600w,\n/static/9cc0f0ed36445621cf699761319f0ec9/79678/50bdcc6bf8e089c07f6aaf269d4f37b7.webp 2445w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2721-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Cannabis-Infused Sangria for Summer Solstice","slug":"diy-recipe-cannabis-infused-sangria-for-summer-solstice","content":"This year, summer solstice falls on June 21. It’s a day that calls for sharing a gorgeous and long summer evening with your friends and family, eating great food and enjoying a refreshing beverage. If you’re hosting a summer solstice party this year, or are attending one hosted by a friend, we’ve put together a delicious, non-alcoholic, cannabis-infused beverage that will be the perfect addition to celebrate the occasion. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nYou can very easily infuse beverages with marijuana using a cannabis tincture. For recreational consumers, this is a hangover-free way to enjoy a tasty beverage. And for medical marijuana patients, it’s a nice method to liven up the way you consume your medicine.\n\nIn our drink recipe, we suggest a cannabis tincture dose and ratio, but you can customize this to your needs, tolerance level and preferences.  \n\nRELATED: [DIY RECIPE: QUICK & EASY CANNABIS STRAIN-SPECIFIC TINCTURE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a621ef38425e40008273a30/diy-recipe-quick-and-easy-cannabis-strain-specific-tincture)\n\n### What Is the Summer Solstice?\n\nThe summer solstice is the longest day of the year for anyone living above the equator. As you may remember from your science class in grade school, the earth rotates around the sun with a tilted axis. This tilted rotation puts certain portions of the planet, during certain periods of the year, into more direct sunlight than others. This is the reason we have seasons.\n\nThe summer solstice is when the northern hemisphere gets the maximum of direct sunlight, making it the longest stretch of daylight each year. The further north you go, the more hours of sunlight you’ll experience on this day. So, make the most of the extra hours of sunlight with some of your favorite people and this non-alcoholic, marijuana-infused drink.\n\n### Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused Sangria (Non-Alcoholic): \n\nServes 8 \n\n* 4 cups white grape juice\n* 1 cup orange juice \n* Juice of 1 lime\n* 1 cup blueberries\n* 1 cup strawberries, cut in half\n* 2 oranges, cut into chunks\n* 2 peaches, cored and cut into chunks\n* 16 mL of 1:1 CBD:THC tincture (2 mL per serving)\n\n### How to Make Cannabis-Infused Sangria:\n\n1. Chop the fresh fruit, except the blueberries, into bite-sized chunks, leaving the peel on the oranges and peaches. \n2. In a large pitcher, add the fruit chunks and blueberries. \n3. Pour in the grape juice, orange juice, lime juice and cannabis tincture, and mix thoroughly. \n4. Let the beverage rest in the fridge for at least 2¬–3 hours before serving. \n\nAs always, when serving any marijuana-infused food or beverages, be sure to properly label the pitcher and inform your guests that it contains cannabis. \n\nPhoto credit: [Lawrence Walters](https://unsplash.com/@lawrencewaltersphotos) \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/14b42/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/f836f/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 200w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/2244e/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 400w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/14b42/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 800w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/47498/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/0e329/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/017f4/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.jpg 3630w","srcWebp":"/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/58556/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/61e93/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 200w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/1f5c5/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 400w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/58556/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 800w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/99238/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 1200w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/7c22d/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 1600w,\n/static/d2a8e6b5afbd1abaa9484ce341532816/ef33f/210a1fff08b08fd599254c9d02535c46.webp 3630w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2662-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa","slug":"diy-recipe-cannabis-infused-spicy-turmeric-hot-cocoa","content":"Researchers are finding what Ayurveda, India's ancient system of medicine, has known for centuries about the healing powers of turmeric root. Whether consumed fresh or ground, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate everything from sore muscles to mental fog and nasal congestion. \n\nAccording to the Mayo Clinic, ongoing lab and animal research suggests that [turmeric may help prevent or treat cancer](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/expert-answers/curcumin/faq-20057858), though clinical trials involving humans are still in the beginning phases. In particular, curcumin is the healing compound found in turmeric that’s responsible for its finger-staining yellow color and medicinal properties. \n\nIn a less scientific study, I’ve heard my favorite yoga teacher recommend golden paste—a combination of turmeric, coconut oil and other spices—so many times you’d suspect he sells it door to door. But in addition to fueling my superhuman yoga teacher, many Americans have personally found a significant improvement in their wellness from a daily dose of turmeric. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Turmeric Best Ingested With Fat & Black Pepper \n\nWhile taking a turmeric supplement is an option, ingesting turmeric with fat and black pepper increases its absorption. So instead, golden paste is a great DIY infusion to keep on hand. With the digestive support from ginger and healthy fats from [cannabis-infused coconut oil](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56d69dde22efe4000b00004c/how-to-make-marijuana-coconut-oil-recipe), a spoonful of medicinal golden paste can be used in vegetable curries or your morning smoothie. Another classic and popular recipe is [golden milk](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57573cdebcdaa90007000129/an-anti-inflammatory-recipe-for-turmeric-cbd-tonic), a health elixir enjoyed throughout southeast Asia and currently having a moment in the U.S. \n\nThis spicy hot cocoa is infused with a tried-and-true recipe for turmeric golden paste, which uses our method for making marijuana-infused coconut oil.\n\nRELATED: [HOW TO MAKE MARIJUANA COCONUT OIL RECIPE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56d69dde22efe4000b00004c/how-to-make-marijuana-coconut-oil-recipe)\n\n### Ingredients for Medicated Golden Paste\n\n* 1/2 cup ground turmeric\n* 1 tsp ground ginger\n* 1/2 tsp ground black pepper\n* 1/2–1 cup water (as needed)\n* 1/4 cup cannabis-infused coconut oil \n\n### How to Make Medicated Golden Paste\n\n1.\tCombine the turmeric, ginger and black pepper in a small saucepan. \n2.\tStir over low-medium heat and add water, starting with half a cup. You can add more water as needed until the spices diffuse into a thick, mustard-colored sludge (3–5 minutes). \n3.\tRemove from heat and add the cannabis-infused coconut oil. \n4.\tStir well until completely incorporated. \n5.\tRefrigerate the mixture in a glass container or jar.\n\n### Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa\n\n* 1 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy milk works fine)\n* 1/4 tsp medicated golden paste\n* 1 tbsp cacao powder\n* 1/4 tsp cinnamon\n* 1 tbsp honey \n\n### How to Make Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa\n\n1.\tCombine the ingredients in small saucepan. \n2.\tHeat the milk over medium-high heat, stirring until the golden paste and cacao powder dissolve. \n3.\tFor an extra treat, blend the entire drink for 20 seconds before pouring it into your favorite mug. It will stay surprisingly hot and be topped with barista-style froth.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Erol Ahmed](https://unsplash.com/@erol)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQL/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABqxvQuJCP/8QAGRABAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxIi/9oACAEBAAEFAm3I5qso8ocToA//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/AT//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/AT//xAAdEAACAQQDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQEiFhUXGB/9oACAEBAAY/AovFuxy4dHofRiU16f/EABkQAQEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEhABFRQf/aAAgBAQABPyHgiNeKmHNq0EmKD7iel7mNKfG4czw3/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABAzP//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAh/9oACAEDAQE/EIj/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIf/aAAgBAgEBPxCq/8QAHBABAQACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIUFRYTGh/9oACAEBAAE/EGqdnfA/jcKXOHGaS5BugWTHE0ynk6fOMgYlHWTDT/vSL5n/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/14b42/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/f836f/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 200w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/2244e/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 400w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/14b42/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 800w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/47498/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/0e329/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/d2452/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.jpg 4000w","srcWebp":"/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/58556/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/61e93/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 200w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/1f5c5/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 400w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/58556/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 800w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/99238/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 1200w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/7c22d/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 1600w,\n/static/a320215fb1395bb843f7efff33f3d7e5/3a911/0f5c4f588ce6c1fca7de91b4ea7d63a5.webp 4000w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2592-markdown","title":"Are Marijuana-Infused Alcoholic Drinks a Good Idea? ","slug":"are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea","content":"As the medical and recreational cannabis industries continue to grow, new trends and products seem to pop up all the time. One that has been gaining steam is cannabis-infused alcohol. Companies are making [vodka with hemp](https://www.liquor.com/articles/hemp-vodka/#gs.wjF5jng), brewing beer with cannabis and infusing [marijuana into wine](http://www.fresnobee.com/living/food-drink/article174077661.html). But is mixing cannabis and alcohol safe? How do the two substances interact together in the body? Is there any way to dose marijuana accurately when it’s mixed with alcohol? \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### How Do Cannabis & Alcohol Interact in the Body?\r\n\r\nBefore you start experimenting with alcohol and cannabis, consider how these two substances interact in your body when consumed simultaneously—the possible side effects may not be worth it. \r\n\r\nThe truth is there simply isn’t a lot of scientific data on this yet. Most research related to mixing marijuana and alcohol explores what happens when you smoke marijuana after already imbibing alcohol, not what happens when you infuse alcohol with cannabis. While not exactly the same scenario, these studies do give us some clues about how cannabis and alcohol interact in the body together.\r\n\r\nA 2015 study by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry [looked at the effects cannabis and alcohol could have on each other when consumed one after the other](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/05/150527112728.htm). Researchers observed 19 adults, giving some low doses of alcohol and others a placebo. After 10 minutes, some were given a high dose of vaporized cannabis, while others received a low dose of vaporized cannabis; the control group received a placebo. \r\n\r\nResearchers found that those who consumed alcohol before consuming cannabis experienced a much higher level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their bloodstream than those who hadn’t consumed alcohol first, regardless of the amount of alcohol or cannabis. The researchers concluded, “Any dose of alcohol combined with cannabis significantly increases levels of THC in blood.” \r\n\r\nSo what side effects could come from cannabis-infused alcohol? Both cannabis and alcohol are central nervous system depressants; when consumed, they can both separately cause sedation. Ingesting too much of both at the same time could result in serious grogginess, memory lapses, paranoia and nausea. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MIXING MARIJUANA & ALCOHOL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol)  \r\n\r\n### Tips for Drinking Marijuana-Infused Alcohol\r\n\r\nWhat we do know for sure is that when it comes to dosing, it’s difficult to get it right with cannabis-infused alcohol. That’s because alcohol works as an extremely effective solvent, used to extract terpenes and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. So while throwing some cannabis flower into a bottle of vodka may seem relatively harmless, it can end up being highly concentrated and more potent than you may expect.\r\n\r\nIf you’re going to experiment with cannabis-infused alcohol or alcoholic beverages, it’s wise to do so in the comfort of your own home. As always, start slow and keep in mind that dosing marijuana accurately when alcohol is in the mix can be quite difficult.\r\n\r\nIf you’re infusing the alcohol yourself, add less cannabis than you think, as the final product can end up stronger than expected. Also, allow your body time to process your cocktail for at least 30 minutes before thinking about going back for a second round. \r\n\r\nHave you experimented with cannabis-infused alcohol or cocktails? If so, let us know about your experience in the comments. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Jez Timms](https://unsplash.com/@jeztimms)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg","srcSet":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/f836f/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/2244e/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/47498/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/0e329/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/ef470/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 3656w","srcWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/61e93/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/1f5c5/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/99238/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/7c22d/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/e45da/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 3656w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2489-markdown","title":"Recipe Roundup: Cannabis-Infused Halloween Cocktails","slug":"recipe-roundup-cannabis-infused-halloween-cocktails","content":"Halloween is the perfect low-maintenance holiday. You don’t have any big meals to cook or presents to buy. It’s all about dressing up in fun costumes and hosting friends for scary movies, pumpkin carving and socializing.\n \nIf you’re hosting or attending a Halloween shindig this year, mix up some festive cannabis-infused cocktails to take the party to the next level. We’ve included a few fun recipes we snagged online that you can make with or without alcohol.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Using a Cannabis Tincture in Your Cocktails\n\nWhen adding a cannabis tincture to your cocktail, you’ll want to be aware that tinctures are typically very potent, so it’s best to use an eyedropper to ensure small, precise doses especially if you’re using one that’s THC-dominant. If you aren’t familiar with cannabis tinctures, be sure to start low and go slow—a good rule of thumb is one drop per glass. Remember, you can always opt for a CBD tincture if you want to avoid psychoactive effects.\n \nRELATED: [VEGETABLE GLYCERIN TINCTURE: RECIPE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/vegetable-glycerine-tincture-recipe)\n\nCheck out our round-up of three spooky cocktails that we’re betting will make you the hit of the party.\n \n### Bloody Float\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59f1f2d3453ba8305b3478cd/embedded_images/59f1f3c2163dbc2e2f4c1c69/image1.jpg)\n\n### Ingredients\n\n>* 4 cups Concord grape juice\n>* 750 ml sparkling white wine or apple cider\n>* 1/2 cup lime juice\n>* 1 pint raspberry sorbet\n>* 8 to 10 drops cannabis tincture \n \nYields 8\n \n### How to\n\nCombine all liquids, including the cannabis tincture, into a pitcher and mix together. Place one scoop of raspberry sorbet into each glass and fill each glass with contents from the pitcher.\n\nSource: [Martha Stewart](https://www.marthastewart.com/933544/bloody-floats)\n \n### Vampire Vodka Cocktail \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59f1f2d3453ba8305b3478cd/embedded_images/59f1f3c3163dbc2e2f4c1c6a/image2.jpg)\n\n### Ingredients\n\nFor the syrup (yields 8): \n>* 1/2 cup light agave syrup\n>* 1/2 cup grated red beet\n>* 1/2 cup pomegranate juice\n \nFor the cocktail (yields 1): \n>* 1/2 oz fresh lime juice\n>* 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice \n>* 2 oz vodka (optional) \n>* 1 to 2 drop(s) cannabis tincture\n \n### How to\n\nCombine pomegranate juice, agave syrup and beet in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Strain and then bring to a boil again. Cook this mixture on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until the syrup is reduced to 3/4 cup. This recipe makes about 8 servings, so you can store it in the fridge to be used for up to one month. \n \nPour vodka (if using), cannabis tincture and juices into a cocktail shaker. Shake thoroughly, pour over ice and add syrup to taste. \n \nSource: [Martha Stewart](https://www.marthastewart.com/1521192/vampire-vodka-cocktail)\n\n### Sparkling Cranberry Orange Eyeball Punch \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59f1f2d3453ba8305b3478cd/embedded_images/59f1f3c4163dbc2e2f4c1c6b/image3.jpg)\n\n### Ingredients\n>* 2 cans peeled & pitted lychees in heavy syrup\n>* 1 pint fresh blueberries\n>* 1 bottle (60 ounces) 100% cranberry juice\n>* 1/2 cup granulated sugar\n>* 4 cups orange juice\n>* 3 cups ginger ale \n>* 1 1/2 cups vodka (optional) \n>* 12 to 16 drops cannabis tincture\n>* Dry ice (optional) \n \n### How to\n\nDrain the lychees, keeping the syrup from one can for later use. Stuff each lychee with a fresh blueberry to create the “eyeballs.” Store these in the fridge until you're ready to serve up the finished product.\n\nCombine 1 cup of cranberry juice with a 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan; simmer and whisk until all sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat. \n\nIn a large container (punchbowl, pitcher, drink dispenser), combine the reserved lychee syrup; the cranberry and sugar mixture; the rest of the bottle of cranberry juice; orange juice; ginger ale; vodka (if using) and cannabis tincture. Pour the cocktail over a square of dry ice for the spooky smoke effect and add 6 to 8 “eyeballs” in each glass.\n\nSource: [Dixie Crystals](http://www.dixiecrystals.com/recipes/category/beverages-cocktails/Sparkling-Cranberry-Orange-Eyeball-Punch)\n\nWith these recipes, you’ll be the MVP of any Halloween party. Just be sure to let guests know these cocktails are infused before they indulge. If you try one or all of these recipes, let us know how they turned out in the comments.\n\nMain photo credit: Michael Wurm Jr. for [Shari's Berries](https://www.berries.com/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/14b42/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/f836f/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.jpg 200w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/2244e/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.jpg 400w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/14b42/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.jpg 800w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/87ed9/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.jpg 961w","srcWebp":"/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/58556/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/61e93/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.webp 200w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/1f5c5/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.webp 400w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/58556/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.webp 800w,\n/static/7ad5f5ece736d3e3022f9019575bb6cb/feae4/820ec4b274b451172dce38436f399e3f.webp 961w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2296-markdown","title":"Handmade Cannabis CBD Elixirs from the Founder of Emerald Alchemy","slug":"handmade-cannabis-cbd-elixirs-from-the-founder-of-emerald-alchemy","content":"### The Plant Whisperer\n\nBillie Thibodeau is a botanical herbalist who shares her passion for plants, and especially cannabis, through her business Emerald Alchemy. Her handcrafted cold water hash, sustainably grown cannabis, and artfully crafted elixirs are created through her love of nature and dedication to sharing organic horticulture. I had the pleasure with speaking to Billie about her background as an herbalist, her relationship to cannabis plants, and the art of crafting plant medicine.\n\nBillie will be serving her hand-crafted herbal elixirs at [HelloMD’s Laughter Haven event](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/hellomd-s-laughter-haven-an-evening-of-cannabis-comedy) on Oct. 5, 2017 at San Francisco's The Midway.\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BZolP_bARwo/`\n\n### How did you start working with plants? \n\nThe ability to tune in and listen to plants came from playing in nature so much as a kid. I grew up in Santa Cruz mountains - we were outdoor kids. When I was very little I loved making flower petal water by soaking fragrant flowers to infuse the essential oils into the water.  There is an innate trust and connection to the power of plants and herbal medicine that has always thrived in me. Plants have always been my friends.\n\n### What’s your background as an herbalist?\n\nWhen I spent about a year on the island of Crete in Greece I completely fell in love with herbal medicinal studies. Malotíra (mountain tea) and Faskómilo (Sage) had me hooked. I couldn't get enough of the very powerful Mediterranean herbs of Crete. I snuck loads back with me! During that time, I discovered the herbalist Juliette de Beracley Levy. Her wild and enchanting stories of traveling through the Mediterranean with practically just a few sprigs of herbs to keep her and her children free of ailments or disease completely fascinated me. I wanted to be her!\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How did you transition into working with cannabis? \n\nI believe the spirit of cannabis chooses who works with her. I moved to California from New York City in 2008 and I immediately started working as cannabis trimmer. Working with cannabis after working with other herbs felt like an honor. \n\nThe farmers I worked for loved my work ethic and enthusiasm and invited me be a part of the cold water hash team. I helped develop a larger scale production system for ice water hash. We experimented with a lot of machinery and I found that using my hands worked the best, producing the greatest yield and the greatest quality. \n\n### What inspired you to create Emerald Alchemy? \n\nI’ve always fiercely loved my independence, autonomy and a good thrilling adventure. Working for myself just makes sense and the challenge of creating a business keepsme engaged with that independent, creative and edgy young spirit there.\n\nThe name Emerald Alchemy came to me in 2013 after I harvested my first crop of high CBD AC/DC strain. ‘Emerald’ represents the heart and ‘Alchemy’ represents the powerful transformational shift that happens when we act out of love from the heart. I believe our most powerful medicine is loving kindness. I created this company out of my love for life and this precious planet.\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BV0br1UA1iG/`\n\n### What’s your approach to growing cannabis?\n\nI have a spiritual approach to growing cannabis! It is such a special treat to be an organic cannabis farmer because cannabis is so extremely communicative and receptive. I feel like truly farming cannabis in alignment with nature you must get in touch with an innate intuitive knowing that is very spiritual. While we are farming cannabis we are also farming healthy soil ecology and farming ourselves as healthy stewards of the craft. Training staff to care for cannabis gardens is teaching an art. To be fully engage with the changing weather, microclimates, soil ecology and the fast paced cycles of flowering cannabis varieties is a beautiful spiritual dance. Many cannabis farmers feel as though they are married to their plants!\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS, YOGA & RELAXATION, AN INTERVIEW WITH DEE DUSSAULT](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/597798584ce06012ff1d1641/cannabis-yoga-and-relaxation-an-interview-with-dee-dussault)\n\n\n### What are your grow methods?\n\nMy cultivation methods are pretty simple but require a lot of listening. I’m a sun lover! I like to grow in beds outside with hoop houses over them. I do year round cultivation. I always get annoyed when we have to use supplemental light. A lot of hiccups happen with artificial light but it’s good for freshness of product and business to grow year round.\n\nOne of the cool things about my process is I’ve figured out a way to save all the excess hash water and feed it back to the plants. That’s one of the best foods you can feed your plants because all those phytonutrients and water soluble terpenes are in the water. \n\n### What strains do you grow? \n\nI grow quite a lot of the 20:1 AC/DC strain. I really love the 3:1 Cannatonic strain. I grew Orange Cookies strain last year. I always schedule in the AC/DC strain and depending on what is available to me from my colleagues nurseries or what mother plants I am cultivating.\n\n### Why do you grow CBD strains?\n\nOnce I was educated about the medicinal benefits of CBD, I was all in and I made it my mission. I started hearing about CBD around 2011 and I’m very sensitive to THC, so it was so exciting to me when I tried a CBD flower. I found the genetics which was really hard to get back then so I had the specialist Lawrence Ringo introduce me to the right people.\n\n### How is your cold water hash prepared? \n\nMy process is entirely handmade. We use no machinery at all. With hand-stirred hash, it’s all about having a holistic relationship at every step of the process so we can guarantee the quality of the product.\n\nIt’s quite an experience to make hash on my farm. We wear enormous thick gloves up to our shoulder and rubber waterproof goulashes for the ice agitation portion of the process. The engagement that comes with completely handmade processes allows for customizing each batch of hash to the variety and signature of the individual plant material. It’s totally an art!\n\n### How do you formulate your tinctures? What makes them different than others?\n\nFormulating tinctures is like writing poetry or music. Creating herbal combinations involves an incredible amount of knowledge and I do a lot of research before I decide on a specific formula melody. Each herb wants to be extracted in it’s own way. The ethanol I use for extraction is certified organic made from organic grapes. I think what sets me apart is that I am creating works of art. Therefore each formula and product I create stands apart for it uniqueness.\n\n### What is the story behind your cannabis elixirs.\n\nThe Elixir Collection is infused with a micro dose of cannabis in order to balance out the expression of the other herbs in the formula. The Elixirs are designed to work as a holistic support with cannabis as one of the integral herbs in the formula. Cannabis has such a dominant expression I choose to lower the dosing simply to achieve harmony in the formula.\n\nThe Elixirs are incredible in an evening libation for a nightly healing ritual. We created some Canna Cocktail recipes for the Elixir collection and on [Sava](https://www.getsava.com/), a statewide delivery service in California.\n\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. 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