Both cannabis and matcha have individual health benefits. But what happens when you combine the two? A cannabis-infused matcha green tea latte brings together the best of both worlds, offering a unique blend of relaxation, focus, and health benefits.
The power of matcha
Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and uniquely processed green tea leaves, is packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
Antioxidants help our bodies fight off free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can attack other healthy molecules and cause cellular damage. Damage to our healthy cells causes sickness and lowers our bodies natural ability to fend off and heal from chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and others. The most notable antioxidant in matcha is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been extensively studied.
Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress without causing drowsiness. L-theanine improves focus, mental clarity, reaction times and decreases stress and anxiety.
The benefits of cannabis
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, contains cannabinoids, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and regulate various physiological processes like eating, anxiety, learning and memory, reproduction, metabolism and growth and development.
THC is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is praised for its therapeutic properties that do not cause a “high” feeling. Research shows that CBD can reduce anxiety, alleviate pain, and improve sleep quality. Cannabis also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit a wide range of health conditions, from arthritis to gastrointestinal disorders.
Synergistic effects of matcha and cannabis
Combining matcha and cannabis can create something called a “synergistic effect.” A synergistic effect is when the combination of two things enhances their individual benefits. So, when matcha and cannabis are combined, the positive effects and health benefits of both are boosted.
Health benefits of matcha and cannabis combined:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Both matcha and cannabis have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. EGCG in matcha and cannabinoids in cannabis can work together to reduce inflammation and pain, making cannabis infused matcha drinks potent anti-inflammatory beverages.
Antioxidant Boost: The high antioxidant content in matcha, combined with the antioxidants found in cannabis, can help combat oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage. This can lower the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health.
Mental Clarity and Focus: L-theanine in matcha promotes a state of calm alertness, which can counterbalance the potential anxiety-inducing effects of THC. This makes a cannabis-infused matcha latte an excellent choice for enhancing focus and productivity.
Anxiety and Stress Relief: CBD in cannabis is well-known for its anxiety-reducing effects. When combined with the calming properties of matcha, this latte can provide significant relief from stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being.
Worried about the possible long term effects of cannabis?
Studies show that l-theanine can successfully combat any negative cognitive and behavior effects of cannabis.
Some teens and young people have been known to experience schizophrenia from THC use. The schizophrenic effects are caused by a neurotransmitter called glutamate. L-theanine regulates glutamate and protects the brain from damage with no negative side effects.
Because matcha is so high in l-theanine, combining l-theanine and cannabis is a great way to experience the positive health benefits of both and limit any negative side effects of cannabis.
Homemade cannabis-infused matcha green tea latte recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to make your own cannabis-infused matcha green tea latte at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of high-quality matcha powder
- 1 cup of hot water (ideally at 176°F)
- 1 cup of your choice of milk (almond, coconut, or dairy)
- Cannabis tincture or cannabis-infused milk (adjust dosage according to your tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon of honey, sugar or maple syrup to sweeten (optional)
Instructions:
- Sift your matcha into a bowl, pour the hot water over the matcha and whisk until it forms a frothy mixture.
- Heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm, but not boiling.
- Mix the cannabis tincture with the warm milk and froth.
- Pour the frothy milk and cannabis mixture into the bowl with the matcha.
- Sweeten with honey or your desired sweetener.
- Pour into a mug.
Enjoy your cannabis infused matcha latte!
The bottom line
Making a cannabis infused matcha latte is worth a try. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, along with the balanced energy and focus provided by this duo, make the cannabis-infused matcha green tea latte a powerful health drink. Whether you're looking to relieve stress, reduce inflammation, or simply enjoy a new and exciting beverage, try it out!
As always, it’s important to start with a low dosage of cannabis and gradually increase as needed, especially if you are new to cannabis consumption. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about incorporating cannabis into your matcha routine.
Some matcha recipes you’ll love
Ultimate matcha green tea fat burning smoothie
Strawberry matcha smashed iced tea
4 ingredient matcha chia seed pudding
Matcha peanut butter chocolate yogurt bark
Resources:
Skaper, S. D., & Di Marzo, V. (2012). Endocannabinoids in nervous system health and disease: the big picture in a nutshell. Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences, 367(1607), 3193–3200. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2012.0313
De Felice, Marta, et al. “L-theanine prevents long-term affective and cognitive side effects of adolescent Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure and blocks associated molecular and neuronal abnormalities in the mesocorticolimbic circuitry.” The Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 41, no. 4, 2 Dec. 2020, pp. 739–750, https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.1050-20.2020.
Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
Burstein, S. (2015). Cannabidiol (CBD) and its analogs: A review of their effects on inflammation. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 23(7), 1377-1385. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bmc.2015.01.059
Chacko, S. M., Thambi, P. T., Kuttan, R., & Nishigaki, I. (2010). Beneficial effects of green tea: a literature review. Chinese medicine, 5, 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8546-5-13
Einöther, S. J., & Martens, V. E. (2013). Acute effects of tea consumption on attention and mood. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 98(6 Suppl), 1700S–1708S. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.113.058248
