Key Takeaways:
- Cannabis-infused honey, or “cannahoney,” draws from the millennia-old traditions of using honey and cannabis separately for their medicinal properties across various ancient civilizations.
- The combination leverages honey’s natural antibacterial and healing properties with cannabis’s therapeutic effects, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The innovation of cannahoney likely emerged independently within different cultures practicing herbal medicine, highlighting a universal recognition of combining natural substances for enhanced health benefits.
- With the modern shift towards natural and holistic remedies, coupled with changing legal landscapes regarding cannabis, there has been a renewed interest in cannabis-infused honey as a versatile and beneficial wellness product.
Cannabis-infused honey marries the ancient natural sweetness of honey with the therapeutic properties of cannabis, a blend gaining rapid popularity for its health and wellness benefits.
Historically, both honey and cannabis have been used individually for medicinal purposes for millennia, with their combined use offering a novel approach to natural remedies in modern times.
This unique synergy has sparked interest among consumers and health enthusiasts alike, leading to a surge in popularity. As research into cannabis’s benefits continues to evolve, cannabis-infused honey stands out for its potential to provide natural relief and comfort in a familiar, enjoyable form.
What is Cannabis-Infused Honey?
CBD-infused honey is a potent blend of honey’s inherent sweetness with the medicinal properties of cannabis, offering both taste and therapeutic advantage (and it tastes incredible when added to cakes or cookies).
Utilizing honey, known for its rich antioxidants and health-promoting attributes, as a base, this combination enhances the potential health benefits when infused with cannabis.
The preparation process involves decarboxylation of cannabis to activate its beneficial compounds, followed by a gentle infusion with honey under low heat.
This meticulous method preserves the therapeutic integrity and potency of the final product, which can be enjoyed in a variety of culinary applications, such as teas or as a natural sweetener, providing both enjoyment and potential health benefits like pain relief and improved sleep.
Historical Use of Honey
Honey has been used for thousands of years, with evidence of its medicinal application dating back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians, for example, used honey for its wound-healing properties and as an embalming fluid, while the ancient Greeks and Romans utilized it for health and longevity [3].
Honey’s natural antibacterial properties and its use as a sweetener and healing agent have been well-documented throughout history.
Historical Use of Cannabis
Similarly, cannabis has been used medicinally for over 5,000 years. Ancient Chinese texts mention cannabis as a medication for a variety of conditions, including pain and inflammation.
In India, cannabis was incorporated into traditional Ayurvedic medicine, where it was used to treat sleep disorders and headaches.
The use of cannabis spread throughout the ancient world, from the Middle East to Africa and Europe, where it was valued for its psychoactive and healing properties.
Types of Cannabis-Infused Honey
There are different types of cannabis honey, each offering distinct benefits based on their cannabinoid content:
- THC Infused Honey: This type incorporates THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of cannabis known for its euphoric effects. It’s valued for pain relief, sleep improvement, and the potential to enhance mood.
- CBD Honey: Infused with CBD oil (cannabidiol), this variant does not induce a ‘high’ but offers anxiety relief, stress reduction, anti-inflammatory benefits, and more. CBD honey is particularly noted for its therapeutic effects without the psychoactive properties of THC, making it suitable for a wider audience.
- Full-spectrum vs. Isolate Honey: Full-spectrum honey contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, providing a comprehensive “entourage effect.” Isolate honey, however, contains purely CBD, offering targeted benefits without the presence of THC or other cannabinoids.
Both cannabis-infused honey and CBD honey embody a unique combination of sweetness and therapeutic effects, addressing various health concerns while offering a pleasant and natural consumption method.
Whether seeking relief from pain, improved sleep, anxiety reduction, or simply a natural sweetener with added benefits, these honey variants present a versatile and appealing natural remedy.
The Making of Cannabis-Infused Honey
To craft a cannabis honey recipe at home, you need a few key ingredients and pieces of equipment to ensure a successful infusion. The basic requirements include:
Ingredients:
- High-quality honey: Choose natural, raw honey for the best results for infusing honey.
- Cannabis: Choose either high-THC or high-CBD strains based on the desired effects. The quantity can vary depending on personal preference and the potency desired.
Equipment:
- Oven: For decarboxylating the cannabis plants.
- Baking sheet and parchment paper: To evenly spread and bake the cannabis.
- Double boiler: Essential for gently heating the honey without burning it, ensuring the cannabinoids are well-infused.
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer: For straining the cannabis from the honey after infusion.
- Glass jar with a lid: For storing the infused honey.
Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting THC infused honey involves a careful process that ensures the cannabinoids are effectively activated and infused into the honey. Here is a brief walkthrough of the steps involved:
Step 1: Decarboxylation
- Preheat the oven to a temperature of around 240°F (115°C).
- Spread your cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the cannabis for about 30-40 minutes to activate the THC or CBD through decarboxylation.
Step 2: Infusion
- Combine the decarboxylated cannabis with organic honey in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture on the lowest setting for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent degrading the honey or cannabinoids.
- Ensure the temperature stays below 160°F (71°C) to preserve the honey’s natural enzymes and the cannabis’s active compounds.
Step 3: Straining:
- Once the infusion process is complete, remove the mixture from heat.
- While still warm, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a glass jar. This separates the plant material from the infused honey.
- Squeeze out as much honey as possible from the plant material.
Step 4: Storage
- Transfer the strained honey into a clean glass jar with a tight lid.
- After you infuse honey, store it in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it can last for an extended period without losing potency.
Health Benefits of Cannabis-Infused Honey
Cannabis-infused honey combines the natural benefits of honey with the therapeutic properties of cannabis, creating a versatile remedy that can contribute to overall health and well-being.
This synergy offers a range of benefits, from pain relief and stress reduction to antioxidant properties and sleep improvement [1].
Pain Relief
Cannabis-infused honey acts as a natural pain reliever due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cannabinoids found in cannabis. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain perception.
Honey, with its soothing qualities, enhances this effect, making cannabis-infused honey a potent remedy for chronic pain, joint discomfort, and muscular aches.
Anxiety and Stress Reduction
The cannabinoids in cannabis, particularly CBD, are known for their anxiety-reducing effects. They work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, similar to how anti-anxiety medications operate but without the side effects.
This, combined with honey’s comforting taste and nutritional benefits, can help alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being [2].
Sleep Improvement
Cannabis-infused honey can improve sleep quality due to the sedative effects of certain cannabinoids, such as THC, which promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep.
CBD also contributes by reducing anxiety and stress, addressing common causes of sleeplessness. Incorporating this honey into a night-time routine can aid in establishing a healthier sleep pattern.
Antioxidant Properties
Honey is rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
When infused with cannabis, the antioxidant properties are amplified, offering enhanced protection against oxidative damage and supporting overall health.
Additional Benefits
Cannabis-infused honey boasts a variety of other health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can aid in wound healing and potentially suppress certain viruses.
The natural sweetness of honey, combined with the medicinal properties of cannabis, offers a holistic approach to treating ailments and improving health. Its use as a sugar substitute in diets can contribute to weight loss and lower cholesterol levels, further promoting heart health.
Legal and Safety Considerations
The legal landscape for cannabis-infused honey varies significantly across different regions, reflecting the broader legal framework for cannabis products.
In jurisdictions where cannabis is legalized for medicinal or recreational use, cannabis-infused honey is generally permissible under specific regulations that govern the production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis products.
However, in areas where cannabis remains illegal, any products containing cannabis, including infused honey, are also illegal.
Consumers must be aware of and understand the local laws and regulations regarding cannabis use in their region to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.
Dosage and Safety Tips
When it comes to consuming cannabis-infused honey, the mantra of “start low and go slow” is paramount to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Due to variations in individual tolerance levels and the desired effects, finding the right dosage is a personal journey.
- Starting Dosage: A common recommendation for those new to cannabis-infused honey is to begin with a half to a full teaspoon of the product. This modest amount allows the individual to gauge their body’s reaction to the cannabinoids.
- Adjusting Dosage: Based on the initial experiences, consumers can gradually adjust their dosage. It’s important to allow sufficient time after each dose to observe the effects before consuming more, as the full effects can take some time to manifest.
- Homemade Infusions: For those preparing cannabis-infused honey at home, a general guideline is the use of approximately 1 gram of cannabis per 1 cup of honey. Ensuring proper decarboxylation and infusion techniques is crucial to achieving the desired potency and effectiveness.
- Storage: To maintain the potency and quality of cannabis-infused honey, it should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Proper storage can extend the product’s shelf life, keeping it effective for several months to a year. Regular checks for any changes in quality are recommended to ensure the product remains safe for consumption.
Adherence to these guidelines and considerations is essential for anyone looking to explore the benefits of cannabis-infused honey safely.
Always ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, and pay close attention to dosage and storage recommendations to maximize the therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.
Conclusion
Cannabis-infused honey represents an innovative fusion of two ancient remedies, offering a sweet and natural path to wellness. With honey’s inherent antioxidants and the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, this combination provides a unique solution for pain relief, anxiety and stress reduction, improved sleep, and more.
The process of making cannabis-infused honey, while straightforward, requires careful attention to dosage and infusion techniques to ensure safety and efficacy.
In exploring the potential of cannabis-infused honey, individuals are encouraged to approach with curiosity and caution, adhering to legal guidelines and respecting personal health considerations.
This remarkable blend of sweetness and relief offers a promising avenue for natural wellness, emphasizing the importance of responsible exploration and consumption.
Sources:
[1] Skowronek, P., Łukasz Wójcik and Aneta Strachecka (2021). Cannabis Extract Has a Positive–Immunostimulating Effect through Proteolytic System and Metabolic Compounds of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Workers. Animals, [online] 11(8), pp.2190–2190. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082190.
[2] Saeed Samarghandian, Tahereh Farkhondeh and Fariborz Samini (2017). Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. PubMed, [online] 9(2), pp.121–127. doi: https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.204647.
[3] Eteraf-Oskouei, T. and Najafi, M. (2013). Traditional and modern uses of natural honey in human diseases: a review. Iranian journal of basic medical sciences, [online] 16(6), pp.731–42. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3758027/