How to combine CBD oil and coffee?
There is no more widespread way to start a new day than with the first cup of coffee. From the aroma of your favourite beans to the first sip that flows down your throat for an instant caffeine rush... It's absolutely amazing.
Let's give it another tweak and add some CBD to the mix. For some of you, this is probably the point at which we part company. But I'm sure there's a large percentage who would go for it. And why not? Caffeine and cannabidiol seem like an oddly interesting combination. It's like a tug-of-war between one substance that energizes you and another that calms you down. But is it worth it?
What is CBD coffee?
To answer this question, let's first take a closer look at what CBD actually is. It's a key component of the cannabis plant, but unlike its cousin THC, it's not psychotropic, so it won't affect your perception of reality or impair your memory and coordination.
Both elements interact with the endocannabinoid system, but CBD does so indirectly through other molecular targets to help the system achieve homeostasis (balance) in the body.
A large portion of CBD and coffee lovers may want to experience the best of both worlds. Mixing them into one magical drink is believed to provide a physical, mental and emotional boost. But how exactly does it work?
What happens when you combine CBD with coffee?
Ask people why they mix CBD and coffee and they will give you a number of reasons. But first, we need to understand the effects of CBD and caffeine on the human body separately. Once we know that, we can determine if the two substances are truly a match made in heaven.
Effects of CBD
We briefly touched on the interaction of CBD with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). But what does it all mean? The ECS works with two receptors called CB1 and CB2. Although CBD doesn't bind to these receptors like THC does, it promotes the production of beneficial endocannabinoids, which themselves bind to these receptors. In this way, CBD has indirect effects that do not cause any psychotropic side effects, but still promote a better functioning ECS. This in turn helps to promote balance between all of our biological systems.
In addition to the ECS, CBD interacts with other receptors such as serotonin receptors and TRPV receptors to achieve its holistic effects. Although CBD will have a different impact on everyone, this multifaceted influence makes CBD ideal for promoting overall quality of life.
Effects of caffeine
For coffee lovers who can't get going without their kick, caffeine is a powerful and effective starter. Not only does it make you feel more awake, but it also provides a much-needed kick-start to get your brain warmed up and working.
Specifically, caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. This is why people feel an almost immediate rush of alertness after the first sip, and why it is a common means of reducing the effects of drowsiness.
However, it is also important to note the adverse side effects of caffeine, most of which are associated with its withdrawal. These include irritability, headaches and others.
Caffeine and CBD interactions
There is an ongoing debate about whether the two substances work well together. In theory, combining the two just creates a duel of effects in the body. However, when taken in the right doses, cannabidiol can enhance the caffeine "kick" while counteracting its tension-inducing and heart rate-raising effects.
It's only been a few years since experts have really started to explore the multitude of benefits that CBD can potentially bring. That said, they have yet to delve into the interaction between CBD and caffeine. But based on what the science says so far,mixing the two substances makes sense.
Is CBD in combination with coffee psychoactive?
The interaction of CBD with the brain rightly raises the question of whether or not it is psychoactive. But as we briefly mentioned, it is not psychotropic. Unlike taking THC, you will not be affected in any way. You won't end up eating a bag of chips or laughing like a maniac like you might after a few bong hits.
But let's clear up one misconception. CBD is commonly classified as a "non-psychoactive" substance. That's not entirely true. If you look up what "psychoactive" means in the dictionary, it says "affecting the mind or behavior." Since CBD interacts with the central nervous system to some extent, it is incorrect to consider it completely non-psychoactive. Yet you will not be "tested".
How does the combination of CBD and coffee work?
When taken in adequate amounts, CBD and caffeine can be the perfect tool to brighten up your lethargic day without inducing panic or frenetic energy. But how exactly does it work?
For a better understanding, it is useful to look at the neurotransmitter adenosine, which helps our system relax and prepare for sleep. The higher your adenosine levels, the slower your neurons work to send messages to your brain.
Caffeine counteracts and prevents the effects of adenosine. This is why we feel more alert and awake after the first dose of espresso.
On the other hand, as an adenosine modulator, CBD reduces adenosine reuptake and increases the amount of the chemical in the body. CBD essentially takes that second spot on the seesaw to create a balance between these two miracle substances. If all goes according to plan, CBD coffee can bring the best of both worlds. So if you're the type who feels heart palpitations after a few sips of Starbucks Arabica, CBD coffee can ease the tension-inducing effects and relax the body.
How to make CBD coffee
Let's get to work and dive into creating our own blend of CBD and caffeine. You can go ahead and try it out for yourself. Impress your friends and make new ones.
Coffee and CBD oil
It's pretty clear here. You take your coffee beans, brew a cup for yourself and add a few drops of CBD oil to it. How much cannabidiol you add will depend heavily on its concentration, but the optimal middle ground is 10-20 mg per cup.
Adding CBD in this way gives you more control over the level of cannabidiol in your coffee cup. Remember, however, that oil and water will never be a homogeneous mixture. Expect the oil to settle to the surface.
CBD-infused coffee beans
Yes, you read that correctly. You can buy coffee beans pre-filled with CBD. All you have to do is brew the beverage and drink it. But how is the CBD delivered to the beans? It's all in the beans' natural oils. That's how the makers of these products infuse full-spectrum hemp extracts, which also contain terpenes and other minerals and nutrients. The only downside is that it is more difficult to increase the dose of CBD per cup. You may also need to increase the caffeine content.
What CBD products can I mix with coffee?
You can choose from two main carrier oil variants: olive oil and hemp seed oil. The former emphasizes the potency and purity of cannabidiol, while the latter is specially formulated for better taste. Neither variant is psychotropic.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that both products are perishable. So keep them in a cool, dark place out of sunlight. Your pantry or fridge will serve you perfectly. As for the dosage, take three to four drops, up to three times a day for best results.
However, if you are looking for an oil-free solution, CBD crystals are a good option. Why not add them to tasty dishes? How about some CBD cookies?
So is it appropriate to mix CBD and coffee?
There is still a lot to find out about the effects of combining CBD and caffeine. But based on the science and anecdotal reports, there are a few things to consider:
- CBD modulates the effects of caffeine and reduces side effects such as jitters.
- CBD is not psychotropic. Don't worry about it.
- It's an easy way to enhance your daily coffee experience. Who wouldn't want that?
- Once cleared by your doctor, this combo is definitely worth a try. If you like cannabis and coffee, this is a win-win.
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