Dried hemp, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant with extremely low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is a versatile botanical material utilized for its natural compounds, including various cannabinoids and terpenes. It is commonly used in several forms, ranging from infusions to inhalation methods.
Preparing Dried Hemp as a Tea (Infusion)
One of the most straightforward and popular methods for consuming dried hemp, particularly loose leaf varieties, is by preparing it as a tea or infusion. This method allows for a gentle way to experience the plant's properties.
Follow these simple steps to make dried hemp tea:
- Boil Water: Heat fresh water until it reaches a full, rolling boil.
- Add Dried Hemp: Place your desired amount of dried hemp into a tea infuser, a disposable tea bag, or directly into a mug.
- Pour and Steep: Pour boiling water over the dried hemp and allow it to steep for up to 4 minutes.
- Avoid Over-Steeping: It is important to note that we advise against over-steeping to avoid an unpleasant taste. Steeping for longer than 4 minutes can lead to a more bitter flavor profile.
- Strain and Enjoy: Once steeped, remove the infuser or strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to separate the plant material. Your hemp tea is now ready to drink.
Practical Insight: To potentially enhance the absorption of fat-soluble cannabinoids, some users add a small amount of a healthy fat source, such as coconut oil or butter, to the hot tea.
Other Popular Methods for Using Dried Hemp
Beyond infusions, dried hemp can be consumed through various other methods, each offering a distinct experience:
Vaporizing
Vaporizing involves heating dried hemp to a temperature that is sufficient to activate its compounds without causing combustion. This method produces a vapor rather than smoke.
- Process: A dry herb vaporizer is loaded with dried hemp and then heated to a precise temperature.
- Benefits: Many users prefer vaporizing for a smoother experience compared to smoking, as it avoids the inhalation of combustion byproducts.
Smoking
Traditional smoking is a common way to use dried hemp. This method involves direct combustion of the plant material.
- Process: Dried hemp is typically rolled into a "joint" or packed into a pipe or bong, then ignited and inhaled.
- Consideration: This method involves inhaling smoke, which contains various compounds from combustion.
Culinary Applications
Dried hemp can also be incorporated into edibles by infusing it into fats like butter or oil, which can then be used in various recipes.
- Process: Hemp is slowly heated with butter or oil for an extended period, allowing its compounds to infuse into the fat.
- Examples: The infused butter or oil can be used to prepare baked goods (like brownies or cookies), sauces, or other culinary creations. This method leads to a delayed onset of effects, as the compounds are processed through the digestive system.
Important Considerations
When using dried hemp, it's essential to keep a few key points in mind:
- Source Quality: Always opt for high-quality, lab-tested dried hemp from reputable suppliers to ensure it is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants. For general information on industrial hemp, you can refer to resources like the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service.
- Legal Status: The legal status of hemp-derived products can vary by region and country, even within areas where cannabis is generally legal. Always verify local regulations before purchasing or using.
- Dosage: Start with a small amount, especially if you are new to using dried hemp, and gradually increase as needed. The optimal amount can vary greatly from person to person.
