If you're looking for a refreshing new way to relax, kick back and pour yourself a glass of CBD seltzer. It's a fizzy, flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of CBD and the perfect alternative to typical alcoholic beverages and soda.
In this article, we'll break down the basics of what goes into CBD seltzer, how it works, and how it can benefit your body and mind. Better yet, we've got all the information you need to craft your own custom CBD seltzer at home. So, put on your mixologist's hat and join us!
What Is a CBD Seltzer?
CBD seltzer is a sparkling water beverage infused with CBD oil. You can make one of these drinks yourself, purchase them online, or get them from a cannabis dispensary (if such businesses are legal where you live). CBD seltzers are sold in a dramatic array of flavors ranging from tried and true favorites like lemon-lime to bold tastes like lavender, rosemary, and chai.Is CBD Seltzer Legal?
Yes, CBD seltzer is legal in many places, provided it is made from hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC. This complies with the 2018 Farm Bill in the United States, which legalized hemp and its derivatives. However, CBD laws can vary by state and country, so it’s important to check local regulations to ensure compliance before purchasing or consuming CBD seltzer. Always choose products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to confirm the CBD content and ensure they meet legal standards.
How Do CBD Seltzers Work?
CBD (short for cannabidiol) works by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). Every mammal has an ECS, and it regulates many of the body's essential functions, including sleep, appetite, digestion, and mood. CBD supports your ECS in its work, promoting mind-body homeostasis. CBD-infused drinks work the same way as other oral CBD consumption methods like CBD gummies, soft gels, and capsules. The CBD works its way through the digestive tract to the liver, and from there, it enters the bloodstream. Orally ingested CBD has a slower onset time than other consumption methods like smoking or vaping. When you eat or drink CBD, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to feel the benefits, but the effect lasts much longer, around 6-8 hours. The long-lasting impact is one of the main reasons people love CBD beverages, along with the refreshing flavor.What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil, also called CBD tincture, is a mixture of CBD extract and a carrier oil such as olive, hemp seed, or MCT oil. The CBD binds to fat molecules in the carrier oil, which allows your digestive system to process the CBD more efficiently. At Cheef Botanicals, we use hemp seed oil to make our tinctures. Hemp seeds have unique health benefits of their own. They are a nutrient-rich superfood chock full of essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6. You can use a CBD oil tincture to make your own CBD-infused drinks (more on this to come) or add it to your favorite food. For the fastest results, put a drop of CBD oil under your tongue. It will enter your bloodstream through the mucous membrane on the underside of your tongue, taking effect in 15-30 minutes.Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum
When you shop for CBD products, you will inevitably come across the terms "full spectrum" and "broad spectrum." What in the world does that mean? It all comes down to one thing: THC. Full spectrum CBD products contain all the natural cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including a small amount of THC. When all of the compounds in the hemp plant work together, the benefits of CBD are enhanced. This is known as the "entourage effect." Broad spectrum CBD products contain all of the same cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes as full spectrum CBD, with one notable exception. Broad spectrum CBD products have no THC in them. This is perfect for people who are sensitive to THC or concerned about being drug-tested. However, the effects may not be quite as strong as full spectrum hemp because the full entourage effect will not be in play.Can a CBD Seltzer Get Me High?
No, CBD itself cannot make you high. As we previously touched on, THC is the cannabinoid that gets you high. Broad spectrum CBD products are THC-free, but even full spectrum CBD products cannot get you high. Federal law states that hemp plants must have 0.3% THC or less. In such a low quantity, THC should have no intoxicating effects.Related: CBD Snacks: How To Enjoy CBD In A Tastier Way!
What Are the Benefits of a CBD Seltzer Drink?
CBD supports your mind and body in subtle but significant ways. As we just covered, you won't get overwhelmed with a "high" feeling, but you can experience the following benefits:- Relax the mind and body
- Boost your mood
- Promote better sleep
- Improve appetite
- Soothe aches
What Do I Need to Make My Own CBD Seltzer Drink?
Making your own CBD beverage at home has two major benefits. Firstly, you can create custom flavors tailored to your personal tastes. Secondly, making your own seltzer is far more cost-effective than buying pre-made CBD drinks. So, do your taste buds and your wallet a favor, and try one of these simple recipes. There are a few ways to make your own CBD-infused seltzer. The simplest method is to buy your favorite flavored seltzer and mix in a few drops of CBD oil. But, if you want to take your homemade seltzer game to the next level, you will need the following ingredients:- 12 oz. sparkling water
- 1-2 drops CBD oil tincture
- Flavored simple syrup to taste (recipes follow)
Flavored Simple Syrup for Homemade Seltzer
Simple syrup lends sweetness to your seltzer. It's easy to make, and you can infuse it with nearly anything to add a jolt of flavor. Here are a few examples to inspire you:Blood Orange Syrup
- Water (1 cup)
- Sugar (1 cup)
- 4 blood oranges, peeled and sliced
- Add the water and sugar to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and add the orange slices. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to break up the oranges.
- Simmer 10-20 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let cool completely, then strain through a sieve or cheesecloth.
Mint Lime Syrup
- Water (1 cup)
- Sugar (1 cup)
- 1 cerup coarsely chopped mint leaves
- Juice of 2 limes
- Add the water, sugar, and lime juice to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and add the mint leaves.
- Simmer 10-20 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let cool completely, then strain through a sieve or cheesecloth.
Ginger Beer Syrup
- Water (1 cup)
- Sugar (1 cup)
- 3/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Add the water, sugar, and lime juice to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and add the ginger slices.
- Simmer 10-20 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let cool completely, then strain through a sieve or cheesecloth.
Lemon Lavender Syrup
- Water (1 cup)
- Sugar (1 cup)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lavender buds (or 1 tablespoon dry lavender)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Add the water, sugar, and lemon juice to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and add the lavender.
- Simmer 10-20 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let cool completely, then strain through a sieve or cheesecloth.
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