Cannabis-Infused Beverages: What’s on the Menu?

By Katherine Pretorius

Weed has come a long way from joints and brownies. These days, cannabis is being infused into everything from skincare and bath bombs to gourmet dinners and — yep — beverages.

But what’s actually out there when it comes to cannabis-infused drinks? Are they legal in South Africa? Do they actually work? And most importantly… do they taste any good?

Here’s what to know before you crack open a can or sip on a mellow cup of green tea.

What Are Cannabis-Infused Beverages?

Cannabis drinks are exactly what they sound like — beverages that have been infused with cannabinoids, the active compounds found in the cannabis plant.

There are two main types:

1. CBD-infused drinks – contain cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound known for relaxation and wellness.
2. THC-infused drinks – contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive part that gets you high.

Most legal beverages on the market in South Africa fall into the CBD-only category, with low or zero THC. That’s because local laws still limit THC in consumer products.

1. CBD Teas & Herbal Blends

Loose-leaf teas or bagged blends infused with CBD are easy to find. They’re usually marketed for calming the nerves, improving sleep, or soothing an upset stomach.

2. CBD Sparkling Waters

These lightly flavoured waters are great if you’re looking for something refreshing and mellow without any sugar or caffeine. They’re usually dosed with small amounts of CBD per can (around 10-25mg).

3. Hemp-infused juices or Kombucha

Some brands have started adding hemp extracts to juices and fermented drinks for a wellness twist. The buzz is subtle — more of a body chill than a head high.

4. CBD Coffee

Believe it or not, CBD coffee is a thing. The idea is that CBD might balance out the jittery effects of caffeine, giving you a calm but awake vibe.

Sidebar Tip: CBD vs THC – What’s the Difference in Drinks?

1. CBD: Non-psychoactive, used for relaxation, focus, or sleep. Legal in SA (within set limits).
2. THC: Gets you high. Still restricted in commercial products in South Africa.
3. Pro tip: Always read the label — if it says “full-spectrum,” it may contain trace THC, so check the legal limit!

Are Cannabis Beverages Legal in South Africa?

Here’s where it gets a little tricky:

1. CBD products are legal as long as they contain less than 600mg of CBD per product and less than 20mg per daily dose.
2. THC-infused drinks are not yet commercially legal, although private clubs or underground brands may offer them in informal settings.

So, while you won’t find a THC soda on shelves anytime soon, CBD drinks are fair game, as long as they stick to the health product regulations set out by the Department of Health.

How Do They Feel?

CBD drinks won’t get you high, but many people say they help take the edge off. You might feel a bit more relaxed, clear-headed, or sleepy — depending on the dose and what else is in the drink (like calming herbs or melatonin).

THC drinks, in places where they are legal, usually take 30–60 minutes to kick in, and the high tends to last longer than smoking or vaping. They’re often dosed carefully to avoid accidental couch-lock.

In SA, if you do get your hands on a THC beverage through a private club or connection, sip slowly — especially if you’re new to edibles.

Are They Worth Trying?

If you’re curious about cannabis in a more social or wellness-focused way, drinks are a fun entry point. They’re less intense than edibles, way more discreet than smoking, and often designed with flavour and vibe in mind.

That said, quality varies a lot between brands, and in SA, we’re still in the early stages. Start with a trusted source, go low on dosage, and take your time finding something that suits your taste and goals.

Cannabis-infused drinks might not be everywhere just yet, but they’re part of the bigger picture when it comes to how we enjoy weed in the modern world. In South Africa, most products available are CBD-based — subtle, chill, and perfect for easing into the experience.

The next time you’re looking for a calmer cup of tea or a sparkling sip with a little green energy behind it, you might just find what you’re looking for on the CBD shelf.