Table of Contents
- What is THC Syrup
- The History of THC Syrup and Lean
- Why Use THC Syrup?
- Is THC Syrup Safe?
- When to Use THC Syrup
- THC Syrup: The Next Big Thing in Cannabis?
Though you may have dreaded seeing that bottle of cough syrup emerge from your cabinets as a child, you have to admit that the syrupy substance made you feel a whole lot better in the long run. Much like your cold-healing childhood syrups, THC syrup is designed for easier consumption – with an added bonus of a potent high, created by combining cannabis extract with other ingredients.
Though you may have heard that THC syrup has the same origins as the formerly-popular club drink, lean, it actually has its own unique history, method of production, and effects.
THC Syrup, with its sweet qualities, is a popular way to consume cannabis. Before we get into some of the best ways to use it, let’s look at what it actually is and why so many people like it (or dislike it).
What is THC Syrup?
Not to be confused with cannabis simple syrup (ie: simple syrup and weed mixed together), THC syrup is in its own class of cannabis consumption methods. It is growing in popularity due to its many benefits and its simplicity – it’s easy to make, easy to consume, and effective.
It’s a type of liquid marijuana and is made by infusing cannabis concentrate/oil with vegetable glycerin. Cannabis flower is often used in the preparation process, where it undergoes decarboxylation to activate THC before being infused. Producers of the syrup then add sweeteners such as sugar to the mixture. Decarboxylated cannabis is crucial in this process as it allows THC to infuse better, enhancing both flavour and potency.
That means that the viscous liquid is runny and sweet and only contains a few ingredients:
- Vegetable glycerin
- Sweetener
- Cannabis Concentrate
The result is a sweet, viscous liquid that can be easily consumed and enjoyed. The syrups are made to mimic your familiar cough syrups – just without that nasty bitter aftertaste. In fact, THC syrups are actually full of sugar which makes them more of a treat than an everyday consumption method for a lot of consumers.
The unique method of transforming the psychoactive qualities of the THC into a liquid form is what causes syrup to be more potent than common edibles.
The syrup can be enjoyed in a variety of ways and is available for purchase where cannabis concentrates are legal.
THC syrup looks like cough medicine when poured.
The History of THC Syrup and Mixing THC Syrup with Lean
While sometimes referred to as “lean”, THC Syrup is not exactly the same as the codeine and sprite mixture known as lean syrup that gained popularity over the last few decades. For starters, it doesn’t contain opiates and isn’t as dangerous or intoxicating as the classic cough medicine concoction.
Lean, which is also known as barre, purple drank, and texas tea originated in Houston nightclubs in the 1960s. Later, it became a part of hip hop counterculture. You may have even heard of lean from some hip-hop artists’ songs.
Cannabis syrup, however, is not the same thing as lean syrup.
The cannabis industry, however, has likely used the themes of hip hop culture’s obsession with the insidious “lean” in order to market new products. One example of this is the popular brand Vancity Canna Lean.
You will probably even see syrups sold by dispensaries in bottles designed to look like cough syrup. This is once again playing on the original blues club vibes of old-school lean – just a lot less dangerous!
That said, when looking to buy THC syrup online from a dispensary, products will be clearly labelled with THC content indicated in grams so you can dose properly.
Why Use THC Syrup?
Even with the influx of choices for cannabis products these days, there are plenty of reasons to choose THC syrup! It has a range of benefits and upsides that make it a popular consumption method in Canada and the US.
Here are a few of the benefits and its effects.
The Taste and Experience
A “spoonful of sugar” may help the cough medicine go down, but sweet THC syrup does pretty well on its own! The syrups are made by adding sweeteners or sugars to the liquid mixture. The thc syrup taste is usually sweet and may lack a distinct flavor, but it can be flavored depending on the brand or if made at home. Who doesn’t love a little extra sugar in their day?!
Versatility and Discretion
With so many different ways to consume THC syrup, consumers love that the product is so versatile. For the same reason that people like edibles, oils, and tinctures, the syrup is becoming a go-to method.
Thanks to the option to add it to drinks and food, it is also an option for discreet consumption.
Quicker Onset High
THC syrup essentially has all the same effects as a weed edible. However, the high will hit a lot faster compared to edibles.
In fact, the onset of the effects of THC syrup can be far quicker than other edible methods of consuming cannabis. While weed gummies can take around an hour for you to notice the effects, syrups can take half that time. Some say it kicks in even faster than 30 minutes.
Of course, the speed of effects depends on the edibles’ ingredients as well as the consumer’s body weight, age, and metabolism. It’s also important to remember to sip with caution, since the speed of onset can be different for everyone.
Longer, More Intense High
THC syrup will be a fast favourite if you’re looking for a full-body high. Syrup offers all the same intoxicating effects of edibles. Consumers often report experiencing a longer-lasting high with syrups and edibles than they do when smoking or vaping.
Though it depends, drinking THC beverages can produce an intense body high and cerebral effects.
When smoking, THC combines with your body through the bloodstream. Cannabis products that are ingested (rather than inhaled) enter the body through the digestive tract. The difference means that, in general, edibles take longer to kick in than smoking but produce a different kind of high that can last longer and be more intense.
Save Your Lungs
THC syrup and other edibles are a great alternative to smoking. If you’re prone to coughing or want to save your lungs from the hazards of the inhale, opt for an ingestible weed product like syrup. THC syrup is a smoke-free way to enjoy THC anytime, anywhere.
Therapeutic Benefits of THC Syrup: Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits of THC Syrup
Aside from the many practical and recreational benefits of cannabis-infused syrup, the product is also a main player in the pain-relief game. Its full-body high is popular for those looking for alternative therapeutic methods.
THC syrup can help alleviate a range of symptoms, including pain and nausea. For that reason, it can be a useful tool for people battling digestive issues, chemotherapy, and certain eating disorders.
How to Make THC Syrup
THC syrup, often referred to as cannalean, is a highly concentrated, sweetened cannabis-infused syrup. It can be mixed into drinks or taken on its own, and it has a similar consistency to cough syrup. The process of making THC syrup involves extracting cannabinoids from cannabis and combining them with a sweet, thick syrup base. Here’s a simplified method on how it’s made:
Ingredients:
- Cannabis extract (THC concentrate, such as distillate or tincture) – This can be made through methods like alcohol extraction or purchased as a ready-to-use concentrate.
- Vegetable glycerin – Provides the syrupy texture and acts as a binder for the cannabinoids.
- Sugar – For sweetness.
- Water – To adjust the consistency.
- Flavouring (optional) – To enhance the taste (e.g., fruit flavours).
- Lecithin (optional) – Used to help emulsify the THC and ensure even distribution throughout the syrup.
Equipment:
- Double boiler or saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Syrup bottles or jars for storage
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup Base
In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (e.g., 1 cup each) over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture starts to thicken slightly. This will form the sweet base of your THC syrup. - Add Vegetable Glycerin
Once the sugar has dissolved, add 1–2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin to the mixture. The glycerin helps bind the THC to the syrup, giving it a smooth consistency. Stir well to incorporate. - Incorporate the THC Concentrate
While the syrup is still warm (but not too hot to damage the cannabinoids), add your cannabis concentrate. The amount you use depends on the potency you’re aiming for. For example, 1 gram of THC concentrate (containing about 800–1000 mg of THC) would be quite strong if mixed into a small amount of syrup. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the THC. - Add Lecithin (Optional)
If you’re using lecithin, add a small amount (around 1/2 teaspoon) to the mixture to help emulsify the THC with the syrup. This ensures that the THC doesn’t separate over time. - Flavour and Adjust Consistency (Optional)
If desired, add flavouring to enhance the taste. Continue to simmer the mixture until you achieve your preferred consistency. If the syrup becomes too thick, you can add a little more water to thin it out. - Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the THC syrup cool. Once cooled, transfer it into clean bottles or jars for storage. The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator and will typically last for several weeks.
Using THC Syrup
THC syrup is incredibly versatile, offering multiple ways to enjoy its effects. Here are a few popular methods for using THC syrup:
Sublingually
One of the quickest ways to feel the effects of THC syrup is by using it sublingually. Simply place a few drops under your tongue and hold them there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows for fast absorption and a quicker onset of effects, making it a convenient option for those looking for immediate relief.
Mixing THC Syrup
Another popular way to use THC syrup is by mixing it with your favourite beverages. Whether you prefer juice, soda, or tea, adding THC syrup can create a tasty and potent drink. Simply measure out the desired amount of THC syrup, add it to your drink, and stir well. This method not only masks the taste of the syrup but also makes it easy to consume cannabis discreetly.
Is THC Syrup Safe?
While THC syrup isn’t as dangerous as its unrelated cousin, lean syrup, often referred to as thc lean syrup, there are still risks and concerns as with any body-altering consumable product.
Since the syrup is often consumed by adding it to drinks, it can be easy to ingest more than your limit. It’s especially important to sip slowly for your first time to find your sweet spot. Consuming too quickly can result in unwanted effects.
Too high a dose of THC can create strong intoxication. It’s also not a good idea to mix THC products with any type of hard liquor. Though we’re no doctors, we can tell you that mixing THC and hard liquor will make you feel sick, queasy, and at the very least, not your best.
A study from 2013 even indicated that mixing THC syrup with alcohol can cause “severe adverse effects”. Â
When using THC for therapeutic reasons, it’s always best to consult with your medical care provider or physician before figuring out the right dose of THC to consume – especially in edibles or drinks where it is easy to take too much too fast.
Medical Interactions
As with any cannabis product, it’s crucial to be aware of potential medical interactions when using THC syrup. Here are a few important considerations:
- Medication Interactions: THC syrup may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antidepressants. If you are taking any medications, it’s essential to consult with a medical professional before using THC syrup to avoid any adverse effects.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, should exercise caution when using THC syrup. The high sugar content and potential cardiovascular effects make it important to seek medical advice beforehand.
- Drowsiness and Impaired Motor Skills: THC syrup can cause drowsiness and impair motor skills. It’s important not to operate heavy machinery or drive a vehicle after consuming THC syrup to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
By keeping these considerations in mind and consulting with a healthcare provider, you can enjoy the benefits of THC syrup while minimizing potential risks.
When to Use THC Syrup
THC Syrup, as mentioned above, is a versatile method of consuming cannabis. For those interested in a DIY approach, creating a diy cannabis infused syrup at home is straightforward with simple ingredients and a clear step-by-step process.
A popular way to consume it is by adding it to cold drinks. Since the syrup contains sweetener, it’s a fun way to sweeten drinks such as tea, iced coffee, or a virgin cocktail (responsibly). Products like Vancity Canna Lean also suggest mixing the syrup with sodas like Sprite.
Like tinctures, THC syrup can also be ingested sublingually. A drop or two can be placed on the tongue, waiting 30 minutes between doses before consuming more. Given its sweet taste, these syrups can also be used in recipes where you want an extra pop of sugary high. Cannabis dessert, anyone?! Finally, it can even be a great addition to a summer salad – Simply mix it into the dressing!
THC syrup can be added to a variety of beverages. Cocktails and sodas are often a popular choice.
THC Syrup: The Next Big Thing in Cannabis?
Is THC syrup the next big thing in cannabis products? The truth is that THC syrup has been around for a long time. To find cannabis syrup, visit local dispensaries and consult with a budtender for options, including custom THC syrups. Always understand local laws and exercise caution when using cannabis products.
The method of converting cannabis concentrate into a drinkable liquid has been around since the days of apothecaries lined with glass bottles and pharmacists offering patients natural pain relief.
Today, the cannabis industry is always learning and advancing in production methods and mixtures. With its advancement, the cannabis experience continues to develop into a safer and more enjoyable. THC syrups are just another way that the cannabis industry is aiming to be affordable, diverse, and accessible for all.
Sources:
Medical News Today – How long does it take for edibles to kick in
Simultaneous Alcohol and Marijuana Use among US High School Seniors from 1976–2011: Trends, Reasons, and Situations
What Is THC Syrup and What Can You Use It for?
THC Syrup: Benefits, Risks, Concerns, and How to Use
