Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many people now add CBD oil to their morning tea as part of their routine. But does the heat from brewing affect the CBD? This article looks at what happens when CBD meets hot water and how to get the best from your cup.
CBD Tea Bags: A Growing Trend
CBD tea bags have emerged as a convenient way to enjoy CBD-infused tea. They contain dried hemp leaves and flowers, often blended with herbs and fruits, which steep directly in hot water. Tea bags are an easy, discreet way to enjoy hemp at any time of day. See our hemp teas.
Does Heat Affect CBD?
Research indicates that prolonged exposure to high heat, oxygen and light can degrade CBD over time. However, tea is brewed at around 90–100°C, well below the temperature at which CBD breaks down quickly, and the exposure is brief. Studies suggest CBD remains largely stable during a normal steep, with only minor losses. In short, a few minutes in a hot cup of tea is fine.
Cold-Brewed Hemp Tea: Another Option
Some people prefer to cold-brew hemp tea, steeping the leaves in cool water in the fridge overnight, much like cold-brew coffee. This avoids heat altogether and makes a refreshing iced tea. Many of our fruit blends, such as wild cherry and blackcurrant, are delicious brewed this way.
Add a Little Fat
CBD is fat-soluble, so it does not mix well with water on its own. If you add CBD oil to tea, stir in a splash of milk, a plant-based milk or a little coconut oil so the oil disperses rather than floating on top. The same tip applies to hemp tea bags: a little fat helps the naturally occurring compounds in hemp infuse into your cup.
Whole-Plant Extract or Isolate?
When choosing a CBD oil or tea, consider the type of extract. A full-spectrum or “whole-plant” extract keeps the naturally occurring range of cannabinoids and terpenes; broad-spectrum has the THC removed; isolate is CBD alone. Which you prefer is a matter of taste and personal choice. Look for products made from organically grown hemp with published lab reports.
Making It a Daily Ritual
Whether you use CBD tea bags or add oil to your usual brew, the easiest way to keep a CBD routine is to attach it to something you already do every day, and morning tea is perfect for that. Follow the usage guidance on your CBD product’s label, and speak to your doctor first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Conclusion
Adding CBD oil to morning tea is a popular wellness ritual, and the brief heat of a brewed cup does not meaningfully affect the CBD. Use high-quality, organically grown hemp, add a little milk or oil so it mixes in, and enjoy your cup. Explore our CBD oils and hemp teas.