How to Juice Cannabis for Maximum Health Benefits
To juice cannabis, blend fresh cannabis leaves and flowers with water or other fruits, strain the mixture, and enjoy the nutrient-rich liquid raw.
Juicing raw cannabis offers a potent way to access its nutritional benefits without psychoactive effects. Unlike smoking or vaping, cannabis juice provides vitamins, minerals, and non-intoxicating cannabinoids like THCA, which may support immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve overall wellness.
Why Juice Raw Cannabis?
Raw cannabis contains THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which converts to THC only when heated. Juicing preserves THCA, offering potential health benefits without intoxication. Research suggests THCA may help with:
- Neuroprotection (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)
- Nausea and vomiting relief
- Inflammation reduction
- Improved sleep quality
Nutritional Powerhouse
Cannabis leaves are rich in:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Omega-3 & 6 | Supports heart and brain health |
| Iron | Boosts energy and oxygen flow |
| Calcium | Strengthens bones |
| Antioxidants | Fights cellular damage |
Best Juicing Methods for Cannabis
Equipment Selection
For optimal extraction:
- Use a slow masticating juicer to preserve nutrients
- Avoid centrifugal juicers (generate heat that degrades THCA)
- Consider a wheatgrass juicer for fibrous leaves
Step-by-Step Juicing Process
- Harvest fresh fan leaves (avoid flowering buds if avoiding THC)
- Soak leaves in cold water for 5 minutes to open pores
- Remove stems to prevent juicer clogs
- Juice leaves slowly at low RPM
- Re-juice pulp for maximum yield
Flavor Pairings & Storage Tips
Cannabis juice has an earthy, grassy taste. For better palatability:
- Mix with carrot, apple, or beet juice
- Add lemon or ginger for zest
- Blend into smoothies with frozen fruit
Storage methods:
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days in airtight glass
- Freeze in ice cube trays for 1-3 months
- Vacuum seal for extended freshness
Where to Source Cannabis for Juicing
Legal options include:
- Homegrown plants (check local regulations)
- Fresh trim from licensed growers
- Hemp leaves (high in CBD, low in THC)
Always verify plants are organic and pesticide-free. According to research published in the Journal of Experimental Botany, cannabis readily absorbs heavy metals from soil, making clean sourcing essential.
Cannabis Juice Recipes
Green Wellness Shot
- 1 oz cannabis leaf juice
- 1 oz wheatgrass juice
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Dash of cayenne
Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup pineapple
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds
- 2 oz cannabis juice
- 1 cup coconut water
For more juice blending ideas, see our guide on best blenders for smoothies.
Scientific Backing
A 2017 study in Fitoterapia found THCA demonstrated neuroprotective effects in cellular models of Huntington’s disease. Researchers noted raw cannabis compounds may offer unique therapeutic benefits distinct from decarboxylated cannabinoids.
Safety Considerations
Consult a doctor before juicing cannabis if you:
- Take blood thinners
- Have liver/kidney conditions
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Use medications metabolized by CYP450 enzymes
