What Is CBD in Drinks? A Guide to CBD Beverages

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What Is CBD in Drinks?

You may have seen it on shop shelves or in cafés—CBD drinks marketed as calming, wellness-enhancing alternatives to standard soft drinks or teas. But what is CBD in drinks, and does it really do anything?

CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it doesn’t get you high, and it’s legal in the UK as long as it contains less than 1mg of THC per container. When added to drinks, CBD is marketed as a way to promote relaxation, reduce stress, or support general well-being.

Let’s look at what’s actually in these drinks, how they work, and whether they’re worth trying.

What Is CBD?

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from industrial hemp, a strain of cannabis bred to contain minimal THC (the psychoactive compound). It’s used in oils, capsules, skincare—and now, increasingly, in ready-to-drink beverages.

In the UK, CBD is sold as a food supplement, not a medicine. This means it can’t legally be promoted to treat or cure any health conditions, but many people use it to support anxiety, sleep, pain, or mood.

What Are CBD Drinks?

CBD drinks are beverages that have been infused with a dose of cannabidiol, often ranging from 5mg to 30mg per serving. These can include:

  • CBD sparkling water

  • CBD teas (hot or cold)

  • CBD coffee or cold brew

  • CBD soft drinks or tonics

  • CBD mocktails and mixers

Some drinks are flavoured to mask the earthy taste of CBD, while others focus on being as clean and natural as possible.

How Is CBD Added to Drinks?

CBD is naturally an oil-based compound, which doesn’t mix well with water. To get it into drinks, manufacturers use a process called nano-emulsification or water-soluble CBD technology. This breaks CBD into very small particles, allowing it to disperse evenly through liquids.

This also helps improve bioavailability—how easily your body can absorb the CBD—since water-based CBD may act faster than traditional oil drops.

How Do CBD Drinks Make You Feel?

CBD drinks won’t make you feel high, but they may help you feel:

  • Calmer or less anxious

  • More focused

  • Less tense or irritable

  • Sleepier (if combined with ingredients like chamomile or lemon balm)

Effects vary depending on your dose, body chemistry, and sensitivity. Some people feel a noticeable effect within 20–40 minutes, while others may need higher doses or regular use to notice a difference.

Are CBD Drinks Legal in the UK?

Yes—CBD drinks are legal in the UK, as long as:

  • They are made from EU-approved hemp

  • They contain no more than 1mg of THC per container

  • They are sold as food supplements (not as medicines)

  • The ingredients are labelled accurately and approved by the Food Standards Agency (FSA)

That said, some products sold online or imported from abroad may not comply with UK regulations, so always choose reputable UK brands with lab testing.

Are There Any Side Effects?

CBD is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience:

  • Drowsiness (especially at higher doses)

  • Dry mouth

  • Light-headedness

  • Digestive discomfort

If you're on medication, speak to your GP before using CBD regularly, as it can interact with certain drugs, especially those processed by the liver.

Who Are CBD Drinks For?

CBD drinks are aimed at people looking for:

  • A non-alcoholic way to unwind

  • A gentle, natural approach to stress management

  • Alternatives to caffeine or sugar-heavy soft drinks

  • A wellness product that fits into everyday life

They’re especially popular among people trying to cut back on alcohol, manage anxiety, or improve sleep without using medication.

Summary

CBD in drinks is simply cannabidiol infused into water, tea, coffee or soft drinks—designed to offer a calm, relaxed feeling without intoxication. These drinks are legal, widely available, and easy to incorporate into daily routines, especially for those looking for a low-effort way to try CBD.

Just remember: not all products are created equal. If you're going to try a CBD drink, make sure it’s lab-tested, THC-compliant, and from a trusted UK brand. And as with any supplement—start low, go slow, and see how your body responds.