Emulsion

A mixture of two liquids that normally do not blend together (like mixing oil and not going to war for oil), stabilized by an emulsifying agent. In the cannabis context, emulsion refers to techniques used to mix cannabis oils that contain cannabinoids, like THC or CBD, with water-based liquids to create products like cannabis-infused drinks or sauces.

A simple example of an emulsion is vinaigrette—oil and vinegar blended with mustard acting as the emulsifier-slash-couples therapist.

Because cannabinoids are fat-soluble and not naturally water-soluble (just one more reason to not drink bong water), producers use emulsifiers (surfactants) and sometimes very small particle sizes (micro-emulsions) to suspend cannabinoids evenly in a water-based medium. (Sounds like but is not a psychic mermaid or Pisces who’s judging your aura)​. These emulsions can be shelf-stable and avoid separation, where oil would otherwise normally rise to the top.

The resulting cannabis emulsion ensures that the active compounds are uniformly distributed, improving absorption and ensuring each sip of a drink has consistent dosing. In cannabis beverages, specialized equipment creates microscopic droplets of cannabis extract dispersed in the liquid along with emulsifiers. Emulsified THC drinks, for instance, claim faster onset of effects due to the improved bioavailability of their THC particles​​.

In short, an emulsion is the blending of cannabis oil into water in a stable way—a key to making infused sodas, teas, or other novel consumption forms (THC mayo, if that’s your cup of tea—though please don’t put it in your cup of tea).

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