For many cannabis users, the sweet taste of sinsemilla is enough. However, for a growing number of people in the cannabis community, there is an increased desire to mix other dried herbs with cannabis when consuming it.

Not only can different herbs change the flavor and aroma of the cannabis it’s combined with, but they can also add to the effects. Herbs like chamomile can soften the intensity of a high, while lavender can increase relaxation.

Check out our rundown of herbs to mix with weed to see if this alternative appeals to you. 

Why Mix Herbs with Weed?

Cannabis packs a punch flavorwise, but it can be too strong a taste for some people. Mint can act like a menthol filter in a joint to change the flavor to a refreshing blast. However, when burnt, people should be aware that mint contains the monoterpene pulegone, a known carcinogen.

Lavender and chamomile are great for a relaxing and flavorful addition, while cinnamon can add a kick. Overall, there isn’t enough research about the safety of mixing herbs with cannabis to say if it is safe or not. If you are burning any dried plant matter, it can be harmful to the body. 

Mixing dried herbs with marijuana can also increase the aroma produced as the herbs interact with cannabis terpenes in a complementary way. Just like having a nighttime herbal tea, there are therapeutic benefits like relaxation, stress relief, and a boost in energy associated with certain herbs.

If you’re looking for a customizable experience, mixing herbs into your cannabis stash might be what you’re looking for. As a bonus, it’ll make your stash last a little bit longer.

The Best Herbs to Mix with Weed

Lavender

You’ve probably heard of lavender in bath bombs, but what about in bongs? This floral flavoring addition can produce calming effects for anxious people and promote relaxation. It can be great for mixing with potent weed to take the edge off and produce a more sedative high. 

Peppermint

If you’ve ever tried a menthol cigarette or vape, you’ll recognize this herb mixture’s flavor. It’ll leave a refreshing taste in your mouth after every puff. Peppermint aids digestion, relieves headaches, and gives the body and mind a much-needed boost. For the best effects, pair it with sativa for a double energy hit. 

Chamomile

No longer reserved for those dusty old tea bags at the back of the cupboard, this famous flower will deliver a sweet and calming flavor and aroma to your joint. It pairs well with indica strains for a more sedative experience.

Thyme

Thyme pairs well with both roasted chicken and cannabis. It’ll bring an earthy and herbal vibe to your herb mixture. Thyme has antioxidant properties and has been shown to improve respiratory health. Combine it with an earthy strain like OG Kush. 

Rosemary

Rosemary is another classic herb in the kitchen. It has a pine-like smell and flavor and is a little bitter when combined with cannabis. It has been shown to improve focus, relieve pain, and even boost memory. Rosemary pairs well with sativa strains for a clear-headed high. 

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a zingy addition to any joint, pipe, or bong. It has been shown to help with anxiety, aid digestion, and add to the relaxing vibe that cannabis already delivers. This one is good for hybrids, sativas, and indicas and will deliver a calm high with a bit of a kick. 

Mugwort

Not to be confused with a Harry Potter character, this earthy herb is slightly bitter when smoked. This one may contribute to lucid dreaming for psychonauts out there. It may also relax muscles and improve your mood. Grind it up with indica or hybrid strains for a dreamy night on the couch.

Basil

Remember to save some to sprinkle on your pizza when you have the munchies. As an ingredient in a joint, basil leaves a sweet and fragrant taste in the mouth. Its benefits include anti-inflammatory properties, mood-lifting, and helping with digestion. Basil can also enhance the relaxing side of marijuana. 

How to Blend Herbs with Weed

When it comes to quantities, it all depends on your personal preference. If you’re mixing for the first time, go heavier on the weed with an 80/20 (weed/herb) split so as not to overpower the flavor and aroma of the weed and give yourself a softer entry.

This split goes well with peppermint or lemon balm for uplifting effects. As time passes, you can increase the amount of herb to make it a 50/50 split. Thyme is a lovely herb to use in this split to provide balance.

Some cannabis users who want to make their stash last longer may even go as high as 30/70 (weed/herb). This split works well with calming herbs like lavender and chamomile. 

Like with cannabis alone, there are several different ways to consume a herb and cannabis mixture. Smoking is quick and easy, and many consider it a ritual, especially when consuming in a group with friends. However, lighting dried herbs can be harsh and may damage the lungs.

For a smoother hit, try a dry herb vaporizer. If you’re not into smoking or vaping, you can also blend cannabis oil with herbs or drink your mixture in tea instead. Like with most new things, go slow and try different blends to suit your personal preferences. 

Tips for Safe Herb Blending

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro with herb mixtures, these tips can make your experience more enjoyable. 

1. Start small and build your way up to adding more herbs to your mixture.

2. It’s important to know whether you’re smoking sativa or indica anyway, but it’s also vital when you’re mixing cannabis with a herb to know which herbs are complementary. For example, rosemary works well with sativa for a clear-headed high, while mugwort is a good match for Sativa strains to promote a dreamy high. 

3. Some herbs have overpowering flavors and aromas that may ruin the natural taste of cannabis if used in too large amounts, like rosemary and lavender.

4. Remember that herbs can cause allergic reactions. Don’t consume anything you’re allergic to, and start off small to see if they agree with you. 

Conclusion

Mixing herbs with cannabis is gaining popularity in the cannabis community. It’s a great way to spread your weed out, enhance flavor, and even add to the effects of cannabis. If you choose to smoke your mixture, remember that different herbs may have adverse side effects on the body. Go slow, and don’t use too much of your herb at first to find the right blend.