THC shots are the latest trend in cannabis edibles: tiny bottles of liquid THC that, thanks to nano-emulsion technology, take effect in just 10–20 minutes . These "shots" are expected to skyrocket in popularity, especially in 2025 – they're already a cult item in the USA, and interest in legal alternative products is growing rapidly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland as well. In this comprehensive guide, we share user reviews , conduct a taste test of the orange , strawberry , and apple flavors, explain the correct application and dosage for beginners and experienced users, and provide clear recommendations. Finally, we answer frequently asked questions (legality, ingestion, onset of effects) in the FAQ – plus a concluding expert commentary .
Key Takeaways – Our Recommendations at a Glance
In conclusion, we summarize the most important points about THC shots and give clear recommendations:
- Turbo high in liquid form: THC shots offer a rapid onset of effects (within approximately 15 minutes) and an intense high that can last for several hours. They are therefore an ideal bridge between the quick kick of a joint and the long-lasting effects of classic edibles. So, for those seeking a discreet, smoke-free alternative to smoking weed, THC drinks offer a modern solution.
- It's a matter of taste – there's something for everyone: With varieties like orange, strawberry, and apple, a wide range of flavors is covered. Our recommendation: strawberry for those who like it sweet and candy-like ; apple for fans of fruity, fresh aromas; orange for lovers of tangy, tart citrus notes . Keep in mind, however, that all are flavored – those sensitive to artificial flavors might want to start with apple, as it was perceived as the most natural. Overall, strawberry and apple were the most popular in the taste test, while orange is a bit more niche. Different target groups have different favorites – the proof is in the pudding!
- Dosage tips – less is more (at the beginning): Never underestimate the potency of a THC shot. Beginners should choose a maximum of half a shot (10 mg) as a starting dose – this is often enough for a pleasant high. More experienced users can take a whole shot (20 mg), but should still wait before potentially taking more. The small bottles tempt you to drink them like a shot in one go – but enjoyment, not excess, is key. Drink slowly, savor the taste, and give the THC time to take effect. This way, you avoid negative experiences due to overdose.
- Safe & legal consumption in the DACH region: Classic THC drinks are currently not legally available for purchase in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. However, the shots discussed here are based on EU-certified industrial hemp extracts with a THC content of <0.2%, allowing them to be offered legally in a gray area. When purchasing, ensure that the product is lab-tested and from a reputable manufacturer – such as happyflower.io, where all batches are tested for purity and exact THC content. Our recommendation: Only buy from trustworthy shops that provide transparent information about ingredients and analyses. And be aware of the legal situation: Private consumption is tolerated, but you should refrain from public consumption.
- Who are THC shots suitable for? In our opinion, THC shots are ideal for experienced consumers who want to try a new, convenient way to consume cannabis, and for occasional users who prefer smoke-free alternatives. Thanks to their easy dosing (precisely defined mg dosage per vial), they are also appealing to microdosers who only ever take a small sip. They are less suitable for complete beginners with no THC experience – even half a shot could be too much. These individuals should perhaps start with CBD drinks or very low THC doses (<5 mg). Generally speaking, THC shots are not a party drink , but rather high-quality cannabis products that should be used respectfully.
User reviews and ratings of THC shots
Initial user reviews of THC shots present a mixed picture – however, the majority are impressed by the fast and intense effects . In online communities, consumers report things like: "I only took half a shot and after 20 minutes I was as high as I usually am after three joints," or "Perfect for festivals – no smell, no stress – but the taste is often weird." Many users praise the controlled, gentle high, which can be both relaxing and focusing . The predictable effect (compared to classic space brownies, where you have to wait forever) is particularly well-received. One student, for example, says that a shot is "more predictable than edibles," but warns that the potency could easily be too high for beginners .
However, there are also critical voices: Overdosing is a frequent issue. Because the effects are so delayed and the bottles are small, some people tend to take more – with unpleasant consequences. "I thought nothing would happen, so I took more – 30 minutes later it completely knocked me out," reports a 21-year-old user. This anecdote shows: Be careful with the dosage! Beginners should really start with half a dose (more on that in a moment).
And what about tolerability ? Physical side effects are essentially the same as those of cannabis in general: red eyes and dry mouth are typical, and an increased heart rate can also occur. During the comedown after a few hours, some people feel tired or slightly lethargic – similar to other THC products. In the long term, it's important to note that THC can be addictive with very frequent use, although long-term data is still lacking for the new nano-THC shots. One skeptic from the community remarks: "Nano sounds cool, but we don't know anything about the consequences. I'll stick with CBD." Overall, however, positive experiences outweigh the negative ones in the reviews – with the important caveat of responsible dosing .
Taste test & comparison: Orange, strawberry and apple
How do the three popular flavors compare? For our unofficial taste test, we took a closer look at the orange , strawberry , and apple varieties. All three shots contain 20 mg of nano-THC per 60 ml bottle, but differ significantly in aroma.
THC shots are available in various flavors – for example, orange, strawberry and apple, each containing 20 mg of THC per shot.
- THC Shot Orange – “Sweet, fruity & intense”: This orange shot boasts a tangy citrus aroma. According to the manufacturer, it offers “fruity, tangy, and refreshing summer vibes.” In taste tests, it's reminiscent of orange soda with a slightly bitter aftertaste – fans of tart citrus notes will love it. However, differing user opinions show that orange is polarizing: While some love the intense burst of freshness , others find the taste “very artificial” or even “disgusting.” Those expecting a natural orange flavor, in particular, might be disappointed by the chemical aftertaste. For citrus lovers with a tolerance for a touch of bitterness, however, the orange shot is a hot tip.
- THC Shot Strawberry – “Sweet, fresh & tempting”: This strain delivers exactly what its name promises – a fruity-sweet summer vibe . In our test, the strawberry shot tasted like strawberry syrup or a sweet fruit cocktail. The flavor is very sweet and slightly artificial , somewhat reminiscent of strawberry-flavored gummy bears. This appeals to those with a sweet tooth: One reviewer described the taste as “pure summer vibes,” ideal for anyone with a sweet tooth . However, another customer noted that the taste was “not great” and somewhat “chemical.” Our assessment: Strawberry is likely to appeal most to beginners and occasional users , as the sweet taste effectively masks any potential cannabis notes. Anyone who usually enjoys strawberry lemonade or candy will like this shot. However, for those who prefer less sweetness, it might quickly become too sticky.
- THC Shot Apple – “Crisp, fresh & invigorating”: The apple shot surprises with a refreshingly tart profile. According to the description, it is “crisp, fresh, and slightly tart-sweet – the perfect all-rounder for refreshing moments of enjoyment.” The taste is reminiscent of green apple: a pleasant sweetness paired with a tangy freshness , almost like a sip of apple spritzer with a twist. In our test, we found the apple flavor to be very natural and not as artificial as some other varieties. For those who prefer something less sweet and a bit more refined, apple is a great choice. Since this variety is relatively new to the market, there is still less community feedback – however, the apple shot was the most popular in our team because of its balanced flavor and lack of a strong aftertaste. Different target groups could find common ground here: both adventurous newcomers and experienced connoisseurs appreciated the fresh apple kick in our test.
Taste Conclusion: Generally speaking, tastes vary . Some prefer the intense sweetness of strawberry, others love the citrus punch of orange or the freshness of apple. It's noticeable that flavor enhancers and artificial flavorings are quite pronounced – some users criticize an artificial aftertaste in all varieties. A simple trick can help here: Many people chill their shot in the refrigerator or mix it with a little juice/soda to round out the flavor. Ultimately, the THC shots are more convincing in terms of aroma than you might expect from some other cannabis edibles (no grassy aftertaste!), even if they don't replace natural fruit juices. Our recommendation: Experiment – for example, start with strawberry for sweetness, then apple for freshness, and orange for citrus lovers. This way you'll quickly find your favorite.
Proper use and dosage of THC shots
How do you use a THC shot correctly? The application is very simple, however, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Preparation: Shake the bottle well before use. As it is an emulsified liquid, active ingredients may settle. Shaking ensures that every sip is equally potent.
- How to take THC shots: THC shots are intended for drinking . You can enjoy the shot neat or add it to a mixed drink. The effect is felt fastest when taken neat; mixed (e.g., in soda or juice), the flavor is more dispersed – this can be pleasant for those who find the pure aroma too intense. Important: Even when mixed, always keep an eye on the total contents – don't accidentally mix a second shot without realizing it.
- Dosage for beginners: Start low and slow ! Even if 20 mg of THC per shot sounds "little" compared to some space cookies, this dose is perfectly sufficient for beginners . Many newcomers feel most comfortable starting with 5–10 mg of THC (about half a shot ). Our tip: Drink half a shot first and wait at least 20–30 minutes . The effects come on gradually – taking more too soon risks an overly strong effect. Some manufacturers make it easy and mark half-doses on the bottle (e.g., 5 mg increments). Use these markings if available. Remember: You can always take more, but you can't take it back!
- Dosage for advanced users: Experienced consumers with a high tolerance can often handle a full 20 mg shot well. Users with very high THC tolerance report that 20 mg gives them a "pleasant high" without being overwhelming. In this case, a second shot after a few hours might be considered – but be careful: even many regular users find the effect "nicely smooth, but not brutal" with just one shot, which is why two in a row are usually unnecessary . Those who absolutely want a more intense high should still leave at least 1-2 hours between shots to allow the full effects of the first one to take hold. Overconfidence is misplaced here – even experienced users have been surprised by the new nano-THC drinks.
- Onset and duration of effects: Thanks to the nano-formulation, THC shots are significantly faster than traditional edibles. The first effects (tingling, mild euphoria) are felt approximately 15–20 minutes after consumption . The full high sets in after about 30 minutes. The peak effect lasts approximately 1–2 hours – one tester reported about 2 hours of intense high , followed by another 1–2 hours of gentle comedown. Overall, you can expect 3–4 hours of intoxication, and in individual cases (with higher doses or sensitive individuals) up to 6 hours. This is shorter than with traditional cookies, but longer than with a joint. Therefore, plan your consumption accordingly (e.g., don't take it right before an appointment).
- Important Information & Safety: As with all cannabis products, do not consume if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (THC can harm the unborn child). Keep the shots out of reach of children – the colorful bottles could be mistaken for juice! Do not drive or operate machinery after consumption – the effect of 20 mg of THC is roughly equivalent to several joints. Do not mix with alcohol! Many people make the mistake of drinking a THC shot at a party along with beer or cocktails. This can have unpredictable consequences: alcohol can increase THC absorption, and vice versa – dizziness, nausea, or panic can result. It's best to enjoy the shot on its own or, at most, with a non-alcoholic cocktail as a mixer. And finally: Pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions. Interestingly, in Germany, THC shots are often declared as "aroma product, not intended for ingestion" – a legal maneuver. Of course, everyone knows that the product is meant to be drunk; nevertheless, it's important to be aware that it is not formally sold as a food product.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about THC Shots
Question: Are THC shots legal in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland?
Answer: The legal situation is complicated. Pure THC (Delta-9) falls under the Narcotics Act in Germany and most EU countries and is illegal without a special permit. This means that classic THC edibles or drinks should n't actually be sold . However, many manufacturers exploit a gray area: The shots contain THC extracted from legal industrial hemp , and the concentration is below 0.2% THC in the total product. As a result, they formally meet the EU hemp limits. Furthermore, they are often declared as "aroma oils" or "room fragrance," not as food products. In short: Buying such "THC+ shots" from reputable shops (like Happy Flower) is within the current legal framework – so you are not breaking the law. However, you should only consume the shots privately. And be aware: Different limits apply in Austria and Switzerland – check the local regulations.
Question: How do you take a THC shot and what does it taste like?
Answer: Ideally, you should drink a THC shot in small sips . Shake the bottle well first. Then you can either drink the contents neat or add them to a glass with some juice, soda, etc. The taste, when consumed neat, ranges from fruity and sweet to tart and citrusy, depending on the strain (e.g., strawberry is very sweet, apple is mildly tart, orange is tangy) – however, some find the taste somewhat artificial. If it's too intense for you on its own, simply mix the shot with your favorite drink (fruit juice or a mocktail works well). Important: Do not heat it! You shouldn't prepare a THC shot like tea or a hot drink, as excessive heat could impair the THC. So, it's best to enjoy it chilled.
Question: When and how quickly does a THC shot take effect?
Answer: The effects typically kick in after 10 to 20 minutes – significantly faster than with a cookie or gummy bears. This is due to the nano-emulsion of the THC, which allows it to be absorbed more quickly by the body. You'll initially feel a slight tingling or warming sensation , followed by a growing euphoria . After about 30 minutes, the high will be fully present. Expect to be noticeably high for 2–3 hours , and even longer depending on the dose (up to ~4 hours). The peak effects usually last around 1–2 hours, after which they gradually subside. Compared to smoked cannabis, the high lasts longer, but is somewhat shorter than with traditional edibles. If you're not "high enough" after an hour, consider carefully whether you really want to take more – sometimes people underestimate the effects and suddenly find themselves very high.
Question: How do I dose a THC shot correctly?
Answer: Beginners should start with a maximum of 5–10 mg of THC , which is about a quarter to half a bottle . Many bottles have markings, or you can divide it by eye. Then wait at least 30 minutes, ideally an hour, to assess the effects. More experienced users with a tolerance can take a full shot (20 mg) – this corresponds to the THC content of a strong joint or several weaker joints. We only recommend anything beyond that (e.g., 2 shots = 40 mg) to experts who know their limits precisely. The majority of users are already very well served with 20 mg. Remember: It's better to take too little than too much. You can increase the dose if necessary, but you can't reduce it. And you can always get high if you need to – but dealing with an overdose is no fun. So, when in doubt, choose the smaller amount.
Question: What happens if I catch too much?
Answer: Don't panic – no one has ever been physically harmed by THC. However, a THC overdose (colloquially known as "being too high") can be very unpleasant. Possible symptoms include: rapid heartbeat, dizziness, anxiety or panic attacks, nausea, and loss of control. If you realize you've overdone it, find a quiet place, drink water, and take deep breaths. CBD drops can lessen the effects of the THC high, if available. Important: Don't panic – the effects will wear off on their own after a few hours. Learn from this and be more cautious with the dosage next time. Unlike alcohol, there's no "antidote" for THC other than rest, time, and possibly CBD. If someone is completely overwhelmed and experiencing extreme anxiety, calming words from a friend can sometimes help. In very rare cases (severe circulatory problems), medical help should be sought – but this is extremely uncommon.
Question: Is it okay to mix THC shots with alcohol?
Answer: Absolutely not recommended! Alcohol and THC amplify each other's effects. A single shot can be potent – combined with beer or cocktails, the effects become unpredictable. There's a saying in the community, "Grass after glass, you're on your ass." Many people report experiencing severe dizziness ("vertigo"), nausea, and even vomiting after mixing substances. So, it's best to avoid combinations altogether. If you want to consume both at a party, do so separately: for example, take the shot first, and then, hours later, when you're almost sober, perhaps have some alcohol – or vice versa. But the safest approach is to stick to one substance per evening. Your body will thank you!
Question: Are THC shots stronger than regular joints?
Answer: It depends. Roughly speaking, 20 mg of THC corresponds to the amount contained in an average-strength joint (assuming ~0.3–0.5 g of medium-strength cannabis). However, many find the high from a shot more intense in the head, as it's more similar to an edible high (stronger head and body high). One advantage is that shots, unlike a smoked joint, offer a consistent dose – you know exactly that you've ingested, for example, 20 mg. A joint can vary depending on the inhalation technique, combustion losses, etc. Furthermore, there's no smoking involved, which is easier on the lungs and throat. Many users describe the shot high as "joint x edible," meaning the speed of a joint combined with the depth and duration of an edible. Ultimately, you can't say "stronger or weaker" – it's simply different . Those accustomed to the typical joint high will experience a new dimension with shots.
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