{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/decarboxylation/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3894-markdown","title":"How to Make a Marijuana Tincture","slug":"how-to-make-a-marijuana-tincture","content":"### How to Make a Marijuana Tincture\n\nIn this article we focus on how to make a cannabis-infused tincture. \n\n[Tinctures](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-what-they-are-and-why-you-want-them) come from a long history of herbal medicine. According to [Dr. Jeffrey Chen](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8ZGgYkzpYc), they're one of the oldest forms of medicine known. During the 1800's weed tinctures were sold over the counter in apothecaries. Marijuana was even included in the [The United States Pharmacopeia (USP)](https://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/source-biographies/us-pharmacopoeia/) until 1941!\n\nSo it's no surprise that marijuana tinctures are widely known for their medicinal benefits and are regularly sought after to provide relief for ailments such as pain, anxiety, insomnia, and more.\n\n![Untitledval143.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitledval143_a1371321c7.png)\n\n### What is a Marijuana Tincture\n\nCannabis tinctures are made by soaking the plant in alcohol to create a liquid concentrate that is much more potent and long-lasting than its preceding form. \n\nA tincture is an excellent alternative to smokable marijuana flower because it has a long shelf life and may be more potent. It's also a great option for those seeking relief without potentially damaging their lungs.\n\nWhen you take a tincture sublingually, the onset will usually be anywhere from fifteen to thirty minutes.\n\n![Untitledval142.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitledval142_6e684361c3.png)\n\n### How to Use a Marijuana Tincture\n\nAlways stick to recommended doses when using a store-bought cannabis tincture - especially for the first time. These products can vary in potency. \n\nUse a dropper when dosing your tincture, and be sure to apply the solution directly under your tongue.\n\nYou can also mix tinctures into your food or beverages. [A study published in Epilepsia](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31247132/) found that high-fat foods can increase CBD absorption into the body. \n\nRegardless of how you choose to consume tinctures, you'll find yourself satisfied by the results. \n\n![Untitledval141.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitledval141_5f24a2e0a1.png)\n\n### What Solvent is Best to Use for Marijuana Tinctures?\n\nThere are [four common types of liquids](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-from-glycerin-to-mct-oil-which-is-best) that can be used to make cannabis tinctures, and each has its pros and cons. \n\n#### Alcohol-based cannabis tincture\n- **Pros:** Long shelf life, fast absorption rate\n- **Cons:** Unpleasant taste, illegal in California, not accessible to those avoiding alcohol\n\n#### Vegetable glycerine cannabis tincture\n- **Pros:** Sweet, palatable taste \n- **Cons:** Can't hold as many phytocannabinoids, shorter shelf life, questionable sourcing\n\n#### Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Oil cannabis tincture\n- **Pros:** Easily absorbed, easier to dose, neutral taste\n- **Cons:** Lacks lauric acid, sourcing can be questionable\n\n#### Olive oil cannabis tincture\n- **Pros:** Cost-effective, easy to use, preserves terpenes, better taste\n- **Cons:** Cannot be concentrated so more is needed for therapeutic benefits\n\n### How to Make a Marijuana Tincture\n\nWhile it's fast and convenient to run into your local dispensary and buy a tincture, it's also expensive. Plus, we all know that homemade items can often exceed anything store-bought. \n\n#### Supplies\n\nHere's what you'll need to make your own cannabis tincture at home:\n\n- Cannabis flower (try something high in CBD like [Charlotte's Web](https://hellomd.com/strains/charlotte's-web)\n- A grinder\n- High proof food-grade alcohol (like Everclear)\n- A coffee filter\n- An air-tight mason jar\n- An oven \n- A dropper (optional)\n\n#### Steps\n\nFollow these steps to make your marijuana tincture:\n\n- 1.) Preheat the oven to 245 degrees Fahrenheit.\n- 2.) Grind your cannabis flower. You can use a grinder or use a cheese grater. \n- 3.) Spread the ground marijuana on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.\n- 4.) [Decarboxylate](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-decarboxylate-cannabis) your cannabis flower by baking it for 60-90 minutes. You'll know it's ready when your cannabis is dry and crumbly.\n- 5.) Allow the cannabis to cool. \n- 6.) Mix the marijuana with high-proof alcohol in a jar. You can choose the ratio depending on how strong you want your tincture but it's recommended to use three parts alcohol to one part flower. \n- 7.) Close the jar and place it in a cool, dark place and let sit for 2–3 weeks, shaking the container once or twice a day.\n- 8.) Once ready, filter the tincture through a coffee filter and place it into another jar or a dropper bottle for easy use. \n- 9.) Store the cannabis tincture in a cool, dark place and shake before using.\n- 10.) Enjoy your marijuana tincture!\n\nRemember to start low and go slow when testing your new tincture - a little may go a long way!\n\nNow get out and get cooking! It's easy to secure the necessary items to make a great at-home cannabis tincture, and there are numerous benefits to consuming the product. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/ee604/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.png","srcSet":"/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/69585/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.png 200w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/497c6/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.png 400w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/ee604/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.png 800w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/f3583/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/58556/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/61e93/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.webp 200w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/1f5c5/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.webp 400w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/58556/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.webp 800w,\n/static/acb14cfa28f1e5c404481899cb1304d5/99238/f81a7e8a513962a5359c694a22fb1c98.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3893-markdown","title":"How to Decarboxylate Cannabis","slug":"how-to-decarboxylate-cannabis","content":"### How to Decarboxylate Cannabis\n\nIn this piece, we'll walk through **decarboxylating cannabis**, what it means, why it's necessary, and what it's for — including the necessary steps for you to decarboxylate cannabis at home!\n\n![Fresh cannabis bud](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_01_at_9_18_38_AM_730e4bb2d4.png)\n\n### What is Cannabis Decarboxylation \n\nIn the simplest sense, decarboxylation (also known as \"*decarbing*\") allows the marijuana plant to get you \"high.\"\n\nIn its raw form, cannabis contains an abundance of non-psychoactive **THCA** (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid). Decarboxylation is necessary to convert that THCA into THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). **THC** is the cannabinoid that creates the classic euphoric \"stoned\" effect for consumers. \n\nThink about it like this, when you regularly consume cannabis flower — you use a lighter to ignite the bud. The heat of the flame releases the THC in the weed instantaneously - essentially decarboxylating the weed. But when you plan to cook with or create a tincture from marijuana flower, you must first decarboxylate it by heating the plant over an extended period of time. \n\n![Cannabis infused oil](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_01_at_9_19_02_AM_aacdd081cb.png)\n\n### Why You Need to Decarboxylate Cannabis\n\nIf you plan to make your own edibles or tinctures from marijuana, you're going to have to decarboxylate the flower first. \n\n Typically, decarboxylation occurs in an oven when making edibles or tinctures at home. You will heat the buds until they are dry and the THC is released. \n \n Once this step is done, you have a decarboxylated cannabis flower. Then you can easily infuse the bud with a medium of choice, such as butter, oil, alcohol, glycerine, or Medium-Chain Triglyceride oils. [Cannabutter](https://hellomd.com/articles/diy-recipe-cannabutter-or-cannabis-butter), anyone?\n\nDepending on your end goal, you may want to infuse a variety of mediums—for instance, [this article](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-from-glycerin-to-mct-oil-which-is-best) contains advice on concentrates for tinctures.\n\n![Making cannabutter with decarbed marijuana](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_01_at_9_18_53_AM_a809338272.png)\n\n### How to Decarboxylate Marijuana\n\n#### Supplies\n\nDecarboxylation is easy to do at home using simple tools and your oven. Here's what you'll need to decarboxylate your marijuana:\n\n- Fresh cannabis buds - Try [OG Kush](https://hellomd.com/strains/og-kush) a popular, easy to find, high THC strain\n- A kitchen oven \n- A cannabis grinder (optional)\n- Parchment paper\n- A baking sheet\n\n#### Steps\n\nNext, you can decarboxylate your cannabis. Just follow these directions:\n\n- 1) Preheat your oven to 240 degrees Fahrenheit.\n- 2) Break the cannabis into small pieces. If you have one, you can use a grinder; otherwise, use a cheese grater. \n- 3) Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.\n- 4) Spread the ground cannabis evenly across the parchment paper.\n- 5) Bake the marijuana for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure the herb is baking evenly.\n- 6) When the cannabis reaches a rich, dark color and looks dry, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cannabis to cool at room temperature. (Cannabis that has decarboxylated will be dry and crumbly to the touch).\n- 7) Once the cannabis has cooled completely, transfer it to a food processor. Pulse the marijuana in a food processor until it's coarsely ground (like coarse coffee grounds). Avoid processing the marijuana too much or it will be hard to sift. \n- 8) Once the marijuana is ground properly, store it in a plastic zip bag or an airtight Tupperware container for use in extractions and homemade edibles.\n\n![How to decarboxylate cannabis](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_01_at_9_18_32_AM_d4733f6e1d.png)\n\n### Tips for Effective Marijuana Decarboxylation\n\nIn order to ensure you're decarboxylating your marijuana correctly, follow these tips:\n\n- **Decarboxylate all cannabis you plan to cook with**. Because active (post-decarboxylation) CBD and THC [have a myriad of health benefits](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-pros-and-cons-of-psychoactive-thc), you should decarboxylate your entire supply that you plan to cook with. While raw cannabis is great for inhalation, decarboxylated cannabis is the go-to marijuana form for cooking.\n- **Use an oven**. While it may seem like a faster process, do not try to decarboxylate your cannabis flower with a lighter or torch. This will cause uneven heating and may burn your weed. Always use an oven when decarboxylating to ensure even heating, a high-quality end product, and an easier process for large quantities of marijuana. \n- **Allow the marijuana to cool completely**. Allowing decarboxylated cannabis to cool completely once it has left the oven preserves the terpenes and makes the weed easier to handle. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAANCAYAAACpUE5eAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAADg0lEQVQ4yyWT60/bZRTH+yf4H6h/AWIWI4vGeCG6jBeLe+WcDodKZpYJ2YJu4pgIcxiyQXCDQWEUCgUKXX+90FIKLV0p0JZeQVjHxTIuwd7LKKlIPj7DFyd5Xpzzeb7ne86RdTU1YbJZuPX7j1z67jw3b1TQVl3Pc7uPlP4JiXEXnrZ+tjslEVrW7qnYfGgk3m1lQ2Eh1Kplt9dOSushLXmQxUc9BFR6hv74hYHeDiSjhbu/XcIlV5CzBDicWyKqNhLqGGKlsYfgzw/YahrG09DDe29+wKnXC9FdqCGufELGMI8sbQmRd0RI2QL49JP4DFOM3m/AcaeRRcUgiTEXeZuPvzTjrMu1bPWaOJhbYcFg5cxbJ/jklVdxVrSQFQqzJj+y1FiQtDVIzrlEyDyLbWCUgGRltPUW8utfinZbxM8z5J0L5GeWRdEcSaeAKm+z+mspoa4eNpolsgYve6P+lwqDZCfD7E2GyM1HyIVX2Z1y4FE00a8uRVn7LetKI4fPouzbllmqrWS9+xo7dRfZMzyAnU0ObNNk1Q7SQqUsbQ0dA7MCmF/fFgkxFvXdrI5pSD/1s78Q5iiyAqkML8YmsF14jV1dO9mbRWSlLo7CETIjemK942SG5/4HpseDZOwLHG7tcvTnMpmAVyh6CtHnIGD7QT/PNH1I5V/R8n4h89+cJFJ+mi2zhe01P+MBMXlXkA256aWHAVLCzNTkInl3gP2JWY4WI/xrd/FCN85Mfx3y6jOUnn6D78+9w73iz5j4+gqbHVbsK49pnCrjzth5guvThNsfI0uaBdDsJynAaf00GaObmNbOrmTnn4klhptrqK/9iJLiAt4tPEFRwUk+LngbxRdVqGw1nGqTcVVTRCQaxt3YK4BC3XEY50kKcC4UheAODqeB6LwXn9WCR9Jh06moqrzOT1U3uXy5EtNdOWsuGw2KTzFb2/F2SQQbBDBh9JEQCxmX3KQkL7bhR2g19zEIw2/0VdKquY3TMEBKrEXF5+UUf1jCtbMXWZMbyJmDxFUulls0RJpHSPY7xaXovMS1ok3NLAmNm231FC0Pq/ihtYwqeRlX2s7S2V7NgdojPNJgqms7Lk4NiLMccpIcdIr3NCkBjimmkMVGBEyMOzYyK2KGhHqO9OAMPd31NKiuUt9ZgruzmaTSRXLAwb7ITQ25hDIB7HcQ7xOhdAiYnb8f2fkPLKYqmQEe56YAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/ee604/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.png","srcSet":"/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/69585/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.png 200w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/497c6/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.png 400w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/ee604/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.png 800w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/f3583/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/58556/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/61e93/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.webp 200w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/1f5c5/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.webp 400w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/58556/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.webp 800w,\n/static/9ad83e235f667411eebe1a98419860bf/99238/fba7f550e62226b9c40a5dc8136e342f.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2154-markdown","title":"Cooking With Cannabis","slug":"cooking-with-cannabis","content":"For people who want to consume marijuana but don't want to inhale it,\ncooking with the herb is a fantastic alternative. There are literally\nhundreds of ways to cook with cannabis, and consumers who learn to make\ntasty edibles in their own kitchens will enjoy experimenting with new\nrecipes for years to come. Here's an overview of what budding marijuana\nchefs need to know.\n\n**Cannabis Cooking 101**\n\nCooking with cannabis is a little more complicated than taking the\nentire plant and tossing it into brownie batter. In addition to\nproducing some unfortunate-tasting brownies nobody would want to eat,\ndoing so would also defeat the purpose of cooking with cannabis, as the\nherb needs to be processed (via heat) in order to decarboxylate and\nbecome psychoactive. Left to its own devices, the human body can't\ndigest the THC found in raw cannabis. Because of this, most [cannabis\nrecipes](https://www.hellomd.com/learn/recipes-and-diy)\nrequire a form of cannabis extract, such as cannabutter or\ncannabis-infused oil.\n\nBecause cannabis is fat-soluble (stored in fat), it must always be\ncooked with some form of fat -- like butter, an oil, or milk. This\nallows the compounds within the cannabis to release into the fat,\nmaximizing the effects of the plant and creating a better-tasting\nedible.\n\n**The Process of Decarboxylation**\n\n[Decarboxylation](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56de6bd6c60fd50008000081/decarboxylating-marijuana-why-its-important) is the process cannabis must go through *before* being\nused for cooking, and also before being included in any form of\ncannabutter or cannabis-infused oil. Because raw cannabis contains a\nmultitude of compounds that are not psychoactive (THCA, for example), it\nmust be heated in order to change the chemical structure of the herb and\nactivate the psychoactive compounds within it.\n\nDecarboxylation is a simple process that can easily be done at home.\nMost consumers choose to decarboxylate their cannabis by laying it out\non a lined cookie sheet and baking it at low temperatures for a long\nperiod of time. At the end of the baking period, the cannabis becomes\ncrumbly and dry. At this point, it is ground in a food processor and can\nbe included in a variety of different extractions.\n\nWhile decarboxylation may seem like an added step in the journey toward\nhomemade cannabis cuisine, it's something consumers who want to cook\nwith cannabis must do in order to ensure a quality product.\n\n**Extracting Cannabis**\n\nCannabis must always be processed with heat before cooking, and there\nare several methods of doing so. The two most popular methods of\nextracting cannabis at home are by making cannabutter (cannabis-infused\nbutter) and cannabis-infused oil.\n\nWhile the THC in cannabis doesn't bind to water, it binds to fats very\nwell. This means processing the cannabis in the form of heated butter or\noil activates the psychoactive compounds within the plant, preserves the\n[terpenes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/562948683138320006d70000/terpenes-that-augment-the-healing-power-of-cannabis)\n(the heat-sensitive oils and compounds within marijuana that give the\nplant its taste and smell), and produces a simple, tasty, and\neasy-to-use method of incorporating cannabis into a variety of meals and\ndishes. Most consumers enjoy experimenting with both cannabis-infused\noil and cannabutter, each offering ease of use and versatility.\n\n**Cannabutter**\n\nCannabutter is a favorite of cannabis consumers everywhere. Easy to use\non everything from toast to homemade cookies, cannabutter is a versatile\nmethod of extracting cannabis at home. Check out our [cannabutter\nrecipe](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27915fe98a1000c000243/diy-recipe-cannabutter-or-cannabis-butter).\n\n**Cannabis-infused oil**\n\nSimple, tasty, versatile, and easy to use, cannabis-infused oil can\neasily be used as a replacement for normal cooking oil in recipes like\nbrownies and other baked goods. It can also be used in things like salad\ndressings and garnishes. See our [recipe for marijuana-infused\noil](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a34777c100a820006562f0a/diy-recipe-marijuana-infused-cooking-oil).\n\n**Measuring Cannabis for Cooking**\n\nOne of the biggest struggles home cannabis cooks face is accurately\nmeasuring the amount of marijuana to include in a recipe. Homemade\nedibles that contain too much cannabis produce an uncomfortable high,\nwhile homemade edibles that don't contain enough cannabis are simply\ndisappointing. Fortunately, it's easy to calculate cannabis levels\ncorrectly by using a simple guide.\n\nAs a general rule, 1 teaspoon of cannabis butter or cannabis-infused oil\ncontains 10 milligrams of cannabis, which is a good introductory serving\n(people who have never used cannabis before will be more comfortable\naround 5 milligrams per serving). If the consumer would like to alter\nthe serving size as they become more experienced with homemade edibles,\nthey should be sure to start off slowly and move up gradually.\n\n**What to Expect From Cannabis Edibles**\n\nConsumers who have never eaten marijuana before are often shocked by how\ndifferent the effects can be from smoking. In addition to producing a\ndifferent high, consuming edibles produces effects that last [much longer\nthan they would](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56bd2f8ffe78ef000c0000a5/marijuana-edibles-vs-flowers) after inhalation. Here are some general guidelines about\nwhat to expect from homemade edibles:\n\n-   Effects of the edibles are generally felt within 30 minutes to three\n    hours after consumption of the edible.\n-   Effects usually begin with relaxation and may become a \"head high,\"\n    depending upon which strain of marijuana the consumer is using.\n-   People who do not enjoy the effects of edibles can drink citrus\n    fruit juice (such as orange or grapefruit) or consume a\n    [high-CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b4fec6ea6a2d000c000077/high-cbd-marijuana-strains)\n    product to calm the effects.\n\nCooking with cannabis is a fantastic way for consumers to expand their\ntoolbox of marijuana tricks and create some tasty, unique edibles at\nhome. From brownies to salad dressings and everything in between,\nthere's no question that cooking with cannabis is a skill every\nmarijuana aficionado should master.\n\nSome simple and popular recipes include:\n\n- [Coconut Oil](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56d69dde22efe4000b00004c/how-to-make-marijuana-coconut-oil-recipe)\n- [Sugar Cookies](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/56f5a089f873bb0008000010/diy-recipe-cannabis-infused-sugar-cookies)\n- [Fire Crackers](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56de6921c60fd5000c00007d/marijuana-fire-crackers-recipe)\n- [Chocolate Chip Cookies](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56dd799696763100080000b4/marijuana-chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe)\n- [Garlic Bread](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56dbb8d7cdbd0a000c0000ac/cheesy-marijuana-garlic-bread-recipe)\n- [Brownies](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56ce39abde99bd000c0000bb/how-to-make-marijuana-brownies-recipe)\n- [Cannabis Infused Tea](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b946413c7953000800007d/diy-recipe-marijuana-infused-tea)\n- [Cannabutter](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27915fe98a1000c000243/diy-recipe-cannabutter-or-cannabis-butter)\n- [Cannabis Infused Oil](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b3979094aec0000c000043/diy-how-to-make-cannabis-infused-cooking-oil)\n\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/42954113@N00/5711890071/in/photolist-3G984z-q278BB-rnryRn-8ytHbH-ja25Li-5TZpxZ-7ANMA-amp2Sm-4z9qH4-77SLK1-amp4aL-9GJVVi-ammeQZ-9mowhT-7mc14U-472faG-apPgDq-8gUnB-5cazqp-nAusb-75N1TP-qtuzP9-oPNwHr-4HSXga-74Xit-9NqeZu-veDPq-5FNH6C-9BY99b-9sgKiH-4jQ775-e52n4L-9GSExz-b6rHvi-7pW2g8-9xRVSv-4zW5nF-oDywoe-7oXv6H-7pW2rK-4YuCHB-amp5cf-7LJmdV-dsSoNu-akM31Z-amp2zA-ammgHe-75N23i-amkFEu-5RSoWt)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5384615384615385,"src":"/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/ee604/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.png","srcSet":"/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/69585/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.png 200w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/497c6/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.png 400w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/ee604/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.png 800w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/86756/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.png 997w","srcWebp":"/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/58556/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/61e93/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.webp 200w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/1f5c5/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.webp 400w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/58556/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.webp 800w,\n/static/e9efb9ed57feee0803657262edd03330/a2a2c/1e3ca08154df7642b36050da41ccd227.webp 997w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1971-markdown","title":"Decarboxylating Marijuana: Why It's Important","slug":"decarboxylating-marijuana-why-its-important","content":"Cannabis users who are planning on cooking with marijuana any time in\nthe near future need to learn one all-important trick: decarboxylation.\nDecarboxylation is the process by which consumers heat cannabis through\nvaporization or flame to release the psychoactive compounds within the\nplant. This allows people to enjoy the psychoactive properties of\ncannabis and put together tastier and more potent homemade edibles.\nHere's what you need to know about the decarboxylation process.\n\n### Why Decarboxylate?\n\nWhen cannabis is in its raw state, it contains a great deal of a\ncompound called [THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which has a variety\nof medical\nbenefits](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/584f78817f091000089c44a4/the-medicinal-benefits-of-thca)\nbut doesn't produce psychoactive effects. When cannabis is heated,\nhowever, it goes through the process of decarboxylation, which releases\nthe carbon dioxide within the compound, turning THCA to psychoactive\n[THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana). This allows consumers to enjoy the full range of\npsychoactive effects that cannabis has to offer, and is a necessary step\nfor those who intend to cook with marijuana.\n\n### Decarboxylating Cannabis Without Damaging Terpenes\n\nWhen beginning the decarboxylation process, one of the most important\nthings to keep in mind is temperature. While marijuana needs heat in\norder to decarboxylate properly, too much heat can damage the delicate\ncompounds within cannabis, burning it and making it smell and taste\ncharred and bitter. Because of this, low, slow heat is best. Lower\ntemperatures allow the cannabis to decarboxylate properly without\ncompromising the delicate terpenes (the compounds and oils that give\ndifferent strains of cannabis their distinct tastes and smells)\ncontained within it.\n\nIn addition to providing a satisfactory olfactory and oral experience\nfor marijuana aficionados, terpenes also possess a [wide range of\nbenefits](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/terpenes-that-augment-the-healing-power-of-cannabis),\nfrom stress relief to increased focus. Heating marijuana on a flame\nthat's too high can damage the terpenes enough to destroy those rare and\nsought-after health benefits.\n\n### How to Decarboxylate Cannabis\n\nWhile decarboxylation may seem like a difficult process, it's easy to do\nat home using simple tools and your own oven. Just follow these\ndirections:\n\n1.  Preheat your oven to 240 degrees F.\n2.  Break the cannabis plant into small pieces, making sure to break up\n    the buds and flowers into small chunks. Keep in mind that the\n    decarboxylation process is the same no matter how much cannabis you\n    choose to use.\n3.  Spread the pieces of marijuana out into a single layer on a rimmed\n    cookie sheet. Don't leave any empty space in the pan or pile\n    marijuana into double layers, as this will interrupt the\n    decarboxylation process.\n4.  Bake the marijuana for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to\n    ensure the herb is baking evenly.\n5.  When the cannabis begins to reach a rich, dark color and looks dry,\n    remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cannabis to cool\n    at room temperature. If you're unsure whether the cannabis is done,\n    touch it. Cannabis that has properly decarboxylated should be dry\n    and crumbly to the touch, but not black or crispy.\n6.  Once the cannabis has cooled completely, transfer it to a\n    food processor. Pulse the marijuana in a food processor until it's\n    coarsely ground (like coarse coffee grounds). Be careful to avoid\n    processing the marijuana too much or else you'll wind up with a fine\n    powder that's difficult to sift. Once the marijuana is ground\n    properly, store it in a plastic zip bag or an airtight Tupperware\n    container for use in extractions and homemade edibles, like\n    [cannabis-infused\n    butter](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27915fe98a1000c000243/diy-recipe-cannabutter-or-cannabis-butter).\n\n### Tips for Effective Marijuana Decarboxylation\n\nIn order to ensure you're decarboxylating your marijuana properly,\nfollow these tips:\n\n-   **Decarboxylate everything you plan to cook.** Because\n    active (post-decarboxylation) CBD and THC have myriad health\n    benefits, as well as [anti-cancer\n    properties](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5596a4413264380006220000/kicking-cancer-and-chemotherapy-symptoms-with-cannabis),\n    decarboxylating all marijuana before cooking with it is a great way\n    to ensure tastier edibles that are also better healthier. While raw\n    cannabis is ideal for inhalation, decarboxylated cannabis is the\n    go-to marijuana form for cooking.\n-   **Use an oven.** Many people who are decarboxylating cannabis for\n    the first time try to decarboxylate small batches of marijuana using\n    a simple lighter or torch. Unfortunately, this is an uneven heating\n    method that makes it easy to burn some marijuana while leaving the\n    rest raw. To avoid this, always head straight to the oven for your\n    decarboxylation needs. In addition to providing more even heating\n    and a higher-quality end product, the oven makes the entire\n    decarboxylation process simple and is the perfect way to process a\n    large amount of marijuana at one time.\n-   **Allow the marijuana to cool completely.** Once newly\n    decarboxylated marijuana has left the oven, it's important to allow\n    it to cool completely. This preserves the terpenes and makes the\n    marijuana easier to handle.\n\nWhile decarboxylation isn't a word found in many novice cannabis users'\nvocabularies, this simple process is an important tool to transform the\nnon-psychoactive compounds of cannabis into psychoactive ones.\nDecarboxylation is a must for anyone who intends to cook with cannabis,\nas it allows consumers of edibles to reap all of the medical and\npsychoactive properties of cannabis in a tasty package. For experienced\ncannabis consumers and novices alike, decarboxylation is an important\ntool for every cannabis lover to have in his or her toolbox.\n\n[Photo credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/smokershighlife/4234160694/in/photolist-s4rX5x-7sabsA-qMhpoA-oN1Z3g-823WWa-nTLTFi-cupST-fbpxXX-nhA5Px-5Vsx7R-fEW94R-CEYfpM-f5ppT-bPdH2D-f5Eaxw-a9onL4-ydUWP-iTmtp2-ABVdib-bb3tLe-dZ6oeE-7XzWsB-bA6H8Y-4yfD3C-98zxki-9injY9-dPxP9Q-9SqWW9-2uvZvP-duVoLd-k1H7g-5Q5oAe-bHJr8F-8Pomnt-bHJrDi-i5cGFF-qoz67P-8BS2W8-buPE5d-9EUzig-8eVSn4-98cxAR-7esNzp-fLd8Qs-7aC9CT-9GtqDK-cAKhKo-dPUiyE-bP1mZa-eiCYKr)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4388489208633093,"src":"/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/ee604/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png","srcSet":"/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/69585/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png 200w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/497c6/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png 400w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/ee604/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png 800w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/f3583/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png 1200w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/85d1e/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.png 1474w","srcWebp":"/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/58556/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/61e93/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp 200w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/1f5c5/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp 400w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/58556/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp 800w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/99238/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp 1200w,\n/static/e3e82493e8d8b42c0f485b8a4bd88f02/48311/a937890ef6452180885cfb8027c52059.webp 1474w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5182,"name":"Decarboxylation","slug":"decarboxylation","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}