Making Infusions at Home

The Foundation: Decarboxylation

Before you can make any cannabis infusion, you need to understand decarboxylation ("decarb"). Raw cannabis contains THCa, which is non-psychoactive. Heat converts THCa into active THC through a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group.

How to Decarb

1. 1.Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C)
2. 2.Break your cannabis into small, even pieces (don't grind too fine)
3. 3.Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet
4. 4.Bake for 40 minutes, stirring gently halfway through
5. 5.Cannabis should look golden-brown and dry when done

Cannabutter: The Classic

Cannabutter is the most versatile cannabis infusion. Here's the basic method:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 7-10 grams decarbed cannabis
• 1 cup water (prevents scorching)

Method:

1. 1.Melt butter with water in a saucepan on low heat
2. 2.Add decarbed cannabis
3. 3.Simmer on very low heat (160-180°F) for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally
4. 4.Never let it boil — this degrades cannabinoids
5. 5.Strain through cheesecloth into a container
6. 6.Refrigerate — butter solidifies on top, discard water below

Coconut Oil Infusion

Coconut oil is increasingly popular because of its high saturated fat content (which binds well with THC) and versatility:

• Works in both sweet and savory recipes
• Can be used topically
• Has a longer shelf life than butter
• The MCT (medium-chain triglycerides) in coconut oil may enhance THC absorption

The method is identical to cannabutter — just substitute coconut oil for butter. You can skip the water since coconut oil has a higher smoke point.

Dosage Calculation

This is the most critical part of homemade edibles. Here's your formula:

Total THC = weight of flower (mg) × THC percentage × 0.88

The 0.88 factor accounts for the molecular weight lost during decarboxylation.

Example:

• 7g of flower at 20% THC
• 7,000mg × 0.20 × 0.88 = 1,232mg total THC
• Making 24 brownies: 1,232 ÷ 24 = ~51mg per brownie
• That's strong! You could use less flower or make more servings

The Lecithin Trick

Adding sunflower lecithin (1 teaspoon per cup of fat) to your infusion can improve bioavailability. Lecithin is an emulsifier that helps your body absorb fat-soluble compounds more efficiently. Many experienced edible makers swear by this addition.

Storage Tips

• Cannabutter: Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, freeze for up to 6 months
• Infused oil: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months
• Label everything: Always clearly label infused products with the date and approximate mg per serving
• Keep away from children and pets: Store in clearly marked, child-proof containers

Key Takeaways

• Decarboxylation at 240°F for 40 minutes activates THC from THCa
• Always calculate your dose before consuming homemade edibles
• Coconut oil and butter are the best fat bases for cannabis infusions
• Label and store responsibly — safety first