The Ultimate Guide to Making Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil

Cannabis-infused coconut oil has become a popular alternative to traditional edibles like cannabutter. Not only is it non-dairy and vegan, but it also serves as an effective carrier oil for THC, one of the most desired compounds in cannabis. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of using coconut oil for infusions, the step-by-step process of making cannabis coconut oil at home, and various ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.

Why Choose Coconut Oil for Cannabis Infusions?

Coconut oil is an ideal choice for infusing cannabis due to its high concentration of saturated fat. This type of fat provides an excellent medium for cannabinoids to bind to during the infusion process. Compared to other oils like olive oil or butter, coconut oil contains over 80% saturated fat, making it a potent carrier for THC and other cannabinoids.

Additionally, coconut oil has a higher smoke point, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures without burning. This makes it easier to heat and infuse with cannabis, ensuring that the THC is properly activated and distributed throughout the oil.

The Benefits of Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil

There are several reasons why cannabis enthusiasts prefer coconut oil for their edibles. Firstly, the effects of edibles infused with coconut oil tend to last longer compared to smoking or vaping cannabis. While the effects of smoking or vaping may wear off within 20 minutes, edibles can provide hours of relief.

Furthermore, smaller doses of cannabis-infused coconut oil can often be more effective, allowing your flower to last longer. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more controlled and prolonged experience. Additionally, making your own cannabis-infused coconut oil at home allows you to customize your edibles according to your preferences and dietary restrictions.

How to Make Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil

Now that we understand the advantages of using coconut oil for cannabis infusions, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making cannabis-infused coconut oil at home.

Materials and Equipment

To get started, you will need the following tools and supplies:

• 1 cup of coconut oil
• 7-14 grams of cannabis flower
• Baking sheet
• Tinfoil/Aluminum foil
• Mesh strainer
• Mason jar
• Scale
• Cheesecloth
• Medium saucepan or crockpot/slow cooker

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

The first step in making cannabis-infused coconut oil is decarboxylating your cannabis. This process activates the cannabinoids in the flower, allowing them to have the desired effects when ingested. Here’s how to decarboxylate your cannabis:

1. Preheat your oven to 240 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Weigh your cannabis flower and break it apart into smaller pieces, ensuring even distribution on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the flower in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. For optimal results, cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to preserve terpenes.
4. Allow the flower to come to room temperature while still covered.

Step 2: Combine Flower and Coconut Oil

Once your cannabis is decarboxylated, it’s time to combine it with coconut oil. Follow these steps:

1. Place your decarboxylated cannabis and coconut oil in a mason jar. Stir gently to ensure even distribution.
2. Close the mason jar with its lid, ensuring it is tight enough to prevent water from entering but not fully sealed during the infusion process.

Step 3: Give the Jar a Hot Bath

The next step is to give the mason jar a hot bath to infuse the cannabis with coconut oil:

1. Fill a crockpot with room temperature water, ensuring there is enough water to cover the mason jar.
2. Optionally, line the crockpot with a towel to protect the jars from bumping into each other.
3. Place the mason jar in the crockpot, making sure it is fully submerged in water.

Step 4: Let it Simmer

Set the crockpot on low heat and let the cannabis and coconut oil mixture simmer for a minimum of 2 hours, up to 6 hours. Stir or shake the jar occasionally to ensure proper infusion.

Step 5: Strain the Mixture

Once the coconut oil is infused with cannabis and the jar has cooled down, it’s time to strain the mixture:

1. Line a mesh strainer with cheesecloth and place it over a clean storage container or jar.
2. Pour the infused oil through the strainer into the container, allowing the oil to fully drain.
3. Gently squeeze the cheesecloth to extract any remaining oil, but be careful not to introduce more chlorophyll into the mixture.
4. Seal the new jar and store your cannabis-infused coconut oil.

Alternative Methods of Infusing Coconut Oil

While the crockpot method described above is the most common and convenient, there are alternative methods you can try:

• Stovetop and Mason Jar: Instead of using a crockpot, you can use a saucepan filled with water as a makeshift double boiler. Keep an eye on the water level and replenish it as needed.
• Saucepan Only Method: In this method, you can directly simmer the coconut oil and decarboxylated cannabis in a saucepan. However, be cautious not to overheat the oil and ruin the final product.
• Double Boiler Method: Similar to the stovetop and mason jar method, the double boiler method involves using a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water. This method allows for gentle heating and infusion of the cannabis and coconut oil.

Best Practices for Storing Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil

To maximize the shelf life of your cannabis-infused coconut oil, follow these storage guidelines:

• Use a clean, dry, airtight container or jar to store the oil.
• Consider using an amber or dark-colored jar to protect the infusion from light.
• Store the oil in a cool, dark place like a pantry or kitchen cabinet.
• If desired, refrigerate the oil for extended shelf life, up to three years, before degradation starts to affect potency and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with cannabis-infused coconut oil?

Cannabis-infused coconut oil is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. Here are some popular options:

• Substituting it for butter or other oils in recipes.
• Adding a spoonful to coffee or tea.
• Spreading it on toast or incorporating it into cooking.
• Using it as a topical ointment or massage oil.
• Experimenting with homemade capsules or suppositories.

How long should you cook cannabis coconut oil?

Set your crockpot or stove on low heat and let the cannabis and coconut oil mixture simmer for a minimum of 2 hours, up to 6 hours. The longer the infusion, the more potent the final product. Stir or shake the mixture occasionally to ensure proper distribution.

What is the best straining method for cannabis coconut oil?

The most effective method for straining cannabis coconut oil is using a mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a paper coffee filter. This will help remove any plant material and ensure a smoother final product. Avoid squeezing the cheesecloth too much, as this may introduce more chlorophyll into the oil.

Do you need to decarb your flower to make cannabis-infused coconut oil?

Decarboxylation is a crucial step in making cannabis-infused coconut oil. It activates the THC and other cannabinoids in the flower, making them psychoactive and effective when ingested. Skipping this step may result in a weaker or ineffective infusion.

Is lecithin necessary to use in cannabis coconut oil?

Lecithin is not necessary to make cannabis coconut oil, but it can enhance the absorption of THC and other cannabinoids in the body. It is particularly useful for recipes that are water-heavy or when using eggs as an ingredient. The addition of lecithin can also help prevent dryness in baked goods.

How do you calculate the right dosage for cannabis-infused coconut oil?

Calculating the dosage for cannabis-infused coconut oil can be challenging without lab testing. As a starting point, consider the THC percentage of your cannabis flower. Assuming a THC percentage of 15%, you can estimate that each gram of flower contains a maximum of 150mg of THC. However, not all of this THC will be extracted. To ensure accurate dosing, start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed.

Conclusion

Cannabis-infused coconut oil offers a versatile and potent alternative to traditional edibles. Its high saturated fat content and ability to bind with cannabinoids make it an excellent choice for infusions. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can easily create your own cannabis-infused coconut oil at home. Whether you use it in cooking, as a topical ointment, or in other creative ways, cannabis coconut oil is sure to elevate your cannabis experience.

Remember to start with lower doses, be mindful of the potency, and enjoy responsibly. Experiment with different recipes and methods to find what works best for you. With this guide, you now have all the knowledge you need to embark on your journey of making cannabis-infused coconut oil. Get creative, have fun, and savor the benefits of this powerful and versatile infusion.