Tiffany Haney
Making cannabis-infused cooking oil is a popular way to use cannabis, especially for those who prefer homemade edibles, drinks, and topicals. It is relatively easy to make and allows for more control over the cannabis cooking experience. To make cannabis oil in a slow cooker, first, decarboxylate the cannabis by heating it in the oven to turn the non-intoxicating THCA into THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a high. Then, add the decarbed cannabis to the slow cooker with oil and heat on low for 2-6 hours. The longer the infusion time, the more potent the oil. Finally, strain the oil and store it in a cool, dark place, where it can retain its potency for up to 18 months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To make cannabis oil |
| Oil type | Any oil can be infused, but oils with higher fat content, such as olive, coconut, avocado, or canola oil, will result in higher potency |
| Cannabis type | Hemp or marijuana |
| Cannabis form | Dried |
| Cannabis quantity | 1:1 ratio of cannabis to oil, or 1-1.5 ounces of dried cannabis per 2 cups of oil |
| Additional ingredients | Lecithin to boost potency |
| Equipment | Slow cooker, pot or large bowl, fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, jar |
| Process | Pour oil into the slow cooker, add cannabis, heat on low for 2-6 hours, cool for 8-9 hours, repeat heating and cooling for increased potency, strain the mixture, and press to recover more oil |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark place, such as a closet, drawer, or cabinet, in an amber-colored glass jar to protect from light exposure |
| Shelf life | At least 2 months, can be extended with refrigeration, retains potency for 12-18 months |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right oil
Olive Oil
Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is a popular choice for cannabis infusion due to its ability to preserve the flavour and potency of cannabis. It has a rich flavour profile that complements the cannabis taste. Olive oil is versatile and ideal for various applications, including dressings, dips, and low-heat cooking. Its high fat content allows it to absorb more cannabinoids, resulting in higher potency.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is revered for its high saturated fat content, which makes it highly effective at absorbing cannabinoids. It may take longer to infuse, and the decarbing process can produce a weed odour in your kitchen. However, its high fat content makes it an excellent choice for baking and energy supplements.
Canola Oil
Canola oil is a good option if you're looking for a mild-flavoured oil that can be incorporated into many recipes. It has a high smoke point of 400°F, making it suitable for baking, frying, and sautéing.
Vegetable Glycerin
Vegetable glycerin is a liquid base that is perfect for creating sweet edibles. While it may not bind as effectively with cannabinoids as oil-based solvents, it offers a sweet taste and is ideal for those seeking a non-fat option. Vegetable glycerin is better suited for tinctures and liquid edibles.
MCT Oil
Derived from coconut oil, MCT oil contains medium-chain triglycerides that are easier for the body to digest. It is an excellent choice for tinctures and energy supplements.
Remember, the choice of oil will depend on your personal preferences and the intended use of the infused oil. Always be cautious when heating the infused oil, as high temperatures can burn out the THC.
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Preparing the cannabis
Firstly, select the right type of cannabis for your infusion. You can use either hemp or marijuana. Hemp is a non-intoxicating variety that is high in CBD and low in THC, and it is legal in all 50 states. On the other hand, marijuana is an intoxicating variety that is low in CBD and higher in THC, and its legality varies across states. Choose the type of cannabis that aligns with your desired effects and local regulations.
Before adding cannabis to your oil, it is recommended to decarboxylate it. Decarboxylation is a heating process that converts the raw cannabinoids in the plant, such as THCA and CBDA, into the desired psychoactive compounds like THC and CBD. To decarboxylate your cannabis, preheat your oven to 245°F. Spread your buds on a baking pan lined with parchment paper and grind or hand-break them gently. Avoid grinding too finely, as this may affect the final oil. Heat the cannabis in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
Once your cannabis is decarboxylated, it's time to prepare your slow cooker. Pour your chosen oil into the slow cooker. Oils with higher fat content, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or canola oil, are recommended as they absorb more cannabinoids, resulting in higher potency. However, you can use any oil of your choice, including vegetable, peanut, sesame, or avocado oil. Add 1 to 1.5 ounces of dried cannabis to the oil, adjusting the amount based on your desired potency and the quality of the cannabis. Stir the mixture well to ensure the herb is completely covered by the oil.
The next step is infusing the cannabis into the oil. Set your slow cooker to its lowest temperature setting and heat the mixture for 2 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally. A longer infusion time will result in more potent oil, but avoid exceeding 8 hours to prevent degradation of cannabinoids. You can also repeat the heating and cooling process up to two more times to further increase potency. Keep the temperature of the oil between 160°F and 245°F during the infusion process.
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Heating the mixture
Once you've prepared your mixture of oil and cannabis in your slow cooker, it's time to heat it up. This is a crucial step in the process of making potent and effective cannabis-infused oil. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the heating process:
Start by setting your slow cooker to its lowest temperature setting. This is important because cannabis infuses best at low temperatures over a longer period. Aim for a temperature of around 225°F or lower. Some sources recommend keeping the temperature between 160°F and 200°F to avoid degrading the cannabinoids.
Let the mixture heat for at least 2 hours, but no more than 6 hours. The longer you heat it, the stronger the infusion will be, but be careful not to exceed 8 hours as this can degrade the cannabinoids. Stir the mixture occasionally during the heating process to ensure even infusion.
If you want to further increase the potency of your oil, you can adopt a heating and cooling cycle. After the initial heating period, allow the mixture to cool for about 8-9 hours. Then repeat the heating and cooling process up to two more times. This will help the oil absorb more cannabinoids, resulting in a more potent product.
During the heating process, keep the lid of your slow cooker off to prevent pressure build-up. Additionally, avoid letting the mixture come to a full boil, as this can reduce the quality of your infusion. A gentle simmer is all you need to effectively infuse your oil.
Remember, the key to a successful infusion is low and slow heating. By maintaining a low temperature and giving it enough time, you'll end up with a potent and effective cannabis-infused oil. Always be cautious when handling cannabis products, and make sure to follow the laws and regulations in your area regarding cannabis use and production.
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Straining the oil
Once you've combined your cannabis and oil in the slow cooker and allowed them to infuse, it's time to strain the mixture. This process will remove the plant material from your oil, giving you a smooth, pure product. Here's a step-by-step guide to straining your cannabis-infused oil:
Prepare your strainer: Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean container, such as a bowl or pot. The strainer should be fine enough to catch the plant material without letting it pass through.
Strain the mixture: Carefully pour the oil and herb mixture from your slow cooker through the prepared strainer. This will separate the oil from the plant material. Be cautious as the mixture may still be hot.
Press the herb: Use a large spoon or similar utensil to press the herb material in the strainer. This will help to extract any remaining oil from the herb, ensuring you get the most out of your infusion.
Discard the plant material: Once you've pressed out as much oil as possible, you can discard the plant material that remains in the strainer. It's important to note that this material may still contain some active compounds, so be sure to dispose of it responsibly and keep it out of the reach of children or pets.
Transfer and store your oil: Carefully transfer your strained oil into clean containers for storage. Amber-colored glass jars are ideal as they protect the oil from light exposure, which can degrade cannabinoids over time. Store your oil in a cool, dark place, such as a closet or cabinet, to maintain its potency and freshness. Proper storage can extend the shelf life of your cannabis-infused oil to several months.
Some sources recommend repeating the heating and cooling process in the slow cooker to increase the potency of your oil. After straining, return the oil to the slow cooker, reheat it for 3 hours, and then let it cool again for 8-9 hours. Repeat this process once or twice more if desired, straining the oil after each cycle to ensure a pure and potent final product.
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Storing the oil
Choosing the Right Container
Use a container made of glass, such as a mason jar, to store your cannabis oil. Glass is ideal because it is non-reactive, meaning it won't leach chemicals or interact with the oil over time. Amber-coloured glass jars are particularly good because they help protect the oil from exposure to light, which can degrade the cannabinoids over time. Make sure the jar has a tight-fitting lid to prevent oxidation and ensure an airtight seal.
Straining and Cooling the Oil
Before storing, it is essential to strain the oil to remove any plant material. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to carefully strain the oil into your chosen container. Allow the oil to cool completely before sealing the container and storing it.
Storage Location and Temperature
Store your cannabis oil in a cool, dark place, such as a closet, drawer, or cabinet, to maintain potency and freshness. The ideal temperature is around room temperature. Avoid exposing the oil to extreme temperatures, as this can affect its consistency and quality. Keep the oil out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources, such as ovens or stoves. If you have children or pets, ensure that they cannot access the oil. Consider storing it in a high, secure place, such as the top shelf of a cabinet.
Shelf Life and Refrigeration
Properly stored cannabis oil can last for several months to a year or more. The exact shelf life will depend on the type of oil used and the storage conditions. Oils with higher fat content, such as olive or coconut oil, tend to have a longer shelf life. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life of your cannabis oil. However, refrigeration may cause the oil to solidify or become cloudy, so consider transferring a small amount to a separate container for everyday use and keeping the bulk of it refrigerated.
Labelling and Dating
Always label your cannabis oil with the date it was made and the type of oil and cannabis used. This will help you keep track of its potency and shelf life. It is also a good idea to include the approximate THC percentage, if known, or the ratio of cannabis to oil used in the infusion. This information will be helpful when dosing or creating future batches.
Handling and Safety
When handling and storing your cannabis oil, always exercise caution and follow legal guidelines. Keep the oil away from children and pets, and clearly label it to avoid confusion. Wash your hands before and after handling the oil, and avoid touching your face or eyes after contact with the oil. Store the oil in a secure container to prevent spills or leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to decarboxylate your cannabis flower. This is a heating process that converts raw cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) into tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Set your oven to 245ºF and preheat. Grind or hand-break your buds on a baking pan.
The next step is to add oil and decarbed cannabis to your slow cooker. You can infuse any type of oil, but oils with higher fat content, such as olive and coconut, will absorb more cannabinoids (THC/CBD), resulting in higher potency.
Heat the mixture on the lowest setting for 2 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally. A longer infusion will result in more potent oil, but do not exceed 8 hours to avoid degradation of the cannabinoids.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 8 to 9 hours. Repeat the heating and cooling process up to two more times for increased potency.
Store the oil in amber-colored glass jars as they help protect the oil from exposure to light, which can degrade the cannabinoids over time. Keeping your oil in a cool, dark place can help it retain its potency for about 12 to 18 months.
