Creating Cannabis Oil: A Guide To Making Smokable Extracts

Making smokable oil from weed, also known as hash oil, is a popular cannabis extract that can be done at home. The process involves extracting the resin from the cannabis plant and mixing it with a small amount of a solution, typically food-grade high-proof alcohol, or a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil.

Step 1: Decarboxylation

Decarboxylation, or decarbing, is the process of heating the weed to activate the cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This can be done by placing the ground cannabis on a baking tray and baking it in the oven at a temperature of around 240-250°F (115-121°C) for 25-40 minutes. This step is important as it increases the potency of the final product.

Step 2: Extraction

The next step is to extract the cannabinoids from the weed. This can be done in several ways:

Alcohol Extraction:

Place the decarbed weed in a glass jar and cover it with 180-proof alcohol, such as vodka. Stir the mixture or use a magnetic stirrer to release the cannabinoids. Filter the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant matter. Place the liquid in the sun or under a UV light to remove the chlorophyll, which will give the oil a more appealing colour. Finally, evaporate the alcohol using a rice cooker or air still, and heat the remaining liquid to remove any remaining alcohol.

Carrier Oil Extraction:

Place the decarbed weed in a double boiler with the carrier oil of your choice, such as coconut oil or olive oil. Heat the mixture at a low temperature, between 160-180°F (71-82°C), for 2-4 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the cannabinoids to infuse into the oil.

Step 3: Straining and Storage

After the extraction process, strain the mixture to remove any plant material. This can be done using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer. Store the final product in an airtight glass container in a cool, dark place to preserve the quality and potency of the oil.

Choose the right carrier oil

Carrier oils are a key ingredient in making smokable oil from weed. They serve as a base for the cannabinoids, allowing them to be consumed or applied topically. When choosing a carrier oil, it's important to consider its compatibility with the cannabis and its intended use. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting the right carrier oil:

• Taste and Aroma: Carrier oils can have distinct tastes and aromas that can enhance or detract from the overall experience. For example, coconut oil and olive oil are commonly used and offer a pleasant taste, making them versatile for edibles or topical applications.
• Fatty Acid Content: Cannabinoids like CBD and THC are fat-soluble, meaning they bind with fatty acid molecules. Carrier oils rich in beneficial fatty acids, such as coconut oil, can increase the effectiveness of the final product.
• Bioavailability: Some carrier oils, like sunflower lecithin, can increase the bioavailability of cannabinoids, making them more easily absorbed by the body. This is an important consideration if you want the effects to be more potent.
• Shelf Life: The type of carrier oil can impact the shelf life of your cannabis-infused oil. For instance, coconut oil has a longer shelf life than other options due to its high saturated fat content, which also helps bind with cannabinoids.
• Health Benefits: Different carrier oils offer unique health benefits. For instance, coconut oil and olive oil have natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties, contributing to the overall therapeutic effects of the final product.
• Texture and Consistency: Depending on your intended use, the texture and consistency of the carrier oil may be important. Coconut oil, for instance, is solid at room temperature, making it ideal for edibles, while liquid oils may be preferred for vaping or topical applications.

When making smokable oil from weed, it's important to choose a carrier oil that suits your specific needs and preferences. Experimenting with different carrier oils and their unique properties can help you create a customised product that aligns with your desired effects and experience.

Choose the right cannabis strain

Choosing the right cannabis strain is essential for creating a high-quality smokable oil. Here are some tips to help you select the best strain for your needs:

• Know your intentions: Consider what you want from your cannabis experience. Are you seeking relaxation, creativity, or an energy boost? Different strains will produce varying effects, so understanding your desired outcome will help you choose the right one.
• Fragrance and terpenes: Opt for a strain that smells appealing to you. Cannabis contains terpenes, aromatic oils that can have an impact on your experience. For instance, citrus terpenes can have a brightening effect, while lavender may be more relaxing.
• Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different strains. Try various options, including high-CBD strains or those that align with your preferences. This exploration will help you discover which strains work best for you.
• Budtender advice: Engage with your budtender and ask for their recommendations. They are likely cannabis enthusiasts and can provide valuable insights, especially if you mention that you're new to smokable oils.
• Quality matters: Select a high-quality cannabis strain from a reputable source. This will ensure that your smokable oil is not only enjoyable but also safe.

Decarb your cannabis

Decarboxylation, or "decarbing", is a crucial step in the process of making smokable oil from weed. It involves activating the psychoactive compounds in the cannabis plant by removing a carboxyl group from the compound through the application of heat. This process converts the non-psychoactive THCA into THC, the compound responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis use. Here are some detailed instructions on how to decarb your cannabis:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to a temperature between 220°F and 245°F (104°C to 118°C). This temperature range is crucial for two reasons. Firstly, it ensures the release of volatile compounds, and secondly, it maintains the potency of cannabinoids and terpenes, which are essential for an enjoyable THC experience. Preheating to higher temperatures will result in a less potent and flavourful final product.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannabis

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Break the cannabis buds into smaller pieces and spread them evenly on the baking sheet. Grinding the cannabis before placing it on the baking sheet can increase the surface area, allowing for more even heat distribution during decarboxylation. However, grinding may also lead to reduced potency, so it is recommended to break the buds into small pieces instead of grinding them into a fine powder.

Step 3: Heat the Cannabis

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and set a timer for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir the buds every 10 minutes to ensure even heat distribution and a consistent conversion of THCA to THC. The cannabis should turn a medium brown colour and emit a noticeable aroma. Be careful not to overheat the cannabis, as this will result in reduced potency and an unpleasant taste.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once the decarboxylation process is complete, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cannabis to cool to room temperature. This step is crucial for the chemical reaction to be as effective as possible, and it will also help preserve the potency of cannabinoids and terpenes. Once cooled, store the decarbed cannabis in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to ensure freshness and potency.

Tips for Optimal Decarboxylation:

• Use a controlled heat source, such as an oven, to achieve consistent temperatures.
• Avoid using a microwave, as it is difficult to control the temperature.
• Stir the cannabis regularly during the heating process to ensure even heat distribution.
• Monitor the colour and aroma of the cannabis to ensure it does not overheat and burn.
• Store the decarbed cannabis in a cool, dark, and airtight container to maintain freshness and potency.

Steep on the stovetop

There are several ways to make cannabis-infused oil on a stovetop. Here is a guide on how to make it, along with some tips and tricks to make the best stovetop canna-oil.

Firstly, it is important to decarboxylate your cannabis. This is a chemical reaction where carbon atoms are removed from a carbon chain, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). Decarboxylation converts the cannabinoid compounds found in raw cannabis (THCA and CBDA) into THC and CBD. This process is what makes cannabis psychoactive and more potent for medicinal applications.

To decarboxylate your cannabis, preheat your oven to 240°F-248°F (115°C-120°C). Break up your cannabis flower or "buds" into smaller pieces and spread them out on a rimmed baking tray lined with baking paper/parchment. Place the tray in the oven for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. The cannabis should turn a darker colour—usually light brown or yellow. Once done, let the cannabis cool down to room temperature and then grind it coarsely.

Now, you can begin the process of making your canna-oil. You can use a variety of oils, but coconut oil and olive oil are the most popular choices due to their pleasant taste, nourishing properties, and natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties. For the stovetop method, you will need a crockpot, double boiler, or saucepan, along with a cheesecloth or strainer, and cooking twine.

Add your chosen oil to the saucepan or the top part of the double boiler and heat it on low/medium-low. You want to aim for a temperature between 120°F to 180°F (49°C to 82°C). It is important not to exceed 200°F to avoid destroying the cannabinoids. Once your oil is heated, add in your decarboxylated cannabis. Use 1/4 to 1/2 oz of cannabis flower for every 16 oz of oil. Cover with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about an hour, stirring frequently.

After an hour, remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool down. Then, pour the mixture into a glass container, using a cheesecloth or mesh strainer to separate the cannabis from the oil. Dispose of the leftover cannabis. Your canna-oil is now ready to be stored in a glass jar or container.

Some tips to keep in mind: always cook at low temperatures to retain the cannabinoids. The oil temperature should never exceed 245°F (118°C). Additionally, proper storage is important to extend the shelf life of your canna-oil. Keep it in a cool, dark place, and it should retain its potency for about 1-1.5 years.

Store the oil

Storing the Oil

Once you've made your cannabis oil, it's important to store it correctly to preserve its potency and ensure it remains safe to consume.

Cannabinoids can degrade when exposed to heat, light, or air, so it's best to store your cannabis oil in a cool, dark place, preferably in an opaque container. Glass is a good option as it's considered a "neutral" substance and won't add anything unwanted to the oil. You can store it at room temperature in a cupboard for up to six months. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can keep it in the fridge, but this will depend on the other ingredients in the oil.

Properly stored cannabis oil can retain its potency for even longer than six months, but it's often recommended that it be used within six months to one year. The potency will naturally decrease over time, but as long as it's stored correctly and no mould is present, your cannabis oil is safe to consume.

Always keep infused oil out of the reach of children and pets.

Frequently asked questions