How To Make Cannabis Cooking Oil

WHAT IS CANNABIS OIL?

Cannabis oil is a simple product that’s made from the cannabis plant. It contains essential cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), and various aromatic compounds called terpenes. These cannabinoids and terpenes are responsible for the wide range of effects and flavors associated with the product and that are loved around the world.

You can use cannabis oil in several different ways, but one of the most popular applications is in home cooking. When infused with cooking oil, cannabis oil can be used to create an assortment of edibles that you can make in your own home!

This method not only allows you to enjoy the therapeutic effects of cannabis but also adds a unique flavor to your recipes in a creative, fun way.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CANNABIS OIL

It can be hard to know what type of cannabis oil to choose as there are several different types on the market. Understanding these types will help you choose the right one for your specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of cannabis oil:

High-CBD Oil

High-CBD oil is a very popular option. It contains a significant amount of cannabidiol, CBA, and less THC.

Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, so it doesn’t induce a “high” or alter the user’s mind. Instead, CBD is renowned for its potential therapeutic properties and has gained popularity for its health benefits.

Some of the characteristics of this type of cannabis oil include the ability to provide pain relief and reduce anxiety and stress. It contains anti-inflammatory properties as well and has the ability to improve sleep and support overall well-being.

High-THC Oil

High-THC oil, on the other hand, has elevated levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant.

THC is what causes that well-known “high” or euphoria that we experience when consuming marijuana.

Due to its high THC content, this type of cannabis oil can produce strong psychoactive effects when consumed.

Some medical cannabis patients use high-THC oil to manage pain, nausea, and muscle spasms and improve appetite.

CBD-THC Combination Oil

So what’s the best cannabis oil to start out with? The CBD-THC combination oil is a really good option.

It’s often called balanced or 1:1 oil and is a type of cannabis oil that contains an equal or balanced ratio of (CBD) and (THC). This combination creates a unique product that offers a well-rounded experience for users. It can help you figure out if you enjoy CBD and THC together.

The equal ratio of CBD and THC in this oil aims to provide a balanced experience. CBD is known for its calming and non-psychoactive effects, while THC contributes to the euphoric and psychoactive sensations associated with cannabis use.

Another really popular benefit is the fact that CBD and THC may provide more pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects than using each cannabinoid individually.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE CANNABIS OIL

To make cannabis oil at home, you’ll only need a few essential ingredients and tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Ingredients

1. Cannabis Flower: Make sure that you choose a high-quality cannabis flower or bud of your preferred strain. The strain you select will influence the flavor and effects of the final oil.
2. Cooking Oil: You can use different types of cooking oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or another oil of your choice. Each oil will impart its unique flavor to the cannabis oil.

Generally, you’ll want to have a 1:1 ratio of cannabis flower to oil. This means that one cup of oil should be used with 7 grams of flower. Use less cannabis if you want a less potent cannabis oil

Tools and Equipment

1. Oven: You’ll need an oven to decarboxylate the cannabis flower, which activates the cannabinoids.
2. Baking Sheet: To spread the cannabis evenly for decarboxylation.
3. Grinder: Use a grinder to break down the cannabis flower into smaller pieces, which aids in extraction.
4. Saucepan or Double Boiler: For the infusion process, you’ll need a saucepan or a double boiler to heat the oil and cannabis mixture gently.
5. Cheesecloth or Fine Mesh Strainer: To strain the infused oil and separate the plant material.
6. Glass Bowl or Jar: Use a glass bowl or jar to store the final cannabis oil once it’s ready.

HOW TO MAKE CANNABIS COOKING OIL: STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these easy instructions to make your own cannabis cooking oil:

Step 1: Decarboxylation

• Preheat your oven to 245ºF (118ºC).
• Place your cannabis buds on a parchment-lined pan.
• Gently break or grind the buds.
• Bake the cannabis in the oven for around 35 minutes to activate the THC.

Step 2: Infusion

• In a double-boiler, slow cooker, or saucepan, combine the decarboxylated cannabis with your chosen cooking oil.
• Heat the mixture low for between 2-3 hours, ensuring the oil temperature remains between 160-200ºF (71-93ºC). This gentle simmering helps to infuse the cannabinoids into the oil effectively.

Step 3: Straining And Storing

• Place a mesh strainer (or a cheesecloth) over a container suitable for storing the oil.
• Pour the oil and cannabis mixture through the strainer to separate the infused oil from the plant material. Avoid squeezing the material, as it can introduce more chlorophyll and affect the taste of the oil.
• Discard the used cannabis plant material after straining.
• Let the infused oil cool completely in the chosen container before using.

STORAGE TIPS

Proper storage of cannabis oil is crucial to maintain its potency, flavor, and overall quality over time. Here are some storage tips to ensure it remains fresh and effective:

• Store cannabis oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Use an airtight glass container or a dark-colored, UV-resistant container to store the oil. Minimize air exposure to prevent oxidation, which can also impact the oil’s quality.
• If you want to extend the shelf life of your cannabis oil, consider refrigerating it.
• Properly label your storage container with the date of production or purchase and the strain. This will help you track the oil’s age and potency.

HOW TO USE CANNABIS OIL

Making cannabis oil is a versatile process that allows you to incorporate the benefits of cannabinoids into your daily routine. There are a few different ways to use cannabis oil. These include:

Mixing With Food Or Beverages

You can add cannabis oil to your favorite recipes, such as salad dressings, sauces, or smoothies.

However, be mindful of the dosage, especially if you’re new to using cannabis oil in any edibles. The effects of edibles may take longer to kick in compared to other consumption methods. So you should be very clear on the amount you use and when it’s going to kick in.

Vaping

If you have a cannabis oil cartridge compatible with a vape pen or vaporizer, you can inhale the vapor for a quicker onset of effects.

Be cautious about the dosage, as vaping can deliver potent effects rapidly in a way that edibles do not.

Capsules Or Pills

Some commercial cannabis oil products come in capsules or pills, making dosing more convenient and precise.

Swallow the capsule or pill with water as directed by the product’s instructions. This can have varying effects that depend on the dosage.

RECIPES FOR CANNABIS OIL

There are a wide variety of recipes that you can try out to enjoy your new cannabis oil. Here are two great recipes to get you started:

Cannabis-Infused Brownies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/3 cup cannabis-infused oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Melt butter in a bowl and stir sugar into the butter.
• Add in eggs, one at a time.
• Mix in vanilla and cannabis oil until fully combined.
• Sift and mix your flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
• Add the dry ingredients, slowly, to the wet ingredients.
• Pour batter into a baking pan.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Cannabis-Infused Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed)
• 1/2 cup brown rice syrup
• 2 tablespoons of cannabis coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons of regular coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 3 1/2 cups of Rice Krispies

Instructions

• Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper
• Melt the nut butter, brown rice syrup, cannabis oil, coconut oil, and vanilla in a saucepan over low to medium heat
• Once melted and mixed, pour the mixture into a large bowl and slowly add the Rice Krispies
• Pour the mixture into the lined pan
• Press it down evenly using a wooden spoon or spatula
• Put the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour
• Keep it in the refrigerator until ready to serve
• Enjoy!

COMMON ISSUES WITH CANNABIS COOKING OIL & HOW TO AVOID THEM

Here are a few of the most common issues you might encounter when creating and using cannabis cooking oil:

Uneven Infusion

Make sure to stir the cannabis and oil mixture regularly during infusion to ensure an even distribution of cannabinoids.

Overwhelming Cannabis Flavor

If the taste of cannabis is too strong in your infused oil or edibles, consider using a different strain or adjusting the ratio of cannabis to oil in your recipe.

You might also want to try different food products that might change the taste and experience.

Weak Effects

If you’re not experiencing the desired effects, you may need to increase the dosage or potency of your cannabis oil.

Start with a small dose and gradually increase as needed.

Accidental Overconsumption

If you’ve consumed too much cannabis oil and experience discomfort or anxiety, try to stay calm and find a comfortable, quiet space. It helps to stay hydrated and stay home where no extra stimulus will make your situation worse.

You may also need to consult with a doctor if you’re concerned about how much cannabis oil you’ve consumed.

THE BENEFITS OF CANNABIS OIL

Cannabis oil, when used responsibly and in moderation, can offer a variety of potential benefits due to the presence of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as other compounds like terpenes. Some of these benefits include:

• Cannabis oil may provide relief from chronic pain conditions. Both THC and CBD have potential analgesic properties.
• CBD, in particular, is known for its potential anxiolytic properties. It can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels without inducing the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
• For those struggling with sleep disturbances, cannabis oil may offer some support in improving sleep quality and patterns.
• Both THC and CBD have shown potential anti-inflammatory properties, making cannabis oil a complementary treatment for conditions characterized by inflammation.
• Certain strains and ratios of cannabinoids in cannabis oil can promote mood enhancement and a sense of well-being.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS

It’s always important to be aware of the possible side effects that can arise when consuming cannabis. The side effects can vary depending on factors such as individual tolerance, dosage, and the specific cannabinoids involved.

• THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and consuming cannabis oil with high THC content can lead to psychoactive effects such as euphoria, altered perception, and impaired cognitive function. This can be desirable for some, but it may be unwanted for others seeking solely medicinal benefits.
• Commonly known as “cottonmouth,” cannabis oil, particularly products high in THC, can cause a dry sensation in the mouth and throat.
• THC can temporarily increase heart rate in some individuals, which may be a concern for those with certain heart conditions.
• High doses of THC can sometimes lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, especially in inexperienced users.
• While CBD may have anxiolytic properties, high doses of THC can lead to increased anxiety or feelings of paranoia.

CONCLUSION

Cannabis cooking oil offers a number of applications for both recreational and medicinal purposes. It can be used whether you’re seeking pain relief or stress reduction or if you’re interested in spicing up your recipes with THC or CBD.

By following proper techniques and storage guidelines, you can create quality cannabis oil that delivers consistent and safe results.

If you’re looking to explore the world of cannabis oil and enjoy its potential benefits, check out Embarc. As a reputable and trusted cannabis dispensary, we offer a wide selection of premium cannabis products and high-quality cannabis that you can use to make some tasty cannabis oil. Get cooking today!