If you are interested in processing your cannabis into a homemade oil, we may be able to help you.
After the decarboxylation process you can easily make a cannabis infusion. This is the process of infusing the dried decarboxylated flower into a carrier oil, over very low heat. You then strain it to remove the plant material, and you are then left with a cannabis infused oil to make whatever you wish. You can purchase already infused cannabis oils from your licensed producer, or you can easily make it at home yourself.
Cannabinoids are not water soluble, so it is extremely important to use an oil for this process.
Choosing an oil right for you
There are many options out there for a carrier oil. Some have a higher fat content than others and some have different health benefits. So, it is important to do your research before you decide.
Sunflower Oil:
- Sunflower oil is oil extracted from the seed of the sunflower. It is quite high in polyunsaturated fats which can decrease the bioavailability of the cannabinoids. Also, sunflower oil has been known to increase blood sugars. However, sunflower oil is very easy to find and very affordable.
Grapeseed Oil:
- Grapeseed oil is oil extracted from the seeds of red wine grapes. The taste is not very pleasant to most people. Nevertheless, grapeseed oil is much thinner and not as greasy. Choosing this oil is a great option for a topical. It is also easy to find and very affordable.
Coconut Oil:
- This is probably one of your best options. It is very high in healthy fats making it a great binding agent for cannabinoids. Coconut oil also has many health benefits on its own it can’t act as an anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and helps with energy, plus many other health benefits. Many people also like the mild taste of coconut. The downfall, it will go into solid form at cooler room temperatures where other oils will remain as a liquid.
MCT Oil:
- MCT stands for medium chain triglycerides. It is flavorless and odorless making it a top choice of most consumers. Be careful in your selection, true MCT oil is extracted from coconuts. But if it indicates it is fractionated, than it comes from palm kernel oil. Many athletes like MCT oil for its energizing properties. It also helps with weight control by increasing our metabolism. It is also known to help reduce cholesterol and blood sugars. Like coconut oil, it is a great carrier for cannabinoids.
Ahiflower Oil:
- A health vegan option high in Omega-3 and Omega-6, making this one of the perfect oils for cannabis infusion. Both THC and CBD require the omegas in the endocannabinoid system for uptake, they are also crucial for brain health, blood sugars, fighting inflammation and skin health. This oil is derived from the seeds of corn gromwell plant. This oil could be costly and can be difficult to find.
Avocado Oil:
- Avocado oil is extracted from the pulp of avocados. It can be taste sensitive as well to many consumers. It is a very thick oil, so it is not as desirable as others for edibles. However, avocado oil is extremely good for your skin and hair making is great for topicals. It is also very high in vitamins.
Olive Oil:
- Olive oil is extracted from pressing whole olives. Olive oil is also very low in polyunsaturated fats making it a great partner for cannabinoids. Olive oil is also very high in antioxidants and very easy to find.
How to make an infusion
First you will need to decarboxylate your cannabis if you are unsure of how to do this, please refer to our decarboxylation blog. In easy terms it is the method of activating cannabinoids by burning off acids in the cannabis flower with heat and time.
Coarsely grind up your decarboxylated cannabis and set aside.
In a slow cooker on the keep warm function melt your desired carrier oil.
Add your grinded up, decarboxylated cannabis to the melted oil.
Allow to simmer on the keep warm function for a minimum of 2 hours.
Strain out the plant material using a cheesecloth or straining bag.
You now have a cannabis infused oil to make edibles, capsules or topicals.
Making your own cannabis oil does not have to be difficult or intimidating. Some consumers find it therapeutic involving themselves in the development of their own care plan. For a demonstration on “How to Infuse Cannabis Oils” join Cooking with Kerr live via Zoom on Tuesday November 30th, 2021 @ 6:00pm ATL. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81430292229
Happy Cooking!
Written By: Kerri Charters
Processing Room, CHC Oromocto, NB.