Guide to Cannabis Decarboxylation

High Points

• Decarboxylation is the key to unlocking THC and CBD in cannabis, converting non-psychoactive compounds like THCA into their active forms (THC) so you can actually feel the effects. This occurs naturally over time, or it can happen immediately when exposed to high temperatures–i.e. smoking or vaping your buds.
  
  
• There are a few ways to decarb at home. We recommend using either the oven or sous vide method, as they are both simple and effective. Just avoid the microwave as it’s too unpredictable for reliable results.
  
  
• Decarboxylation is a requirement when making edibles or tinctures if the goal is to experience psychoactive effects.
  
  

Decarboxylation

Also: Decarb

Decarboxylation is the act of exposing the cannabinoids found in cannabis flower to heat or light, thereby activating compounds like THCA CBDA to convert them into active forms like THC and CBD.

Decarboxylation is the process of exposing cannabis flower to heat or light to activate compounds like THC. This occurs naturally over time, or it can happen immediately when exposed to high temperatures. This is why you need to smoke or vaporize flower to feel the effects.¹

Scientifically speaking, decarboxylation is the chemical process of removing a carboxyl group from a molecule. In doing so, cannabinoids like THCA and CBDA are activated and become THC and CBD. In these forms, the cannabinoids can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system when marijuana is consumed. This process is necessary for cannabis enthusiasts to experience the sensations we’re familiar with when we enjoy marijuana.¹

So when do you need to decarb cannabis? Anytime you’re using flower for homemade edibles or preparing infused products such as oils or tinctures—assuming you want an intoxicating experience. Raw cannabis contains predominantly THCA, which has no real psychoactive effect.²

There are three things that can cause decarboxylation: heat, time, and oxygen.¹ Heat can come in different forms. It can be light peeking through a window shining on your container of marijuana, or it can be the heat you apply when you vape or smoke your marijuana. 

Time and oxygen, however, are inevitable. Once your marijuana is decarboxylated, it starts to degrade, and the THC will turn into CBN.² This is why marijuana that you’ve had for the last year is not going to be as potent as marijuana you just purchased from your favorite dispensary. This is also why no matter how tight your container is, there will still be oxygen in it every time you open it which will start the slow process of decarbing your marijuana. 

So when do you need to decarb cannabis? Anytime you’re using flower for homemade edibles or preparing infused products such as oils or tinctures—assuming you want an intoxicating experience. Raw cannabis contains predominantly THCA, which has no real psychoactive effect.²

In general, you’re going to want to heat your marijuana between 200℉ and 245℉.³ The important thing to remember is that the higher the temperature, the more likely you are to destroy your terpenes, so if you’re interested in keeping those flavorful little compounds around, you’re going to want to start with lower temperatures and work up. For cannabis products like edibles, about 220℉ for up to 40 minutes is going to keep your terpenes intact while also activating your cannabinoids. 

Whatever you do, don’t go over 300℉. It’s not only going to ruin your terpenes, but it will start burning off cannabinoids too, and then you won’t be able to feel the effects of your cannabis.

There are various methods for decarboxylating cannabis, but the most common are using either the oven or a sous vide. Both of these recipes are simple and effective.

So you’ve gone to the dispensary, purchased flower, and now you want to decarb it before making a tincture, infusion, or edible. If you’re interested in decarboxylating your marijuana in the oven, just follow these five simple steps.³

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to the recommended temperatur range of 200-245°F (93-118°C).

Step 2: Break Up the Flower

Break up the cannabis flower into smaller, evenly-sized pieces. You can do this by hand or with a grinder.

Step 3: Spread Out the Buds

Place the cannabis buds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and ensure they are evenly spread out.

Step 4: Bake

Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30  minutes. Keep an eye on the cannabis to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Let It Cool

Once the decarboxylation process is complete, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cannabis to cool. It can then be stored for future use in a cool, dry place if you’re not planning on using it right away.

Some cannabis enthusiasts prefer not to use their ovens for decarboxylation and opt for other methods. Follow these three easy steps to use the sous vide method:

Step 1: Grind Your Flower

Grind the cannabis flower to increase its surface area and ensure even decarboxylation.

Step 2: Seal in the Bag

Place the ground cannabis into a vacuum-sealed, heat-safe bag, removing any excess air to create a tight seal.

Step 3: Cook

Set the sous vide machine to a temperature of 230°F (110°C) and immerse the sealed bag in the water bath. Cook for about 90 minutes to achieve proper decarboxylation. If you don’t have a sous vide machine, you can also just use a pot that can hold enough water to cover the bag of cannabis.

Learning about decarboxylation is a critical part of ensuring you use your marijuana to its full potential. Here are a few additional things to know before you get started.

What is the best temperature to decarb cannabis

The optimal temperature for decarboxylating cannabis ranges anywhere from 200-245°F (93-118°C). This temperature range ensures efficient conversion of THCA into THC without excessive degradation and without destroying the cannabinoids and terpenes by overheating them.¹

Can you eat decarboxylated cannabis?

Yes, decarboxylated cannabis can be consumed.⁴ It can be ground and added to edibles (as long as you don’t mind the flavor) or infused into oils, butters, and more. It can also be added to drinks. You can even use your activated cannabis to make your own homemade gummies.

Can you make cannabutter without decarbing cannabis?

Unfortunately, no. Decarboxylation is necessary to activate the THC in cannabis before infusing it into butter or oils.² Without decarboxylation, the cannabutter would not have the desired psychoactive effects.

Can you decarboxylate cannabis in the microwave?

While it is technically possible to decarboxylate cannabis in the microwave, it is not recommended.² Microwaves can be unpredictable and may result in uneven or inconsistent decarboxylation. It is generally better to use more controlled methods such as an oven or sous vide for reliable results.

Do I need to decarboxylate edibles bought at a dispensary?

No. When you purchase edibles from a dispensary, the work is already done for you. You can enjoy your edibles right out of the package.

Decarboxylation & Cannabis 

If you’re curious about decarboxylation, why not visit one of our dispensary locations? There, cannabis experts can help you decide the best way to enhance and enjoy your cannabis.